Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - FEB/MAR 2015

CALGARY EDITION

FREE FEB - MAR 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1

JEF HANCOCK

AND JANETTE EWEN

DECOR TRENDSFOR THE NEW YEAR

tips and tricksRENOVATING

TO GET YOU MOTIVATED

GET EXPERT ADVICE FROM

DESIGNERS

AT THE

For Those Who Value Luxury, Quality And Exceptional Design403.203.7676 + WWW.ALBIRENOVA.COM

2013CHBA-CALGARY REGION

RENOVATOR OF THE YEAR

For Those Who Value Luxury, Quality And Exceptional Design403.203.7676 + WWW.ALBIRENOVA.COM

2013CHBA-CALGARY REGION

RENOVATOR OF THE YEAR

Renovations that Inspire

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1

contents30

FEB - MAR 2015

in every issue

8 Editor’s notebook

business profiles

10 Trust premier builder Classic Craft Homes BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

18 Award-winning Kurmak Builders: Building more into your home BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

24 S.I.S. Supply Install Services – your exterior renovations specialist BY HEATHER RYAN

29 A 1970s kitchen gets a sophisticated update BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

32 A dream home turned nightmare is reborn BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

46 Gienow Renovations boost curb appeal and save money BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

49 Prestige Railings & Stairs top choice among consumers BY HEATHER RYAN

features

12 Time well Spent is Better Than Money Wasted BY ADENE LUCAS

26 Concrete countertops As easy as 1-2-3

30 Give your home a winter warm-up COURTESY OF NEWSCANADA.COM

54 It’s a New Year BY LAURA LE

58 Renovation Checklist BY MICKEY FOULDS

cover story

20DYNAMIC

DESIGNERS SHARE TIPS

AT THE CALGARY

HOME + GARDEN

SHOW

50

renomark

28 Renovation offers opportunity for homeowners BY BRYAN TUCKEY

home and garden feature 38 Planning for Your New Land-

scape or Garden Make-Over BY BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

42 Planning, Plotting and Playing Outdoors: Renovating Our Yards BY JACKIE SWARTZ

45 Winter Survival Plan – Hot Tubs: what you need to know before you install BY VANESSA GASH

etc...

34 rub-a-dub dub BY ELISA KROVBLIT

70 Scoop the look BY SARA DUCK

tips and tricks

48 Decoding the code BY MICHAEL NYIKES

64 2015 Shopping wish list BY SARA DUCK

67 Get your home on the right foot: Is the footing of your home healthy? BY SHELL BUSEY

designer advice 50 Custom bathroom oasis

BY SARAH BARBER

CALGARY EDITION

FREE JAN - MARCH 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1

JEF HANCOCK

AND JANETTE EWEN

PLAN AGARDEN MAKEOVER NOW!




DESIGNERS

AT THE

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTA LEMME

Renovations that Inspire

5

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1

contents30

FEB - MAR 2015

in every issue

8 Editor’s notebook

business profiles

10 Trust premier builder Classic Craft Homes BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

18 Award-winning Kurmak Builders: Building more into your home BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

24 S.I.S. Supply Install Services – your exterior renovations specialist BY HEATHER RYAN

29 A 1970s kitchen gets a sophisticated update BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

32 A dream home turned nightmare is reborn BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

46 Gienow Renovations boost curb appeal and save money BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

49 Prestige Railings & Stairs top choice among consumers BY HEATHER RYAN

features

12 Time well Spent is Better Than Money Wasted BY ADENE LUCAS

26 Concrete countertops As easy as 1-2-3

30 Give your home a winter warm-up COURTESY OF NEWSCANADA.COM

54 It’s a New Year BY LAURA LE

58 Renovation Checklist BY MICKEY FOULDS

cover story

20DYNAMIC

DESIGNERS SHARE TIPS

AT THE CALGARY

HOME + GARDEN

SHOW

50

renomark

28 Renovation offers opportunity for homeowners BY BRYAN TUCKEY

home and garden feature 38 Planning for Your New Land-

scape or Garden Make-Over BY BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

42 Planning, Plotting and Playing Outdoors: Renovating Our Yards BY JACKIE SWARTZ

45 Winter Survival Plan – Hot Tubs: what you need to know before you install BY VANESSA GASH

et ceters

34 rub-a-dub dub BY ELISA KROVBLIT

70 Scoop the look BY SARA DUCK

tips and tricks

48 Decoding the code BY MICHAEL NYIKES

64 2015 Shopping wish list BY SARA DUCK

67 Get your home on the right foot: Is the footing of your home healthy? BY SHELL BUSEY

designer advice 50 Custom bathroom oasis

BY SARAH BARBER

CALGARY EDITION

FREE JAN - MARCH 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1

JEF HANCOCK

AND JANETTE EWEN

PLAN AGARDEN MAKEOVER NOW!




DESIGNERS

AT THE

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTA LEMME

The Pinnacle of

A Brand New Magazine Dedicated to High-End Properties in Calgary and Area

LUXURYThe only magazine of its

kind in Calgary, Luxury Living

showcases high-end homes,

condos and properties. This

is your exclusive opportunity to

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CALGARY EDITION FALL 2013

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FOR FALL

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2013-09-05 12:33 PM

TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE CONTACT:

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6

Licensed, bonded, insured — with a reputation of taking care of our clients’ renovation projects from beginning to end.

Call or email today for a free quote.

403.918.2227 [email protected]

ALL OF THE CREDENTIALSNONE OF THE HEADACHES.

wallacefleming.ca

DESIGN & RENOVATE

The Pinnacle of

A Brand New Magazine Dedicated to High-End Properties in Calgary and Area

LUXURYThe only magazine of its

kind in Calgary, Luxury Living

showcases high-end homes,

condos and properties. This

is your exclusive opportunity to

establish your property as the

pinnacle of af� uent living.

Brought to you by the publishers of

CALGARY EDITION FALL 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLES

NEW LOOKS

FOR FALL

HOTEL

INDULGENCE

LIVINGAvailable online at:

luxurylivingcalgary.com

BRINGING the

COMFORTS of HOMETHE PROPERTY BROTHERS

to those that need it most

through World Vision

01 FrontCover-FIN.indd 1

2013-09-05 12:33 PM

TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE CONTACT:

Anita Van Breevoort 403.461.5518 [email protected]

Available on your mobile device luxurylivingcalgary.com

IT’S ALL ABOUT

LIFESTYLE

GETTING TO KNOW

BLAIR FOISY

MAKING A LUXURIOUS

STATEMENT WITH FLOORING

AVAILABLE ONLINE AT

LuxuryLivingCalgary.com

FALL 2014

THE AMAZING

RACE CANADA’S

JON MONTGOMERY

CONTINUES� e adventure

FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 7

Licensed, bonded, insured — with a reputation of taking care of our clients’ renovation projects from beginning to end.

Call or email today for a free quote.

403.918.2227 [email protected]

ALL OF THE CREDENTIALSNONE OF THE HEADACHES.

wallacefleming.ca

DESIGN & RENOVATE

yourRenovations Enhancing homes lives!

Can you open up and update our living area ?

BEFORE

8 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015

EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

FEB - MAR 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 01

HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS

2891 Sunridge Way NE Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7

T 403.461.5518

VICE PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA Jacqueline Hill

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge

DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Josh Heppner

SENIOR SALES MANAGER, WESTERN CANADA

Edwin Rizarri

ART DIRECTOR

Victoria Cigan

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Sara Duck

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Anita van Breevoort, 403.461.5518 [email protected]

PRODUCTION MANAGER Bala Gnanapandithan

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mohammad Haidarpour

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Viosa Barileva, Mike Terentiev, Miguel Cea

CONTRIBUTORS Heather Ryan, Mickey Foulds, Adene Lucas, Laura Le, Bonny Dann Escapes Inc., Vanessa Gash, Hellen Buttigieg, Michael Nyikes, Shell Busey, Yanic Simard, Bryan Tuckey, Michelle Hopkins

Home Décor and Renovations magazine is published six times a year. Home Décor and Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Calgary and Greater Calgary area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Décor and Renovations magazine carefully inspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errors or incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative.

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

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

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

Is 2015 your year to renovate?

Are you considering a renovation this year? You’ve come to the right place! In this issue, we get you inspired and equipped to make those reno dreams a reality. From helpful tips to design trends, a successful reno starts with a strong vision – and we’ve got you covered. Beginning on page 20, we have advice from design duo Janette Ewen and Jef Hancock, who will be guest speakers at this year’s Calgary Home + Garden Show, which runs Feb. 26 to March 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park. This show is a great opportunity to connect with a slew of professionals all under one a roof – a must when planning a reno. Once you clarify your reno vision, selecting the right contractor is essential to the project and your life! But this is no easy task. Check out helpful tips from Laura Le on page 54. And for even more advice on finding the right contractor, the RenoMark program maybe just the service you are looking for – learn about it on page 28. If renovating just isn’t in the budget this year, think about updating your space with a couple key trends that will fit your home’s look. This could be something as simple as new cushion covers or a bright new throw for your sofa. Get inspired with our 2015 Shopping Wish List on page 65.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

Cheers,

SARA DUCK

Published ByEXECUTIVE EDITOR, WALL2WALL MEDIA [email protected]

Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/saraduckHDR

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

yourRenovations Enhancing homes lives!

Can you open up and update our living area ?

BEFORE

EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

JAN - MARCH 2015VOLUME 13 ISSUE 01

HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS

2891 Sunridge Way NECalgary, AB T1Y 7K7

T 403.461.5518

VICE PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge

DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Josh Heppner

SENIOR SALES MANAGER, WESTERN CANADA

Edwin Rizarri

ART DIRECTOR

Victoria Cigan

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Sara Duck

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Anita van Breevoort, [email protected]

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Bala Gnanapandithan

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mohammad Haidarpour

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Viosa Barileva, Mike Terentiev, Miguel Cea

CONTRIBUTORS

Heather Ryan, Mickey Foulds, Adene Lucas, Laura Le, Bonny Dann Escapes Inc., Vanessa Gash, Hellen Buttigieg, Michael Nyikes, Shell Busey, Yanic Simard, Bryan Tuckey, Michelle Hopkins

Home Décor and Renovations magazine is published sixtimes a year. Home Décor and Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Calgary and Greater Calgary area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Décor and Renovations magazine carefullyinspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errorsor incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative.

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

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

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

Is 2015 your year to renovate?

Are you considering a renovation this year? You’ve come to the right place! In this issue, we get you inspired and equipped to make those reno dreams a reality. From helpful tips to design trends, a successful reno starts with a strong vision – and we’ve got you covered. Beginning on page 20, we have advice from design duo Janette Ewen and Jef Hancock, who will be guest speakers at this year’s Calgary Home + Garden Show, which runs Feb. 26 to March 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park. This show is a great opportunity to connect with a slew of professionals all under one a roof – a must when planning a reno. Once you clarify your reno vision, selecting the right contractor is essential to the project and your life! But this is no easy task. Check out helpful tips from Laura Le on page 54. And for even more advice on finding the right contractor, the RenoMark program maybe just the service you are looking for – learn about it on page 28. If renovating just isn’t in the budget this year, think about updating your space with a couple key trends that will fit your home’s look. This could be something as simple as new cushion covers or a bright new throw for your sofa. Get inspired with our 2015 Shopping Wish List on page 65.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

Cheers,

SARA DUCK

Published ByEXECUTIVE EDITOR, WALL2WALL [email protected]

Follow me on twitter:twitter.com/saraduckHDR

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

TRUST PREMIER BUILDER

CLASSIC CRAFT HOMES by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE CLASSIC CRAFT HOMES

Steven and Kristen Mikulcik and their two daughters owned an acreage with an old farmhouse on it. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, as nice as it might sound the reality was their farmhouse had

many problems that made renovating it not worth the investment of time or money.

“It was built in 1977 and there were lots of issues, including water damage in the basement and low ceilings,” she says.

The couple hired Classic Craft Homes to build their dream home.“There was never any question of us hiring anyone but

Frank and Dave (Dayka),” Kristen says. “Frank and I used to live in the same neighbourhood and I knew from other people how great their work was.”

This past summer, the couple moved into their beautiful new Arts & Crafts 3,300 square foot home. “We absolutely love our house and the girls’ bedrooms are spectacular,” adds the busy mom. “The build process was super smooth. Both Frank and Dave had such great ideas and we totally trusted their judgment.”

Everything, from the smallest detail was dealt with in a professional and timely manner.

“When we went to select our appliances, fl oor coverings or whatever it was, everyone raved about Classic Craft Homes… now that tells you something,” Kristen says. “They made sure we were completely satisfi ed.”

Sian Weaver and Blair May agree. “Many of their subcontractors told us how much they love to work for them,” says Sian. “That’s huge. That tells me that Frank and Dave

treat them well and that’s very important to us.” “We really loved our location in northwest Calgary so

instead of moving, we decided to renovate our 16-year-old house,” says Sian.

What started with replacing fl oors has morphed into major restorations including extending the footprint from 1,750 to almost 2,300 square feet of functional, open concept living.

She has heard all the renovation horror stories but theirs is “seamless.”

“I don’t worry about it at all; we have never second guessed them because we know Dave and Frank are doing a great job,” she adds with conviction. “That trust is priceless; you can’t put a dollar value on that.”

Both homeowners say it’s because Classic Craft Homes treats each home as if it’s their own. “They take such homeownership of the project,” adds Kristen.

One need only go online to read the glowing tributes – a testament to the pride, integrity, superior workmanship and outstanding service the company was built on.

Native Calgarians, brothers Frank and Dave Dayka grew up in the construction industry. In 1989, they founded the company along with their father, Frank senior. “We have great relationships with our trades and our clients. We value the trust they have in us,” says Dave. “We only hire the most qualifi ed tradespeople. Some of them have been with us since we started.”

Discover the Classic Craft Homes difference. Call 403-730-0104 or visit www.classiccrafthomes.ca.

Personalized attention to each & every detail...Guaranteed.

251989-2014

#3 1303 44 Ave NE Calgary, AB T2E 6L5 • (403) 730-0104 • classiccrafthomes.ca

Complete Custom Home BuildsKitchen & Bathroom RenovationsBasement DevelopmentsEntertainment Roomsand so much more.

TRUST PREMIER BUILDER

CLASSIC CRAFT HOMES by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE CLASSIC CRAFT HOMES

Steven and Kristen Mikulcik and their two daughters owned an acreage with an old farmhouse on it. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, as nice as it might sound the reality was their farmhouse had

many problems that made renovating it not worth the investment of time or money.

“It was built in 1977 and there were lots of issues, including water damage in the basement and low ceilings,” she says.

The couple hired Classic Craft Homes to build their dream home.“There was never any question of us hiring anyone but

Frank and Dave (Dayka),” Kristen says. “Frank and I used to live in the same neighbourhood and I knew from other people how great their work was.”

This past summer, the couple moved into their beautiful new Arts & Crafts 3,300 square foot home. “We absolutely love our house and the girls’ bedrooms are spectacular,” adds the busy mom. “The build process was super smooth. Both Frank and Dave had such great ideas and we totally trusted their judgment.”

Everything, from the smallest detail was dealt with in a professional and timely manner.

“When we went to select our appliances, fl oor coverings or whatever it was, everyone raved about Classic Craft Homes… now that tells you something,” Kristen says. “They made sure we were completely satisfi ed.”

Sian Weaver and Blair May agree. “Many of their subcontractors told us how much they love to work for them,” says Sian. “That’s huge. That tells me that Frank and Dave

treat them well and that’s very important to us.” “We really loved our location in northwest Calgary so

instead of moving, we decided to renovate our 16-year-old house,” says Sian.

What started with replacing fl oors has morphed into major restorations including extending the footprint from 1,750 to almost 2,300 square feet of functional, open concept living.

She has heard all the renovation horror stories but theirs is “seamless.”

“I don’t worry about it at all; we have never second guessed them because we know Dave and Frank are doing a great job,” she adds with conviction. “That trust is priceless; you can’t put a dollar value on that.”

Both homeowners say it’s because Classic Craft Homes treats each home as if it’s their own. “They take such homeownership of the project,” adds Kristen.

One need only go online to read the glowing tributes – a testament to the pride, integrity, superior workmanship and outstanding service the company was built on.

Native Calgarians, brothers Frank and Dave Dayka grew up in the construction industry. In 1989, they founded the company along with their father, Frank senior. “We have great relationships with our trades and our clients. We value the trust they have in us,” says Dave. “We only hire the most qualifi ed tradespeople. Some of them have been with us since we started.”

Discover the Classic Craft Homes difference. Call 403-730-0104 or visit www.classiccrafthomes.ca.

Personalized attention to each & every detail...Guaranteed.

251989-2014

#3 1303 44 Ave NE Calgary, AB T2E 6L5 • (403) 730-0104 • classiccrafthomes.ca

Complete Custom Home BuildsKitchen & Bathroom RenovationsBasement DevelopmentsEntertainment Roomsand so much more.

11

ANYONE CAN COME UP WITH AN ADVERTISEMENT AND

CLAIM GREAT RESULTS AND HAVE A GLOSSY BROCHURE

TO SELL THE LOOK.

amateur and border on unsafe. The best place to begin the process of selecting a contractor is asking family, friends and co-workers if they have recently had work done on their home, and if so, were they happy with the process and end result. Look at previous jobs, talk to other trades for recommendations as we all work together and a good painter will be well connected to a good designer, contractor and the like.

Also check in with your local Better Business Bureau. They can tell you if there have been any confl icts in the past and if there was a resolution. Other sources are your local homebuilder or renovator associations which have strict membership requirements and standards to adhere to. Most people in the industry are well connected to each other and are happy to share trades they use, just ask.

KEY QUESTIONS

Now that you have a few names of potential contractors there are some key questions that need to be asked. Are they insured, do they have public liability and property damage insurance? If so, make sure their policy is up to date. Do they have workers compensation for their employees, and sub-contractors that will be on site? These are really important questions because if a painter falls off a ladder and the contractor is uninsured, it is now your problem and you can be sued or a lien can be placed on your home. Ask to see jobs they have done that are similar to work you are having done. If it is a basement renovation for example, there is no sense seeing the latest kitchen done for a client. A good contractor and a happy client will be thrilled to show off great results. Ask the contractor if they are licensed, how long they have been in business and what their area of specialty is.


FEATURE

by ADENE LUCAS

TIME WELL SPENT IS BETTER THAN MONEY WASTED

WHENEVER I WATCH HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOWS I EITHER LAUGH

OR ROLL MY EYES DEPENDING ON MY MOOD. In thirty minutes a house is transformed beautifully without any glitches, delays or budget overruns. The designer always looks fabulous and the contractor is typically hunky and full of great quips. The homeowners hug the staff at the end of the project, no money is exchanged and credits roll.

Cut to reality, in my experience I have yet to meet a hunky contractor, nor do I always look fabulous. There are frequently glitches, some small and some which create delays. In the end, the clients are happy but at times it can be a long road, and one you need to be able to anticipate the curves ahead. The process can be frustrating and rewarding on a daily basis and television shows rarely reflect the reality. Now that the mini rant is over, I have a few suggestions to share that can help you

create a smooth renovation.Start by taking the time to hire a qualified designer

and contractor who work well as a team. Great plans, and carefully thought out budgets, have a way of disappearing if the right person for the job is not hired. The contractor and designer you hire should have the technical, business and personal skills to get the job done in a timely manner and within budget. The process should be collaborative, and communication is key. If you don’t feel that you can speak freely at the initial consultation, then you need to continue the search.

RESEARCH

Anyone can come up with an advertisement and claim great results and have a glossy brochure to sell the look. I have seen countless “professional” jobs that look very

ANYONE CAN COME UP WITH AN ADVERTISEMENT AND

CLAIM GREAT RESULTS AND HAVE A GLOSSY BROCHURE

TO SELL THE LOOK.

amateur and border on unsafe. The best place to begin the process of selecting a contractor is asking family, friends and co-workers if they have recently had work done on their home, and if so, were they happy with the process and end result. Look at previous jobs, talk to other trades for recommendations as we all work together and a good painter will be well connected to a good designer, contractor and the like.

Also check in with your local Better Business Bureau. They can tell you if there have been any confl icts in the past and if there was a resolution. Other sources are your local homebuilder or renovator associations which have strict membership requirements and standards to adhere to. Most people in the industry are well connected to each other and are happy to share trades they use, just ask.

KEY QUESTIONS

Now that you have a few names of potential contractors there are some key questions that need to be asked. Are they insured, do they have public liability and property damage insurance? If so, make sure their policy is up to date. Do they have workers compensation for their employees, and sub-contractors that will be on site? These are really important questions because if a painter falls off a ladder and the contractor is uninsured, it is now your problem and you can be sued or a lien can be placed on your home. Ask to see jobs they have done that are similar to work you are having done. If it is a basement renovation for example, there is no sense seeing the latest kitchen done for a client. A good contractor and a happy client will be thrilled to show off great results. Ask the contractor if they are licensed, how long they have been in business and what their area of specialty is.

FEATURE

by ADENE LUCAS

TIME WELL SPENT IS BETTER THAN MONEY WASTED

WHENEVER I WATCH HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOWS I EITHER LAUGH

OR ROLL MY EYES DEPENDING ON MY MOOD. In thirty minutes a house is transformed beautifully without any glitches, delays or budget overruns. The designer always looks fabulous and the contractor is typically hunky and full of great quips. The homeowners hug the staff at the end of the project, no money is exchanged and credits roll.

Cut to reality, in my experience I have yet to meet a hunky contractor, nor do I always look fabulous. There are frequently glitches, some small and some which create delays. In the end, the clients are happy but at times it can be a long road, and one you need to be able to anticipate the curves ahead. The process can be frustrating and rewarding on a daily basis and television shows rarely reflect the reality. Now that the mini rant is over, I have a few suggestions to share that can help you

create a smooth renovation.Start by taking the time to hire a qualified designer

and contractor who work well as a team. Great plans, and carefully thought out budgets, have a way of disappearing if the right person for the job is not hired. The contractor and designer you hire should have the technical, business and personal skills to get the job done in a timely manner and within budget. The process should be collaborative, and communication is key. If you don’t feel that you can speak freely at the initial consultation, then you need to continue the search.

RESEARCH

Anyone can come up with an advertisement and claim great results and have a glossy brochure to sell the look. I have seen countless “professional” jobs that look very

individuals will have access to your home, be in your life daily and must be able to understand your vision. It sounds simple, but really listen to your instinct. Does the contractor hear you, or are they pushing their own agenda? Do they respect your time line and budget and life style? Do they respond with concise answers, not vague estimates? Will they be on site or hand off the job to another employee, are they your point person? This is a time to ask the tough questions and write down the responses. Some projects can be quite lengthy and things don’t always go smoothly so it’s best to be able to speak openly and candidly. This relationship, like any, requires mutual respect, honesty and a bit of diplomacy. You really need to treat the interview as a process for selecting the best candidate as they are also judging you in the process.

ESTIMATES

Now that you have researched the contenders it’s time to get estimates for the project. It’s best to start with a drawing and a rough idea of materials being used. This is where a designer can really help the project by sourcing out all materials and or finishes to be used. For example, if built in wall units are being quoted on, then the material needs to be specified. There would be a substantial cost difference between using MDF

and wood. To have fair estimates, the quote needs to be detailed with materials, options and labour costs specified. Of course estimates are just that, be prepared for additional costs. Renovations may uncover hidden problems which require more labour and material that result in escalated costs. Once all estimates have been received, take the time to carefully review them and meet with the individual contractors to discuss any questions or concerns. Be wary of any contractor that has a very low bid. Many times, that bid is unrealistic and final costs at the end and will be even higher than the highest estimate. Look for a fair price, receptive attitude, good suggestions, and a willingness to work with you. In the end you need to choose the contractor you feel that will give you the best value for your money. Once that is decided, it’s time to draw up a contract.

RED FLAGS

As in any industry, there are always a few individuals that are not in business for the right reasons. Recently, a large renovation company filed for bankruptcy, after taking their client’s deposits first. Those homeowners will not get their money back, nor will they get the renovation they were promised. Here are just a few signs that should be concerning.


Always request the business licence number and check it out with the municipal licensing bureau where you can confirm all the details provided to you. I am always suspicious of a restaurant that has a huge menu because they can’t possibly be good at everything. Neither is a designer or contractor. If they specialize in bathroom renovations and you want an addition, those are two completely different projects. Just ask, don’t worry about being offensive. Reputable contractors will not be offended because they have nothing to hide.

COMMUNICATION

When interviewing potential contractors, you must be able to interact with them very well. These

individuals will have access to your home, be in your life daily and must be able to understand your vision. It sounds simple, but really listen to your instinct. Does the contractor hear you, or are they pushing their own agenda? Do they respect your time line and budget and life style? Do they respond with concise answers, not vague estimates? Will they be on site or hand off the job to another employee, are they your point person? This is a time to ask the tough questions and write down the responses. Some projects can be quite lengthy and things don’t always go smoothly so it’s best to be able to speak openly and candidly. This relationship, like any, requires mutual respect, honesty and a bit of diplomacy. You really need to treat the interview as a process for selecting the best candidate as they are also judging you in the process.

ESTIMATES

Now that you have researched the contenders it’s time to get estimates for the project. It’s best to start with a drawing and a rough idea of materials being used. This is where a designer can really help the project by sourcing out all materials and or finishes to be used. For example, if built in wall units are being quoted on, then the material needs to be specified. There would be a substantial cost difference between using MDF

and wood. To have fair estimates, the quote needs to be detailed with materials, options and labour costs specified. Of course estimates are just that, be prepared for additional costs. Renovations may uncover hidden problems which require more labour and material that result in escalated costs. Once all estimates have been received, take the time to carefully review them and meet with the individual contractors to discuss any questions or concerns. Be wary of any contractor that has a very low bid. Many times, that bid is unrealistic and final costs at the end and will be even higher than the highest estimate. Look for a fair price, receptive attitude, good suggestions, and a willingness to work with you. In the end you need to choose the contractor you feel that will give you the best value for your money. Once that is decided, it’s time to draw up a contract.

RED FLAGS

As in any industry, there are always a few individuals that are not in business for the right reasons. Recently, a large renovation company filed for bankruptcy, after taking their client’s deposits first. Those homeowners will not get their money back, nor will they get the renovation they were promised. Here are just a few signs that should be concerning.

Always request the business licence number and check it out with the municipal licensing bureau where you can confirm all the details provided to you. I am always suspicious of a restaurant that has a huge menu because they can’t possibly be good at everything. Neither is a designer or contractor. If they specialize in bathroom renovations and you want an addition, those are two completely different projects. Just ask, don’t worry about being offensive. Reputable contractors will not be offended because they have nothing to hide.

COMMUNICATION

When interviewing potential contractors, you must be able to interact with them very well. These

Build with Integrity, Live with Pride

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COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION

• Complete Home Renovations

• Century Homes• Additions

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• Bathrooms

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d4e provides home owners with a fast, easy, inexpensive way to get drawings and plans before signing on with a contractor or architect.

STEP 1: Sketch your renovation

STEP 2: Email your sketch to d4e. Photograph or scan, either works great. [email protected]

STEP 3: d4e will send you a quote of your cost. Our prices are the most competitive you will find.

STEP 4: Watch your renovation come to life!

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Your Sketch Construction Plans Photo Quality Renderings 3D Models

ADENE LUCAS www.accentondesigninc.ca 403.651.7491

LARGE DEPOSIT - 10 – 20% is an adequate deposit for the project to commence. Anything more and an explanation should be heard first as well as documentation in the form of receipts.

CASH PAYMENTS - Any legitimate contractor will want to keep a record of payment and have anything that is financial be transparent. By having a financial paper trail, it protects you as well as the trades involved.

NO PERMITS – Starting the project without a permit just exposes you to all sorts of issues with the city. They can fine you, stop work on the project and even tear down the project. Discuss whose responsibility it is to take out the permit. Without the right permits, the work can be delayed and the project is off to a bad start.

CANVASSING - Any contractor who uses the line that they were in the neighbourhood doing work is someone to be wary of. Chances are they are looking to make money and not too concerned with quality. A company with a good reputation does not need to go door to door as their work sells itself.

NO REFERENCE - Using a photo album or a few pictures is not enough to sell a job. Get a list of clients and tour the homes if possible. Most clients’ who survive a renovation are thrilled to show you the end result. Conversely, people are more than happy to share their negative experiences too, and you can learn from listening to what went wrong.

A renovation may be a small project or something large and all encompassing. Regardless of the scope of work, take the time to find the right people to work with to get the final result you desire. It may not be television worthy but it’s your reality and one you will be happy with in the end.

Build with Integrity, Live with Pride

[email protected]

COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION

• Complete Home Renovations

• Century Homes• Additions

• Basement development• Kitchens

• Bathrooms

403.277.2760

17

ADENE LUCAS www.accentondesigninc.ca 403.651.7491

LARGE DEPOSIT - 10 – 20% is an adequate deposit for the project to commence. Anything more and an explanation should be heard first as well as documentation in the form of receipts.

CASH PAYMENTS - Any legitimate contractor will want to keep a record of payment and have anything that is financial be transparent. By having a financial paper trail, it protects you as well as the trades involved.

NO PERMITS – Starting the project without a permit just exposes you to all sorts of issues with the city. They can fine you, stop work on the project and even tear down the project. Discuss whose responsibility it is to take out the permit. Without the right permits, the work can be delayed and the project is off to a bad start.

CANVASSING - Any contractor who uses the line that they were in the neighbourhood doing work is someone to be wary of. Chances are they are looking to make money and not too concerned with quality. A company with a good reputation does not need to go door to door as their work sells itself.

NO REFERENCE - Using a photo album or a few pictures is not enough to sell a job. Get a list of clients and tour the homes if possible. Most clients’ who survive a renovation are thrilled to show you the end result. Conversely, people are more than happy to share their negative experiences too, and you can learn from listening to what went wrong.

A renovation may be a small project or something large and all encompassing. Regardless of the scope of work, take the time to find the right people to work with to get the final result you desire. It may not be television worthy but it’s your reality and one you will be happy with in the end.

18

AWARD-WINNING KURMAK BUILDERS: Building more into your home by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE KURMAK BUILDERS

Bryce Osborne and his partner Evan Hayko had always dreamed of one day living in a home based on the design

of America’s greatest architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. The flooring contractor and his partner turned to Kurmak Builders to construct their Wright-inspired dream home.

“Having worked with Frank (Gordon-Cooper, general manager) for many years, I knew he was a very meticulous guy,” says Bryce. “We knew he was the one we wanted because we already had an established and trusting relationship.”

Today, the couple couldn’t be more thrilled with their 2,200 square foot home. “We tell everyone that it is everything we wanted and more,” says Bryce, adding Frank would often be there on Saturdays overseeing their build. “He walked us through the whole process. They were on time, on budget and we ended up with the home we’d always hope for.” He went on to add:

“Architecturally and technologically speaking, Frank is very detailed oriented He has deep understanding and knowledge of architecture. He sketched comprehensive drawings… I don’t know any other builder who knows how to do that.”

Another huge fan of the multiple award-winning family-run business is Sheila Speers and her husband Fred Wong. A neighbour’s interior designer had recommended Frank. She’d worked on a number of different projects with

Kurmak Builders and was very impressed with their builds. After that glowing referral, the couple employed them to renovate their 1972 bungalow.

“We needed significant work done,” she says. “Frank and his team were wonderful to deal with. He was always calm, kind and treated everyone on his team with respect.”

Sheila was equally impressed with the site supervisor. “The house looks great… we are so pleased and honestly there is nothing we would have done differently,” she adds.

Frank understands that building a home or transforming an existing home can be exciting yet daunting. With a passion for the industry and a commitment to clients, Kurmak works hard to ensure the process is as seamless as possible.

“Honestly, the reason I do what I do is at the end of the job, I get to see the satisfaction on our customers faces when we have achieved what we promised,” says the seasoned veteran.

In construction, problems do occur from time to time. At Kurmak, dealing with issues in a timely manner is simply the right thing to do. “Everyone at Kurmak genuinely cares about turning in a great product,” he says. “My staff work long hours and take great pride in what they do.”

As one of the city’s premier custom home builders, Kurmak Builders has earned a reputation for quality workmanship, innovative solutions, effective communication and one that is ethically driven.

“A good builder is someone who listens attentively and delivers what he promises – that’s the Kurmak guarantee.”

If you want a company who is concerned with excellence, has integrity and an eye for detail, then call Kurmak Builders to discuss your custom homes or renovation needs at 403-277-5525 or visit www.kurmakbuilders.com.

19

AWARD-WINNING KURMAK BUILDERS: Building more into your home by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE KURMAK BUILDERS

Bryce Osborne and his partner Evan Hayko had always dreamed of one day living in a home based on the design

of America’s greatest architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. The flooring contractor and his partner turned to Kurmak Builders to construct their Wright-inspired dream home.

“Having worked with Frank (Gordon-Cooper, general manager) for many years, I knew he was a very meticulous guy,” says Bryce. “We knew he was the one we wanted because we already had an established and trusting relationship.”

Today, the couple couldn’t be more thrilled with their 2,200 square foot home. “We tell everyone that it is everything we wanted and more,” says Bryce, adding Frank would often be there on Saturdays overseeing their build. “He walked us through the whole process. They were on time, on budget and we ended up with the home we’d always hope for.” He went on to add:

“Architecturally and technologically speaking, Frank is very detailed oriented He has deep understanding and knowledge of architecture. He sketched comprehensive drawings… I don’t know any other builder who knows how to do that.”

Another huge fan of the multiple award-winning family-run business is Sheila Speers and her husband Fred Wong. A neighbour’s interior designer had recommended Frank. She’d worked on a number of different projects with

Kurmak Builders and was very impressed with their builds. After that glowing referral, the couple employed them to renovate their 1972 bungalow.

“We needed significant work done,” she says. “Frank and his team were wonderful to deal with. He was always calm, kind and treated everyone on his team with respect.”

Sheila was equally impressed with the site supervisor. “The house looks great… we are so pleased and honestly there is nothing we would have done differently,” she adds.

Frank understands that building a home or transforming an existing home can be exciting yet daunting. With a passion for the industry and a commitment to clients, Kurmak works hard to ensure the process is as seamless as possible.

“Honestly, the reason I do what I do is at the end of the job, I get to see the satisfaction on our customers faces when we have achieved what we promised,” says the seasoned veteran.

In construction, problems do occur from time to time. At Kurmak, dealing with issues in a timely manner is simply the right thing to do. “Everyone at Kurmak genuinely cares about turning in a great product,” he says. “My staff work long hours and take great pride in what they do.”

As one of the city’s premier custom home builders, Kurmak Builders has earned a reputation for quality workmanship, innovative solutions, effective communication and one that is ethically driven.

“A good builder is someone who listens attentively and delivers what he promises – that’s the Kurmak guarantee.”

If you want a company who is concerned with excellence, has integrity and an eye for detail, then call Kurmak Builders to discuss your custom homes or renovation needs at 403-277-5525 or visit www.kurmakbuilders.com.

Q: What suggestions do you have for creating a unique space? Janette: Unique spaces really are the only way to go, we have seen way too much “beige” and “safe” over the last 20 years and we need to break free of that. The best starting point to create a unique space is to channel an exciting and intriguing personality! Figure out what it is that you’re passionate about and find ways to incorporate that into a room. The room needs to represent your passion so people know a bit more about you when they walk into a room. Incorporate patterns, layer in whimsical accessories, add pops of colour… work in anything that speaks to you BUT balance it with some restraint. Most of all trust your eye, if it looks right it is right.Jef: Unique spaces are created with unique elements. If you depend solely on chain stores that everybody else shops at, it’s going to be harder to make your space unique. Try to balance out standard items with some fun, not so common pieces from design boutiques, local artisans, even flea markets and thrift stores. If you like to travel, and your suitcase is big enough, try and bring home a souvenir that will remind you of your trip and help personalize your space. I also suggest refraining from defining every aspect of your entire project from start to end. That way you leave some room for organic growth and cool things to happen along the way. Most of all, don’t be afraid to express yourself. It seems so often that people downplay their personal style due to lack of confidence or not wanting to take the risk. Don’t make your world drab just to make others comfortable. Take the risk, do something fun or wacky or weird. It will most likely be the thing that gets a conversation going and makes your space unique.

Q: What are some affordable ways to add design elements?Janette: Pattern, pattern and pattern… Did I say pattern? Adding pattern, even a pop of it will add life and luxury to your space. A well-placed zebra print is the very essence of timeless chic. The best part of pattern is if you just add a bit here and there, it’s very affordable. Shop for fabric remnants or wallpaper ends and cover a footstool, frame the wallpaper in vintage spray painted frames, line a shelf or make your own pillows. Spray paint is also a thrifty stylists’ best friend, especially when it’s gold. Spray paint lamp bases, old accessories even a wooden chair for a fun new look.Jef: Thrifting, flea markets, estate sales… these are great places to catch a real bargain, and with a good eye, you can find some really neat stuff. Re-upholstering can be more affordable than replacing that cool vintage couch or chair. Pick an updated pattern that has more legs than the latest trend (we don’t want to be re-upholstering every year!), and shop around for a good quote. Just make sure what you’re recovering is worth keeping around –


If you’re considering giving your home a new look, you’ll not want to miss the opportunity to hear from two design experts when they come to Calgary in February.

Dynamic design duo Janette Ewen and Jef Hancock will hit the Home + Garden Stage at the Calgary Home + Garden Show, which runs Feb. 26 to March 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park.

Prior to their appearance at the show we had a chance to ask Janette and Jef their thoughts on home design and to share some tips with our readers.

COVERSTORY

Dynamic designers SHARE TIPS AT CALGARY HOME + GARDEN SHOW

photos by BETTA LEMME

Q: What suggestions do you have for creating a unique space? Janette: Unique spaces really are the only way to go, we have seen way too much “beige” and “safe” over the last 20 years and we need to break free of that. The best starting point to create a unique space is to channel an exciting and intriguing personality! Figure out what it is that you’re passionate about and find ways to incorporate that into a room. The room needs to represent your passion so people know a bit more about you when they walk into a room. Incorporate patterns, layer in whimsical accessories, add pops of colour… work in anything that speaks to you BUT balance it with some restraint. Most of all trust your eye, if it looks right it is right.Jef: Unique spaces are created with unique elements. If you depend solely on chain stores that everybody else shops at, it’s going to be harder to make your space unique. Try to balance out standard items with some fun, not so common pieces from design boutiques, local artisans, even flea markets and thrift stores. If you like to travel, and your suitcase is big enough, try and bring home a souvenir that will remind you of your trip and help personalize your space. I also suggest refraining from defining every aspect of your entire project from start to end. That way you leave some room for organic growth and cool things to happen along the way. Most of all, don’t be afraid to express yourself. It seems so often that people downplay their personal style due to lack of confidence or not wanting to take the risk. Don’t make your world drab just to make others comfortable. Take the risk, do something fun or wacky or weird. It will most likely be the thing that gets a conversation going and makes your space unique.

Q: What are some affordable ways to add design elements?Janette: Pattern, pattern and pattern… Did I say pattern? Adding pattern, even a pop of it will add life and luxury to your space. A well-placed zebra print is the very essence of timeless chic. The best part of pattern is if you just add a bit here and there, it’s very affordable. Shop for fabric remnants or wallpaper ends and cover a footstool, frame the wallpaper in vintage spray painted frames, line a shelf or make your own pillows. Spray paint is also a thrifty stylists’ best friend, especially when it’s gold. Spray paint lamp bases, old accessories even a wooden chair for a fun new look.Jef: Thrifting, flea markets, estate sales… these are great places to catch a real bargain, and with a good eye, you can find some really neat stuff. Re-upholstering can be more affordable than replacing that cool vintage couch or chair. Pick an updated pattern that has more legs than the latest trend (we don’t want to be re-upholstering every year!), and shop around for a good quote. Just make sure what you’re recovering is worth keeping around –

If you’re considering giving your home a new look, you’ll not want to miss the opportunity to hear from two design experts when they come to Calgary in February.

Dynamic design duo Janette Ewen and Jef Hancock will hit the Home + Garden Stage at the Calgary Home + Garden Show, which runs Feb. 26 to March 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park.

Prior to their appearance at the show we had a chance to ask Janette and Jef their thoughts on home design and to share some tips with our readers.

COVERSTORY

Dynamic designers SHARE TIPS AT CALGARY HOME + GARDEN SHOW

photos by BETTA LEMME

PRODUCED BY

Don’t miss the Calgary Home + Garden Show for realadvice and inspiration from over 650 industry experts! Find new and innovative products for your home, gather new ideas and shop great deals for all your renovation, decor and gardening projects. Satisfaction guaranteed — or the price of admission is on us.

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ideally made from solid hardwood, and of good sound construction. Spray paint! Re-using and up-cycling are a couple of my favorite things when it comes to home decor. Lamps, picture frames, lockers – no matter how ugly the item, there’s nothing a can of bold colour or metallic spray paint can’t fix! Contact paper, in fun patterns, can also be an inexpensive way to breathe new life into something bound for the next garage sale.

Q: How can you add colour or cheerfulness to your space?Janette: See above; no seriously spray paint a fun outdoor sculpture or oversized vase in a bold tone. As for colour I love a chartreuse ANYTHING, it always looks so fancy! Also great artwork is an instant room brightener, shop local art shows or even student shows. I think the bigger, the bolder, the better.Jef: Flowers! Fresh flowers are one of my faves for lifting the spirits and adding a pop of colour to any room. Plus they smell great, which saves you candles and potpourri. I like to keep my spaces simple and pick just a couple of subtle tones that speak well to each other. I then rely on two or three items per room to provide that pop of colour. It could be a throw pillow, a vase, or like in my kitchen, the refrigerator. My entire kitchen is a warm gray, birch, and stainless steel, but my fridge is Ferrari red. It’s so fun, and the red reflects in all the stainless steel, warming it a little bit.

Q: Are there any new trends and styles for the New Year that you recommend?Janette: The biggest trend is that fun, freedom and whimsy have returned to the home. We’re moving away a little from the reclaimed wood, painted chalkboard, burlap pillow look (that said, anything in moderation can work). We’re seeing saucy patterns, new modern looks that almost have a Japanese-metallic influence... in addition the high society look is making a BIG comeback (think velvet, gold and marble), opulence in nature (gilded branches), deep Elizabethan red furnishings, monochromatic minimalism… and luxury sea-life prints.Jef: Well, the rustic look ever so popular amongst the hipsters seems

to be dying down some. I predict less throwbacks to poorer times in history and more throwbacks to glamorous times. Out with pallet wood and Ball jar lighting, and in with gold leaf and chandeliers. Less about The Wild West, more about The Roaring ‘20s. I also see vintage motor racing finding its way into decor through bold and subdued colour blocks, as well as those slip-stream early Formula 1 body lines being carried into more decor elements.

Q: You’re on the Home + Garden Stage at the Calgary Home + Garden Show. What will you be talking about?Janette: Jef and I will be presenting our five-minute quick fixes and overall updates for your home. From hiding an ugly radiator, to styling your kitchen shelves, to rethinking your living room space we will take the audience on a design tutorial full of quick and easy tips to fix, furnish and update your home.

Janette Ewen has been one of Canada’s

leading decor and lifestyle experts for more

than a decade and her Parker Barrow business

partner, Jef Hancock, is an Oregon-born

artist and designer. Learn more from Janette

and Jef from the Home + Garden Stage on

Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. and on Feb. 28 at noon.

Along with showcasing celebrity guest

speakers, the 34th annual Calgary Home +

Garden Show will feature seminars and live

demos from Calgary’s design, horticulture

and landscaping pros, plus more than 650

local exhibitors. Show hours are: Feb. 26

and 27, noon-9 p.m.; Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.;

and March 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

PRODUCED BY



PRODUCED BY



ideally made from solid hardwood, and of good sound construction. Spray paint! Re-using and up-cycling are a couple of my favorite things when it comes to home decor. Lamps, picture frames, lockers – no matter how ugly the item, there’s nothing a can of bold colour or metallic spray paint can’t fix! Contact paper, in fun patterns, can also be an inexpensive way to breathe new life into something bound for the next garage sale.

Q: How can you add colour or cheerfulness to your space?Janette: See above; no seriously spray paint a fun outdoor sculpture or oversized vase in a bold tone. As for colour I love a chartreuse ANYTHING, it always looks so fancy! Also great artwork is an instant room brightener, shop local art shows or even student shows. I think the bigger, the bolder, the better.Jef: Flowers! Fresh flowers are one of my faves for lifting the spirits and adding a pop of colour to any room. Plus they smell great, which saves you candles and potpourri. I like to keep my spaces simple and pick just a couple of subtle tones that speak well to each other. I then rely on two or three items per room to provide that pop of colour. It could be a throw pillow, a vase, or like in my kitchen, the refrigerator. My entire kitchen is a warm gray, birch, and stainless steel, but my fridge is Ferrari red. It’s so fun, and the red reflects in all the stainless steel, warming it a little bit.

Q: Are there any new trends and styles for the New Year that you recommend?Janette: The biggest trend is that fun, freedom and whimsy have returned to the home. We’re moving away a little from the reclaimed wood, painted chalkboard, burlap pillow look (that said, anything in moderation can work). We’re seeing saucy patterns, new modern looks that almost have a Japanese-metallic influence... in addition the high society look is making a BIG comeback (think velvet, gold and marble), opulence in nature (gilded branches), deep Elizabethan red furnishings, monochromatic minimalism… and luxury sea-life prints.Jef: Well, the rustic look ever so popular amongst the hipsters seems

to be dying down some. I predict less throwbacks to poorer times in history and more throwbacks to glamorous times. Out with pallet wood and Ball jar lighting, and in with gold leaf and chandeliers. Less about The Wild West, more about The Roaring ‘20s. I also see vintage motor racing finding its way into decor through bold and subdued colour blocks, as well as those slip-stream early Formula 1 body lines being carried into more decor elements.

Q: You’re on the Home + Garden Stage at the Calgary Home + Garden Show. What will you be talking about?Janette: Jef and I will be presenting our five-minute quick fixes and overall updates for your home. From hiding an ugly radiator, to styling your kitchen shelves, to rethinking your living room space we will take the audience on a design tutorial full of quick and easy tips to fix, furnish and update your home.

Janette Ewen has been one of Canada’s

leading decor and lifestyle experts for more

than a decade and her Parker Barrow business

partner, Jef Hancock, is an Oregon-born

artist and designer. Learn more from Janette

and Jef from the Home + Garden Stage on

Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. and on Feb. 28 at noon.

Along with showcasing celebrity guest

speakers, the 34th annual Calgary Home +

Garden Show will feature seminars and live

demos from Calgary’s design, horticulture

and landscaping pros, plus more than 650

local exhibitors. Show hours are: Feb. 26

and 27, noon-9 p.m.; Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.;

and March 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

S.I.S. SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES – YOUR EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS SPECIALIST

by HEATHER RYAN

BUSINESSPROFILE S.I.S. SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES

Give your tired looking exterior a facelift or replace those worn out doors and windows with new energy-effi cient ones with the help of the exterior renovation specialists at S.I.S. Supply Install Services Ltd.

In business since 1991, the locally owned S.I.S. is your one-stop shop for exterior renovations from installing new windows, doors and siding to soffi t, fascia, eaves, insulation and more. It can also create custom wood work and stone detailing projects, fabulous decks and front entries.

One of S.I.S.’s specialties is installation of James Hardie products such as shakes, lap siding, trim and panels, and it’s one of James Hardie’s biggest “Preferred Remodelers” in Southern Alberta.

“We’re seeing a signifi cant increase in people wanting James Hardie siding for their homes because it’s such a great product,” says general manager Jody Roberts. “It’s durable, long lasting, hail damage resistant and fi re resistant.

“It’s also Engineered for Climate® so the product we use in Calgary is different than what they use in Texas,” Roberts says.

“It’s designed for our freeze/thaw cycle and it comes with a 30-year substrate warranty that is non-prorated.”

S.I.S. recently completed two projects that showcase the James Hardie product. One was to a 1960s-era side-split home in southwest Calgary where the S.I.S. team gave it an updated contemporary look by replacing the old stucco and wood siding with James Hardie siding in an iron gray colour along with decorative cedar.

“We worked together with the homeowners using computer generated conceptual drawings to determine colour

schemes and the location for the cedar tongue-and-groove,” says marketing coordinator Karen Steinmann. “It defi nitely gives the home a contemporary look.” The cedar fl ows around a new Portatec front door, across the upper level and around one corner of the house for a continuous design.

The second home in southeast Calgary saw S.I.S. replace the sandstone coloured stucco with gorgeous evening blue James Hardie straight-edge shakes, paint the bricks the same colour and change out the double black front door with an eye-catching single red Portatec door fl anked by white side lights. S.I.S. also replaced all the windows and doors, added new fascia, soffi t, eaves and redid the existing columns in James Hardie panel and wood trim.

“The home presents a stately classic almost French Country style with its dormers and we kept the look but updated it and now it really stands out,” Steinmann says.

Whether you’re looking to update with James Hardie siding or another product, S.I.S. can meet all your exterior renovation needs, Roberts says. “Why shop at one place for your doors and windows and another for your siding when we can do it all?”

As an exterior renovations specialist, S.I.S. offers clients years of experience and expertise and it takes pride in completing projects to the absolute satisfaction of its customers.

To learn more, visit S.I.S.’s showroom at 3517 64th Ave. S.E., open Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (after hours/weekends by appointment), call 403-640-1334, or visit www.sisltd.ca.

403.640.1334 www.sisltd.caShow room address: 3517 64th Ave. S.E., Calgary

Taking care of all your exterior renovation needs since 1991!

SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICESExterior Renovations Specialists

✓ Windows & Doors✓ Siding/Soffit/Fascia✓ Stone/Stucco✓ Free Estimates

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

24

S.I.S. SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES – YOUR EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS SPECIALIST

by HEATHER RYAN

BUSINESSPROFILE S.I.S. SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES

Give your tired looking exterior a facelift or replace those worn out doors and windows with new energy-effi cient ones with the help of the exterior renovation specialists at S.I.S. Supply Install Services Ltd.

In business since 1991, the locally owned S.I.S. is your one-stop shop for exterior renovations from installing new windows, doors and siding to soffi t, fascia, eaves, insulation and more. It can also create custom wood work and stone detailing projects, fabulous decks and front entries.

One of S.I.S.’s specialties is installation of James Hardie products such as shakes, lap siding, trim and panels, and it’s one of James Hardie’s biggest “Preferred Remodelers” in Southern Alberta.

“We’re seeing a signifi cant increase in people wanting James Hardie siding for their homes because it’s such a great product,” says general manager Jody Roberts. “It’s durable, long lasting, hail damage resistant and fi re resistant.

“It’s also Engineered for Climate® so the product we use in Calgary is different than what they use in Texas,” Roberts says.

“It’s designed for our freeze/thaw cycle and it comes with a 30-year substrate warranty that is non-prorated.”

S.I.S. recently completed two projects that showcase the James Hardie product. One was to a 1960s-era side-split home in southwest Calgary where the S.I.S. team gave it an updated contemporary look by replacing the old stucco and wood siding with James Hardie siding in an iron gray colour along with decorative cedar.

“We worked together with the homeowners using computer generated conceptual drawings to determine colour

schemes and the location for the cedar tongue-and-groove,” says marketing coordinator Karen Steinmann. “It defi nitely gives the home a contemporary look.” The cedar fl ows around a new Portatec front door, across the upper level and around one corner of the house for a continuous design.

The second home in southeast Calgary saw S.I.S. replace the sandstone coloured stucco with gorgeous evening blue James Hardie straight-edge shakes, paint the bricks the same colour and change out the double black front door with an eye-catching single red Portatec door fl anked by white side lights. S.I.S. also replaced all the windows and doors, added new fascia, soffi t, eaves and redid the existing columns in James Hardie panel and wood trim.

“The home presents a stately classic almost French Country style with its dormers and we kept the look but updated it and now it really stands out,” Steinmann says.

Whether you’re looking to update with James Hardie siding or another product, S.I.S. can meet all your exterior renovation needs, Roberts says. “Why shop at one place for your doors and windows and another for your siding when we can do it all?”

As an exterior renovations specialist, S.I.S. offers clients years of experience and expertise and it takes pride in completing projects to the absolute satisfaction of its customers.

To learn more, visit S.I.S.’s showroom at 3517 64th Ave. S.E., open Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (after hours/weekends by appointment), call 403-640-1334, or visit www.sisltd.ca.

403.640.1334 www.sisltd.caShow room address: 3517 64th Ave. S.E., Calgary

Taking care of all your exterior renovation needs since 1991!

SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICESExterior Renovations Specialists

✓ Windows & Doors✓ Siding/Soffit/Fascia✓ Stone/Stucco✓ Free Estimates

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

25

CALL FOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

403.258.1511

Home renovations from the homebuilding experts.

EVERY CARDEL RENO INCLUDES

Free initial in-home consultationand no-obligation estimate

Competitive, accurate pricingwith no surprises

Full-service guidance from ourinterior designers

Large-scale samples and trusted brandsin Cardel’s 11,000 sq ft Design Centre

Highly skilled, experienced trades team

Exceptional quality control standards

RenoMark certifi cation

2 year warranty on workmanshipand materials

Seasoned project management

Full post-reno cleanup

Backed by 40 years of building expertise, Cardel Renos makes it easy and affordable to update your home. From basements, kitchens and bathrooms to full structural additions and more, we offer a complete range of renovation services.

Our renos team is on the front line of current design techniques, working with you every step of the way to bring Cardel quality to your home renovation. We’ll take care of everything from quote to completion, including all permits and approvals.

SO MANY WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME MAIN FLOOR UPDATESAND EXTENSIONS

KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

BASEMENTS

NOOK BUMP OUTS

GREAT ROOM ADDITIONS

BONUS ROOM ADDITIONS

2ND STOREY ADDITIONS

WHOLE HOME RENOSAND MORE

VISIT CARDELRENOS.COM FOR OUR PROJECT GALLERY AND PRICING

RENO-CMP-1177-RENO_MAG_8.125X10.75_OCT 2014.indd 1 2014-09-03 2:57 PM


Concrete is an extraordinary material that is practical, expressive, and aesthetic all at once.

The possibilities for creative expression are endless.

CONCRETE & CONSTRUCTION TOOLS & SUPPLIESCalgary’s Only Decorative Concrete Specialty Store.

We have the Products and Expertise to Help you get the job done right!

422 Manitou Road SE | Calgary | 1-844-240-2508 www.hardrockdevelopments.com | [email protected]











Concrete is an ideal medium to express relationships between art and craft, between architecture and

contracting. There is something powerful - something emotional - about projects that evolve from actual hands-on experience with the material, coupled with an understanding of the pattern language of design principles.

Imagine a countertop mix that you could form, pour, demold in 24 hours or less. SureCrete’s Xtreme Concrete Countertop redefines the word

“simplicity”. The reason Hard Rock Developments can make this bold statement is because of the scientific breakthroughs in the mix design along with innovations in finishing techniques.

Whether you are a seasoned

contractor or a Do-It-Yourselfer (DIY) there is no smarter or easier concrete countertop mix on the market than SureCrete’s Xtreme Series Pre-Casting concrete countertop bag mix. The small aggregate allows for the user to easily create any texture or look without worrying about exposing unwanted large aggregates. The pre- blended fiber put in the 50 lb concrete countertop mix delivers all the reinforcement you will need. That means NO rebar, NO steel, and NO wire mesh. This allows the applicator to pour his concrete countertop as thin as 0.5 inches.

Hard Rock Developments is pleased to share their extensive knowledge, built on years of concrete design exploration and technical experimentation, and to offer their proprietary line of SureCrete

Xtreme Concrete Countertop Mix - plus all the tools and instruction you’ll need to make beautiful, long-lasting professional looking concrete projects.

Decorative concrete countertop seminars are available. Please contact us for more information.

Concrete countertopsAs easy as 1-2-3

FEATURE

CALL FOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

403.258.1511

Home renovations from the homebuilding experts.

EVERY CARDEL RENO INCLUDES

Free initial in-home consultationand no-obligation estimate

Competitive, accurate pricingwith no surprises

Full-service guidance from ourinterior designers

Large-scale samples and trusted brandsin Cardel’s 11,000 sq ft Design Centre

Highly skilled, experienced trades team

Exceptional quality control standards

RenoMark certifi cation

2 year warranty on workmanshipand materials

Seasoned project management

Full post-reno cleanup

Backed by 40 years of building expertise, Cardel Renos makes it easy and affordable to update your home. From basements, kitchens and bathrooms to full structural additions and more, we offer a complete range of renovation services.

Our renos team is on the front line of current design techniques, working with you every step of the way to bring Cardel quality to your home renovation. We’ll take care of everything from quote to completion, including all permits and approvals.

SO MANY WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME MAIN FLOOR UPDATESAND EXTENSIONS

KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

BASEMENTS

NOOK BUMP OUTS

GREAT ROOM ADDITIONS

BONUS ROOM ADDITIONS

2ND STOREY ADDITIONS

WHOLE HOME RENOSAND MORE

VISIT CARDELRENOS.COM FOR OUR PROJECT GALLERY AND PRICING

RENO-CMP-1177-RENO_MAG_8.125X10.75_OCT 2014.indd 1 2014-09-03 2:57 PM

27

Concrete is an ideal medium to express relationships between art and craft, between architecture and

contracting. There is something powerful - something emotional - about projects that evolve from actual hands-on experience with the material, coupled with an understanding of the pattern language of design principles.

Imagine a countertop mix that you could form, pour, demold in 24 hours or less. SureCrete’s Xtreme Concrete Countertop redefines the word

“simplicity”. The reason Hard Rock Developments can make this bold statement is because of the scientific breakthroughs in the mix design along with innovations in finishing techniques.

Whether you are a seasoned

contractor or a Do-It-Yourselfer (DIY) there is no smarter or easier concrete countertop mix on the market than SureCrete’s Xtreme Series Pre-Casting concrete countertop bag mix. The small aggregate allows for the user to easily create any texture or look without worrying about exposing unwanted large aggregates. The pre- blended fiber put in the 50 lb concrete countertop mix delivers all the reinforcement you will need. That means NO rebar, NO steel, and NO wire mesh. This allows the applicator to pour his concrete countertop as thin as 0.5 inches.

Hard Rock Developments is pleased to share their extensive knowledge, built on years of concrete design exploration and technical experimentation, and to offer their proprietary line of SureCrete

Xtreme Concrete Countertop Mix - plus all the tools and instruction you’ll need to make beautiful, long-lasting professional looking concrete projects.

Decorative concrete countertop seminars are available. Please contact us for more information.

Concrete countertopsAs easy as 1-2-3

FEATURE


BRYAN TUCKEYBryan 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.

by BRYAN TUCKEY

BUYING A NEW HOME OR CONDOMINIUM IN CALGARY is a great option for anyone looking to move to a quality, complete community in the city. But what about those who want a fresh start for their existing home?

That’s where a home renovation comes in. Renovating a home has become increasingly popular among homeowners wishing to stay in their existing neighbourhoods.

While I understand the excitement that comes with renovating your home, it is very important to do your homework and ensure that you hire a professional contractor to make sure your home receives the renovation it deserves.

More and more homeowners looking to improve the value of their homes, as well as their quality of life, are opting for renovation.

BILD is proudly affiliated with the national RenoMark program, which our association first launched right here in Toronto in 2001. The program helped homeowners identify and hire professional renovation contractors who have agreed to a renovation-specific code of conduct. This means they can rely on their contractor to offer at least two years’ warranty, carry $2-million liability insurance and carry out all work after signing a detailed, written contract.

The program became so popular that it was adopted nationwide. Today RenoMark is available in nine provinces and more than 40 communities across Canada.

What’s important to know is that every professional

renovator you hire is a step toward combating the underground economy.

The home renovation sector in Canada is still fighting underground operators who work on a “cash only” basis. These contractors pose a number of potential dangers to the unsuspecting homeowner. Consumer protection is compromised when you hire underground renovators because there is no written contract to hold them accountable for quality of work.

If something goes wrong, you could end up losing a lot more than you had hoped to save with a cash transaction.

That’s actually one of the reasons we first started the RenoMark program – to help homeowners renovate with confidence by offering them a source for professional renovators.

I have heard it said many times by our professional RenoMark contractors. “You think it’s expensive hiring a professional? Wait until you hire an amateur!”

If you are thinking about renovating your home or condominium this year, visit renomark.ca to use our searchable database of professional renovators to determine if the RenoMark program is right for you. The website offers numerous additional resources, including the RenoGuide – a five-step guide to a worry-free renovation.

The underground economy is detrimental to our economy, our industry and the quality of our homes. It’s time to put a stop to it.

RENOMARK

Renovation offers

opportunity for homeowners

MORE AND MORE HOMEOWNERS LOOKING TO IMPROVE THE VALUE OF THEIR HOMES, AS WELL AS THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE, ARE OPTING FOR RENOVATION.

A 1970S KITCHEN GETS

A SOPHISTICATED UPDATE by MICHELLE HOPKINS

ARTISAN KITCHENS & RENOVATIONS BUSINESSPROFILE

Although there were things Joyce O’Neill liked about her 1970s kitchen, it felt outdated and wasn’t the best

layout for her cooking and entertaining style. After interviewing three possible renovators, Joyce hired Artisan Kitchens & Renovations.

“From the minute we spoke to the owner Dave Boulding, he seemed honest and genuine,” she says. “Then, as the process began, everything they said they would do, they did. They opened up the main floor and I now have a gorgeous island, new windows and beautiful cabinetry.”

Joyce was so pleased she’s recommended Artisan Kitchens to friends and family. “Dave and Lynn’s advice and recommendations were invaluable.” Dave and Lynn

Boulding come with a wealth of experience – the couple has been in the building industry since 1982. From its inception in 2003, Artisan Kitchens & Renovations has set the standard for excellence in customer satisfaction and workmanship.

Dreams turn into reality with Artisan’s Project Team approach, with Lynn as the Team Captain. She is also asked to consult on the more creative and complex designs. It’s that attention to detail that result in jobs finishing on time and with extremely satisfied customers.

“Our highest compliment is when we are referred by our customers,” says Dave. “Customers deal directly with us… we appreciate and share the sense of urgency with our customers to get the job done and done right.”

Thanks to Dave & Lynn Boulding and their team of professionals, Joyce has the kitchen she loves to entertain in. For more information about Artisan Kitchens & Renovations, call 403-207-7887 or visit www.artisankitchens.ca.


artisankitchens.ca

RESPECT I RELATIONSHIPS I RESULTS

104, 5050-106 AVE. SETEL. 403.207.7887

RENOVATING SMALL KITCHENS CAN CREATE LARGE RESULTS... IT’S POSSIBLE!

WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

WE’VE HONED OUR SKILLS

ON THOUSANDS OF

RENOVATIONS TO CREATE

CLEVER DESIGNS FROM

THE MOST COMMON SPACES,

TAILOR MADE TO OUR

CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE.

YOU COULD SAY THAT IT HAS

BECOME OUR PASSION.

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR EXTENSIVE PHOTO GALLERY OF COMPLETED PROJECTS... WE WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU TO DISCUSS HOW YOUR PROJECT CAN BE A SUCCESS!

BRYAN TUCKEYBryan 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.

by BRYAN TUCKEY

BUYING A NEW HOME OR CONDOMINIUM IN CALGARY is a great option for anyone looking to move to a quality, complete community in the city. But what about those who want a fresh start for their existing home?

That’s where a home renovation comes in. Renovating a home has become increasingly popular among homeowners wishing to stay in their existing neighbourhoods.

While I understand the excitement that comes with renovating your home, it is very important to do your homework and ensure that you hire a professional contractor to make sure your home receives the renovation it deserves.

More and more homeowners looking to improve the value of their homes, as well as their quality of life, are opting for renovation.

BILD is proudly affiliated with the national RenoMark program, which our association first launched right here in Toronto in 2001. The program helped homeowners identify and hire professional renovation contractors who have agreed to a renovation-specific code of conduct. This means they can rely on their contractor to offer at least two years’ warranty, carry $2-million liability insurance and carry out all work after signing a detailed, written contract.

The program became so popular that it was adopted nationwide. Today RenoMark is available in nine provinces and more than 40 communities across Canada.

What’s important to know is that every professional

renovator you hire is a step toward combating the underground economy.

The home renovation sector in Canada is still fighting underground operators who work on a “cash only” basis. These contractors pose a number of potential dangers to the unsuspecting homeowner. Consumer protection is compromised when you hire underground renovators because there is no written contract to hold them accountable for quality of work.

If something goes wrong, you could end up losing a lot more than you had hoped to save with a cash transaction.

That’s actually one of the reasons we first started the RenoMark program – to help homeowners renovate with confidence by offering them a source for professional renovators.

I have heard it said many times by our professional RenoMark contractors. “You think it’s expensive hiring a professional? Wait until you hire an amateur!”

If you are thinking about renovating your home or condominium this year, visit renomark.ca to use our searchable database of professional renovators to determine if the RenoMark program is right for you. The website offers numerous additional resources, including the RenoGuide – a five-step guide to a worry-free renovation.

The underground economy is detrimental to our economy, our industry and the quality of our homes. It’s time to put a stop to it.

RENOMARK

Renovation offers

opportunity for homeowners

MORE AND MORE HOMEOWNERS LOOKING TO IMPROVE THE VALUE OF THEIR HOMES, AS WELL AS THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE, ARE OPTING FOR RENOVATION.

A 1970S KITCHEN GETS

A SOPHISTICATED UPDATE by MICHELLE HOPKINS

ARTISAN KITCHENS & RENOVATIONS BUSINESSPROFILE

Although there were things Joyce O’Neill liked about her 1970s kitchen, it felt outdated and wasn’t the best

layout for her cooking and entertaining style. After interviewing three possible renovators, Joyce hired Artisan Kitchens & Renovations.

“From the minute we spoke to the owner Dave Boulding, he seemed honest and genuine,” she says. “Then, as the process began, everything they said they would do, they did. They opened up the main floor and I now have a gorgeous island, new windows and beautiful cabinetry.”

Joyce was so pleased she’s recommended Artisan Kitchens to friends and family. “Dave and Lynn’s advice and recommendations were invaluable.” Dave and Lynn

Boulding come with a wealth of experience – the couple has been in the building industry since 1982. From its inception in 2003, Artisan Kitchens & Renovations has set the standard for excellence in customer satisfaction and workmanship.

Dreams turn into reality with Artisan’s Project Team approach, with Lynn as the Team Captain. She is also asked to consult on the more creative and complex designs. It’s that attention to detail that result in jobs finishing on time and with extremely satisfied customers.

“Our highest compliment is when we are referred by our customers,” says Dave. “Customers deal directly with us… we appreciate and share the sense of urgency with our customers to get the job done and done right.”

Thanks to Dave & Lynn Boulding and their team of professionals, Joyce has the kitchen she loves to entertain in. For more information about Artisan Kitchens & Renovations, call 403-207-7887 or visit www.artisankitchens.ca.


THE COLD TEMPERATURES ARE HERE TO STAY – so as you take cover indoors, it's the perfect time to put home improvement projects on your to-do list. Here are a few ideas to make your home feel and look fabulous very quickly.

FROM BORING TO BOLD The bathroom is a great place to start improvements, so if yours is boring, basic, or just outdated, it's time to make a change – even on a budget.

Faucets are a simple and affordable way to instantly renew the look and functionality of this busy room. For example, the Darcy bathroom collection from Moen includes transitionally styled faucets that provide a soft-modern look and water-saving benefits to offer the best of form, function, and beauty in no time. The collection is also available in Spot Resist Brushed Nickel finish, so you'll save time cleaning, as it helps resist water spots and fingerprints.

WINTER WARM-UPGive your home a

Courtesy of NEWSCANADA.COM

WEATHER THE WINTER WISELY

No one wants to spend money on high energy bills, so be sure your home isn't losing heat through windows and doors that aren't insulated properly. Updates such as weather stripping can keep the cool air out while keeping the warm air inside – all of which will prevent throwing money out the window. And don't stop there. Simple tasks, such as replacing worn-out caulk, insulating your outlets, and prepping your windows with plastic cling for the winter months can significantly reduce heating bills. IT'S TIME TO MAKE A CHANGE – EVEN ON A BUDGET

FEATURE

QUICK KITCHEN UPGRADE Cold weather keeps us inside with far more cooking and entertaining in the kitchen. Decor advisers at Moen Canada say that the quickest way to update the kitchen, much like the bathroom, is by installing a new faucet. From food preparation to clean-up, the faucet is a major workhorse – as well as a beauty focal point. Pulldown and pullout faucets are a popular choice, such as the company's new Brookshire kitchen faucet, which features decorative touches and classic styling with a pullout design for at-your-fingertips water delivery. It's equipped with the Reflex system, which offers self-retraction of the spray wand, as well as a wide range of motion, generous reach, and secure docking retraction.

GET FIRED UP

Nothing feels better on a cold night than getting cozy by a fire, but is your fireplace prepped for the season? For a wood-burning fireplace, inspect the chimney for nests or cracks. Next, clean it thoroughly to remove creosote (unburned fuel) to prevent unwanted fires. For gas-burning fireplaces, be sure the airways of the pilot and main burners are working properly and the blower is clean. Finally, be sure you have working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, as well as an operational fire extinguisher nearby. Now it's easy to relax and enjoy the warm glow safely.

FOCUS ON FIXTURES AND FANS

With shorter winter days, there's less natural light and so you may notice your fixtures a lot more. For added illumination and energy savings, update incandescent bulbs with brighter, Energy Star-rated bulbs which use about 75 percent less energy and last 10 to 25 times longer. Next, take a look at the ceiling fans in your home. Start by cleaning the blades with a gentle detergent and then switch the blades to rotate clockwise. Changing this setting pushes warm air down into the room, making it feel warmer.

Your home will operate more efficiently with these wintertime changes – and as importantly, it will look and feel fabulous.


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Contest runs from January 1st to April 30th, 2015.Visit hunterdouglas.ca for full contest rules and regulations. No purchase necessary.

VISIT OUR CROWFOOT SHOWROOM

10-250 CROWFOOT CRES NW

403.547.4013www.sheilaswindowtoppers.com

®

THE COLD TEMPERATURES ARE HERE TO STAY – so as you take cover indoors, it's the perfect time to put home improvement projects on your to-do list. Here are a few ideas to make your home feel and look fabulous very quickly.

FROM BORING TO BOLD The bathroom is a great place to start improvements, so if yours is boring, basic, or just outdated, it's time to make a change – even on a budget.

Faucets are a simple and affordable way to instantly renew the look and functionality of this busy room. For example, the Darcy bathroom collection from Moen includes transitionally styled faucets that provide a soft-modern look and water-saving benefits to offer the best of form, function, and beauty in no time. The collection is also available in Spot Resist Brushed Nickel finish, so you'll save time cleaning, as it helps resist water spots and fingerprints.

WINTER WARM-UPGive your home a

Courtesy of NEWSCANADA.COM

WEATHER THE WINTER WISELY

No one wants to spend money on high energy bills, so be sure your home isn't losing heat through windows and doors that aren't insulated properly. Updates such as weather stripping can keep the cool air out while keeping the warm air inside – all of which will prevent throwing money out the window. And don't stop there. Simple tasks, such as replacing worn-out caulk, insulating your outlets, and prepping your windows with plastic cling for the winter months can significantly reduce heating bills. IT'S TIME TO MAKE A CHANGE – EVEN ON A BUDGET

FEATURE

QUICK KITCHEN UPGRADE Cold weather keeps us inside with far more cooking and entertaining in the kitchen. Decor advisers at Moen Canada say that the quickest way to update the kitchen, much like the bathroom, is by installing a new faucet. From food preparation to clean-up, the faucet is a major workhorse – as well as a beauty focal point. Pulldown and pullout faucets are a popular choice, such as the company's new Brookshire kitchen faucet, which features decorative touches and classic styling with a pullout design for at-your-fingertips water delivery. It's equipped with the Reflex system, which offers self-retraction of the spray wand, as well as a wide range of motion, generous reach, and secure docking retraction.

GET FIRED UP

Nothing feels better on a cold night than getting cozy by a fire, but is your fireplace prepped for the season? For a wood-burning fireplace, inspect the chimney for nests or cracks. Next, clean it thoroughly to remove creosote (unburned fuel) to prevent unwanted fires. For gas-burning fireplaces, be sure the airways of the pilot and main burners are working properly and the blower is clean. Finally, be sure you have working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, as well as an operational fire extinguisher nearby. Now it's easy to relax and enjoy the warm glow safely.

FOCUS ON FIXTURES AND FANS

With shorter winter days, there's less natural light and so you may notice your fixtures a lot more. For added illumination and energy savings, update incandescent bulbs with brighter, Energy Star-rated bulbs which use about 75 percent less energy and last 10 to 25 times longer. Next, take a look at the ceiling fans in your home. Start by cleaning the blades with a gentle detergent and then switch the blades to rotate clockwise. Changing this setting pushes warm air down into the room, making it feel warmer.

Your home will operate more efficiently with these wintertime changes – and as importantly, it will look and feel fabulous.


#12, 3650- 19th St. NE, Calgary403.275.2588

[email protected]

www.calgaryrenovations.com

Less Talk More Action

BUILDING YOUR DREAMS

A DREAM HOME TURNED NIGHTMARE IS REBORN by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE LITWILLER RENOVATIONS & CUSTOM HOMES

IIn 2006, Jody and John O’Rourke moved into what was suppose to be their 5,000+ square foot dream home - a custom built bungalow on a beautiful acreage.

Within days of moving in, the young couple was living every homeowner’s nightmare. “Our house was slapped together poorly,” says Jody, who was eight months pregnant at the time. “The builder came with great references, so you can imagine how dejected we were when we noticed all of the problems… it was totally unacceptable.”

The couple decided to hire a renovator to fi x the problems. “We spoke to David Litwiller and immediately had a really good vibe about him,” says Jody. “We hired him right away and we couldn’t have been happier… he listened to us and was very honest about what could be fi xed and what couldn’t.”

Today, the couple and their two children love their home. “We have now hired David again to add an addition to the house, plus build a new garage and a pool,” she says. “We wouldn’t trust anyone else but Dave. He is super honest and he has great trades people.”

She paused and adds: “David is old school, he thinks about quality and he’s very particular. He stayed on his timeline and when they said they were going to be here, they were.”

The accolades are appreciated but for Litwiller it’s simply good business - it’s about ethics, accountability and trust.

“We have an open book policy,” he says. “Our clients can come to our offi ce anytime and review our trade partner invoices if they wish.”

That attitude has earned Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes a reputation as one of Calgary’s premier home renovation companies with more than three decades of excellence in customer service and exceptional workmanship.

At any given time, the talented team at the boutique-style construction company is working on six to eight jobs. “We fi nish between 20 and 25 jobs every year,” he says. “We have one foreman on each job so that the client doesn’t get shuffl ed around from one to another.”

To help homeowners understand the renovation process, David Litwiller hosts free seminars twice a year. He gathers experts in real estate, tax law, including a realtor, a Revenue

Canada agent, a representative from the Better Business Bureau, to name a few, who go through the build from start to end. “We have between 100 and 120 attendees come out to our 90-minute seminars.”

He stressed that these seminars are completely nonpartisan, with no sales pitches at all. “This is strictly informational.”

So why does the multiple award-winning renovator take time out of his busy schedule to do this?

“We are here to assist consumers to understand what they are contemplating; what better way than to put on seminars that educate and inform,” he adds. “I won’t sell a job that doesn’t add value to a homeowner’s home.”

David and his team invite you to contact them to discuss your home improvements aspirations. To fi nd out more about Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes, call 403-275-2588 or visit www.calgaryrenovations.com.


#12, 3650- 19th St. NE, Calgary403.275.2588

[email protected]

www.calgaryrenovations.com

Less Talk More Action

BUILDING YOUR DREAMS

A DREAM HOME TURNED NIGHTMARE IS REBORN by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE LITWILLER RENOVATIONS & CUSTOM HOMES

IIn 2006, Jody and John O’Rourke moved into what was suppose to be their 5,000+ square foot dream home - a custom built bungalow on a beautiful acreage.

Within days of moving in, the young couple was living every homeowner’s nightmare. “Our house was slapped together poorly,” says Jody, who was eight months pregnant at the time. “The builder came with great references, so you can imagine how dejected we were when we noticed all of the problems… it was totally unacceptable.”

The couple decided to hire a renovator to fi x the problems. “We spoke to David Litwiller and immediately had a really good vibe about him,” says Jody. “We hired him right away and we couldn’t have been happier… he listened to us and was very honest about what could be fi xed and what couldn’t.”

Today, the couple and their two children love their home. “We have now hired David again to add an addition to the house, plus build a new garage and a pool,” she says. “We wouldn’t trust anyone else but Dave. He is super honest and he has great trades people.”

She paused and adds: “David is old school, he thinks about quality and he’s very particular. He stayed on his timeline and when they said they were going to be here, they were.”

The accolades are appreciated but for Litwiller it’s simply good business - it’s about ethics, accountability and trust.

“We have an open book policy,” he says. “Our clients can come to our offi ce anytime and review our trade partner invoices if they wish.”

That attitude has earned Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes a reputation as one of Calgary’s premier home renovation companies with more than three decades of excellence in customer service and exceptional workmanship.

At any given time, the talented team at the boutique-style construction company is working on six to eight jobs. “We fi nish between 20 and 25 jobs every year,” he says. “We have one foreman on each job so that the client doesn’t get shuffl ed around from one to another.”

To help homeowners understand the renovation process, David Litwiller hosts free seminars twice a year. He gathers experts in real estate, tax law, including a realtor, a Revenue

Canada agent, a representative from the Better Business Bureau, to name a few, who go through the build from start to end. “We have between 100 and 120 attendees come out to our 90-minute seminars.”

He stressed that these seminars are completely nonpartisan, with no sales pitches at all. “This is strictly informational.”

So why does the multiple award-winning renovator take time out of his busy schedule to do this?

“We are here to assist consumers to understand what they are contemplating; what better way than to put on seminars that educate and inform,” he adds. “I won’t sell a job that doesn’t add value to a homeowner’s home.”

David and his team invite you to contact them to discuss your home improvements aspirations. To fi nd out more about Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes, call 403-275-2588 or visit www.calgaryrenovations.com.

JAN - MARCH 2015JAN - MARCH 2015

HOME ANDGARDEN

PHOTO COURTESY OF KAYU CANADA INC.

PLAN AGARDEN

MAKEOVER NOW!


INC.

Renovation Specialists & Custom Home Builder

The tools of our trade have changed. Our craftsmanship hasn’t.

RENOMARK

CRHBA-ESTD 1946©

RENOVATORS MARK OF EXCELLEN

CE

INC.

Helping to build and renovate since 1975

www.jameswoodhomes.com

There’s craftsmanship, caring, experience and

pride in everything we do. All to ensure your

complete confidence in our work, from start to finish.

Call for your free estimate | 403.246.6506

Jameswood Homes_Renovation Mag Full Page Ad_JAN.indd 1 03/01/14 12:58 PM

Canadian Home Builders’

Association

Calgary Region

R E N O V A T I N G S I N C E 1 9 7 5

jameswoodhomes.com

There’s craftsmanship, caring, experience and pride in everything we do. All to ensure your complete confidence in our work, from start to finish.

Call for your complimentary in-home consultation

403.246.6506

NEWSETC

SMALL BATHROOM? NO PROBLEM. STAND-ALONE TUBS ARE AVAILABLE IN A VARIETY OF SIZES TO SUIT YOUR SPACE.

Elegant lines and subtle curves, it's the perfect cross between Roman bath and modern soak.

Roman F. $4,935. Visit maax.com

A LAST WORD ON A HOT TRENDby ELISA KROVBLIT

DUBrub-a-dub

The bathtub has always been a workhorse with a really embat-tled identity. For 'shower people,' the tub is really a non-issue, it's there to catch water. For 'bath people,' it's all about depth and comfort. But for designers, it's a focal point – and tub design has really taken its place at the top of chic bathroom trends. Whether you're a 'bath person' or a 'shower person,' you can't deny the aesthetic – it's a statement maker!While the Victorians were onto something with their elegant ball-and-claw style foot, deep soaking basin and gently curling lip, stand-alone options today have evolved to fit your bathroom's style.

FEB - MAR 2015

HOME AND GARDEN

PHOTO COURTESY OF KAYU CANADA INC.

PLAN AGARDEN

MAKEOVER NOW!

NEWSETC

SMALL BATHROOM? NO PROBLEM. STAND-ALONE TUBS ARE AVAILABLE IN A VARIETY OF SIZES TO SUIT YOUR SPACE.

Elegant lines and subtle curves, it's the perfect cross between Roman bath and modern soak.

Roman F. $4,935. Visit maax.com

A LAST WORD ON A HOT TRENDby ELISA KROVBLIT

DUBrub-a-dub

The bathtub has always been a workhorse with a really embat-tled identity. For 'shower people,' the tub is really a non-issue, it's there to catch water. For 'bath people,' it's all about depth and comfort. But for designers, it's a focal point – and tub design has really taken its place at the top of chic bathroom trends. Whether you're a 'bath person' or a 'shower person,' you can't deny the aesthetic – it's a statement maker!While the Victorians were onto something with their elegant ball-and-claw style foot, deep soaking basin and gently curling lip, stand-alone options today have evolved to fit your bathroom's style.

U

When Only The Best

Choice In Exotic

Hardwood Products Will Do...

Ultimate Renovations showhome Calgary, AlbertaExtensive use of Kayu Batu inside and out

Contractors & Installer Referrals Upon Request.

Please drop by our show room Bay #8 6304 Burbank Road SE. Calgary

Phone: 403.541.9009

Toll-free: 1.877.666.KAYU (5298)www.kayu.ca

Personalized appointments after hours available

Proud Supplier of Yellow Balau / Bangkirai Decking for Memorial Poppy Plaza in Kensington

Canada’s Leader and Pioneer in Exotic Hardwood since 1995

U

Get Real Wood!!... Choose Kayu Canada’s Exotic Hardwood Decking Products.

We specialize in the following Exotic Hardwoods:• Red Balau Batu• Yellow Balau/Bankirai• Dark Red Meranti• IPE• Extremely durable for decking, fencing,

soffit, siding & interior hardwood flooring.

Low Maintenance or no maintenance and competitively priced with plastic composites.

Available across Canada for decking, fencing, soffits, siding and interior hardwood flooring.

Kayu Canada’s exotic wood products has been specified in the following high profile commercial and residential projects across Canada: • Devonian Gardens Downtown in Calgary • Memorial Poppy plaza in Kensington, Calgary • Riverwalk Project, East Village Calgary • Statesman Homes “Riverside Quays” in Calgary • The Penthouses at “La Caille on the Bow” in Calgary Too many personal residences to list!

You can also see our product at numerous restaurants, bars and pubs throughout the city.Outdoor living at its finest



Phone: 403.541.9009



To view or download a complete product catalogue please visit www.kayu.ca

Georgie Award-winning exterior Summerland, BCHomescape Building & Designs

U

When Only The Best

Choice In Exotic

Hardwood Products Will Do...

Ultimate Renovations showhome Calgary, AlbertaExtensive use of Kayu Batu inside and out



Phone: 403.541.9009



Proud Supplier of Yellow Balau / Bangkirai Decking for Memorial Poppy Plaza in Kensington

Canada’s Leader and Pioneer in Exotic Hardwood since 1995

U

Get Real Wood!!... Choose Kayu Canada’s Exotic Hardwood Decking Products.

We specialize in the following Exotic Hardwoods:• Red Balau Batu• Yellow Balau/Bankirai• Dark Red Meranti• IPE• Extremely durable for decking, fencing,

soffit, siding & interior hardwood flooring.

Low Maintenance or no maintenance and competitively priced with plastic composites.

Available across Canada for decking, fencing, soffits, siding and interior hardwood flooring.

Kayu Canada’s exotic wood products has been specified in the following high profile commercial and residential projects across Canada: • Devonian Gardens Downtown in Calgary • Memorial Poppy plaza in Kensington, Calgary • Riverwalk Project, East Village Calgary • Statesman Homes “Riverside Quays” in Calgary • The Penthouses at “La Caille on the Bow” in Calgary Too many personal residences to list!

You can also see our product at numerous restaurants, bars and pubs throughout the city.Outdoor living at its finest



Phone: 403.541.9009



To view or download a complete product catalogue please visit www.kayu.ca

Georgie Award-winning exterior Summerland, BCHomescape Building & Designs


by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

PLANNING FOR YOUR

New Landscape or Garden Make-Over

WINTER IS A SEASON A MAJORITY OF CANADIANS DO NOT

LOOK FORWARD TO OR ENJOY. While we may not always relish the snow and cold, winter does give us a time of rest after the other more busy and active seasons. It is also a great time to plan how you are going to landscape the site your new home sits on or how you’ll do a landscape make-over of your existing space. If you haven’t planned a year ahead, winter does give you a few months to organize and arrange a plan for spring.

Knowing your budget is crucial; as a landscape designer I fi nd that people often budget for all of the upgrades and extra features they want in their home but tend to not plan ahead for all of the hardscape that needs to be done outside their home. For instance, grading, whether by hand or by machinery, is generally necessary on all newly-developed properties and needs to be done before any landscaping is started to ensure proper grades and drainage away from your home. Landscaping can be expensive depending on your wish list. A very vague rule of

thumb is that about 5-10% of the value of your home is what you should plan on investing outside your home. Step number two planning your wants and needs, should only come after your budget has already been established. Having your budget worked out and an idea of what you want and need will help save consultation time and fees when you call in the professionals.

Step number two can be much more work than step one, but will probably be more enjoyable! You can start by making a wish list itemizing all of the things you want to have in your new outdoor space. The best way to do this is by fi rst deciding how you want to use the space you have available, and second by deciding what type of outdoor escapes you want.

HOMEANDGARDEN

photo supplied by

FOUR SEASONS SUNROOM

Ask yourself some of these questions:• Do you want to entertain a lot? If so, do you want to

cook for groups of family and friends in a grilling and dining space? Or would you rather entertain in an outdoor living room space with big, overstuffed sectionals, sofas, and chairs with occasional coffee or cocktail tables? Do you need both? What about a sunroom? If your budget will allow a sunroom they are fantastic for those of us that would rather be outdoors but live with such a short outdoor season!

• Are you an active family that would use sports courts or places for children and dogs to play?

• Do you want quiet, contemplative spaces, such as spa spaces or gardening areas?

• Do you need play structures, storage sheds, potting sheds, or a studio? Try to think of all the ways you will truly use and enjoy your new outdoor spaces.

Once you have determined the type of spaces you need, the next step is to determine where to put these spaces. This is part of what your landscape designer will help you do if you are using one. If you are capable and are doing your own work, here are a


by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

PLANNING FOR YOUR

New Landscape or Garden Make-Over

WINTER IS A SEASON A MAJORITY OF CANADIANS DO NOT

LOOK FORWARD TO OR ENJOY. While we may not always relish the snow and cold, winter does give us a time of rest after the other more busy and active seasons. It is also a great time to plan how you are going to landscape the site your new home sits on or how you’ll do a landscape make-over of your existing space. If you haven’t planned a year ahead, winter does give you a few months to organize and arrange a plan for spring.

Knowing your budget is crucial; as a landscape designer I fi nd that people often budget for all of the upgrades and extra features they want in their home but tend to not plan ahead for all of the hardscape that needs to be done outside their home. For instance, grading, whether by hand or by machinery, is generally necessary on all newly-developed properties and needs to be done before any landscaping is started to ensure proper grades and drainage away from your home. Landscaping can be expensive depending on your wish list. A very vague rule of

thumb is that about 5-10% of the value of your home is what you should plan on investing outside your home. Step number two planning your wants and needs, should only come after your budget has already been established. Having your budget worked out and an idea of what you want and need will help save consultation time and fees when you call in the professionals.

Step number two can be much more work than step one, but will probably be more enjoyable! You can start by making a wish list itemizing all of the things you want to have in your new outdoor space. The best way to do this is by fi rst deciding how you want to use the space you have available, and second by deciding what type of outdoor escapes you want.

HOMEANDGARDEN

photo supplied by

FOUR SEASONS SUNROOM

Ask yourself some of these questions:• Do you want to entertain a lot? If so, do you want to

cook for groups of family and friends in a grilling and dining space? Or would you rather entertain in an outdoor living room space with big, overstuffed sectionals, sofas, and chairs with occasional coffee or cocktail tables? Do you need both? What about a sunroom? If your budget will allow a sunroom they are fantastic for those of us that would rather be outdoors but live with such a short outdoor season!

• Are you an active family that would use sports courts or places for children and dogs to play?

• Do you want quiet, contemplative spaces, such as spa spaces or gardening areas?

• Do you need play structures, storage sheds, potting sheds, or a studio? Try to think of all the ways you will truly use and enjoy your new outdoor spaces.

Once you have determined the type of spaces you need, the next step is to determine where to put these spaces. This is part of what your landscape designer will help you do if you are using one. If you are capable and are doing your own work, here are a


Four Seasons Sunrooms103 5065 13th Street SE Calgary

www.Calgary.fourseasonssunrooms.com403.287.0008

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few tips. Plan outdoor spaces for convenience, especially the cooking and dining areas. Because our climate, and sometimes our budgets, can limit the number of appliances in our outdoor kitchens, it make sense to locate those spaces as close to the indoor kitchen as possible. After that study the flow of the land, where people will tend to want to walk, where the sunniest spaces are for gardens, where there is the most shade for playing and relaxing areas. Now head indoors. From inside, visualize what you wish to see from the windows in the main living areas and master retreat. Some of this is practical; other decisions can be made based solely on what you wish to view from the windows. If you have small children you will need their

HOMEANDGARDEN

BONNY DANN is owner and expert landscape designer

at Escapes Inc.

www.escapesinc.ca

play area where you can easily watch them. If you are going to have a kitchen garden, growing herbs and other edibles, it should be located close to the kitchen. If you like to dine with guests and then retreat to a more comfortable sitting area, perhaps with an outdoor fireplace or fire table, the areas should be located close to each other. You may want to lie in bed and stare at beautiful gardens or glance out your home office window into a relaxing area with plantings and perhaps a water feature you can hear through the open window. The possibilities are endless, and what really matters in the end is that you are going to love and use your outdoor spaces!

The final thing to consider is style. The architectural style of your home should play a role in the landscape design, but your own personal style should also have some influence. I find most people are automatically drawn to gardens in the same or similar style of their home. If you are living in or have just built a very traditional home, chances are you will appreciate sweeping, curved borders and patios. When adding the fencing, pergolas, or other outdoor structures, have them constructed from materials

that match or tie in with your home and in a traditional style. Likewise, with patios and walkways, use traditional pavers or natural stone. If you have a contemporary home with clean, straight lines, the outdoor spaces should reflect that with minimalist plantings of a more formal nature and sidewalks that are straight, not curved, and use larger, smooth paving materials for patios and walkways. There are always exceptions to every rule and this is where your personal style should dictate. Do you want more formal plantings because you like that look? Is your life so busy you want a xeriscaped or lower maintenance space? Do you love to putter about in English cottage-looking gardens, deadheading and tending to the needs of perennials and roses? All of these decisions will help your landscape designer create the perfect outdoor living spaces, just for you!


Designing & Creating Outdoor Living Spaces,

403-803-0773 | [email protected]

CREATING CURB APPEAL

SERVICES WE OFFER:• Design & Construction• Stonework, Patios, Walls & Walkways• Concrete, Stamped, Exposed, Broom finished• Decks, Fences, Garden Structures• Sod, supplied and installed

LANDSCAPE MAKEOVERSWe do complete or partial garden make-overs, from one bed to a complete acreage.

NEW SITE DEVELOPMENTWe can complete your entire project from grading to trees, shrubs & perennial beds, decks, stonework etc. Urban or acreages

403-803-0773 | www.escapesinc.ca | [email protected]

One of Calgary’s most creative providers of landscaping.

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION

TODAY!FOR SPRING

2015

few tips. Plan outdoor spaces for convenience, especially the cooking and dining areas. Because our climate, and sometimes our budgets, can limit the number of appliances in our outdoor kitchens, it make sense to locate those spaces as close to the indoor kitchen as possible. After that study the flow of the land, where people will tend to want to walk, where the sunniest spaces are for gardens, where there is the most shade for playing and relaxing areas. Now head indoors. From inside, visualize what you wish to see from the windows in the main living areas and master retreat. Some of this is practical; other decisions can be made based solely on what you wish to view from the windows. If you have small children you will need their

HOMEANDGARDEN

BONNY DANN is owner and expert landscape designer

at Escapes Inc.

www.escapesinc.ca

play area where you can easily watch them. If you are going to have a kitchen garden, growing herbs and other edibles, it should be located close to the kitchen. If you like to dine with guests and then retreat to a more comfortable sitting area, perhaps with an outdoor fireplace or fire table, the areas should be located close to each other. You may want to lie in bed and stare at beautiful gardens or glance out your home office window into a relaxing area with plantings and perhaps a water feature you can hear through the open window. The possibilities are endless, and what really matters in the end is that you are going to love and use your outdoor spaces!

The final thing to consider is style. The architectural style of your home should play a role in the landscape design, but your own personal style should also have some influence. I find most people are automatically drawn to gardens in the same or similar style of their home. If you are living in or have just built a very traditional home, chances are you will appreciate sweeping, curved borders and patios. When adding the fencing, pergolas, or other outdoor structures, have them constructed from materials

that match or tie in with your home and in a traditional style. Likewise, with patios and walkways, use traditional pavers or natural stone. If you have a contemporary home with clean, straight lines, the outdoor spaces should reflect that with minimalist plantings of a more formal nature and sidewalks that are straight, not curved, and use larger, smooth paving materials for patios and walkways. There are always exceptions to every rule and this is where your personal style should dictate. Do you want more formal plantings because you like that look? Is your life so busy you want a xeriscaped or lower maintenance space? Do you love to putter about in English cottage-looking gardens, deadheading and tending to the needs of perennials and roses? All of these decisions will help your landscape designer create the perfect outdoor living spaces, just for you!


IF WE DID NOT HAVE OUR FERAL CALGARY WINTERS, then Spring would not be as exciting and pleasant. Spring is about plotting, planning, renovating, and most importantly new beginnings. We excitingly shed all the extra clothes and anticipate sighting our first robin. Along with the longer days and brighter light we turn our attention to renovation, especially outdoors as we prepare and organize ourselves for the ensuing planting season. A fresh new start!

The concept of renovation is much more palatable and sounds more exciting than spring cleanup. I am immediately drawn to renovating my yard in the season where buds sprout and my yard anticipates the unfolding changes. Spring is invigorating and motivating. And with this season comes the delight of updating our gardens and enhancing them with novel features. This is a perfect time to engage in decision-making surrounding this year’s vegetable garden, composting bins, trees, lawn and deck. How do I start this exciting new venture? There is nothing like a good plan to inspire and get you well on your way.

BEGIN BY MAKING A BACK YARD RENOVATION TO DO LIST.

PATIO: cushions, lanterns, curtains, re-purposed tableCOMPOSTING: tumbler bins, curing bin, thermometer,moisture meter, compost accelerantVEGETABLE GARDEN: add compost, start seeds, plant seedlings

LAWN: aerate, power rake (only if you have ½ inch of thatch or more), organic fertilizer

PRUNING: trees, shrubs, secateurs, pruning saw

RAIN BARREL(S): connect rain barrel(s)

LIGHTING: lanterns, solar lighting, low-voltage lighting

CLOTHES LINE: make or buy a clothesline

Organic lawn care provides better

results than using synthetic fertilizers and herbicides. Your soil that’s under your grass is alive! It contains organisms that have similar needs like we do. They drink, breathe, eat, digest and excrete. When your soil is healthy these natural processes allow your grass to absorb nutrients and grow happily and with vigor. If your soil is compacted then it should be aerated. Organic fertilizers such as worm tea and fish emulsion are great soil foods. These fertilizers nourish the organisms. Synthetic fertilizers do not feed the organisms. They feed the lawn directly. Lawn cannot absorb a lot of synthetic fertilizer so the excess fertilizer ends up in our ground water, lakes and oceans. Using organic, natural choices will promote more drought-tolerant, disease- resistant, and maintenance-free lawns.

by JACKIE SWARTZ

Planning, Plotting and Playing Outdoors: RENOVATING OUR YARDS

HOMEANDGARDEN

Rain barrels collect and store rainwater from roof tops to use later for watering your garden. Rain barrels help conserve water and help lower costs. Rain barrels are cost effective and easy to install, work and maintain. Rain barrels come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. The barrels are available for purchase at most garden centers and home improvement stores.

Growing your own vegetable garden saves you money. You can control what you eat and have the freshness by picking fresh vegetables right from your garden. Things that grow really well in our climate are tomatoes, potatoes, peas, carrots, beans, peppers, herbs, lettuce, Swiss chard, cucumbers, zucchini, radishes, and beets. Growing vegetables in boxes makes it more accessible and separates the rest of the yard from your garden. Boxes can be customised to suit your space. I prefer using cedar in the vegetable garden because treated wood can leach chemicals when watering your garden. If you want to stay organic use organic fertilizers and pesticides. Vegetable gardens are not time consuming. They need consistent water and some casual maintenance. Check your soil to see if it is moist, pull weeds as needed, and if you see a bug just hose it off. If you have limited space in your yard you can use containers.

Composting is a great way to add nutrient-rich humus to your garden. It is a soil conditioner and helps your plants acquire the nutrients that they need from the soil. I have tried many types of composters over the years and I have found that the compost tumblers work the best. They break down scraps quickly and they keep pests away such as mice. If there is more than one person in your home two-three tumblers are better. My scraps decompose into rich black humus. I remove the humus and let it cure in my back yard. I have made a cedar bin just for this purpose. I let my compost pile cure for at least one year so I know that it is safe to use on my garden. It takes time for the good bacteria to override the bad bacteria. Composting is easy; however, keep in mind that you need to maintain a carbon/nitrogen balance. Usually composting works best if you have one-third green and two-thirds brown. There are many charts available on line to guide you in what to use in your compost bin.

Go green and air your clean laundry with a clothesline. I bought my clothesline from Lee Valley Tools. My clothesline was easy to install and I can remove it for winter storage. Vinegar works well to keep your clothes from getting stiff. I use a half cup of white vinegar for my rinse cycle instead of fabric softener. I also shake my clothes before I hang them so that they don’t wrinkle. And the smell of freshness can never be topped with any scented softener. Nothing like the purity of fresh air!

Give your deck and furniture a makeover this spring.

And the children of our beautiful planet will thank us as well. Grass clippings can stay on your lawn. This is another great way to build nutrients in the soil. Since grass clippings are mostly water they decompose quickly. Clippings are not thatch and do not cause thatch. Lawn thatch is actually the dead grass and root tissue between the vegetation and the soil surface. Thatch can be at least a half inch or thicker. Too much thatch obstructs water flow reaching the roots of the grass. Thatch also obstructs air and nutrients and provides a nesting place for disease and harmful insects.

Pruning in early spring promotes growth, improves plant appearance, and encourages flower and fruit development. Other reasons to prune include removing dead branches, and controlling plant size and shape. Trees and shrubs that bloom early on last year’s growth should be pruned immediately after they finish blooming. Trees and shrubs that are planted for their foliage should be pruned before their buds break. Evergreens or coniferous plants require very little pruning. Spruce can be pruned anytime because they have lateral buds that will grow if the terminal bud is pruned. Pines become denser if their candles (tips) are pinched in half. This pinching process is best done by hand.


IF WE DID NOT HAVE OUR FERAL CALGARY WINTERS, then Spring would not be as exciting and pleasant. Spring is about plotting, planning, renovating, and most importantly new beginnings. We excitingly shed all the extra clothes and anticipate sighting our first robin. Along with the longer days and brighter light we turn our attention to renovation, especially outdoors as we prepare and organize ourselves for the ensuing planting season. A fresh new start!

The concept of renovation is much more palatable and sounds more exciting than spring cleanup. I am immediately drawn to renovating my yard in the season where buds sprout and my yard anticipates the unfolding changes. Spring is invigorating and motivating. And with this season comes the delight of updating our gardens and enhancing them with novel features. This is a perfect time to engage in decision-making surrounding this year’s vegetable garden, composting bins, trees, lawn and deck. How do I start this exciting new venture? There is nothing like a good plan to inspire and get you well on your way.

BEGIN BY MAKING A BACK YARD RENOVATION TO DO LIST.

PATIO: cushions, lanterns, curtains, re-purposed tableCOMPOSTING: tumbler bins, curing bin, thermometer,moisture meter, compost accelerantVEGETABLE GARDEN: add compost, start seeds, plant seedlings

LAWN: aerate, power rake (only if you have ½ inch of thatch or more), organic fertilizer

PRUNING: trees, shrubs, secateurs, pruning saw

RAIN BARREL(S): connect rain barrel(s)

LIGHTING: lanterns, solar lighting, low-voltage lighting

CLOTHES LINE: make or buy a clothesline

Organic lawn care provides better

results than using synthetic fertilizers and herbicides. Your soil that’s under your grass is alive! It contains organisms that have similar needs like we do. They drink, breathe, eat, digest and excrete. When your soil is healthy these natural processes allow your grass to absorb nutrients and grow happily and with vigor. If your soil is compacted then it should be aerated. Organic fertilizers such as worm tea and fish emulsion are great soil foods. These fertilizers nourish the organisms. Synthetic fertilizers do not feed the organisms. They feed the lawn directly. Lawn cannot absorb a lot of synthetic fertilizer so the excess fertilizer ends up in our ground water, lakes and oceans. Using organic, natural choices will promote more drought-tolerant, disease- resistant, and maintenance-free lawns.

by JACKIE SWARTZ

Planning, Plotting and Playing Outdoors: RENOVATING OUR YARDS

HOMEANDGARDEN

Rain barrels collect and store rainwater from roof tops to use later for watering your garden. Rain barrels help conserve water and help lower costs. Rain barrels are cost effective and easy to install, work and maintain. Rain barrels come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. The barrels are available for purchase at most garden centers and home improvement stores.

Growing your own vegetable garden saves you money. You can control what you eat and have the freshness by picking fresh vegetables right from your garden. Things that grow really well in our climate are tomatoes, potatoes, peas, carrots, beans, peppers, herbs, lettuce, Swiss chard, cucumbers, zucchini, radishes, and beets. Growing vegetables in boxes makes it more accessible and separates the rest of the yard from your garden. Boxes can be customised to suit your space. I prefer using cedar in the vegetable garden because treated wood can leach chemicals when watering your garden. If you want to stay organic use organic fertilizers and pesticides. Vegetable gardens are not time consuming. They need consistent water and some casual maintenance. Check your soil to see if it is moist, pull weeds as needed, and if you see a bug just hose it off. If you have limited space in your yard you can use containers.

Composting is a great way to add nutrient-rich humus to your garden. It is a soil conditioner and helps your plants acquire the nutrients that they need from the soil. I have tried many types of composters over the years and I have found that the compost tumblers work the best. They break down scraps quickly and they keep pests away such as mice. If there is more than one person in your home two-three tumblers are better. My scraps decompose into rich black humus. I remove the humus and let it cure in my back yard. I have made a cedar bin just for this purpose. I let my compost pile cure for at least one year so I know that it is safe to use on my garden. It takes time for the good bacteria to override the bad bacteria. Composting is easy; however, keep in mind that you need to maintain a carbon/nitrogen balance. Usually composting works best if you have one-third green and two-thirds brown. There are many charts available on line to guide you in what to use in your compost bin.

Go green and air your clean laundry with a clothesline. I bought my clothesline from Lee Valley Tools. My clothesline was easy to install and I can remove it for winter storage. Vinegar works well to keep your clothes from getting stiff. I use a half cup of white vinegar for my rinse cycle instead of fabric softener. I also shake my clothes before I hang them so that they don’t wrinkle. And the smell of freshness can never be topped with any scented softener. Nothing like the purity of fresh air!

Give your deck and furniture a makeover this spring.

And the children of our beautiful planet will thank us as well. Grass clippings can stay on your lawn. This is another great way to build nutrients in the soil. Since grass clippings are mostly water they decompose quickly. Clippings are not thatch and do not cause thatch. Lawn thatch is actually the dead grass and root tissue between the vegetation and the soil surface. Thatch can be at least a half inch or thicker. Too much thatch obstructs water flow reaching the roots of the grass. Thatch also obstructs air and nutrients and provides a nesting place for disease and harmful insects.

Pruning in early spring promotes growth, improves plant appearance, and encourages flower and fruit development. Other reasons to prune include removing dead branches, and controlling plant size and shape. Trees and shrubs that bloom early on last year’s growth should be pruned immediately after they finish blooming. Trees and shrubs that are planted for their foliage should be pruned before their buds break. Evergreens or coniferous plants require very little pruning. Spruce can be pruned anytime because they have lateral buds that will grow if the terminal bud is pruned. Pines become denser if their candles (tips) are pinched in half. This pinching process is best done by hand.


www.WickerLand.ca

Wicker Land PatioWicker Land Patio

CALGARY SOUTH: 6125 Centre Street SW • 403-258-2506CALGARY NORTH: 4625 Varsity Drive NW • 403-258-2809KELOWNA: 2573 Highway 97 North • 250-862-2011

All Weather Resin Wicker, Wrought Iron & Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture

Fire Tables & Accessories

All Weather Resin Wicker, Wrought Iron & Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture

Fire Tables & Accessories

As the temperature drops and the chill of the Calgary winter sets in, you may start to envision new ways to keep warm. Instead of a vacation, you may be considering staying closer to home

– and purchasing a hot tub. Before you install, here is what you will need to get started: a building permit and an electrical permit, and in rare cases a development permit. Most building permits are straight-forward and can be processed on a “same day” basis during a visit to the permit application counter on the third floor of the municipal building.

Location, location - important information about where to place your hot tub:

• 1.2 metres to any property line, • Not located in a utility right of way (this will be shown

on your Real Property Report (RPR))• Not permitted in the front setback unless approved by a development permit,• Placed on the ground, concrete pad or crushed stone in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. For these reasons and to provide privacy, the back yard is

a typical choice for most applicants. To apply for your building permit you will require a RPR

or site plan, the proposed location of the hot tub and the manufacturer’s literature for the unit itself. The tub may be new or used, but must have a CSA listing; this information should be included with your application.

Hot tub design continues to provide more features and sizes; according to the Alberta Building Code, some of the larger models are considered swimming pools. For building permit applications, The City of Calgary follows the definition from the Alberta Building

Code: tubs up to 2.4 metres in length or width, and up to 60 centimetres deep are considered a hot tub, anything larger is deemed a swimming pool. The important difference with regard to a permit will be whether the hot tub is permitted to have a hard top lockable lid, or if it must meet the fence requirements for swimming pools. In the latter case the fence must be 1.8 metres high, non-climbable, equipped with a self-closing device and be lockable. When you apply you will be asked to verify that the hot tub has a hard top lockable lid, or that you have a fence capable of meeting the swimming pool requirements.

Connecting a hot tub requires an electrical permit either completed by a qualified, licenced electrical contractor under a contractor’s electrical permit, or by the homeowner under a homeowner’s electrical permit. If applying for a homeowner’s permit, the owner of the property on title must apply in person for the permit.

More information on permit requirements is available 403-268-5311 or online at the www.calgary.ca.

Winter Survival Plan – Hot Tubs: what you need to know before you install

VANESSA GASH, LEED AP SAFETY CODES OFFICER – RESIDENTIAL BUILDING REGULATIONS

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

by VANESSA GASH

HOMEANDGARDEN

JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a Bachelor of Applied Horticulture Degree (BaHT) from Olds College. She specializes in the horticultural planning, design, and ongoing life of urban and residential environments. You can contact Jackie at: Website: www.wildstrawberrygardens.com Email:[email protected] Office: 403-472-5082

You can hang lanterns, make a re-purposed table, make a canopy or simply re-stain your deck. I gave my patio furniture a makeover by painting them. I added new cushions and now my set looks brand new again. I built a front yard cedar deck last summer and gave my house a facelift. Forty percent of the cedar I used was recycled. I used recycled fence boards for my window shutters. The concept of home and deck re-facing is becoming more popular. This is a budget-friendly and green way to update your home and deck. The steps include restoration, preparation, protection and decoration.

Now you can sit back and turn your face to the sun... feel the warmth of the returning light and longer days. Grab a hot tea and sit outside while your laundry is drying in the fresh spring air and know that renovating your yard is just the beginning of new things to come. After all, spring is about new beginnings.


As the temperature drops and the chill of the Calgary winter sets in, you may start to envision new ways to keep warm. Instead of a vacation, you may be considering staying closer to home

– and purchasing a hot tub. Before you install, here is what you will need to get started: a building permit and an electrical permit, and in rare cases a development permit. Most building permits are straight-forward and can be processed on a “same day” basis during a visit to the permit application counter on the third floor of the municipal building.

Location, location - important information about where to place your hot tub:

• 1.2 metres to any property line, • Not located in a utility right of way (this will be shown

on your Real Property Report (RPR))• Not permitted in the front setback unless approved by a development permit,• Placed on the ground, concrete pad or crushed stone in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. For these reasons and to provide privacy, the back yard is

a typical choice for most applicants. To apply for your building permit you will require a RPR

or site plan, the proposed location of the hot tub and the manufacturer’s literature for the unit itself. The tub may be new or used, but must have a CSA listing; this information should be included with your application.

Hot tub design continues to provide more features and sizes; according to the Alberta Building Code, some of the larger models are considered swimming pools. For building permit applications, The City of Calgary follows the definition from the Alberta Building

Code: tubs up to 2.4 metres in length or width, and up to 60 centimetres deep are considered a hot tub, anything larger is deemed a swimming pool. The important difference with regard to a permit will be whether the hot tub is permitted to have a hard top lockable lid, or if it must meet the fence requirements for swimming pools. In the latter case the fence must be 1.8 metres high, non-climbable, equipped with a self-closing device and be lockable. When you apply you will be asked to verify that the hot tub has a hard top lockable lid, or that you have a fence capable of meeting the swimming pool requirements.

Connecting a hot tub requires an electrical permit either completed by a qualified, licenced electrical contractor under a contractor’s electrical permit, or by the homeowner under a homeowner’s electrical permit. If applying for a homeowner’s permit, the owner of the property on title must apply in person for the permit.

More information on permit requirements is available 403-268-5311 or online at the www.calgary.ca.

Winter Survival Plan – Hot Tubs: what you need to know before you install

VANESSA GASH, LEED AP SAFETY CODES OFFICER – RESIDENTIAL BUILDING REGULATIONS

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

by VANESSA GASH

HOMEANDGARDEN

JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a Bachelor of Applied Horticulture Degree (BaHT) from Olds College. She specializes in the horticultural planning, design, and ongoing life of urban and residential environments. You can contact Jackie at: Website: www.wildstrawberrygardens.com Email:[email protected] Office: 403-472-5082

You can hang lanterns, make a re-purposed table, make a canopy or simply re-stain your deck. I gave my patio furniture a makeover by painting them. I added new cushions and now my set looks brand new again. I built a front yard cedar deck last summer and gave my house a facelift. Forty percent of the cedar I used was recycled. I used recycled fence boards for my window shutters. The concept of home and deck re-facing is becoming more popular. This is a budget-friendly and green way to update your home and deck. The steps include restoration, preparation, protection and decoration.

Now you can sit back and turn your face to the sun... feel the warmth of the returning light and longer days. Grab a hot tea and sit outside while your laundry is drying in the fresh spring air and know that renovating your yard is just the beginning of new things to come. After all, spring is about new beginnings.

HomeDecor&RenoMag_FullPg_Jan2015.indd 1 1/07/15 1:57:36 PM


GIENOW RENOVATIONS BOOST CURB APPEAL AND SAVE MONEY

by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE GIENOW RENOVATIONS

The front of your home is what neighbours, guests and prospective buyers see first. Replacing older windows and chipped or tired looking doors can really boost your curb appeal. Add Calgary’s blistery cool winter weather and this is definitely not the best time to have inefficient windows either -

not only does it affect the comfort of your home, but it’ll cost you more money. Estimates are that nearly a third of energy consumption used to heat or cool a typical home can escape through windows and doors. By replacing drafty old models with efficient ones you will notice a difference in your energy use immediately. For nearly seven decades, homeowners, builders and renovators have trusted the award-winning Gienow Windows & Doors for all of its window and door projects. As one of the country’s leaders in the industry, they offer a wide selection of windows and doors in almost any style and size, from sleek and modern to traditional; adding architectural distinction and personality to any home.

“Many people think that installing new windows in the winter will leave them in the cold. What they don’t know is that we install windows year round,” says Dallas Paquette, Director of Retail Operations. “Plus, our years of experience means we’re so quick, old man winter won’t have a chance to get into your home.”

New technologies in windows reduce air flow between the interior and exterior which helps to maintain a more consistent temperature inside your home. Gienow Renovations’ top-of-the-line windows are ones that will minimize heat loss and reduce your monthly utility bills. “We handle the entire job from designing and manufacturing of the product to installing and providing a warranty,” says Paquette, adding that new windows and doors also add higher resale value to your home. “Getting the product and installation directly from us is also a big cost benefit to the customer.”

Since its inception in 1947, the company has been committed to excellence in manufacturing and installing the highest quality products, while providing exceptional customer service. This promise earned them the prestigious 2013 Calgary Consumer Choice Award for Business Excellence in the category of Windows & Doors. When you call to book an appointment, Gienow Renovations will give you a date right away - no waiting for a salesperson to call you back. That’s the first step to ensure customer satisfaction. In addition, its customers have peace of mind knowing they purchased from a well-established company renowned for its knowledgeable staff, exceptional service and worry-free installations. Everyone at Gienow Renovations takes great pride in providing the necessary information so that you make the right decision for your home. With a head office and manufacturing plant right here in Calgary, Gienow Renovations offers a wide selection of products crafted from the best materials available as well as an installation second to none.

Discover the Gienow difference and find out why so many homeowners and builders trust the experts at Gienow Renovations for all of their window and door needs by calling 403-203-8270 or visit www.Gienow.com.

BEFORE

AFTER

HomeDecor&RenoMag_FullPg_Jan2015.indd 1 1/07/15 1:57:36 PM

47

GIENOW RENOVATIONS BOOST CURB APPEAL AND SAVE MONEY

by MICHELLE HOPKINS

BUSINESSPROFILE GIENOW RENOVATIONS

The front of your home is what neighbours, guests and prospective buyers see first. Replacing older windows and chipped or tired looking doors can really boost your curb appeal. Add Calgary’s blistery cool winter weather and this is definitely not the best time to have inefficient windows either -

not only does it affect the comfort of your home, but it’ll cost you more money. Estimates are that nearly a third of energy consumption used to heat or cool a typical home can escape through windows and doors. By replacing drafty old models with efficient ones you will notice a difference in your energy use immediately. For nearly seven decades, homeowners, builders and renovators have trusted the award-winning Gienow Windows & Doors for all of its window and door projects. As one of the country’s leaders in the industry, they offer a wide selection of windows and doors in almost any style and size, from sleek and modern to traditional; adding architectural distinction and personality to any home.

“Many people think that installing new windows in the winter will leave them in the cold. What they don’t know is that we install windows year round,” says Dallas Paquette, Director of Retail Operations. “Plus, our years of experience means we’re so quick, old man winter won’t have a chance to get into your home.”

New technologies in windows reduce air flow between the interior and exterior which helps to maintain a more consistent temperature inside your home. Gienow Renovations’ top-of-the-line windows are ones that will minimize heat loss and reduce your monthly utility bills. “We handle the entire job from designing and manufacturing of the product to installing and providing a warranty,” says Paquette, adding that new windows and doors also add higher resale value to your home. “Getting the product and installation directly from us is also a big cost benefit to the customer.”

Since its inception in 1947, the company has been committed to excellence in manufacturing and installing the highest quality products, while providing exceptional customer service. This promise earned them the prestigious 2013 Calgary Consumer Choice Award for Business Excellence in the category of Windows & Doors. When you call to book an appointment, Gienow Renovations will give you a date right away - no waiting for a salesperson to call you back. That’s the first step to ensure customer satisfaction. In addition, its customers have peace of mind knowing they purchased from a well-established company renowned for its knowledgeable staff, exceptional service and worry-free installations. Everyone at Gienow Renovations takes great pride in providing the necessary information so that you make the right decision for your home. With a head office and manufacturing plant right here in Calgary, Gienow Renovations offers a wide selection of products crafted from the best materials available as well as an installation second to none.

Discover the Gienow difference and find out why so many homeowners and builders trust the experts at Gienow Renovations for all of their window and door needs by calling 403-203-8270 or visit www.Gienow.com.

BEFORE

AFTER


QA question was recently posed to me regarding the differences between Safety Codes Offi cers and Home Inspectors, and when

to use each?

TIPSANDTRICKS

Decodingthe codeby MICHAEL NYIKES

MICHAEL NYIKES Michael is a nationally recognized speaker, columnist, and leading industry expert on building codes, residential construction, building envelope science, and environmental design. He can be reached at [email protected]

AThere is a big difference between Safety Codes Offi cers (SCO) and Home Inspectors.

Generally speaking SCO’s are used by municipalities and accredited agencies to provide detailed inspections of new projects under construction in a number of different disciplines. Inspections by SCO’s are mandatory by law in order to receive an occupancy permit to inhabit a structure (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), and is a regulated occupation under the Safety Codes Act.

Home Inspectors, on the other hand, are used by private companies and consumers to provide more general inspections and opinions on the condition of pre-existing projects that have already been constructed, mainly in the single-family and multi-family residential discipline. Inspections by Home Inspectors are not mandatory for occupancy, but a good practice for anyone interested in knowing more about a pre-owned home that they are wanting to move into.

More specifi cally, SCO’s inspect the construction, installation and maintenance of structures and systems to ensure compliance with relevant provincial and federal codes, standards and regulations. They are concerned with the elements of public safety covered under the Safety Codes Act, and an SCO must be certifi ed by the Safety Codes Council (safetycodes.ab.ca or 1.888.413.0099).

SCO’s carry out inspections on plumbing, gas, electrical or fi re prevention systems, buildings, passenger ropeways (for example, chair lifts), boilers and pressure vessels, or amusement rides. Each discipline (plumbing, gas, electrical, etc.) has different education, work experience, competency and technical requirements. Further, there are levels of certifi cation within each discipline.

Home Inspectors visually examine buildings and write reports about the condition of major components such as the roof, structure, exterior and insulation, and plumbing, electrical, heating and other systems. This is a regulated occupation under Alberta’s Fair Trading Act and Home Inspection Business Regulation, which means home inspection businesses and individual home inspectors must be licensed by Service Canada (servicealberta.ca or 1.877.427.4088).

To qualify for a license, Home Inspectors must have a degree, diploma or certifi cate in home inspection from an approved educational institution and successfully complete a test inspection; or hold a Registered Home Inspector

designation from the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors or a Certifi ed Master Inspector designation from the Master Inspector Certifi cation Board Inc.

Future Decoding the Code columns

will continue to answer readers’

questions about how the provincial

safety codes affect their projects.

Email your questions to me at

[email protected]. Be sure

to include which city you live in, as

well as your phone number in case I

need to follow up with you.

PRESTIGE RAILINGS & STAIRS

TOP CHOICE AMONG CONSUMERS by HEATHER RYAN

PRESTIGE RAILINGS & STAIRS BUSINESSPROFILE

When it comes to creating exceptional railings and stairs Prestige delivers unparalleled product and services focusing on customer satisfaction.

In business for 26 years, Prestige Railings & Stairs has just been announced as a winner for 2015 of a Consumer Choice Award for Business

Excellence in Calgary. This marks the 16th time Prestige has been chosen in Calgary on top of eight awards in the Edmonton marketplace, which shows that Prestige continues to step up to meet the needs of its customers across the province and around the world.

Prestige is recognized as one of the most respected, reliable and sought-after providers of enhancement products to the residential and commercial construction industries offering everything from glass and stainless steel through to accent LED lighting products to complement their exceptional wood and wrought iron products.

The goal is to become the preferred choice of builders, renovators, contractors, designers and architects when it comes to all things stairs and railings.

Prestige’s innovation and design are at the core of the company’s success. In fact one of its motto’s is “if you can image it, we can design it.” While much of the work is crafted to architectural plans, Prestige is able to do custom work, and loves the diversity and challenge posed by clients that has them continually raising the bar on originality and beauty.

“Like most people, when you do something you’re passionate about you want it to be exceptional,” says Blaine Wickerson, president of Prestige Railings & Stairs. “Our passion for our products shows this in all that we do. We want our customers to be totally awed by the quality of the job they receive, but more important to us is that we’re inspired by what we’ve accomplished and that inspiration pushes us to do better every time out.”

Prestige’s goal is to create peace of mind. It believes that quality is never an accident, it’s the wise choice and customers can rest assured that they are receiving a safe and significant quality product that will enhance their home for decades to come.


2777 Hopewell Place N.E. Calgary Phone (403) 250-1020

Toll Free 1-800-382-8502

View our website or showroom and

be inspired with the product options

we provide.

www.prestigerailings.comBuilder, Marco Antonio Homes Ltd.


Association

Calgary Region

QA question was recently posed to me regarding the differences between Safety Codes Offi cers and Home Inspectors, and when

to use each?

TIPSANDTRICKS

Decodingthe codeby MICHAEL NYIKES

MICHAEL NYIKES Michael is a nationally recognized speaker, columnist, and leading industry expert on building codes, residential construction, building envelope science, and environmental design. He can be reached at [email protected]

AThere is a big difference between Safety Codes Offi cers (SCO) and Home Inspectors.

Generally speaking SCO’s are used by municipalities and accredited agencies to provide detailed inspections of new projects under construction in a number of different disciplines. Inspections by SCO’s are mandatory by law in order to receive an occupancy permit to inhabit a structure (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), and is a regulated occupation under the Safety Codes Act.

Home Inspectors, on the other hand, are used by private companies and consumers to provide more general inspections and opinions on the condition of pre-existing projects that have already been constructed, mainly in the single-family and multi-family residential discipline. Inspections by Home Inspectors are not mandatory for occupancy, but a good practice for anyone interested in knowing more about a pre-owned home that they are wanting to move into.

More specifi cally, SCO’s inspect the construction, installation and maintenance of structures and systems to ensure compliance with relevant provincial and federal codes, standards and regulations. They are concerned with the elements of public safety covered under the Safety Codes Act, and an SCO must be certifi ed by the Safety Codes Council (safetycodes.ab.ca or 1.888.413.0099).

SCO’s carry out inspections on plumbing, gas, electrical or fi re prevention systems, buildings, passenger ropeways (for example, chair lifts), boilers and pressure vessels, or amusement rides. Each discipline (plumbing, gas, electrical, etc.) has different education, work experience, competency and technical requirements. Further, there are levels of certifi cation within each discipline.

Home Inspectors visually examine buildings and write reports about the condition of major components such as the roof, structure, exterior and insulation, and plumbing, electrical, heating and other systems. This is a regulated occupation under Alberta’s Fair Trading Act and Home Inspection Business Regulation, which means home inspection businesses and individual home inspectors must be licensed by Service Canada (servicealberta.ca or 1.877.427.4088).

To qualify for a license, Home Inspectors must have a degree, diploma or certifi cate in home inspection from an approved educational institution and successfully complete a test inspection; or hold a Registered Home Inspector

designation from the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors or a Certifi ed Master Inspector designation from the Master Inspector Certifi cation Board Inc.

Future Decoding the Code columns

will continue to answer readers’

questions about how the provincial

safety codes affect their projects.

Email your questions to me at

[email protected]. Be sure

to include which city you live in, as

well as your phone number in case I

need to follow up with you.

PRESTIGE RAILINGS & STAIRS

TOP CHOICE AMONG CONSUMERS by HEATHER RYAN

PRESTIGE RAILINGS & STAIRS BUSINESSPROFILE

When it comes to creating exceptional railings and stairs Prestige delivers unparalleled product and services focusing on customer satisfaction.

In business for 26 years, Prestige Railings & Stairs has just been announced as a winner for 2015 of a Consumer Choice Award for Business

Excellence in Calgary. This marks the 16th time Prestige has been chosen in Calgary on top of eight awards in the Edmonton marketplace, which shows that Prestige continues to step up to meet the needs of its customers across the province and around the world.

Prestige is recognized as one of the most respected, reliable and sought-after providers of enhancement products to the residential and commercial construction industries offering everything from glass and stainless steel through to accent LED lighting products to complement their exceptional wood and wrought iron products.

The goal is to become the preferred choice of builders, renovators, contractors, designers and architects when it comes to all things stairs and railings.

Prestige’s innovation and design are at the core of the company’s success. In fact one of its motto’s is “if you can image it, we can design it.” While much of the work is crafted to architectural plans, Prestige is able to do custom work, and loves the diversity and challenge posed by clients that has them continually raising the bar on originality and beauty.

“Like most people, when you do something you’re passionate about you want it to be exceptional,” says Blaine Wickerson, president of Prestige Railings & Stairs. “Our passion for our products shows this in all that we do. We want our customers to be totally awed by the quality of the job they receive, but more important to us is that we’re inspired by what we’ve accomplished and that inspiration pushes us to do better every time out.”

Prestige’s goal is to create peace of mind. It believes that quality is never an accident, it’s the wise choice and customers can rest assured that they are receiving a safe and significant quality product that will enhance their home for decades to come.


DESIGNERADVICE

bathroomOASIS

custom

by SARAH BARBER photo by AMELIA MCGOLDRICK

DO YOU DREAM OF A CUSTOM BATHROOM OASIS IN YOUR OWN HOME? Is your must-have a cosy heated floor, a steam shower, or perhaps a big soaker tub and a TV? With all the new products and technology available, your perfect bathroom has never been easier to achieve.

Essentially, there are two ways to accomplish this – construction, or no construction. Before we get to that, let’s go over some of the basics.

First and foremost, don’t start shopping and placing orders until you have a plan. Knowing the “big picture” is the single best way to make your dream a reality and stay on budget. If your project does include construction, hire a professional designer or architect. This will not only save you money, but also time and headaches, and bring comfort knowing your home is being built safely and within building codes.

Next, research conceptual images and determine what you like, what you don’t like and what your style is. Also, get creative, don’t just copy something exactly from a magazine – add your own custom element to create personality. This could be a vintage chest converted to a sink console, a newly upholstered vanity chair, a unique chandelier or a series of framed, personal, photography. And don’t forget monogrammed bathroom linens!

Storage – take inventory of your bathroom items and plan a space for literally everything. The only items visible should be ones that make you smile or keep you calm. Don’t have space? Build some. It’s that important. Nobody can walk into their bathroom and truly feel content with a clutter of toothpaste, blow dryers, hairbrushes, contact lens solution and flat irons. In the very least, buy some pretty glass containers and make your cotton balls and Q-tips a display. Just promise me you’ll store anything with a cord.When you do start shopping, you will find there are so many new bathroom technologies!


DESIGNERADVICE

bathroomOASIS

custom

by SARAH BARBER photo by AMELIA MCGOLDRICK

DO YOU DREAM OF A CUSTOM BATHROOM OASIS IN YOUR OWN HOME? Is your must-have a cosy heated floor, a steam shower, or perhaps a big soaker tub and a TV? With all the new products and technology available, your perfect bathroom has never been easier to achieve.

Essentially, there are two ways to accomplish this – construction, or no construction. Before we get to that, let’s go over some of the basics.

First and foremost, don’t start shopping and placing orders until you have a plan. Knowing the “big picture” is the single best way to make your dream a reality and stay on budget. If your project does include construction, hire a professional designer or architect. This will not only save you money, but also time and headaches, and bring comfort knowing your home is being built safely and within building codes.

Next, research conceptual images and determine what you like, what you don’t like and what your style is. Also, get creative, don’t just copy something exactly from a magazine – add your own custom element to create personality. This could be a vintage chest converted to a sink console, a newly upholstered vanity chair, a unique chandelier or a series of framed, personal, photography. And don’t forget monogrammed bathroom linens!

Storage – take inventory of your bathroom items and plan a space for literally everything. The only items visible should be ones that make you smile or keep you calm. Don’t have space? Build some. It’s that important. Nobody can walk into their bathroom and truly feel content with a clutter of toothpaste, blow dryers, hairbrushes, contact lens solution and flat irons. In the very least, buy some pretty glass containers and make your cotton balls and Q-tips a display. Just promise me you’ll store anything with a cord.When you do start shopping, you will find there are so many new bathroom technologies!

BLANCO SONOMATM, dual spray, pulldown kitchen faucet is the perfect combination of functionality, clean lines and lasting value.BLANCO QUATRUSTM stainless steel sink collection offers modern design with a wide selection of styles.Blanco kitchen products represent quality, European design and German engineering.

www.blancocanada.com

Rethink the SinkBLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series


If you’ve decided to get involved in construction, find a good contractor and consider these options:

1. Examine your layout and remove walls or expand to accommodate a better flow.

2. Install a relaxing steam shower with a bench, or a luxury whirlpool tub.

3. Radiant heat or a heated towel rack has a major impact.

4. A double sink is extremely convenient. An integrated Corian countertop and sink

is extremely sexy.

5. Keep your finishes elegant and timeless. Think marble, wood and polished nickel.

6. Lighting is key – add new recessed potlights, a chandelier, or even a skylight.

Direct diffused lighting is best at the vanity, find some gorgeous wall sconces.

7. And don’t forget to build the essential storage!

If you’d prefer to add some touches yourself, consider these ideas:

1. Replace your existing fixtures – faucets, hardware and toilet.

2. Add a dimmer switch to your lighting.

3. Find a gorgeous one-of-a-kind mirror.

4. Keep your decorative items to a minimum and make sure they enhance your

bathing experience – scented oils, candles and music.

You might just find your dream item is a TV mirror, a washlet toilet or a digital shower. This will help you decide where to spend and where to save. Your designer will help you with all the details and bring your personal dream bathroom to life.

SARAH BARBERSarah heads up Barber Design Shop, a Toronto based firm specializing in Interior Design, Architectural Design, and Project Management. Her design talent, sense of humor and superior organization make BDS a firm of recognition. The company motto is “Get To Work” because that is just what they do. Visit barberdesignshop.com

BLANCO SONOMATM, dual spray, pulldown kitchen faucet is the perfect combination of functionality, clean lines and lasting value.BLANCO QUATRUSTM stainless steel sink collection offers modern design with a wide selection of styles.Blanco kitchen products represent quality, European design and German engineering.

www.blancocanada.com

Rethink the SinkBLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series

If you’ve decided to get involved in construction, find a good contractor and consider these options:

1. Examine your layout and remove walls or expand to accommodate a better flow.

2. Install a relaxing steam shower with a bench, or a luxury whirlpool tub.

3. Radiant heat or a heated towel rack has a major impact.

4. A double sink is extremely convenient. An integrated Corian countertop and sink

is extremely sexy.

5. Keep your finishes elegant and timeless. Think marble, wood and polished nickel.

6. Lighting is key – add new recessed potlights, a chandelier, or even a skylight.

Direct diffused lighting is best at the vanity, find some gorgeous wall sconces.

7. And don’t forget to build the essential storage!

If you’d prefer to add some touches yourself, consider these ideas:

1. Replace your existing fixtures – faucets, hardware and toilet.

2. Add a dimmer switch to your lighting.

3. Find a gorgeous one-of-a-kind mirror.

4. Keep your decorative items to a minimum and make sure they enhance your

bathing experience – scented oils, candles and music.

You might just find your dream item is a TV mirror, a washlet toilet or a digital shower. This will help you decide where to spend and where to save. Your designer will help you with all the details and bring your personal dream bathroom to life.

SARAH BARBERSarah heads up Barber Design Shop, a Toronto based firm specializing in Interior Design, Architectural Design, and Project Management. Her design talent, sense of humor and superior organization make BDS a firm of recognition. The company motto is “Get To Work” because that is just what they do. Visit barberdesignshop.com


SO… 2015! What does this year have in store for you? Some of us will be considering renovating our homes. Maybe updating the kitchen or re-doing the bathroom is part of your future. It is extremely important to do one's due diligence when it comes to hiring a contractor to complete whatever project it is you are considering.

The process of renovating is very lengthy and should not be rushed. First, the decision is made, now the contractor must be found. Asking friends, family and co-workers can be a great way to start. Reputable tradespeople can be very difficult to find and ones that are available exactly when you need them are an even rarer breed. If you are considering hiring someone to handle a renovation please do it with lots of time to spare. The old adage “if they are good, they are busy” is one hundred percent accurate when it comes to construction.

NEW YEAR…It 's aby LAURA LE

FEATURE

I work with a contractor who has 6 jobs lined up waiting for him right now; Les Popovics of Mountview Ltd. is honest with all potential clients by telling them he will get to their job as soon as he is able to and does not ever rush one job to get to another. Every one of my clients that has hired him has been completely happy and recommends him to everyone. Les says to make sure any contractor you

are considering carries liability insurance as well as a business license. Do not be afraid to ask for proof of these documents. Better Business Bureau accreditation is also a must, along with a contract written with the details and scope of work to be completed and itemized with a finishing schedule that specifies all work done and materials installed. The contract should quote the total cost of the work and the pay schedule as well. The pay schedule is different depending on the scope of the job but 20% should always be held back until completion and any deficiencies are dealt with. All changes and corrections should be handled in writing to protect both the homeowner and the contractor. If there are other trades involved in the project and there are concerns, you can request a statutory declaration from each trade stating they have been paid by your contractor in order to release final

WHAT DOES THIS YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR YOU?


SO… 2015! What does this year have in store for you? Some of us will be considering renovating our homes. Maybe updating the kitchen or re-doing the bathroom is part of your future. It is extremely important to do one's due diligence when it comes to hiring a contractor to complete whatever project it is you are considering.

The process of renovating is very lengthy and should not be rushed. First, the decision is made, now the contractor must be found. Asking friends, family and co-workers can be a great way to start. Reputable tradespeople can be very difficult to find and ones that are available exactly when you need them are an even rarer breed. If you are considering hiring someone to handle a renovation please do it with lots of time to spare. The old adage “if they are good, they are busy” is one hundred percent accurate when it comes to construction.

NEW YEAR…It 's aby LAURA LE

FEATURE

I work with a contractor who has 6 jobs lined up waiting for him right now; Les Popovics of Mountview Ltd. is honest with all potential clients by telling them he will get to their job as soon as he is able to and does not ever rush one job to get to another. Every one of my clients that has hired him has been completely happy and recommends him to everyone. Les says to make sure any contractor you

are considering carries liability insurance as well as a business license. Do not be afraid to ask for proof of these documents. Better Business Bureau accreditation is also a must, along with a contract written with the details and scope of work to be completed and itemized with a finishing schedule that specifies all work done and materials installed. The contract should quote the total cost of the work and the pay schedule as well. The pay schedule is different depending on the scope of the job but 20% should always be held back until completion and any deficiencies are dealt with. All changes and corrections should be handled in writing to protect both the homeowner and the contractor. If there are other trades involved in the project and there are concerns, you can request a statutory declaration from each trade stating they have been paid by your contractor in order to release final

WHAT DOES THIS YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR YOU?

payment or that they were paid at each stage. This could prevent contractor from not paying the outside trades after the homeowner has paid the contractor. This also prevents an outside trade from placing a lien on the property or suing the homeowner for payment.

A second option when looking for a contractor is hiring an interior design professional. Many designers work with contractors that can be recommended to a homeowner. Having a designer and a contractor work together on a project is very beneficial in creating a smoother, more cohesive end result whether it is the paint colour or lighting, plumbing fixtures or furniture. A team effort between homeowner, contractor and designer will create a beautiful space.

Here’s a piece of advice that is perhaps the most important thing to


If you’re having trouble preparing your home for sale, call me… I can help you

to make your home more appealing to potential buyers… I work with

professional trustworthy contractors… I will advise you on what needs to be

done in order to get the highest price…

FREE HOME EVALUATION!

E [email protected] W annaincalgary.ca

Real Estate Associate

Residential/Investment Properties

ANNA SINDREWICZ

Call Anna Sindrewicz at 403-616-1373

LET’S SELL YOUR HOUSE!

LAURA LE CREATIVE ENHANCEMENT INC.

Laura Le has owned Creative Enhancement for about seven years. Laura completed courses with Accredited Staging Professionals (ASP), Canadian Staging Professionals (CSP) and Canadian ReDesign Association (CRDA). Creative Enhancement has been a member of the BBB since 2005. Phone 403.807.8591 Email [email protected] | www.creativeenhancement.ca

be said about renovating. It usually takes longer and costs more than the initial quote; this is not because the contractor is trying to squeeze more money out of you. It is because their job is full of unknowns, they do not know what is behind the wall until they tear out the drywall and find knob and tube wiring, or the tile selected by the homeowner is coming from overseas and it feels like it is coming via a canoe. This business has so many variables exactly like this and we are at the mercy of outside suppliers.

Renovating is a job that requires extreme patience and understanding. A good contractor does not want to disappoint a client because it is a business completely driven by referrals. A happy client can mean multiple jobs to them and they know it. The end result of a renovation is a more beautiful space that is custom made just for you… enjoy it!

payment or that they were paid at each stage. This could prevent contractor from not paying the outside trades after the homeowner has paid the contractor. This also prevents an outside trade from placing a lien on the property or suing the homeowner for payment.

A second option when looking for a contractor is hiring an interior design professional. Many designers work with contractors that can be recommended to a homeowner. Having a designer and a contractor work together on a project is very beneficial in creating a smoother, more cohesive end result whether it is the paint colour or lighting, plumbing fixtures or furniture. A team effort between homeowner, contractor and designer will create a beautiful space.

Here’s a piece of advice that is perhaps the most important thing to


rossinis.comBe YOU- nique

MAKE IT YOURS!

(403) 259-4448 Corner of Blackfoot Trail & 46th Avenue SE, Calgary

LAURA LE CREATIVE ENHANCEMENT INC.

Laura Le has owned Creative Enhancement for about seven years. Laura completed courses with Accredited Staging Professionals (ASP), Canadian Staging Professionals (CSP) and Canadian ReDesign Association (CRDA). Creative Enhancement has been a member of the BBB since 2005. Phone 403.807.8591 Email [email protected] | www.creativeenhancement.ca

be said about renovating. It usually takes longer and costs more than the initial quote; this is not because the contractor is trying to squeeze more money out of you. It is because their job is full of unknowns, they do not know what is behind the wall until they tear out the drywall and find knob and tube wiring, or the tile selected by the homeowner is coming from overseas and it feels like it is coming via a canoe. This business has so many variables exactly like this and we are at the mercy of outside suppliers.

Renovating is a job that requires extreme patience and understanding. A good contractor does not want to disappoint a client because it is a business completely driven by referrals. A happy client can mean multiple jobs to them and they know it. The end result of a renovation is a more beautiful space that is custom made just for you… enjoy it!

FEATURE

by MICKEY FOULDS

RENOVATION Checklist

A NEW YEAR FOR THE MOST PART STILL LIES AHEAD OF US and Christmas has become a distant pleasant memory. The fi rst couple of months of any new year are always bursting with potential – that wonderful clean slate just waiting for all of our best intentions to be realised!

Frequently this fresh perspective includes cleaning up the home, diminishing clutter and rearranging the furniture. Or alternatively pushing it to the extreme and starting “The Reno”!

The fi rst reaction one gets from most people when mentioning the dreaded “R” word is a horror story. Or more likely a series of horror stories accompanied by dire warnings. Maybe it is better to just sell your house and move, rather than renovate. Or play it safe, paint a few walls yourself and fi nd some new art and throw pillows if you feel you need a change! Budgets blow out, timelines are tripled, drywall dust will permeate every square inch, contractors are a law unto themselves, your life will never be the same again and you will have to book an extended holiday in a faraway destination if you ever hope to recover from the ordeal.

FEATURE

by MICKEY FOULDS

RENOVATION Checklist


A NEW YEAR FOR THE MOST PART STILL LIES AHEAD OF US and Christmas has become a distant pleasant memory. The fi rst couple of months of any new year are always bursting with potential – that wonderful clean slate just waiting for all of our best intentions to be realised!

Frequently this fresh perspective includes cleaning up the home, diminishing clutter and rearranging the furniture. Or alternatively pushing it to the extreme and starting “The Reno”!

The fi rst reaction one gets from most people when mentioning the dreaded “R” word is a horror story. Or more likely a series of horror stories accompanied by dire warnings. Maybe it is better to just sell your house and move, rather than renovate. Or play it safe, paint a few walls yourself and fi nd some new art and throw pillows if you feel you need a change! Budgets blow out, timelines are tripled, drywall dust will permeate every square inch, contractors are a law unto themselves, your life will never be the same again and you will have to book an extended holiday in a faraway destination if you ever hope to recover from the ordeal.

Finally, there are those situations where spaces are dysfunctional and outdated, and little can be achieved without biting the bullet and doing it properly. In this situation there are a number of steps to be followed to ensure as smooth a journey as possible.

1. Read http://www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/pdf/tipsheets/Home_Renovations.pdf. Not just once, but several times and follow through with every single recommendation. It is a blueprint for the process of engaging contractors. Both Service Alberta and the Better Business Bureau are great resources if you have questions and concerns.

2.Never feel shy about asking for proof of insurance, references, checking on business registrations etc. Bona fi de contractors are only too happy to share these with you as it protects them too.

3.Be aware that renovating is an organic process, not a rigorous science project. Things can take unexpected turns, take longer than expected or cost more than anticipated. Build this into your expectations. Work with your contractor as a team rather than trying to hold his feet to the fi re. He also prefers projects that run smoothly and predictably.

4.Create your wish list. Plan carefully. Once committed, make decisions and selections well ahead of time so that delays are avoided. Be fl exible about changes – sometimes they result in an even better end result.

5.Set a realistic budget. Enough to cover your expectations with a built in buffer for the unexpected. Change the scope of the project if it looks as though you are stretched too thinly. Remember, you get what you pay for so don’t take the cheap route. Many renovations can be done in multiple phases over a couple of years.

6.Choose your renovation team wisely, and remember that they are not the enemy, and that they also need to make a living!

7.Read all contracts thoroughly. More than once. Don’t just assume that because they look like a legal document that they will address all of your needs. Understand that they are there to protect your contractor too.

8.Look at the logistics of your living arrangements during the renovation. Obviously your comfort will be disrupted, so streamline whatever you can and make it as pleasant as possible. Camping can be fun! Make sure your diet does not consist purely of fast food – it will affect your sense of well-being and consequently your tolerance for challenges!

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF STEPS TO BE FOLLOWED TO ENSURE AS SMOOTH A JOURNEY AS POSSIBLE.


Now that we have addressed the basics, back to the concept. Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make. It is not only economically important, but it is also Your Home! A place to retreat at the end of the day, where you can curl up with a good book and a cup of tea in the winter, entertain your friends or spend precious time with your friends or family. It needs to feel good and work well. It is there to serve you.

Sometimes a cosmetic makeover is all that is needed – fresh paint, new cabinet handles or light fixtures and some refreshed furniture and accessories. Phenomenal change can be achieved this way. Many of my staging clients are amazed at how their homes look after a few hours of editing and rearrangement. There are also cost effective ways of updating kitchens and bathrooms without a massive tear out and reconstruction, leaving you with a travel budget for your Greek Island dream cruise in addition to the update at home.

SOMETIMES A COSMETIC MAKEOVER IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED –

Finally, there are those situations where spaces are dysfunctional and outdated, and little can be achieved without biting the bullet and doing it properly. In this situation there are a number of steps to be followed to ensure as smooth a journey as possible.

1. Read http://www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/pdf/tipsheets/Home_Renovations.pdf. Not just once, but several times and follow through with every single recommendation. It is a blueprint for the process of engaging contractors. Both Service Alberta and the Better Business Bureau are great resources if you have questions and concerns.

2.Never feel shy about asking for proof of insurance, references, checking on business registrations etc. Bona fi de contractors are only too happy to share these with you as it protects them too.

3.Be aware that renovating is an organic process, not a rigorous science project. Things can take unexpected turns, take longer than expected or cost more than anticipated. Build this into your expectations. Work with your contractor as a team rather than trying to hold his feet to the fi re. He also prefers projects that run smoothly and predictably.

4.Create your wish list. Plan carefully. Once committed, make decisions and selections well ahead of time so that delays are avoided. Be fl exible about changes – sometimes they result in an even better end result.

5.Set a realistic budget. Enough to cover your expectations with a built in buffer for the unexpected. Change the scope of the project if it looks as though you are stretched too thinly. Remember, you get what you pay for so don’t take the cheap route. Many renovations can be done in multiple phases over a couple of years.

6.Choose your renovation team wisely, and remember that they are not the enemy, and that they also need to make a living!

7.Read all contracts thoroughly. More than once. Don’t just assume that because they look like a legal document that they will address all of your needs. Understand that they are there to protect your contractor too.

8.Look at the logistics of your living arrangements during the renovation. Obviously your comfort will be disrupted, so streamline whatever you can and make it as pleasant as possible. Camping can be fun! Make sure your diet does not consist purely of fast food – it will affect your sense of well-being and consequently your tolerance for challenges!

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF STEPS TO BE FOLLOWED TO ENSURE AS SMOOTH A JOURNEY AS POSSIBLE.

61

Now that we have addressed the basics, back to the concept. Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make. It is not only economically important, but it is also Your Home! A place to retreat at the end of the day, where you can curl up with a good book and a cup of tea in the winter, entertain your friends or spend precious time with your friends or family. It needs to feel good and work well. It is there to serve you.

Sometimes a cosmetic makeover is all that is needed – fresh paint, new cabinet handles or light fixtures and some refreshed furniture and accessories. Phenomenal change can be achieved this way. Many of my staging clients are amazed at how their homes look after a few hours of editing and rearrangement. There are also cost effective ways of updating kitchens and bathrooms without a massive tear out and reconstruction, leaving you with a travel budget for your Greek Island dream cruise in addition to the update at home.

SOMETIMES A COSMETIC MAKEOVER IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED –

(403) 250-9951 | www.ruscoindustries.com

COMPLETE EXTERIOR RENOVATION SERVICES

Visit our showroom #3, 1430 40th Ave. NE, CalgaryCALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Showroom Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pmAfter hour appointments on request

EXPERTS IN RENOVATIONS SINCE 1953 62nd2015195362nd

*UP TO15% OFF

YOUR NEXT RENOVATION

PKG.

YEAR ROUND SAVINGS...

W I N D OW S • D O O R S • S I D I N G • S U N R O O M S • PAT I O C OV E R S • P R O F I L E C L A D D I N G

YEAR ROUND COMFORT!BEFORE

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

WE DO HAIL

CLAIMS


• Hardwood • Tile • Cork • Bamboo • Carpet • Laminate • LVT • Congoleum • Dura Ceramic

621 - Manitou Road SE

Ph: 403.852.2524 Hours: Monday - Friday - 8-5 Saturday [email protected] I www.lakeviewfloors.ca

®

®


Association

Calgary Region

MICKEY FOULDS MSC CID CRSS

Metamorphosis Design Ltd.phone 403.651.3462 email [email protected]

As with all things in life, your attitude has a profound effect on your experience. If you think it is going to be a miserable experience it probably will, because that is what you have on your radar. Conversely, if you are excited about the project and realistic about the journey, it will be a far more pleasant few months. If you have concerns or questions, discuss these with your team as soon as possible. This avoids misunderstandings. At all times make your expectations clear and reasonable. Be fl exible but fi rm if necessary, and contribute to a culture of mutual respect on site.

Finally, keep your eye on the goal posts and carry the vision of the end result in your mind. It will be worth it when the door finally closes behind all the trades and the dust has settled, and you have your fabulous new interiors to enjoy for years to come.

(403) 250-9951 | www.ruscoindustries.com

COMPLETE EXTERIOR RENOVATION SERVICES

Visit our showroom #3, 1430 40th Ave. NE, CalgaryCALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Showroom Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pmAfter hour appointments on request

EXPERTS IN RENOVATIONS SINCE 1953 62nd2015195362nd

*UP TO15% OFF

YOUR NEXT RENOVATION

PKG.

YEAR ROUND SAVINGS...

W I N D OW S • D O O R S • S I D I N G • S U N R O O M S • PAT I O C OV E R S • P R O F I L E C L A D D I N G

YEAR ROUND COMFORT!BEFORE

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

WE DO HAIL

CLAIMS

63

MICKEY FOULDS MSC CID CRSS

Metamorphosis Design Ltd.phone 403.651.3462 email [email protected]

As with all things in life, your attitude has a profound effect on your experience. If you think it is going to be a miserable experience it probably will, because that is what you have on your radar. Conversely, if you are excited about the project and realistic about the journey, it will be a far more pleasant few months. If you have concerns or questions, discuss these with your team as soon as possible. This avoids misunderstandings. At all times make your expectations clear and reasonable. Be fl exible but fi rm if necessary, and contribute to a culture of mutual respect on site.

Finally, keep your eye on the goal posts and carry the vision of the end result in your mind. It will be worth it when the door finally closes behind all the trades and the dust has settled, and you have your fabulous new interiors to enjoy for years to come.

wish list

2015Shoppingby SARA DUCK

THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST TRENDS ARE A REAL MASH-UP! YOU CAN SEE INFLUENCES OF THE ‘70s, SCANDINAVIAN STYLE AND MID-CENTURY MODERN MIXED WITH TONS OF PATTERN – IT’S AN INTERESTING TIME IN DESIGN! HERE ARE 11 PIECES CURRENTLY ON OUR DECOR WISH LIST.

1.

2.

3.

4.

1. Kate Spade Saturday

Floral Print Anders Chair. $719.

VISIT WESTELM.COM

2. SMEG Mixer in Pastel Blue. $550.

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3. Oslo Five-Piece Cutlery Set

in Black. $75.

VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA

4. Underline Dinnerware. $5-$7.

VISIT CB2.COM

TIPSANDTRICKS

wish list

2015Shoppingby SARA DUCK

THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST TRENDS ARE A REAL MASH-UP! YOU CAN SEE INFLUENCES OF THE ‘70s, SCANDINAVIAN STYLE AND MID-CENTURY MODERN MIXED WITH TONS OF PATTERN – IT’S AN INTERESTING TIME IN DESIGN! HERE ARE 11 PIECES CURRENTLY ON OUR DECOR WISH LIST.

1.

2.

3.

4.

1. Kate Spade Saturday

Floral Print Anders Chair. $719.

VISIT WESTELM.COM

2. SMEG Mixer in Pastel Blue. $550.

VISIT WESTELM.COM

3. Oslo Five-Piece Cutlery Set

in Black. $75.


4. Underline Dinnerware. $5-$7.

VISIT CB2.COM

TIPSANDTRICKS

65

by SHELL BUSEY

TIPSANDTRICKS

Get your home on the right foot: Is the footing of your home healthy?


9.

10.8.

5.

11.

6.7.

5. Graciosa Drum Accent Table in Brown. $170.

VISIT PIER1.CA

6. Sillerup Rug in Black and White. $149.

VISIT IKEA.CA

7. Eve Pendant. $249 .

VISIT CRATEANDBARREL.CA

8. Canyon Vase. $60. VISIT CB2.COM

9. Silk Bauble Pillow in Forest. $69.


10. Double-Sided Throw in Celery. $49.


11. Paradigm Dining Table. $999.

VISIT CB2.COM

TIPSANDTRICKS

by SHELL BUSEY

TIPSANDTRICKS

Get your home on the right foot: Is the footing of your home healthy?


HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE A

NEW HOMEBUYER TAPPED out with your new mortgage payments, only to fi nd that you have a musty, damp crawlspace or basement? Then you fi nd that your perimeter drainage requires more than just cleaning, but instead requires digging around your home to replace or repair un-serviced drainage tiles costing in the thousands of dollars. When completed you gain a fresh smelling crawlspace or basement but nothing that is aesthetically pleasing.

Folks, I don’t mean to scare you, but I have to write with your best interests in mind. Ask yourself, did you have a home inspection done when you bought your last house? Did they address anything to do with drainage, odours, white powder on concrete walls or fl oors in the crawlspace or basement? This is about as far as home inspectors can go, they do not have x-ray eyes to see into the ground. In fact, in some homes they can’t even see the concrete catch basin sump the drainage tiles run into before the water is taken to the city storm sewer system.

Does this topic interest you now? This is just the beginning.This is what I would like you to get from this article regarding drainage: It is the feet of your home, and you know how you would function if your feet were wet all the time.

If your home is 10 years of age or older, you know the history of your home, and nothing has been done regarding drainage maintenance; your drainage requires, if nothing else, an inspection by a qualified drainage contractor.

DID YOU HAVE A HOME INSPECTION DONE WHEN YOU

BOUGHT YOUR LAST HOUSE?

Here are some points that should be addressed.

1. How long have you lived in your home?

2. Where is the collector catchment sump? (If there is one, some homes don’t have one)

3. How close are the trees, shrubs, and back fill settlement to the home?

4. Is it a level, sloping or is there a swale on the lot?

5. When was the last perimeter (weeping tile) service completed?

6. Any signs of moisture in the crawlspace, basement including damp carpet, white powder, musty odours, or wood flooring stains? Note: These could appear on the floor, wall or where concrete floors and wall meet.

7. Any home 10 years or older with no history of drainage maintenance should have one done as soon as possible.

8. After a first initial maintenance cleaning it should be repeated every three - five years thereafter. Your drainage contactor will advise you as to which you should consider. It will be based on their findings when the initial service is completed. SHELL BUSEY

If you are buying or selling a home be prepared to answer these questions, as this information is as important as any other inspections item. So do not forget in your subject options on an offer of purchase to include “subject to perimeter drainage inspection”. It’s just that easy!

For more home-improvement information, to find a reputable drainage contractor or information on upcoming seminars, contact Shell Busey’s HouseSmart Home Services. Go to www.askshell.com

Log ontoAskShell.com and follow the prompts.

If you are not already a member now is the time to do so as it is free until further notice.

» Ask your home improvements questions for a personal email response from Shell

» New product reports

» New building code information

» What’s new for (DIY) Do It Yourself

» Show updates

» Find out when Shell will be in your area

» View Shell’s informational and helpful Videos

Shell Busey’s House Smart Club

It’s just that easy!

™

Benefits:

HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE A

NEW HOMEBUYER TAPPED out with your new mortgage payments, only to fi nd that you have a musty, damp crawlspace or basement? Then you fi nd that your perimeter drainage requires more than just cleaning, but instead requires digging around your home to replace or repair un-serviced drainage tiles costing in the thousands of dollars. When completed you gain a fresh smelling crawlspace or basement but nothing that is aesthetically pleasing.

Folks, I don’t mean to scare you, but I have to write with your best interests in mind. Ask yourself, did you have a home inspection done when you bought your last house? Did they address anything to do with drainage, odours, white powder on concrete walls or fl oors in the crawlspace or basement? This is about as far as home inspectors can go, they do not have x-ray eyes to see into the ground. In fact, in some homes they can’t even see the concrete catch basin sump the drainage tiles run into before the water is taken to the city storm sewer system.

Does this topic interest you now? This is just the beginning.This is what I would like you to get from this article regarding drainage: It is the feet of your home, and you know how you would function if your feet were wet all the time.

If your home is 10 years of age or older, you know the history of your home, and nothing has been done regarding drainage maintenance; your drainage requires, if nothing else, an inspection by a qualified drainage contractor.

DID YOU HAVE A HOME INSPECTION DONE WHEN YOU

BOUGHT YOUR LAST HOUSE?

Here are some points that should be addressed.

1. How long have you lived in your home?

2. Where is the collector catchment sump? (If there is one, some homes don’t have one)

3. How close are the trees, shrubs, and back fill settlement to the home?

4. Is it a level, sloping or is there a swale on the lot?

5. When was the last perimeter (weeping tile) service completed?

6. Any signs of moisture in the crawlspace, basement including damp carpet, white powder, musty odours, or wood flooring stains? Note: These could appear on the floor, wall or where concrete floors and wall meet.

7. Any home 10 years or older with no history of drainage maintenance should have one done as soon as possible.

8. After a first initial maintenance cleaning it should be repeated every three - five years thereafter. Your drainage contactor will advise you as to which you should consider. It will be based on their findings when the initial service is completed. SHELL BUSEY

If you are buying or selling a home be prepared to answer these questions, as this information is as important as any other inspections item. So do not forget in your subject options on an offer of purchase to include “subject to perimeter drainage inspection”. It’s just that easy!

For more home-improvement information, to find a reputable drainage contractor or information on upcoming seminars, contact Shell Busey’s HouseSmart Home Services. Go to www.askshell.com

Make no compromises…

Quality, Transparency, Value

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

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

(403) 277-5600www.trademarkrenovations.com

Trademark_HomeDecor_01.2015.indd 1 15-01-06 3:40 PM

Albi Renova __________________________________________ 3

Anna Sindrewicz (Cir Realty) __________________________ 56

Artisan Kitchens & Renovations _______________________ 29

Blanco Canada Inc.___________________________________ 53

Calgary Home & Garden Show _______________________ 29

Cardel Renos ________________________________________ 27

Classic Craft Homes __________________________________ 40

Drawings 4 Everyone ________________________________ 16

Enhance Your Home ___________________________________ 9

Escape Inc. __________________________________________ 41

Four Seasons Sunrooms _____________________________ 40

Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem _____________________ 47

Hard Rock Developments _____________________________ 26

Interiors with Elegance ________________________________ 5

Jameswood Homes Inc. ______________________________ 34

Kayu Canada Inc. ____________________________________ 36

Kon-Strux Developments _____________________________ 14

Kurmak Builders _____________________________________ 19

Lakeview Floors _____________________________________ 62

Litweller Renovations & Custom Homes _______________ 15

Mountview Renovations Inc. __________________________ 17

Prestige Railings & Stairs Ltd. ________________________ 49

Rossini Furniture ____________________________________ 57

Rusco Industries ____________________________________ 63

Sheila’s Windowtoppers & More Ltd. __________________ 31

Shelfgenie __________________________________________ 52

Shell Busey _________________________________________ 69

S.I.S. Supply Install Services Ltd. ______________________ 25

Spindle, Stairs & Railings Ltd. ______________________ OBC

Trademark Renovations _____________________________ IBC

Ultimate Renovations _______________________________ 1FC

Wallace Fleming Design & Renovate ___________________ 7

Wicker Land Patio ____________________________________ 44

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by SARA DUCK

SCOOPthe

LOOK

Make no compromises…

Quality, Transparency, Value

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

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

(403) 277-5600www.trademarkrenovations.com

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Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - FEB/MAR 2015