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What to look for inWhat to look for in

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LIVING LARGE

In small spaces

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2 | Space | spring 2015

spring 2015 | Space | 3

ContentsS PACE

4

17

24

34

S P R I N G 2 0 1 5 E D I T I O N

4 HOME RENOVATIONS

6 BUSINESS PROFILE Metrotown Flooring + Interiors

8 PAINT AND MOOD

10 OLD HOMES PROVIDE CHAOS AND COMFORT

12 FINANCING HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

14 BUSINESS PROFILE Team Rethink

17 SMALL SPACES

18 OUTDOOR FURNITURE

20 BUSINESS PROFILE NuFloors Coquitlam

22 MID-CENTURY DECOR

24 OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

26 BUSINESS PROFILE Lumon Canada

28 CONTAINER PLANTERS

32 BUSINESS PROFILE Sheremeta Custom Cabinets

34 SHOPPING FOR YOUR DREAM HOME

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Homeowners choose renovation projects for a variety of reasons. Although many improvements are made to increase functionality and comfort of a home,

several others are seen as worthwhile investments. These investments can add up to a higher resale value when the time comes to sell a home.Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners’ investments than others. The following renovation tips can add beauty to your home and generate great returns when you put the home up for sale.

Invest in your kitchen Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to putting money into improving a home. Residents tend to spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, but a dated, poorly functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home, even if the rest

of the home is in good shape. It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent of your kitchen remodel investment, especially if the kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home. Homeowners should know that a deluxe renovation may not be necessary, as relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new look for a kitchen.

Look to paintOne of the least expensive improvement materials, but one that has a significant impact, is paint. Neutral, modern colors can easily liven up any space.

Put in another bathroomMultiple bathrooms are an attractive selling point, particularly in older homes

that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom. Finding extra space for a bathroom can be tricky, but consider closets, areas under stairs or even taking some space away from another room.

Renovate the HVAC systemMany home buyers are eager

to purchase a home that has a new heating and

cooling system, as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning units are substantial investments that can

last for years. Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation or

replacing older windows and doors with more energy efficient

options, also are smart bets.

Add illumination to rooms A dark home is a dreary home. Adding light can mean including more overhead


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and accent lighting. Under-cabinet task lighting is a nice touch. Inclusion of skylights and sun tubes can bring natural light into rooms that may not have south- or west-facing windows.

Put a deck addition outdoorsOutdoor living spaces have become more desireable, especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity.

Decks and patios can make backyards more appealing. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in half, but only if you have the specific tools or experience to tackle such a project.

Improve curb appealAdding attractive landscaping and freshening up the entryway to a home can add considerable value to your home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Completely renovated interiors may never be seen if buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive exterior. Classy, subtle changes, like well-placed shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting front

door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal to a home.Before making improvements, homeowners should determine if a given project will provide a solid return on their investment.

add considerable value to your home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Completely

attractive exterior. Classy,

wonders. An inviting front

appealing. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in

or experience to tackle such a project.

Adding attractive

freshening up the entryway to a home can

Laying the perfect foundation

Tips■ Check out Metrotown’s website gallery for inspira-tion or ideas about design or products, home renova-tions and more. Make note of the styles and ideas that catch your attention and appeal to you.

■ Keep in mind the way a room is used, and by whom, when deciding what kinds of flooring to use: high traffic areas, bedrooms versus living areas, pets, and so on, can all affect the choice of materials.

■ Don’t worry about a small budget: there are op-tions and solutions for all budgets and project types.

■ Consider an in-home evalution, which Me-trotown offers for free. This can provide new ideas and begin the process of mak-ing a change.

■ Ask lots of questions: education about the types of products can help make it easier to know what to use and how to best maintain it.

■ Consider referrals from trusted friends and family. Much of Metrotown’s new clientele come via referrals from satisfied customers.

■ Consider upcoming events in mind when beginning a renovation so that work can be com-pleted prior to a special occassion.

expert

Business Profile

■ FLOORS & INTERIORS - METROTOWN FLOORS + INTERIORS


When it’s time to make a change, sometimes the project begins at the ground level – literally – and works its way up.

And that’s where Metrotown Floors + Interiors comes in.

The Burnaby company has been providing a diverse selection of flooring materials, along with cabinets and countertops, to homeowners, homebuilders and commercial projects since 2004.

Their award-winning customer service and team of expert staff – along with close relationships with their manufacturers and suppliers – has garnered Metrotown a sterling reputation.

“Our biggest focus is customer service – that’s key for us. When customers come in, we have staff to help at every step of the process,” says Byron Saracoglu, project manager. “For example, we have an internal interior designer, so if a client needs help putting together styles and designs, we can work with them on that. Our installers are highly specialized in their individual areas, experts in the

work they do. And when we go into a customer’s home for an installation, we treat their home like it’s our own home.”

The team at Metrotown has a passion for creating personalized solutions and providing top notch services, says Saracoglu, and that includes staying on top of changes in

technology, products and trends – and then

passing that education on to each customer.

“We’re always learning and educating ourselves.

We take classes to stay up to date in the

industry. Being able to educate the customer and pass on that knowledge, to help them make decisions for their home or business, is very important to us.”

That education component is also critical on their website, which offers tips and definitions for the many products they work with, and links to their manufacturers.

“There’s really such a large variety in products and designs. Being able to narrow down what will work for their home, for a particular room or space, by

sharing what we know about our products is very rewarding.”

The company has a large showroom in the Metrotown area, which allows them to be a central and convenient location not just for Burnaby residents but for customers who come from around the region.

“This is the time of year when a lot of people start thinking about renovations,” he noted. “We absolutely welcome people to come in or call and get started. We do free in-home estimates, so people can get an idea of what they might want to do and how it will work with their budget.”

Saracoglu says his team works with a huge variety of projects and budgets ranging from small to large, such as new flooring in a bathroom, hardwood refinishing, flooring installations, and full design and remodeling of bathrooms, kitchens and more.

“It’s really across the board, and we’re very happy to work with clients to find what they need.”

For more information, see www.metrotownfloors.com or call 604-434-4463.

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The relationship between

paintmoodand

BlueTo create a spa-like environment and a more serene space, look to shades of blue in soft variations. Cool blues are soothing colors that can help lower stress levels and promote sleep. That’s why blue is a frequent fixture in bedrooms and bathrooms. Just be advised that too much blue can make a room appear cold and stark, so balance out blue with some warmer accents.

Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space. The colors homeowners choose for

their walls can give rooms their own unique feel and even affect the moods of the people within them.Finding the right shade for a bedroom or kitchen involves more than just selecting the first color that catches your eye. Design experts and psychologists alike say it may be worthwhile to choose a color that helps you feel good rather than just following design trends. The paint color you pick may add energy to a space or create a tranquil retreat where you can unwind at the end of the day.


moodOrangeMany people do not immediately consider bright orange for their homes, but when used as an accent shade, orange can really brighten up a home. Orange is considered a shade that expands creativity and imparts a youthful appeal to a space. Consider an orange accent wall or a burst of color with orange throw pillows. If pumpkin orange is a little too bold for you, tone it down by choosing a more pastel, peachy hue, which is equally warm and energizing.

RedRed stimulates energy and appetite, which is why the shade is so popular in restaurants and home dining spaces. Red is a good choice for social gathering rooms but may not be the wisest choice for a bedroom, as the color may prove overstimulating.

GreenGreen can evoke composure and tranquility and works in any room of the house. Since green is the primary color of nature, it also works well for those people who want to bring some of the outdoors inside and work with the fresh starts and new growth that green can inspire. To make green feel less subdued and sleepy, work with its complementary opposite, red, by using a few bold red accents here and there to balance out the tranquility of green.

PurplePeople have long related purple to royalty, and this dramatic color can add a formal, regal aspect to a home depending on the hue. Purple also may help stimulate the creative side of the brain. In paler shades of lavender, purple can seem almost ethereal and spiritual. Some designers suggest avoiding purple in a bedroom because that is a place you want your brain to rest rather than be stimulated.

YellowFew colors are more vibrant than yellow, which can help stimulate conversation and make thoughts more focused. A luminous shade of yellow is an ideal way to make any space more welcoming and bright. Just use it sparingly, as too much yellow may not be a good thing. Yellow accents mixed with touches of purple can offer the balance needed to prevent yellow rooms from overwhelming residents and guests.Home decorators should keep in mind that colors can be blended to create the desired environment. A color scheme based on complementary colors, or those opposite on the color wheel, may fit. Otherwise, analogous color schemes, or those colors that are next to one another on the color wheel, can create a variation that suits your design needs.

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By Christina Myers

My neighbours are readying their gardens for spring. There’s mowing and hedge-trimming going on, and I’m positive there’ll be flowers in pots before long.

There’s plenty of work underway at my house, too. But while everyone else is landscaping their yards, we’re in the midst of digging ours up. Again.

At 73 years old and counting, our house has a few, shall we say, challenges.

The current one involves original clay pipe drainage, a particularly rainy winter and some pinhole leaks in the underground foundation.

Pinhole is apparently ancient latin for “big enough to allow a flood of Noah-like proportions” and maybe sanskrit for “this will cost a lot of money.”

As much as my husband enjoyed the rare pleasure of renting a backhoe, and my kids loved the piles of relocated

dirt and rocks, I’ve had my fill of muddy trenches and sifting

through sodden boxes in the basement.

Truth be told, I’ve threatened a time or two (usually while ankle deep in

water) to cut and run.“Let’s sell it,” I’ll say to my

husband, “and buy a townhouse. Imagine it: new electrical and matching light switches as far as the eye can see. A yard that can be mowed in less than

Old homes provide

chaoscomfortand

“there’s alsO single-pane windOws that leaVe us chilly

in the winter

”

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two hours. Wood floors with nary a splinter or scuff in sight.”

He rolls his eyes and keeps working. He knows I love this house as

much as he does. Selling is not an option.

We bought it six years ago this spring, swept away by the claw foot tub, the mismatched glass door knobs, the farmhouse sink, and the huge yard (tree fort included, of course).

It was quirky, full of character, cozy (yes, that’s a nice way to say very small) and the fact that our antique typewriters and vintage radios fit right in was just icing on the cake.

In some neighbourhoods in the Vancouver region, a house like this might be worth millions but our less-than-desirable postal code put this property in that magical fairyland known as “budget friendly,” even for us latecomers to the property game.

It was our first house, and we adored

everything about it.Except the doors that don’t close properly,

and the random cracks that appear from time to time in the plaster-and-

lathe walls. And we’re never sure what kind of insulation we’ll find behind a wall. The options so far have included no insulation at all, shredded newsprint, wadded

up strips of an old silk dress (that’s just a guess, could be an

old silk circus tent for all I know), and sometimes, actual honest-to-goodness pink fibreglass.

There’s also single-pane windows that leave us chilly in the winter, and the improperly ventilated attic that turns the second floor into the Gobi desert in the middle of summer.

But I still smile every time I pull into the driveway, still make optimistic renovation to-do lists that never happen on schedule, still proudly tell new neighbours that we’re the “little yellow house with the white picket

fence on the corner.” And I’ve discovered something over the last few years: our guests never notice the cracks in the wall, or the door frames that are missing doors, or even the trenches in the yard.

Instead we hear how welcoming it is here, how comfortable, how much it reminds them of a favourite grandmother’s house, or somewhere they lived as a child. People always tell us they feel right at home.

Right at home. Doesn’t get much better than that.

Somehow, that makes it all worthwhile – even, it seems, the leaky basement.

Christina Myers is a freelance writer and former award-winning news reporter. She lives with her husband and two children in the oldest house

on her street, and is grateful for a father-in-law who is handy with tools and a brother that is an electrician. She hopes to write a novel (or two) in the not too distant future.

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Many homeowners recognize that improving and maintaining a property makes a home more livable for its

inhabitants and more attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to erect a “For Sale” sign in the front yard.

Maintaining a home can be a costly undertaking. Home improvement projects can be expensive whether homeowners hire professionals or tackle renovation projects on their own.

The following are a handful of options homeowners can consider as they look for ways to finance renovation projects.

Paying outrightPaying for the renovations upfront and in

full is perhaps the simplest way to finance a project. Homeowners who have the cash to pay for renovations outright won’t have to worry about interest rates or balloon payments.

Mortgage refinancing Some homeowners tap into their home

equity to cover home remodeling projects. Refinancing a mortgage means paying off the debt owed and starting over with a completely new loan. Refinancing comes with various fees and can cost between 3 and 6 percent of the loan’s principal.

Home equity loans/ lines of credit

Both of these options are commonly referred to as second mortgages. When homeowners apply for home equity loans or lines of credit, they are borrowing against the equity value in their homes. A home equity loan is a term, or closed-end, loan. It is a one-time sum that will be paid off over a set amount of time with a fixed interest rate and the same payment each month. This is a one-time loan from which a person cannot borrow

further. A home equity line of credit, is like having a credit card. It’s possible to borrow a certain amount for the life of the loan, which is a set time specified by the lender. During this time, homeowners can withdraw money as it is needed up to the value of the line of credit.

Credit cards Credit cards are an option when

improvements are not expensive. Individuals with excellent credit ratings may qualify for cards with a no-interest introductory periods of several months or more. These cards can be a good way to pay off moderate improvements in a short amount of time.

Many home renovation projects require homeowners to develop a home improvement budget. Homeowners are urged to explore all options and find the least costly loan method and the one that will present the best possibility for avoiding debt.

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Revolutionizing real estate

Tips■ Buying and selling a home can feel overwhelming. Find a professional that helps make the process smooth, stress-free, and makes you a priority.

■ Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your agent is there to help you through the process. Particularly if you’re a first time homebuyer, it’s possible that the process may feel confusing at first; a good agent will help answer questions and keep you abreast of what’s happening at every step.

■ Consider not just your needs inside a home but outside as well - the neighbourhood, amenities, schools, business, and fu-ture growth, for example.

■ Take advice about staging seriously. Some decluttering, new paint and small touches can make a big difference in allowing potential buyers see the property in a fresh light.

■ Consider the time of year: there are peaks for both buy-ing and selling throughout the seasons. A profes-sional can help guide you in deciding when to strike for maximum advantage.

■ Do some homework. Ask friends and family for referrals for agents they’ve worked with in the past and why they enjoyed working with them.

expert

Business Profile

■ REAL ESTATE - TEAM RETHINK

Sometimes magic happens in the least expected places.

For Darcy Schlechtleitner, that was the sudden slowdown in the real estate market in 2008.

She’d been a successful – and very busy – realtor for several years already. And while many might have simply held on and waited for the market to bounce back, she used the time to transform and revolutionize her approach to the business.

It’s a process that proved invaluable, and one that she continues to do all the time.

“That was the beginning and it was wonderful to have some time to sit down and really rethink what I did, and how I did it,” she said. “But we’re always looking for ways to be better, to do better. It’s an ongoing process for us.”

Her team – aptly named ReThink Real Estate, with Keller Williams Elite Realty – has grown by leaps and bounds since then as more and more clients find themselves referred by previous clients.

Their methods, born from the process of literally “re-thinking” the typical industry approaches, have proven so successful that it’s helping them

build a reputation for being at the cutting edge.

“There’s no one else like us, and people have responded so positively to that. The referrals from previous clients is huge – and we have clients who have come back several times for subsequent sales.”

A key component of the team’s success, she says, is a marketing approach that is focused, intelligent and strategized.

They use detailed demographic data about the neighbourhood of a home to create highly specialized sale efforts for each property.

On top of that, they ensure that everything – from staging to photos to open houses – are done with a top-notch quality. For example, a side-by-side comparison of photos on the ReThink website show a home that sat on the market for more than 200 days before her team took the listing over: better lighting, improved staging, and a fresh approach brought a sale within a week.

“This is our passion, we love what we do every single day. We want a client to say ‘I had fun, I felt taken care of, I learned, I

enjoyed the process. It’s truly full service.”

It’s a good time to have a reputation for excellence: the region is booming, with new buyers coming all the time.

“There’s so much interest in this area, so much excitement. I couldn’t be happier to be here doing what I do,” she said.

As well, she also attributes the team’s success to a serious focus on “family” – in every definition of the word, from valuing the importance of their own families and a work/life balance, the team as a family, and the larger community of which they are part of. “Giving back is very important to us, we’re part of this community. When a person joins our team, they choose one thing that’s really important to them - a cause, a project, an organization and they help,” she said.

That has included support for a diversity of local organizations, from the Westminster House Recovery Centre to Burnaby Neighbourhood House.

For more information, see www.teamrethink.com, call 604-783-1250, or find Team ReThink on Facebook.

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SMALLSPACES

With the cost of real estate at an all-time high in Greater Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, tiny

condominiums, apartments and “micro-suites” have become a hot commodity.

But for many, moving from Home A to Home B is not as simple as finding reputable movers. Once the deal on that 550 or even 350-square-foot condo has been inked, the next question inevitably is, “How are we going to function in this small space?”

David Hooper, owner of Resource Furniture Vancouver located on Richards Street, says a couple recently came into the store, looking for ideas on creating a functional guest room/office.

“The space was 10 by 10,” says David Hooper. “They were hoping to fit a queen-sized bed and desk in the room, but by the time we were done it held two full work stations, a set of bunk beds and a queen-sized bed.”

Resource Furniture specializes in space-saving “transformable” pieces, which serve multiple uses, including Murphy beds, expanding tables and side boards, office furniture and seating, such as a chair that transforms into a step ladder.

Hooper notes it’s not just seniors downsizing or young couples purchasing their first home who are turning to small space living and looking for appropriate furniture and accessories.

Hooper recommends homeowners having a professional look at their small space before making any decisions about furnishings. He adds the untrained eye might not notice vital details such as the way the doors swing, the height of lighting fixtures, the ceiling and outlets, or the pathways through the home. “There’s a lot to consider,” says Hooper, who notes creating a proper guest room or office is the most common request Resource deals with.

But there’s no point thinking about moving into a small space unless you’re prepared to downsize and declutter.Professional organizers Susan Borax and Heather Knittel launched their company, Good Riddance, to help individuals, seniors, couples and families do just that. Borax advises no matter how big or small a job is, the key is to start early.

“People have to leave themselves enough time to cull,” she says. “They have to decide what’s important, what activities they’re still engaged in and look at what they’ve been dragging around. That could mean thousands of items and decisions.”

Borax says the process can often be both exhausting and emotionally draining, so she suggests bringing someone in to help. She

also recommends starting in one room at a time so as not to feel overwhelmed.

“Instead of looking at a huge mess and feeling like you’ve made no progress, finish one job before moving on to another area,” says Borax. “And once the decision has been made, don’t let it sit around. Keep that forward momentum going and schedule those charity pickups right away.” twitter.com/sthomas10

Outdoor entertaining areas have always been popular among homeowners. The ability to entertain friends and family or simply relax by yourself is something homeowners cherish, particularly during the warm weather seasons. Finding the right furniture to match your outdoor area, be it a deck, patio or poolside lounging area, is essential to making the most of this special area of the home. When shopping for outdoor furniture, consider the following.

Weight: Unlike furniture inside the home, outdoor furniture will be moved around quite frequently, such as to protect it from inclement weather or changing seasons. As a result, the weight of the furniture bears importance. While you don’t want furniture that’s too lightweight and will blow away any time a strong gust of wind comes along, it’s a good idea to choose furniture that isn’t too heavy. This makes it easier to move should a storm suddenly appear and it won’t require the entire household to help move the furniture into and out of the garage when inclement weather arrives.

Comfort: The whole idea behind an outdoor

entertaining area is to have a relaxing place to spend time outside. So be sure to choose furniture that’s comfortable and can handle the seasonal elements. Metal furniture, for example, might be durable, but such furniture can also get very hot if out in the sun.

Versatility: Many homeowners enjoy changing their home’s interior decor from time to time, and it can be just as enjoyable to do the same to a home’s exterior decor. That said, look for furniture that can be accented with a variety of accessories, so you can change the look of your outdoor entertaining area easily.

Protection: Protecting exterior furniture from the elements should be a priority. When shopping for outdoor furniture, figure out if protective covering is available or if it will need to be custom made. The latter alternative can be quite expensive, so you might want to consider more generic furniture that comes with standard protective coverings to make it more affordable.


What to look for in

and it won’t require the entire household to help move the furniture into and out of the garage when inclement weather arrives.

Comfort: The whole idea behind an outdoor

entertaining area is to have a relaxing place to spend time outside. So be sure to choose

outdoor furnitureVersatility:

homeowners enjoy changing their


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A family approach to flooring

Tips■ Don’t rush. Take time to consider the options, learn about the products and make a decision that will work best in your home.

■ Consider the subfloor. If it’s an older home, the subfloor may need a lot of work. Jacques notes that “floors are only as good as the condition of your sub-floor” but when preparing to start a renovation, many people can forget about this important consider-ation.

■ Have a budget, and build in an additional 50% of the main project cost for unforeseen expenses so if a problem crops up you’re prepared. The age of the home, the condition of the subfloor, and build-ing problems that may be invisible until a floor is removed can all add unexpected costs along the way.

■ Focus on quality. It’s possible to find cheap products but they won’t last long and may not be installed properly. Flooring is an investment in your home.

■ Don’t be afraid to ask questions at every stage. A reputable company will have experts in consul-tation, sales, design, installation and more who can share their knowledge with you.

expert

Business Profile

■ FLOORING - NUFLOORS COQUITLAM

Built to last. It’s a phrase that applies

equally to the products that Nufloors Coquitlam provides to its customers and to the business itself. With nearly 30 years in operation, the family business has stood the test of time – and for good reason: a deep commitment to quality, supported by a close-knit team of knowledgeable staff.

“We are a second-generation family business. My dad, Peter, started it 29 years ago,” notes Niki Jacques, now president of both the Coquitlam location and a satellite store in North Vancouver, two of the 14 locations in B.C. that are part of the larger Nufloors family. “More than half of our staff have been here for over 25 years, the remainder for over 10. So we have a very long and dedicated staff. … My team is really amazing. They worked for my dad and consider him family. We are all family. That’s what sets us apart.”

Jacques brother, Brian Denroche, has been with the company for 22 years, and the group includes another father/son team in sales.

That kind of long-time

commitment means they’re able to provide customers with staff in all areas – from design consultation to sales and installation – who are extremely knowledgeable.

That includes staying on top of changes in the industry and working closely with manufacturers.

Even more important, notes Jacques, is the fact that the entire team is dedicated to ensuring that each customer gets exactly what they need.

“We listen to what you have to say and then help you make the right decisions. We don’t sell you something that won’t work for you,” she notes. “Flooring is typically a one-year process of buying, from the first time a customer walks in the door to the final install is about a year on average.”

They focus on providing only certified quality products, and provide full warranty on all products and installations.

“We don’t get into the typical low margin bidding that goes on in the industry. You won’t

find 59 cent laminate or $1.99 hardwood in our showroom,” she says, noting that the focus on excellence has helped them

garner a strong reputation among both residential

and commercial clients.

The business, which has one of the largest showrooms in the Lower Mainland,

has also been a Stainmaster Flooring

Centre for the last 10 years and this year will become a Shaw Design Centre with a boutique type showroom. They also provide in home estimates and site estimates for commercial spaces for free, and have a designer on staff to help with consultations.

“We take our work very seriously and take pride in the finished product,” she said. “If you visit us you will leave knowing we care and we pride ourselves on our reputation.”

Jacques encourages people with potential projects, large or small, to come check out the store – and not to worry, the family focus continues on site: there’s a place for kids to play while parents browse.

“we take Our wOrk Very seriOusly

and take pride in the finished

prOduct.

”


Matchmaker.Matchmaker.Make me a match.Having trouble deciding what goes withwhat? For years homeowners have reliedon Nufloors to help them select floorcoverings that work well together.Creating a home atmosphere full ofcharacter, class, and charm.

We make flooring a beautiful experience TM

1100 Lansdowne Drive, Coquitlam,BC V3B 5E2(604) 942-4109www.nufloorscoquitlam.ca


dding an extra 1,000 sq. ft. of space to one of the River

Market shops at the Quay has proven to be a smart business move.

Jenny Cashin, owner of Mid-Century Modern HOME, told the Record that since sister store MCM HOME Decor opened across the hall in February, sales have significantly increased.

“By finally giving this stuff the righteous space it deserves, to be displayed and to be appreciated, we’ve definitely noticed things moving faster off the shelves,” she said.

MCM HOME has called the Quay home for more than two years, specializing in

restoring and selling Danish-modern furniture - from a 1950s Hans Wegner oak and teak dresser, to a reclining Arne Vodder chair.

And like most collections, Cashin’s grew, becoming the largest collection of its kind

in Metro Vancouver.“I’ve bought so much fabulous decor

over the years that I wanted the sister store for just that reason - for the lighting, for the art pieces and everything in between, “ she said.

Cashin has even dedicated a whole wall to bar wares, in an effort to bring back cocktail hour.

“It seems everyone’s so busy with their lives. By the time they get home at the end of the day, they still don’t stop. Cocktail hour is about taking the time to sit down with the adults and just appreciate the moment,” she said.

There is a wide price range - a set of four glasses goes for $36, and a heavy bottom scotch decanter for $115.

The boutique also features a colourful display of hand-crafted art glass in the entryway. From Canadian chalet to English whitefriar, Cashin boasts there’s something

for everyone.“We’ve put blue

dots on all items under $100. That way, it’s easier for people to spot and avoid not looking at anything else, if say, they see something for a few hundred dollars,” she said. “A lot of times, people will buy the vases just to have the pop of colour, not actually to use it for flowers.”

Overhead, there’s a variety of lighting fixtures, including a double-headed rocket booster (similar to what could be found in the Jetson’s living room). There’s also a falcon phone from the ‘60s that hangs up when you set it down, as well as the old

flying off the shelves

dding an extra 1,000 sq. ft. of space to one of the River

Market shops at the Quay has proven to be a smart business move.A

Mid-CenturyMid-CenturyMid-CenturyDecor flying off the shelvesDecorat the River Market


school orange Tupperware with the clear lids.“It’s such a memory jolt for many who

come through. They’ll say, “Wow, it’ so familiar, we used to have this,’” Cashin said. “Some will spend hours in here, just looking at everything.” And if you’re worried about quality, don’t be, she added. Everything is in “super mint condition.”

“We try to get only top-notch items that are near perfect, not something that will have its paint come off in the dishwasher.”

To further expand the business and reach the international market, Cashin has put some of the higher-end items on eBay. One collector from Florida recently picked up a Holmegaard vase for $375.

To attract the younger generation, she’s also hired a social media guru to run the company website and monitor accounts like Instagram.

MCM HOME and MCM Decor are located at 101 and 106 810 Quayside Dr., New Westminster.

By Tereza Verenca

Photos by Larry Wright


Tips when

creatingliving space

an outdoor


Strategically place the space Property often dictates where the outdoor living space will go, but it helps to keep in mind that the outdoor space is more likely to be used if it’s easily accessible from the inside of the home. For instance, if residents need to walk out the front door to access an outdoor living space in the backyard, then residents might find the area is too inconveniently located and they won’t make the most of the space. Whenever possible, plan the outdoor living space so it’s easily accessible from the home’s interior, preferably from the kitchen so it will be easier to carry meals outdoors when dining outside.

Emphasize comfort Many homeowners look at their outdoor living areas as places to kick their feet up and relax, so comfort should take precedence when planning the space. Forgo the plastic patio chairs of yesteryear for furniture that’s more sturdy and roomy so you won’t feel cramped or sweaty on warm summer evenings and afternoons. In addition, don’t forget to shade the area. Some homeowners choose to build pergolas, but oftentimes an umbrella or two can do the trick at a fraction of the cost. If the outdoor living area is near trees, they might provide sufficient shade from the often blistering summer sun. But keep a few patio umbrellas in the garage just in case.

Illuminate the areaSummer nights spent relaxing in the outdoor living area make for great memories. But such nights are nearly impossible if the area doesn’t have some lighting. Tiki torches might do the trick for some, while others who want to avoid giving their outdoor area a luau feel might prefer solar-powered accent lights, which won’t require any wiring. If your backyard attracts its fair share of insects, look for insect-repelling lights or lamps. Whatever your preference, don’t forget to have some lighting so those summer evenings spent under the sky don’t have to end when the sun goes down.

Keep the design consistent with your home In addition to providing an outdoor respite from the daily grind, an outdoor living space can also increase a home’s resale value. However, homeowners who have one eye on R&R and the other on resale value should keep the design of their outdoor living space consistent with their home. One of the goals when designing an outdoor living space should be to create a seamless transition from the home’s interior to its exterior. The best way to do that is to keep the designs of both living spaces consistent.

Don’t forget the fire pitA fire pit provides a great focal point for an outdoor living area. Instead of

sitting at the dinner table, families and friends can gather around the fire pit and relax with some s’mores and share stories. But even when guests aren’t coming over, a fire pit makes for a great place to relax and let the time go by.With more and more homeowners transforming their homes into their own private sanctuaries, outdoor living spaces continue to grow in popularity. By employing a few simple tricks of the trade, homeowners can create the outdoor areas of their dreams.

Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular over the

last several years. The home improvement boom has shown many

homeowners just how easy it can be to transform a home into a

private sanctuary that caters to the personalities of the home’s residents.

Outdoor living areas have become an extension of the home’s interior,

with many homeowners creating outdoor living rooms and dining areas

so they can relax and eat meals outside just as they do indoors. But

homeowners thinking of creating outdoor living spaces should consider a

few tricks of the trade before beginning their projects.

an outdoor

A Room with a view

Tips■ Take stock of your needs and the way you’d use an outdoor space: for leisure, dining, entertaining, pets, children’s play area or more. Knowing how you’ll use the space can help narrow down options and choices.

■ Adding an outdoor space to your home can provide additional natural light to your living area, even when the weather isn’t ideal.

■ Lumon’s online gallery has a variety of examples of enclosures and covers for inspiration. Check out the range of possibilities to see what might work best in a particular home.

■ Don’t hesitate to call in the experts: a free onsite consultation can get the ball rolling for a new project.

■ Go shopping. Lumon has a show room in Abbotsford with an-other opening soon in the greater Vancouver region.

■ Consider the long-term benefit on a personal and financial level. Covered and enclosed outdoor spaces can create valuable room for a family while adding to property values in a re-sale, with less investment than a major renovation may be.

expert

Business Profile

■ OUTDOOR COVERS & ENCLOSURES - LUMON CANADA

There are places in the world where a home’s patio is a year-round extension of the house itself: an extra living space to gather, play, eat meals and enjoy the weather.

Here in the lower mainland – with a temperate climate and plenty of rain – that isn’t typically the case.

But it can be. Lumon Canada creates

outdoor covers and enclosures that allow homeowners to turn open balconies and patios into living areas – and beautiful ones, at that.

“We provide outdoor living experiences for people that have a home and want to include outdoor living in their daily lives,” says Steven Leyenhorst.

The popularity of such structures has boomed in recent years for a variety of reasons: it can be a relatively simple way to add space to smaller new homes or a cost-effective way to upgrade and expand an older home.

“In a lot of newer homes, there might be a great room rather than a living room and

family room, and this becomes a way to get that extra space where maybe the kids can play, do some arts and crafts, get a little messy,” he notes. “On the other hand, property values being what they are now, it’s often a better value – rather than re-build – to renovate, to improve what is already there, and this is an easy way to do that.”

And, in a busy technology-driven world, an enclosed space can provide a new avenue for family and leisure time while still

providing an opportunity to be outside. That might

mean a place to hold a family dinner, a social gathering or quietly read a book – without any worries about

whether it’s going to rain.“These really become

spaces where people can enjoy their families, relax and it can add a lot of value to a property,” he said. Leyenhorst notes that the business focuses on quality, long-lasting, durable products, all aimed at providing long-term solutions.

“We will build a product to

exceed all of the requirements, to be fully engineered to the latest building code,” he said. “A major benefit is the warranties we offer, that everything is fully backed by the manufacturer.”

And unlike many outdoor products, they last a long time with little investment.

“They’re extremely easy to maintain. They don’t get algae growth on them, they don’t need pressure washing. Rinse them off and that’s it.”

He notes that many homeowners might be surprised by how much outdoor space they could utilize. “One of our real strengths is in our no-obligation onsite appointments - we come to your home and give you an estimate that meets your specific needs,” he said. “It’s a great way to begin to explore the options and possibilities.”

Leyenhorst says the team at Lumon are the “cream of the crop” when it comes to their commitment and expertise.

“I’m so proud of our people – they really love what they do, and the number 1 thing is always making the customer happy.”

To find out more, see www.lumon.ca or call 1-844-65-LUMON.


“i’m sO prOud Of Our peOple – they

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Container planting is not just for gardeners living in

small-spaces.In fact, larger areas are also

ideal for planting in containers because of their versatility. They also, according to garden columnist Anne Morrison, can act as maximum security jails for beautiful, but invasive plants.

Best of all, by using containers gardeners maintains complete control of the soil mix, sun and shade and pest control. And while there are dozens of garden variety containers available to purchase, with a little imagination, the possibilities

are literally endless. Look around your home for items that can be recycled. Think old toys, kid’s furniture, tricycles, bikes, kitchen bowls or buckets. The social media platform Pinterest is also a great site to check out for inspiration. Just don’t forget every container needs a way to drain water so if it doesn’t already have holes, prepare to get handy. And don’t forget, when it comes to container planting, size absolutely matters.

The following are five easy ideas DIY containers, with a state-of-the-art urban cultivator thrown in for good measure.

around your home for items that can be recycled. Think

tricycles, bikes, kitchen bowls or buckets. The social media

inspiration. Just don’t forget every container needs a way to drain water so if it doesn’t already have holes, prepare to

state-of-the-art urban cultivator

Plastic re-usable shopping bagsThat Whole Foods bag isn’t just for buying organic produce.

With a little potting soil, it becomes the ideal vessel for growing it. These bags work great for lettuce.

The versatility of

PlantersContainer


Combine your love of gardening with flair for fashion. Line an old purse, or purses, with plastic and hang from your balcony, fence or bathroom hook.

Retired purses

Teapots come in all shapes and sizes so don’t be afraid to combine several for an interesting grouping.

Vintage or quirky teapots

Splurge and buy two – or ten. Line with plastic to avoid rust and let your imagination do the rest. Don’t forget to punch some holes in the bottom.

Dollar store decorative tins


Children’s toys or furniture: Give that broken dump truck or tiny Adirondack chair new life by transforming it into a container to grow flowers or vegetables. In the case of a broken truck, you can plant directly into the box. As for a small wooden chair, simply remove a slat from the seat and place a potted plant in the space.

Children’s toys or furniture

This Surrey-based business has made it possible to grow fresh, organic herbs and

greens at home in a high-tech container,

about the size of a dishwasher. Each unit’s pre-

programmed control centre

self-regulates water, light and humidity levels. Gardening has literally never

been easier. Urbancultivator.net.

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PlantingAlternatives


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A Custom Approach to Wood

Tips■ Collect photos from magazines or websites with room designs and cabinet layouts that appeal to you, to help convey what you’re looking for in terms of style and colour.

■ Don’t be afraid to ask about unique solutions for individual challenges. For example, specialty cupboard spaces may help solve an organizational problem in your home that would be un-necessary for someone else.

■ Be flexible. An expert may see alternatives to your original plan that will work well in your space.

■ Plan ahead. Make sure there’s enough time to complete the project if it needs to be done in time for a particular event or holiday. For example, if family is coming to visit at Christ-mas, start the project early enough that it’s all complete before visitors arrive.

■ Do some research and ask questions. A reputable contractor will gladly answer and offer expert opinions and advice, or explain more about how or why a project will unfold.

■ Ask to see examples of previous projects and work to get a sense of what kind of renovations the contractor has been involved in previ-ously. Explore the company’s website; most have samples of their work pictured online

expert

Business Profile

■ CUSTOM CABINETS & MILLWORK - SHEREMETA CUSTOM CABINETS

As the reputation of Sheremeta Custom Cabinets and Millwork has grown, so too has the business itself.

The company recently expanded into a 3,000 square foot workshop where owner Dave Sheremeta works on custom cabinetry for kitchens and bathrooms, built-in entertainment units, architectural woodworking, custom projects, cabinet re-facing and more - even, from time to time, handmade furniture.

Sheremeta chalks his success up to the craftsmanship and quality he puts into his work, but equally importantly, to the customer care he’s able to provide each client. “We’re not a huge company, so we’re able to have that personal touch and a real attention to detail,” he said. “That’s really important to me, being able to work with the clients one on one, to make sure we’re giving them exactly what they want and need.”

A personal approach is what makes custom woodwork so appealing in general.

“Whatever people want, there’s no limitations. I can sit down with them and go over ideas and come up with a project

and plan that really fits their home and their style,” he said.

Many of his clients come armed with lots of research, ideas, and inspiration; others aren’t sure where to begin. Either way, Sheremeta works with each customer to create a final project that doesn’t just look good, but is well constructed and will last.

“You can’t have one without the other. There are fly-by-night operations that might come in and sure, it looks good, but it’s not solid, or well built, and then they may not be there down the road to back up their work. We want to give quality every time. I believe we have the best craftsmanship in the business.”

When starting out on a home renovation project, most clients have a budget in mind, and that’s another place where the close relationship with each customer is beneficial. “We really want to work with the customer to find solutions that fit their budget. Because of our size, we’re able to do that and really build a project that combines their goals and their budget.”

Sheremeta came to the custom woodworking business naturally, after developing a love and curiousity for wood at an

early age, thanks to a father that worked at a sawmill.

“I’ve always been around woodworking, it’s fascinating for me,” he said. “It was clear over time that this is where I wanted to focus my work.”

Sheremeta spent time working in the construction industry, then later in the custom cabinet field. Eventually, he decided it was time to set out on is own, and opened his own business.

Since then, customer referrals from previous projects have continued to fuel the company’s growth. “When a customer has recommended you to a friend or to their family, that’s wonderful. You know you’re doing good work when that happens. Most of our clients are referrals.”

With the new, larger shop space and an ever growing clientele, Sheremeta is excited about the future.

“We want to keep building that reputation that has brought us here,” he said.

For more information about Sheremeta Custom Cabinets, see their website at www.sheremetacabinets.com, check out their facebook page, or call 604-928-5065.


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A dream home means different things to different people. To some, an ideal home sits atop a hill and has enough rooms to accommodate generations upon generations of family members. To others, a home small in stature but with views to die for is all a homeowner needs.

While preferences may vary on the home itself, there are a few things buyers of all shapes and sizes prefer when shopping for the home of their dreams.

Agreeable weather Vacation home shoppers often prefer

year-round warm weather so they know their respite from the cold is never too far away. For example, Florida boasts an average temperature of 73.7* F, providing the ideal getaway to snowbound men and women stuck in the throes of winter.

Affordability A dream home stays a dream for many

people because of the misconception that it is beyond their financial reach. “While a seaside villa in Italy might never be a reality, there are places where it is still affordable to own and maintain a vacation home,” says Andrew Nadalin, President of Pace 2000 Inc. Compared to neighboring counties, St. Lucie County and Martin County represent

the piece of South Florida that is stillconsidered affordable. Endowed with the rich quality of life South Florida has to offer, both St. Lucie and Martin counties also offer and affordable cost-of-living vacationers will appreciate.

Accessibility of activities While an escape from the hustle and

bustle of everyday life is great, no one wants to escape to a place with nothing to do. When shopping for a place to buy or build your dream getaway, be sure there’s plenty of accessibility to popular activities like boating, fishing, diving, surfing, canoeing, or kayaking.

Proximity to other hotspots Even if you’re looking for a place to

simply unwind, a dream home’s proximity to hotspots or other exotic locales never hurts. Port St. Lucie, for example, offers all a vacationer needs to relax and unwind, and it’s only 90 miles from the Bahamas by boat and a short drive to Miami, Palm Beach and Orlando.

Proximity to major airports Unless you plan on living in your vacation

home year-round, you’ll want the home to be somewhere that’s close to major airports. This makes it easier to get to your home and flights won’t be as expensive.

Things to look for when shopping for your

DREAM HOME

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