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S U M M E R 2 0 1 4
www.ourhomesmagazine.com/durham
FIRST ANNIVERSARY
ISSUEA HOT NEW BUILDFAMILY-FRIENDLY INSURANCE
JUICY BAJA BURGERS
plus AN enchantingTRANSFORMATION
STYLISH SUMMER STYLE PICKS
We Can Save You MoneyOur extensive selection and many years of wide-ranging decorating experience, along with our great buying power can assure you we will provide you the perfect decorating products and treatments, at the best price possible.
Guaranteed Satisfaction We stand behind our work 100%…it’s as simple as that!
Alternative CreationsLeaders in custom window coverings
1.877.897.9959 n 100 Byron St S, Whitby n alternative-creations.ca
AlternativeCreations.indd 1 2014-06-02 3:30 PM
whitby audio | video233 Brock St S . Whitby 905.668.0787 whitbyaudiovideo.com
There’s no place like home
Expert advice from people who care is not just a slogan, it’s our commitment to you.
1624 Dundas Street East, Whitby (905) 433-0080
HOURS: Mon-Wed: 9 to 6 • Thurs: 9 to 8 • Fri: 9 to 6 • Sat: 9 to 5 • Sun: Closed
www.doddandsouter.ca
Tile Adura® tile is available in an assortment of both 16”x16” squares and new 12”x24” Adura® Rectangles. Design your floor just as you would with real tile, choosing a layout & grout options for an even more realistic appearance. Quick and easy no-glue installation for tile is available with Mannington’s exlusive LockSolid™ technology.
Get the look and feel of real tile with the warm, worry-free performance of Adura
OUR HOMES MEDIA GROUP INC:
E D I T O R I A L
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Georgette [email protected]
ASSOCIATE & WEB EDITOR Julie Simmonds
MANAGING EDITORS Alexandria Barker, Nancy Belgue, Adrienne Brown,
Pauline Clark, Andrea Cox, Walter Franczyk, Mary Hatt, Sarah Hoy, Gina Makkar,
Melissa North, Denise O’Connell, Jennifer Schleich, Jude Wayland,
Melody Wren
A R T
ACTING ART DIRECTOR Georgie Donais [email protected]
ART DIRECTOR Tara Chattell (on leave)
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTORS
Sheila Britton, Robynne Sangiuliano
P R O D U C T I O N
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Lynn [email protected]
PRODUCTION MANAGERS Julia Dempsey,
Kelly Donaldson, Marilyn Reid, Abby Reynolds, Tracy Shuttleworth,
Andrea Wray
O P E R AT I O N S
PRESIDENT & CEO David [email protected]
VP OF FRANCHISING & FRANCHISE OPERATIONS
Suzanne [email protected]
ACCOUNTING Donna Duggan
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Lisa Merrell
REGIONAL PUBLISHER/FRANCHISE OWNER Lily Park Media Inc. Lynda Parkinson, 705.772.0500 [email protected]
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MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lynda Parkinson, 705.772.0500
Advertisements and the content, including photos, of advertisements published within OUR HOMES magazine are supplied solely by the advertiser and neither the publisher nor OUR HOMES Media
Group Inc. accept responsibility for opinions expressed in advertisements or for copyright issues with regards to photos, advertising copy and advertisements, nor shall they be held liable thereby. By act
of reading this publication, all advertisers and readers agree to indemnify and hold harmless both OUR HOMES Media Group Inc., and the publisher thereby. Copyright ©2014 OUR HOMES Media
Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
OUR HOMES CAN BE FOUND IN THE FOLLOWING MARKETS:
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• Ottawa • Peterborough • Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma • Southern Georgian Bay• Vaughan • Waterloo • Wellington County/Orangeville/Caledon • Windsor
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OUR HOMES™ is a registered trademark of OUR HOMES MEDIA GROUP INC. OUR HOMES™ Durham Region is published four times a year by
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OUR HOMES™ is distributed to residents of Durham Region via direct mail. Copies of OUR HOMES™ are available for free pick up at high traffic locations throughout
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C O N T R I B U T O R S
Maria DaSilva, A. Laura Francis, Dorathy Gass, Jason Hartog, Scott Hunter, Gina Makkar, Sarah Pettit McDonald, Sharon Overend, Tracy Shumate
114 Winchester Rd E (at Duke St), Brooklin 905-655-4424 1-877-992-9947
www.brooklinfloral.ca
See you soon!
Come in to visit our unique century home in the quaint Village of Brooklin. Two stories of gifts & home decor items with an exceptional selection of flowers & plants to choose from.
Brooklin Floral & Garden Shoppe
departments 8 EDITOR’S NOTE
10 STYLE PICKS RefreshingSummerFinds
14 COMFORT ZONE FireAway
24 PEOPLE AFamilyAffair
34 HOME RESOURCE DIRECTORY
38 FINISHING TOUCH DeliciousBurgers
features 18 HOME & BUILDER StunningBuilderBeauty
28 HOME & DESIGNER ADelightfulReno
36 GREEN LIVING CleaningNaturally
An Eye For Design. Story Page 28.Photography By Tracy Shumate.
ON THECOVER
28
38
18
contentssummer
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10Whether you are designing a new kitchen or bathroom, our sales team is here to guide you throughout the design process, assisting you in choosing gorgeous and lasting products. Bring us your wish list - we’ll make it happen!
CANADIAN-MADE
705-738-2343 | 239 Main Street Bobcaygeon, ON | www.kitchendesignstudios.ca
KDS W13 Full.indd 1 13-11-29 3:12 PM
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HHAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO US! It’sbeenagreatyearforOUR HOMESDurhamRegion.We’refortunatetohavearegionoftalenteddesigners,buildersandbusinessownersthathaveembracedOUR HOMESandplayedaninstrumentalpartinadorningthemagazinewithstyleandbeautythatleapsoffthepages.
Drivingthebackroadsthoughquaintlittlehamlets,it’seasytoseethatDurhamisatreasuretroveofbeautifulhomesanddistinctiveshoppingenclaves.
Timeandtimeagain,we’vebeenwarmlyreceivedinmanyhomesthankstothekindnessofourwelcominghomeowners.It’sthepeopleinthecommunitywhoreallybringthingstogetherandmakewherewelivefeellikehome.
Thisissue,OUR HOMEScametogetherwiththekeenbuildinganddesignsenseofourhomeowners.BrandonHottotbroughthisvisionofacustomhomewithold-worldcharmtolife.DesignerTammyIrwinturnedatiredspaceintoatreasurewithalittleinnovationandalotofhardwork.
Ifyou’relookingforthatspecialsomethingtopullyourspacetogether,checkoutourStylePicksforfreshnewideas.
Forthosewhowanttowarmtheirspaceinsideorout,checkoutourComfortZoneontheMalcolms,ourfieryfamily.Theirstoresofferauniquevarietyoffireplacesandoutdoorbarbecuesandaccessoriesthatwillheatupanyspace.
Ilookforwardtoshowcasingmorehomesandproductsthatwillhelptomakeyourspacecometogether,onedetailatatime.
Finally,ifyouarelookingforsomethingfuntodo,checkoutthefestivitiestocelebrateDurhamRegion’s40thanniversary.Informationcanbefoundatwww.durham.ca.
Enjoy!
GinaMakkar,Managing [email protected]
Follow us nationally @OurHomesMag
All Things Alpaca!Along with our luxurious handmade duvets made from lightweight, breathable, non-allergenic alpaca fibre, we offer so much more!
We invite you to visit our farm year-round to learn all about alpacas, browse our retail store containing a wide range of alpaca clothing and product, or take a guided farm tour. Call for details!
363 Salem Rd RR#1, Manilla ON705.786.2023 • www.salemalpacas.com
Since 2000
Taylor & Company Interiors905 982 2001 . 239 Queen St W, Port Perry
MON TO SAT [email protected]
Relaxed Elegance
C A R P E T H A R D W O O D C E R A M I C L A M I N A T E V I N Y L
469 Kingston Road, Pickering, Ontario905-831-2111 800-236-8533
[email protected] 9-8 TUE 9-6 WED 9-6 THURS 9-8
FRI 9-6 SAT 9-6 SUN Closed
FreeIN-HOME ESTIMATE
www.carpettowne.com
Providing top quality flooring products, installation and customer service to the Durham Region since 1978
LUKE’Sf o r h ome
We’d be so nice to come
to
207 Queen Street, Port Perry
905-985-3011
www.lukesforhome.com
editor’s note
8 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4
1 MADE IN THE SHADE BLINDS & MORE!
ShuttersAdd elegance to your windows with Grandeur® Wood alloy shutters by Shade-O-Matic. Available in a variety of colours, louver sizes, panel configurations and frame styles to complement any décor.
905.242.4381 www.madeintheshadedurham.com
2 CANADIAN HOME LEISURE
Fire TableA fire table is a beautiful centrepiece for the deck or patio. Swap out the decorative fire glass for a fun and functional ice bucket insert for backyard lounging at its best!
1515 Hopkins St., Whitby 905.430.9965 | www.canadianhomeleisure.ca
3 TODD’S SHEDS
ShedIf you dream it, they can build it. Whether you are looking for a garden shed or have a special project in mind for your backyard oasis, the options are endless.
3454 Taunton Rd. E., Orono 905.244.5181 | www.toddssheds.com
4 CARPET–TOWNE FLOORING CENTRE
Luxury Vinyl TilesGet the look of real wood or tile with the exceptional durability a luxury vinyl floor provides. Choose from realistic colours and textures for a truly distinctive appearance.
469 Kingston Rd., Pickering 905.831.2111 | www.carpettowne.com
5 ENDLESS IDEAS
AccessoriesInfuse a little summer into your space and bring the inside out with fun napkins, a funky set of salad tongs or an interesting wood tray or sign.
3 Cassels Rd. E., Brooklin 905.655.3722 | www.endlessideas.ca
6 WHITBY AUDIO VIDEO
Media Cabinet Looking for something different? The gently curved profile of this cabinet creates a dramatic home theatre. An open compartment with adjustable shelves and tinted doors tucks components out of sight.
233 Brock St. S., Whitby 905.668.0787 | www.whitbyaudiovideo.com OH
2
Sprinkle a little of summer’s whimsy inside and out with this issue’s hot style picks. PHOTOGRAPHY TRACY SHUMATE
MAGICSUMMERTIME
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style picks
“The idea was to create a comfortable family room and entertaining space for lounging, watching movies and sports. And, it was important to my husband and I that we dealt with local businesses for every aspect of the project. Most, if not all of the tradespeople, lived in Durham Region. The basement was totally unfinished when we started. By the end, the furnace, hot water tank and all duct work was relocated. An open concept floor plan resulted with four activity zones – the TV lounge area, the fireplace sitting area (for playing guitar and sipping scotch in the evening), a place for serving food and beverages, and an area awaiting a future games table! Truthfully the real fun for me was establishing a design scheme*, casual cottage (NOT man’s cave or sports den) and shopping locally for great finds.”*Sharon is not a designer by trade.
Congratulations to Sharon on winning OUR HOMES
Durham Region’s Readers Contest!
Contest Winner Sharon Dionne
Before
Products & services supplied by:Taylor & Co
Whitby Audio VideoPenney & Co
Just BasementsRousseau’s
After
PublishersHouseAdFULL.indd 1 2014-06-04 1:45 PM
124 Brock Street South, Whitby905.493.8900
303 MARY STREET EAST, WHITBY905 493 7300 • MICHAELPENNEYSTYLE.COM
YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD DECOR SHOP
125 Brock St S, Whitby905.493.8800
double wall construction of the shiny green
baked ceramic exterior is durable and fuel
efficient. The Egg comes in six sizes for the
smallest or largest cooking needs.
FAVOURITES: Family favourites include the
Prestige Pro 665 Napoleon barbecue and the
fun yet functional Big Green Egg.
WHERE:
Fire Away
2365 South Service Rd. Unit 6, Bowmanville
905.697.5893 | www.fireaway.ca
Fire’s Our Friend Fireplaces & Grills
170 Casimir St., Port Perry
905.985.0715 | www.firesourfriend.com
Classic Fireplace & Gourmet Grills
10 Sunray St. Unit #18, Whitby, 905.668.3366
www.classicfireplace.ca OH
STORY GINA MAKKAR
PHOTOGRAPHY TRACY SHUMATE
PLAYING WITH FIRE
THE PLACE: It started in 1981 when David Malcolm
first launched a side business in the family garage called
“Nestleton Stove Works.” A few years later, David left his
factory job and began to sell, install and service wood stoves
and fireplaces full time. He quickly moved out of the garage
and into his first location in Port Perry. In the 10 years that
followed, the business expanded tenfold to include several
locations that he still manages today.
THE STYLE: With a large array of fireplaces, outdoor
products and brand names like Napoleon, Jøtul and Big
Green Egg, the Malcolm family’s combined experience
and family-friendly approach has been serving the local
community for over 30 years. David’s five sons and one
daughter were raised on fire. Although they all branched out
and gained an education in other disciplines, they’ve each
made their way back to the family business. “We could sell
fire to the devil himself if he ever came around,” says David.
WHAT’S HOT: Sleek and beautiful, the Napoleon Prestige
PRO™ Series Gas Grill is a fan favourite on the block.
The grill comes equipped with eight burners, a large
cooking surface, an integrated smoking tray and a ceramic
infrared side burner to make sauces, boil or sauté. As dusk
approaches, the control knobs glow a brilliant blue with an
innovative new NIGHT LIGHT™ system. It’s backyard nirvana.
Love the smoky goodness of a retro charcoal barbecue? The
Big Green Egg is a grill, smoker and oven all in one. The
Nick, Josh, Marley, David, Logan, Isaac, Kingsley
14 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 | 15
comfort zone
KELLER WILLIAMS ENERGY REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE
(905) 430-2390 | [email protected] | www.TheMullinLloydTeam.com
9 0 5 . 3 9 1 . 4 2 0 [email protected]
homes and Renovations that Inspire Family Traditions
Custom Homes General Contracting RestorationsComplete Renovations Remodeling Project Management
www.T heH ot totG r oup.com
Open 7 days a week 95 King Street West in Downtown Bowmanville
905.623.2365 • 1.800.711.9700 www.oakunlimited.ca • [email protected]
HANDCRAFTED SOLID WOOD FURNITURE FROM TRADITIONAL DESIGNS TO URBAN MODERN COLLECTIONS
Offering in-house Interior Design service...call today!
• Unlimited Fabric & Leather options • Canadian made!
Sofas by Design!
905-428-0878 www.steinbockkitchens.ca
BARS
WALL UNITS
ENTERTAINMENT CENTRES
HOME OFFICES
Custom Built Cabinetry Complete Renovation Packages
Customizing Your DreamsFIREPLACES | STOVES | INSERTS | ACCESSORIES | OUTDOOR FIREPLACES, BBQS & HEATERS | MANTELS & FINISHING
FIRE’S OUR FRIEND FIREPLACES & GRILLS 170 Casimir St, Port [email protected] www.firesourfriend.com
4 Family Owned & Operated Locations to Serve You:
FIRE AWAY 401 EAST OUTLET 2365 S. Service Rd, Unit #6 [email protected] www.fireaway.ca
CLASSIC FIREPLACE & GOURMET GRILLS 65 Rylander Blvd, Scarborough [email protected]
CLASSIC FIREPLACE & GOURMET GRILLS 10 Sunray St, Unit #18, Whitby [email protected] www.classicfireplace.ca
Licensed To Grill
Whether you want to refresh your home, or completely renovate it, we will guide you
through the process from conception to creation
DEVELOPING ORIGINAL DESIGN CONCEPTS
SELECTING FURNISHINGS AND FINISHES
SPACE PLANNING
CREATING COLOUR PALETTES
FULL SCALE KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELS
CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY, WINDOW TREATMENTS AND BEDDING
CUSTOM MILLWORK DESIGN
SPECIALIZED WALL TREATMENTS AND WALLPAPER
ACCESSORIZING
www.redesigninteriors.ca
IInNorthOshawa,onastreetalreadyhouse-proud,thebeautiful,newly-constructed3,456sq.ft.homedesignedandbuiltbyThe Hottot Group Inc.hasbeenmetwithgreatenthusiasm.TheHottotGrouppresidentBrandon Hottotwantedthecustom-builthousetoreflectthearea’saffluentstyleyetbeuniqueenoughtostandout.
Whenthepropertybecameavailable,realestateagentTracyMullinurgedherpartnerBrandontopurchasetheland.“Buildingthishousewasadreamcometrue,”Tracysays.“Wetalkedaboutpurchasingpropertyforyearsbeforeweactuallyboughtthislot.”
Since2007,TheHottotGrouphasworkedonrenovationandrestorationprojects,andalthoughheexpectsthesesmallerjobswillcontinuetobetheprimaryfocusofhisbusiness,Brandonsaysdesigningandconstructingahousefromthegrounduphasalwaysbeenaprofessionalgoal.
Ontheexterior,custom-builtcedargaragedoorsandaneight-footsolidmahoganyfrontdoorgivevisitorsahintofBrandon’spersonalflairandhands-onattentiontodetail.“Thisdoortookabout60hoursofsandingandstaining,”BrandonsaysaboutthefrontdoorthatwasdeliveredunfinishedfromCalifornia.“Isandedandstainedthecedargaragedoorsaswell.”
Easternwhite-cedarshakesadornthesecond-storeyexteriorwalls.ThemasonryworkprovidedbyMitchell Masonry Ltd.alsoreflectsahighstandard.“Thestoneisallhand-dressed,”Brandonpointsout.“Everypieceishand-chipped.”
Inside,thenine-footceilings,amonochromicgreycolourpaletteandnaturalmaterialsresultinatraditional,timelessfeeltothisfive-bedroomhome.“Downtheroadthehomeownercanchangeoutthecurtains,changeoutthewallcolours,thearearugs,buteverythingelsewillstillworkdecadesdowntheroad,”Brandonsays.
ThoughBrandonhadavisionofahomewithold-worldcharm,thespaceisequippedwithluxuryfeaturesandmodernconveniences.Radiantin-floorheating,installedinboththefoyerandsideentrance,notonlywarmsthemarblefloorfromRitson Tile & Carpet Inc.,butalsoservestoquicklydrythedampnesscreatedbyshoesandboots.Aswiththedoors,theoakflooringwascustom-stainedandfinishedonsite.
WhileBrandonworkedoutmostofthedesigndetails,Tracytookonthetaskoffindingtheperfectlightingforeachroom.WiththehelpofCurt Brown Electricwhomountedthewallsconces,chandeliersandpotlights,Tracywasabletopushthetraditionalstylefurther.
STORY SHARON OVERENDPHOTOGRAPHY JASON HARTOGFLOWERS BROOKLIN FLORAL & GARDEN SHOPPE INC.
DETAILSALL in the
Continued on page 20
ABOVE: Tracy Mullin and Brandon Hottot.OPPOSITE: A vibrant blue ceiling creates an interesting focal point. Gold accents add to the opulence of the space.
18 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 | 19
home & builder
peoplegocrazyover,”Tracysays.“Everyonetriedtotalkhimoutofit,butBrandonhadthevisionandknewwhathewanted.”ThespaceisnowsetupasagallerywithblackandwhitephotographybylocalartistLeifPetersen.
AttheendofthehalliswhatTracycallstheglam-glamlaundryroom.Withamplestorage,awraparoundcountertop,deepsinkandlargewindow,thissecond-floorlaundryisabigsellingfeatureforthehouse.“Brandonhasaknackforcreatingluxuriouslaundryroomswhereyouactuallywanttodolaundry.Thespaceiswellthoughtout,”shesays.“Allthelinen,giftwrap,cleaningsuppliesandevenworkclothescanbestoredrighthere.”
Inadditiontoalargefive-pieceensuitethatincludesatubcustom-madetomatchthehome’scrownmoulding,andashowerthat
Theopen-conceptlivingroomandkitchenareperfectforentertaining.TimelessandelegantfurnishingsfromOak Unlimited Furniturecanbefoundthroughoutthehome.Oshawa’sKTF Kitchens & Carpentryprovidedwhitecabinetry,granitecountertops,asolidwalnutislandandanicebergmarblebacksplash,creatingacleanandairyvibetothisfunctionalspace.Thecouple’scollectionofantiquetinsdisplayedinthelituppercabinetsseamlesslyfusestheoldwiththenew.
Brandon’smillworkandcabinets,flankingeithersideoftheNapoleonfireplaceinstalledbyTranquility Home Comfort,iscarriedintothelivingroom.Hiddenspeakersinthewallsconcealallwiresneededfortheroom’sentertainmentsystemandinsulationinthewalls,floorandceilingprovidessoundproofing.Controlpanelsforstate-of-the-artsecurityandmediacanbefoundinboththelivingroomandmasterbedroom.“Thewholehouseiswiredbacktoanetworkhubinthebasement,”Brandonsays.“It’sDualCat6,sothesystemwillcarry20yearsintothefuture.”
ExpansivewindowsandportholesbyBrent G. Harper Windows & Doorsbringplentyofnaturallightintothehouse.AsolidoakstairwaywithwroughtironspindlesmadebyBloor Railings Ltd.leadupstairstofourbedrooms,threebathrooms,alaundryroomandafive-foot-widehallway.“Thehallwayisoneofthefeaturesofthehome
OPPOSITE LEFT: A welcoming front entrance is achieved with a gleaming solid mahogany door. FAR LEFT: Custom built-ins create beautiful, functional storage space. LEFT: An iceberg marble backsplash provides striking contrast to the walnut-topped island. BELOW: The fine finishes continue in the butler’s pantry that conveniently connects the kitchen and dining room. BOTTOM: The kitchen is a seamless extension of the living space with sparkling chandeliers and thoughtful additions like the moulding around the island and the glass cabinetry.
Continued on page 22
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home & builder
Tracyjokescanhold14people,themasterbedroomalsoboastsalargewalk-incloset.
Intheunfinishedbasement,theexposedductwork,insulationandwiringshowthetrueextentofBrandon’sinsistenceonprideofworkmanship.“Oneofthebigfeaturesinthishouseisthedesignandthelayout,”Brandonsays,“butmoreimportantlytomeishowthehouseisbuilt.I’vespentalongtimedevelopingrelationshipswiththetrades.MostofthetradespeopleIworkwithhavebeenwithmesinceIstartedout.”
Althoughinitiallynervoustotakeonsuchalargeproject,BrandonadmitsheispleasedwiththeendresultandhasalreadybegunplanningTheHottotGroup’snextbuild.
Thishomeiscurrentlylistedforsale.OH
The fresh palette continues in the upper level where the elegantly wallpapered laundry room provides wall-to-wall storage. An upholstered headboard in the master bedroom and a crisp white en suite complete the space.
“At Bryson, we make sure that insurance is not one of those hardships”. Bryson Insurance is a family business with a long history of making things easy for entrepreneurs. Scott
grew up in the business, but it’s not the sole reason he is now working in the industry. “When working with entrepreneurs, you meet a lot of innovative, hardworking people,” says Scott. “Learning about their business and how someone makes their living, it’s amazing. Every day is different.” Scott and the Bryson Insurance team work diligently for entrepreneurs and businesses to provide the coverage required for the right risks, and coverage audits to verify risk is properly protected. “It’s not what you pay for insurance, it’s what you get for what you pay,” Scott notes. “It is not a 9-5 job by any means; you will constantly be checking your emails, taking phone calls and travelling to meet clients but I wouldn’t have it any other way” he says. “Meeting face to face, going out for lunch and building those relationships is a big part of my job. It’s rewarding because you’re helping them plan for the future of their business, ensuring they’re protected and helping them save money.”
“Entrepreneurs starting a new business face a lot of hardships” states Scott Bryson, Account Executive at Bryson Insurance.
Insurance Solutionsfor Unique Businesses
OUR HOMES SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE
541 Bayly Street East, Ajax905.426.8787 | [email protected]
We work hard to protect the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to achieve
Scott has a particular interest in the landscaping, snow removal and seasonal industries. As a guy who loves spending time with his family outside, it’s a natural fit. “If you carve out a niche for yourself, and it’s something that you truly enjoy, your clients will see and hear your passion in the way you speak. You have to build that trust and go to bat for your client to find the best deal for them. Knowing the seasonal industry inside and out helps us do just that.” However, landscaping is not all that Bryson is involved in. Scott and the Bryson team assist businesses in all sorts of industries ranging from transportation companies, to interior designers, furniture companies, and manufacturers. Bryson has the expertise to know what they need and what unique coverage businesses require. For instance, someone starting up as a contractor will need to know about surety bonds and specialized equipment coverage. As a business owner It’s hard to know what questions to ask when starting a new company but that’s where Bryson’s expertise comes in. “Whether you operate a large business or a smaller business from home, we can make sure you have the proper coverage in place.”Entrepreneurs choose Bryson because of the attention to detail and customer service they receive. “It’s not always just about insurance, it’s about building relationships,” Scott says. “A company will have a lot of moving parts and things can change for them in a hurry. We make sure to follow up throughout the year to keep on top of any changes that may have occurred which could affect their policies and offer our suggestions on how to keep them covered… that’s not common. A lot of brokers lose touch during the year between renewals. We make it our goal and responsibility to stay involved. We strive to build a true relationship.”
Scott Bryson Account Executive
Tracy MakrisPresident, Bryson & Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd.
BrysonInsurance_Sum14.indd 1 2014-05-16 1:07 PM
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home & builder
theydeliverontheservicepromisetheyguaranteetheircustomers.AsRoseAnneShaw,Bryson’sofficemanager,putsit,“Wehaveacertainofficecultureherethatyoudon’tfindeverywhere.Ifsomeoneneedsassistancewithsomething,thereisalwaysanothercolleaguerightthere,lookingtolendahand.”
WhatisthesecrettoBryson’ssuccess?Theyfocusonteam-buildingopportunitieswheneverpossible,andarecurrentlytrainingforToughMudder,RidefortheCureandrecentlycompletedtheTorontoMarathonasarelayteam.
“CompletingtheTorontoMarathonasateamreallyresonatestoclientsonhowwellweworktogether,insideandoutsidetheoffice.Ifonepersonfailedtopassthebaton,alinkinourrelaychainwouldhavebeenbroken,andwewouldhavefailedtocompletethemarathon.However,wedidfinishit.Andwedidittogether,whichisquiteanaccomplishmentthatweareallproudof,”Tracyadds.
Maintainingtheteam’schemistryisapriorityforTracy.WhileBrysoncontinuestogrow,theyunderstandthataddingtalentedpeopleintothemixisvital,andtheyseekoutindividualsthatcomplementtheteamdynamic.DougBundock,vice-presidentofcommercialinsurancesays,“ThefamilyatmospherehereandtheopportunitiesIgettomentorotherswithintheofficereallydifferentiatethiscompanyfromourcompetition.”OH
IInsurancemayseemmundanetosome,butforthe33employeeswhoworkatBryson&AssociatesInsuranceBrokersLtd.,itisafamilyaffair.Thecompanyoffersacomprehensivelineupofpersonalandcommercialinsurance,includingspecializedservices,butthisuniquegroupofprofessionalsfocusesonofferingmorethanjustinsurance.Theylooktofostergenuinerelationshipswithclientstohelpthemmakewell-informedinsurancedecisions.
LocatedinAjax,theBrysonInsuranceofficeisastunning4,400sq.ft.heritage-stylehomebuiltin1856.Warmandbright,theofficeexudesawelcomingfeelassoonasyoustepintoitsmaindoors,andit’smuchlikecominghometoworkeveryday.Whilethehomeitselfisrichinhistory,soisthefoundationonwhichBrysonInsurancewasbuilt.
“Thecompanywasestablishedin1981bymyfather,RichardBryson,”saysTracyMakris,presidentofBrysonInsurance.“Originally
followinginthefootstepsofhisdad,myfatherbeganhiscareerasaninsurancebroker,andthenlongedforsomethingmore.Afteryearsofworkingforabrokerage,hedecidedtostarthisinsurancebusinesswithhiswife,Suzanne,rightintheirveryowntwo-bedroomapartment.Hesetuphisofficeinthesparebedroom,takingthedoorofftheclosettocreateanareaforhisreceptionist.Atypewriterandtelephonewereadded,andhebegantobuildtheBrysonInsuranceweallknowtoday.”
InsuranceisclearlyintheBryson’sfamilyblood,withTracyaspresident,fatherRichardBrysonasCEO,andyoungersonScottBrysonworkingasanaccountexecutiveinthecompany’ssalesdivision.Butthefeelingoffamilydoesnotendthere.
“Theentireteamfeelslikeextendedfamily,”Tracyadds.“Insuranceisatopicthatmanydon’tliketotalkaboutandcanoftenseemcomplicated.TheteamhereworkstogethertoensurethatwedomorethanjustsellinsurancetothefamiliesandbusinessesweserveinDurham.Wehelpeducateclientssothattheycanmakeinformeddecisionsbasedontheirinsuranceneeds.”
RelationshipbuildingwithclientsisakeydistinctfeatureatBrysonInsurance.Whilelargercompaniesmayhave1-888numberswheretheycanbereached,atBryson,eachclientisimmediatelyassignedtoanaccountmanagerdedicatedtounderstandingtheirinsurancerequirements.“WeworkhardatBrysontoprovideexceptionalcustomerservice,educateourclientsinthebestpossibleway,andfocusongettingtoknowthem,”saysCherylRoberts,headofBryson’sbusinessdevelopment.“Asyougrow,yourfamilygrows;therefore,yourinsuranceneedschange.Webelievethatrelationshipbuildingistheonlywaytoknowyouareofferingthebestpossibleservicetoclients.”
Likeafinely-tunedmachine,theentireteamconsistentlyworkstogethertoensure
ALL IN THE FAMILYSTORY DORATHY GASSPHOTOGRAPHY TRACY SHUMATE
Richard Bryson, Tracy Makris and Scott Bryson create a successful workplace
with their family-friendly approach.
BACK ROW: Rose Anne Shaw, Tammy McCarthy, Melissa Damovski SITTING: Cheryl Roberts, Doug Bundock
24 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 | 25
people
CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL HOME DESIGN & BUILD
cam ross
Your renovation done, your way647.688.6805 camrosshomes.ca
With over 15 years of residential construction experience, we are committed to quality products & craftsmanship, innovative ‘smart home’ technologies, and most of all, a personalized, value-added approach to customer service.
HOMES
PROJECT UNDER CONSTRUCTION
BARRIER FREE ALTERATIONS | KITCHEN DESIGN & MODIFICATION | BASEMENT FINISHINGPORCH RECONFIGURATION | 3D RENDERING AVAILABLE DURING DESIGN PROCESS
[email protected] www.jmxenvironmental.com
• A S B E S TO S A BAT E M E N T • M O U L D R E M E D I AT I O N • L E A D A BAT E M E N T • P C B R E M OVA L • F I R E & S M O K E R E M E D I AT I O N • F L O O D & WAT E R C L E A N - U P • I N T E R I O R D E M O L I T I O N • A S S O C I AT E D R E B U I L D
• Tiles&sheetflooring• Insulationinattics• Exteriorhousesiding• Drywalljointcompound
• Plaster(walls&ceilings)• Mortarinchimneystacks• Pipeinsulation• Ductwrap
• Caulking(windows/doors)
• Drainagepipes• Boilerinsulation
Did you know your home could contain Asbestos in: Your home could also contain mould.
Asbestos & mould can cause serious health conditions. Proper removal is paramount. Contact us at JMX today.
Was your home built before 1990?Thinking of Renovating? CONSIDER THIS FIRST!
ourhomesonline.com
ourhomesonline.com
Something BIG is coming soon!
NewWebsiteComingSoonFULL.indd 2 2014-05-28 9:58 AM
WWhenbuyingrealestate,italmostalwayscomesdowntolocation.Sometimes,itdoesn’thurttohaveastrongcaseofdesigntunnelvision.That’swhathomeownerTammy Irwin,ownerofDesigning Durham,managedtohavewhensheandherhusbandfirstseteyesonthePortPerrypropertytheyboughtlastspring.Tammysawthatthelotwasideal,withmajesticConfederationMaplesgracingthefrontandaforestedhalf-acrerollingoutinthe
back.Thehousethatsatonit:notsomuch.Whereothersmighthavebeenscaredaway
bythedark,datedwalls,lowceilingsandrabbitwarrenlayout,allTammycouldseewaspotential.Awalk-throughwithherrealtorrevealedwhatshealreadyknew.Thehousewasinsolidstructuralshape.
Shealsohadanaceuphersleeveintheformofaforward-thinkingconstructionteamtobringhervisiontolife.FromthemomentNick ChurchillandGar LaFortofEngage
Construction Groupfeastedtheireyesonthepopcornceiling,knotty-pinepanelingandfloweredwallpaper,theytoowereinspired.Theycouldn’twaittotearitalldownandopenthespaceup.
Gettingherinvestmentfromdisastertogemwouldbeatallorder.Withconstructionsetforfall,Tammygavetheteamasix-monthwindowtogetthehousefromlate60sdrabanddatedtocontemporarychic.
Oneofthemoststrikingchangescame
STORY A. LAURA FRANCISPHOTOGRAPHY TRACY SHUMATEFLOWERS BRANCHING OUT FLORISTS
OPEN TO CHANGE
LEFT: A fireplace surround with an industrial feel gives the living room edgy appeal. ABOVE: A soft pattern in the rug, glass-top table and light furnishings keep the space fresh and bright.
LEFT: The dated 60s cabinetry was removed and a beautiful and functional kitchen was custom designed to maximize the space. ABOVE: Tammy saw past the dated fixtures and took the kitchen from drab to fab. BOTTOM LEFT: The open–concept layout creates easy flow on the main level. BELOW: Gar, Tammy and Nick worked together to take the renovation from concept to reality. BOTTOM: The original living room was closed in by the wall-to-wall panelling.
Continued on page 30
28 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 | 29
home & designer
replacethem.Theyweresandedandre-stainedinalusciousespressothatissoseamless,it’salmostimpossibletotellwheretheoldfloorsendandthenewonesbegin.
Withconstructioncompleted,itwasTammy’sturntolayersomepersonalityintotherooms.ShebeganbyenlistingPainting by Joeytopaintthewallsawarmgrey,providingacalm,neutralpalettetoeachroom.
Shewasequallycarefulinthestagingprocess.Asavvyshopper,thedesignerwasdelightedtodiscoverthatshecouldfindeverythingshewouldneedtofurnishthehouseinoneplace:Sears Whole HomeinWhitby.TammysaystheSearsteamworkedtogethertohelpmarryherrefinedtasteswithabroaderbutstyle-savvyaudiencewithfantasticresults.
Inthelivingroom,sheplayedwiththeindustrialfeelofthehearthandsteelrailingsontheopenstaircasebygoingwithaboldartpieceofoversizedcogsinthreesizestomakeastatement.Aslimsofacoveredinwhiteleatherandpatternedpillowsaddrichnessanddepth.A
frommodifyingthehome’sexterior.Theoriginalgaragewasremovedtomakewayforanattachedstructurewithroomfortwocars.Thespaceabovenowhousesthespectacular,light-filledmastersuite.Next,newwindowsbyAll Weather Windowswereinstalledtoinfusenaturalbrightnessintotheonce-light-starvedinterior.
Cedarshingleswereaddedtotheexteriortosoftenthelookandmarryittothenaturalsurroundings.Thechoicetobuildoutwardtowardtheroadprovidedroomtobuildagraciousentrywaywithamudroomthatconnectstothegarage,afeatureonTammy’swishlist.
CulturedstonefromDon and Son Building Supplies Ltd.wasusedtogivetheexteriorafacelift,lendingasharpvisualimpacttothehome’sstand-outfacade.Thework,performedbyKaneCo Masonry,waspainstakingandmadedifficultbyawinterthatwaslongerandcolderthananyonecouldhaveimagined,buttheresultsarespectacular.
Whenrenovatingahome,youpickyourbattles.Tammyandherteamincorporatedexistingelementsoftheoriginalhousetokeepcostscontained.Aportionofthebrickthatoncewrappeditswayentirelyaroundtheexteriorwaskeptuncoveredatthefrontandpaintedadarkgrey.Inside,thechoicewasmadetokeepagoodportionoftheoriginaloakfloorsratherthancompletelytearoutand
largechaircoveredinagraphicalphabetprintlendsalevelofwhimsyandcomfort.“Iwantedittofeelaccessibletoeveryone.”
Thefeelingismatchedinthebedroomfurnitureintheupstairsmastersuitewheredeepwoodtonesinthefurnitureplayoffofthedecorativeaccentsofbirdsandflowers.Theroomisasanctuary,andplacetorelax,unwindandsinkintothechairnestledinthecorner.“It’sare-charge-your-batteriestypeofplace,”Tammysays.
Ahallwayflankedwithhis-and-hersclosetsconnectsthemastertoamagnificentbathroomwithafloor-to-ceiling,glassed-inshower.Naturallightfloodsthroughthewindowjustaboveafreestandingtub.Amother-of-pearllightfixturecreatesanintimatesparklewhenturnedonatnight.PrivacywasensuredwiththeinstallationofcustomCaliforniashuttersbyMade in the Shade Durham.
Thehomewasalabouroflove,anditshows.Thishomeiscurrentlylistedforsale.OH
BELOW: a chair and lamp make a cosy nook to read or relax in the master retreat. BELOW RIGHT: The single sink was replaced with his and hers vanities. BOTTOM RIGHT: Suspended vanities create a clean, streamlined appearance in the master en suite.
Wood furnishings with metal details provide visual interest. TOP LEFT: A staircase with open risers maintains the open feel of the home. LEFT: All the original finishings were stripped away and replaced with a more contemporary palette.
30 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 | 31
home & designer
705.432.3340 905.985.3033 905.862.369714 Cameron St. E. 158 Water St. 43 Brock St. W.Cannington, ON Port Perry, ON Uxbridge, ON
L0E 1E0 L9L 1A1 L9P 1P5
www.432flowers.com
TammyIrwin
905-706-5254 [email protected]
Full Interior Design ServiceHome Staging
Custom UpholsteryFurniture ArrangingWindow Treatments
In-Home Colour Consultation
Setting the Standard in Home Staging & Interior Design
Designing Durham is now offering a full design service on new builds and custom renovations – call for more details!
Put your windows on the Best-Dressed list!
Blinds & More!
As seen on
(905) 242-4381MadeintheShadeDurham.com
Name Brands for Less • Shop-at-Home Convenience
PROUD SUPPLIER OFpackage one (approx. value $1060)
Oak Unlimited Gift Certificate
Dodd & Souter Flooring Area Rug
Luke’s For Home Interior Design Consultation
Endless Ideas Sid Dickens Memory Block
Brooklin Floral & Garden Shoppe Gift Certificate
package two (approx. value $1000)
Whitby Audio Video Sony Docking Station Monitor Audio i-Deck 200
Designing Durham In Home Interior Design or Home Staging Consultation
Sweet Violet Gift Certificate for Fine Linens
Branching Out Floral & Gifts Gift Certificate
package three (approx. value $950)
Salem Alpacas Queen Size ‘Alpaca’ Duvet
Penney & Co. In Home Consultation, Select Paint Colours, Layouts, Editing, Window Treatments
Lawson Home Improvements Cutting Board Gift Package
Branching Out Floral & Gifts Gift Certificate
package four (approx. value $950)
Elmstone Sure Fit Design Consultation Mini Bedroom Makeover
Carpet-Towne Flooring Centre Area Rug
Pineapple Street Gift Certificate for Gifts & Accessories
Taylor & Company Gift Certificate
Brooklin Floral & Garden Shoppe Gift Certificate
OUR HOMES Durham Region is excited to celebrate our first year anniversary with a fantastic array of prize giveaways! We hope you’ve enjoyed this year’s past issues and we look forward to bringing you many more.
Celebrate with us and WIN!Give us your feedback on our first year by email to [email protected] to be automatically
entered into our draw to win one of these fabulous gift packs in appreciation of your support! A huge thank you to our generous sponsors for providing us with these amazing prizes!
Winners will be drawn on August 19th and published in the upcoming Fall 2014 issue of OUR HOMES Durham Region
Happy AnniversaryFirst
Planning a Project?
endlessideas.ca 3 Cassels Rd E, Brooklin, ON 905-655-3722
Dining Room
A space designed for your needs, in a price point you’re comfortable with. Check out our
selection!
www.ourhomesmagazine.com/durham
Sales Representative position available for
OUR HOMES Durham Region
We have an opening for an Advertising Sales Account Representative for OUR HOMES Durham Region offering flexible hours and unlimited earning potential for the right talented individual. Use your natural talents and join our fun and
winning team. Candidate must be highly motivated, with outstanding interpersonal skills, detail oriented, experienced sales professional who is proficient at closing. Magazine sales experience an asset.
][ Please email cover letter and resumé [email protected]
We are looking for you…
OUR HOMESattractsthearea’sfinestbusinessestoadvertiseinourpages,andutilizeourunparalleleddistributionandcoffee-tableappealtomarkettheirproductsandservices.We’remakingiteasierforyou,ourreaders,tobecomeeducatedasyouplanyourhome-andrealestate-relatedpurchasingdecisions.Viewthesebusinessadsonlineatwww.ourhomesmagazine.com/durham.Thelistingsbelowareorganizedalphabeticallybyindustry.
OUR HOMESiscommittedtoensuringthebusinessesaboveappearunderthecorrectheadings.Tomakeacorrection,ortohaveyourbusinesslistedundermorethanoneheading,pleaseemaillynda@ourhomesmagazine.com.TohaveyourbusinesslistedinourHomeResourceDirectory,call705.772.0500toadvertise.
AUDIO VIDEO/HOME AUTOMATION WHITBY AUDIO VIDEO Page 2
BBQSCANADIAN HOME LEISURE Page 5FIRE'S OUR FRIEND FIREPLACES & GRILLS Page 16
BEDS/BEDDINGELMSTONE INSPIRED HOME DECOR Page 40OAK UNLIMITED Page 17SALEM ALPACAS Page 8SWEET VIOLET Page 13
BILLIARDSCANADIAN HOME LEISURE Page 5
BUILDERSTHE HOTTOT GROUP Page 17
FASHION/CLOTHINGBRANCHING OUT FLORISTS Page 33LUKE’S FOR HOME Page 9SALEM ALPACAS Page 8
FINANCIAL/INSURANCE/MORTGAGEBRYSON INSURANCE Page 23
FINE WOODWORKING/CUSTOM FURNITURE/CARPENTRYMALGRAY FURNITURE Page 35OAK UNLIMITED Page 17
FIREPLACES & STOVES FIRE'S OUR FRIEND FIREPLACES & GRILLS Page 16
FLOORING, TILE, STAIRS & TRIMCARPET-TOWNE FLOORING CENTRE Page 9DODD & SOUTER FLOORING Page 2
GARDEN CENTRES/ GREENHOUSES/FLORISTSBRANCHING OUT FLORISTS Page 33BROOKLIN FLORAL & GARDEN SHOPPE Page 4
HEATING & COOLING FIRE’S OUR FRIEND FIREPLACES & GRILLS Page 16
HOME ACCENTS/HOME DECOR/FURNITURE/COLLECTIBLES ELMSTONE INSPIRED HOME DECOR Page 40ENDLESS IDEAS Page 35LUKE’S FOR HOME Page 9OSSO CITY LIGHTING Page 39PENNEY & COMPANY Page 13PINEAPPLE STREET Page 13SWEET VIOLET Page 13TAYLOR & COMPANY INTERIORS Page 8
HOME IMPROVEMENTS/ RENOVATIONS CAM ROSS HOMES Page 27DESIGNING DURHAM Page 33LAWSON HOME IMPROVEMENTS Page 35, 39THE HOTTOT GROUP Page 17
INTERIOR DESIGN/INTERIOR DECORATING/HOME STAGINGDESIGNING DURHAM Page 33ELMSTONE INSPIRED HOME DECOR Page 40
ENDLESS IDEAS Page 35REDESIGN INTERIORS Page 17, 34SUSAN CARDUCCI DESIGN INC Page 5
KITCHEN & BATH KITCHEN DESIGN STUDIOS Page 7LAWSON HOME IMPROVEMENTS Page 35, 39STEINBOCK KITCHENS Page 16
LIGHTING OSSO CITY LIGHTING Page 39
OUTDOOR FURNITURE CANADIAN HOME LEISURE Page 5
POOLS/HOT TUBS/SAUNAS/SPAS CANADIAN HOME LEISURE Page 5
PROPERTY RESTORATIONJMX ENVIRONMENTAL INC. Page 27
REAL ESTATE TRACY MULLIN – KELLER WILLIAMS ENERGY REAL ESTATE Page 17
SPECIAL EVENTSMUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM REGION Page 4
WINDOW FASHIONS ALTERNATIVE CREATIONS Page 3ELMSTONE INSPIRED HOME DECOR Page 40ENDLESS IDEAS Page 35LUKE’S FOR HOME Page 9MADE IN THE SHADE BLINDS & MORE Page 33PENNEY & COMPANY Page 13
meaningful insights, set the right tones and refine your space. As the Principal Interior Designer I am known for bringing
life, personality and depth to a space through pops of colour in combination with clean and timeless furnishings. My style is contemporary complimented by classic elements offering award-winning design and custom interior decorating with special emphasis on individuality, personal service, and achieving that “signature look”, satisfying clients throughout the GTA and the surrounding area.
REDESIGN INTERIORS. “We create stunning first impressions that will impress your guests and clients for years to come.” Call today to schedule an in-home consultation. Belinda R. Paxton, Principal Interior Designer905.903.7477 • redesigninteriors.ca (Please see ad on page 17)
REDESIGN INTERIORS REDESIGN INTERIORS is an exceptional interior design firm
that specializes in designing high-end residential and upscale commercial spaces worldwide. Our design team is committed to delivering creative designs that are aesthetically pleasing and commercially successful for our clients. We approach both large and small-scale projects with the same level of passion and professionalism.
At REDESIGN INTERIORS, we believe it’s all about shifting the atmosphere, whether it be through color, furnishings or design. A local design firm with over 40 years experience in over 40 countries around the world, our goal is to help uncover the most
A MISCELLANY OF THE NEW, NEAT, UNIQUE, AND FABULOUS IN
DURHAM REGION AND AREA>> SOURCE IT
OUR HOMES SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE
LAWSON HOME IMPROVEMENTS Since 1988, Lawson Home Improvements Inc. has been proud
to serve Uxbridge and the surrounding areas. Starting business as a sole proprietorship general construction team, the business
has grown the past two decades, and we are proud to offer you a showroom and sales & design team to help you plan your renovation project.
Referrals have always been our main source of business. Throughout the years, we have proudly received the Uxbridge Times-Journal Reader’s Choice Award in the categories of: BEST Windows & Doors,
BEST Home Improvement Centre, and for the past consecutive five years, BEST General Contractor, and BEST Renovations.
We received the 2009 Builder Business Partner of the Year and 2011 Excellence in Kitchen Renovation by the Durham Region Home Builders Association for our long-standing relationships with individual home owners, other local contractors and builders such as Jeffery Homes.
Our years of experience have taught us that client satisfaction requires more than skilled designers and trades. Communication is key to meeting our clients’ expectations. Our design and installation teams work closely together with each client to ensure the details of each project are completed exactly as expected to fulfill our project goal: On time. On budget. As expected. www.lawsonhomeimprovements.comUxbridge Showroom • 905.852.7722 • 1.800.893.7722 Kitchen | Bath | Windows | Doors(Please see ad on page 39)
A FATHER, A SON AND A DAUGHTER ! Malgray Furniture Products Inc. was established in 1985 offering
Old Fashioned Quality Craftsmanship learned from a master and carried forward to his children, Graham and Joanne.
“Our passion is to offer the discerning customer high quality,
custom furnishings and cabinetry built from the finest woods and materials available.
As a leader in the custom cabinetry and home improvements business we believe that researching and offering Eco-Friendly Building Products and Solutions, whenever possible, is the right thing to do for our customers and the environment.
Every piece of furniture and cabinetry is built by our team of skilled and seasoned cabinetmakers to our customer’s unique specifications. Customers are welcome and invited to visit our shop in Ajax anytime to view their piece in progress.
Choose individual pieces from tables to cabinets, and larger projects from wall units to complete custom kitchens – all fashioned from your choice of the finest woods such as: Pine, Maple, Birch, Oak and Cherry.
Compare Malgray Custom Cabinetry’s quality and craftsmanship to others. “We believe you will agree, you made the best choice.” Visit: http://www.malgrayfurniture.comEmail: your ideas for a quote at [email protected] orCall: 905.427.2674 to schedule an appointment
A MISCELLANY OF THE NEW, NEAT, UNIQUE, AND FABULOUS IN
DURHAM REGION AND AREA
>> SOURCE IT
MALGRAYCUSTOM CABINETRY
34 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4
directory
There have been many connections made between our homes and our well-being. Our homes are our sanctuaries, the places where we belong most. If our homes are clean, then everything else in our lives seems to be in line. But what if the conventional household cleaners that we use – the glass cleaners, the toilet bowl cleaners, the scum fighters and the germ killers – are doing more than making our homes clean? What if they are making us and our environment sick?
Before World War II, our grandparents cleaned with basic household products including baking soda, vinegar and lemon. But, in the last 60 years there has been a shift in how we think about clean, and in how we clean. This shift is most notably marked by the introduction of over 5,000 new “daily use” chemicals, many of them found in commercial household cleaners, in just 60 years. Gone by the wayside are the basics.
The effects of these chemicals can be immediate and long-term. The immediate effects are often the cautionary ones that are listed directly
CLEAN, NaturallySTORY SARAH PETTIT MCDONALD
on the bottle, and can include irritation of the eyes and respiratory system, as well as headaches. According to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment (www.ene.gov.on.ca), “household cleaners can contain dangerous ingredients including carcinogens, allergens, neurotoxins, central nervous system inhibitors and heavy metals.” One look at this plethora of ingredients and it becomes obvious that the commercial household cleaners many of us use could have dangerous, long-term effects on our health. We have become accustomed to the chemical smell of cleaners and equate this smell with cleanness and freshness. In the meantime, our homes may be becoming toxic. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States has found that the concentrations of pollutants inside our homes can be two-to-five times greater than outside, and that a major source of these pollutants is commercial household cleaners. This notion is seconded by the Environmental Health Association of Nova Scotia (www.lesstoxicguide.ca) which states, “On a typical cleaning day in a typical Canadian home, levels of chemicals in the indoor air can be hundreds, even thousands of times higher than the outdoor air in the most polluted cities.”
The effects of conventional household cleaners reach beyond our homes and personal health. They also impact our environment. Many of the commercial household cleaners introduced to the market in the last 60 years are petroleum based. Petroleum-based products can affect our health as they are known to contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can trigger asthma and other respiratory diseases, and can mimic hormones in our bodies. Environmentally, petroleum is very slow to break down and infiltrates our water sources, soil and vegetation. Petroleum is also a non-renewable, non-sustainable resource that is now linked directly to climate change. Another ingredient in commercial household cleaners that directly impacts the environment is phosphate. Phosphates cause algae blooms in lakes and rivers and directly affect aquatic life by changing the levels of oxygen in the water.
There is an alternative to conventional household cleaners. In fact, there are many alternatives! One alternative is to use commercial products that specifically state that they are plant-based, contain no solvents or phosphates and are biodegradable. In addition, look for products that have reduced, recyclable packaging and are in concentrated form. Avoid any products that include warning labels such as “danger” or “poison.” Another alternative is to return to the methods used by our grandparents. Clear out the space under your kitchen sink, eliminating all of the chemical cleaners and replace them with the basics, including white vinegar, baking soda, salt, lemon juice, Borax and club soda. These ingredients can be safely combined to create a variety of cleaning products that can clean your home, naturally.
Choosing to use natural cleaning products doesn’t mean we have to give up on our quest for clean. It simply means, once again, rethinking the way we clean and how we define clean. When choosing our cleaning products, let us remember there really are no boundaries to these products; they infiltrate the air we breathe, the water we drink and remain on the surfaces we touch. Replacing conventional cleaners with natural products means that we can rest assured our clean homes really do benefit our well-being. I love a clean house, especially when it is cleaned, naturally! OH
II love a clean house! And, I have a feeling that I am not the only one. A trip down the “cleaning” aisle of our local supermarkets or even a quick count of the household cleaning products under our kitchen sinks is proof enough of our society’s desire for clean.
The following are recipes that can be used to create natural cleaning products.
Lemon-Scented All-Purpose Cleaner
1 tbsp Borax2 tbsp lemon juice1 cup hot water• Mix ingredients in a spray bottle and use to clean
hard, water-safe surfaces.
Bathroom Cleaner (including toilet, bathtub and sink)
1 cup vinegar½ cup baking soda• Pour or spray vinegar onto surface. Sprinkle baking
soda onto surface. They will react slightly. Use cloth or toilet brush to clean the appropriate surface.
Drain Opener
½ cup vinegar½ cup baking soda• Pour ingredients into clogged drain. Wait 10
minutes and flush with boiling water.
• You can also add ½ cup of salt to the recipe.
Glass Cleaner
1 part vinegar1 part alcohol1 part water• Mix in a spray bottle and use to clean windows and
other glass.
Oven Cleaner
• Apply paste of baking soda and water; let sit overnight. Remove with cloth. Or apply vinegar and leave to soak for at least two hours and then wipe clean with a cloth, rinsed frequently in warm water.
Chrome and Stainless Steel Cleaner
• With a soft cloth, rub object with ordinary white flour until it shines.
Room Deodorizer
• Fill a spray bottle with water. Add two to three drops of your favourite essential oil for scent.
NEW Natural Cleaning_2pg_DPS.indd 2-3 2014-06-04 1:29 PM
36 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 | 37
green living
AGRILLED CORN & TOMATO SALSA
1 corncob
1 tomato, finely diced
¹⁄³ cup finely diced white onion
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp lime juice
Pinch each salt and pepper
• Place corncob on greased grill over medium-high heat; grill until tender and well grill-marked, about 15 min-utes. Let cool enough to handle; cut kernels from cob. Place in bowl and let cool completely. Stir in tomato, onion, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper. Set aside.
CHILI-LIME MAYO
½ cup light mayonnaise
2 tsp lime juice
½ tsp each chili and garlic powder
• In bowl, stir together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder and garlic powder. Set aside.
THE OUR HOMES SIGNATURE BAJA-STYLE BURGER
A freshly grilled, salsa-topped burger simply screams summer! We’ve looked to the sunny beaches of Baja for inspiration for our very own signature burger, but it’s quite at home in backyards all across this fine country. Happy grilling and happy summer!
OUR HOMES BAJA-STYLE BURGERMakes 4 Burgers
1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
2 cloves garlic, grated
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp chili powder
Dash Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices mozzarella cheese
4 buns, halved and toasted
1 avocado, sliced
• In a separate bowl, gently knead together the ground beef, garlic, Dijon, chili powder and Worcester-shire sauce. Shape into 4 patties, about 4 inches wide and ¾-inch thick. Using thumb, press an indent in the centre of one side of each of the pat-ties. Generously sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
• Place patties on greased grill over medium-high heat and grill, turning once, until centre of meat registers 160º F using instant-read thermom-eter, 8 to 10 minutes. Place cheese on burgers, close lid and grill until cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes.
Spread buns with Chili-Lime Mayo, top each with a burger, a few avocado slices and some of the Grilled Corn & Tomato Salsa. Enjoy! OH
3 TIPS FOR THE BEST BURGERS EVER
• Handle Your Meat Gently –
When mixing the flavourings
into the beef, work quickly
and gently. Overworking the
mixture heats and toughens it up
resulting in a dense, sometimes
spongy-textured burger.
•Season Right – Sprinkle the
exterior of burgers (both sides)
with salt and pepper just before
they go on the grill. This helps
prevent a tough interior while
creating the ultimate crispy,
grilled crust that is so beloved.
•Step Away from the Grill –
Resist the temptation to stand
over the open grill and flip and
press your burgers constantly.
For the juiciest, most tender
results, put the burgers on the
grill, close the lid, set a timer
for 4 or 5 minutes and walk
away. Only flip them once, and
never, ever, press those precious
juices out of your patty!
STORY MARIA DASILVAPHOTOGRAPHY SCOTT HUNTER
Cooking_At_Home_Baja Burger_1page.indd 2 2014-06-09 11:42 AM
www.lawsonhomeimprovements.comUxbridge Showroom | 905-852-7722 | 1-800-893-7722
Kitchen | Bath | Windows | Doors
Thank you Uxbridgefor VOTING US
BEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR
& BEST RENOVATIONS
Celebrating
38 | ourhomes S U M M E R 2 0 1 4
f inishing touch
