Tip Top
Effect Home Buiders takes a bold stand on Minimalist design and its bright possibilities.
For nearly twenty years Effect Home Builders has been greatly improving the curb appeal of Edmonton and its surrounding areas. More than that, they are experts in the art of green building. “As problem solvers, we are truly committed to what we do as every project is unique,” cites Managing Partner, Les Wold who understands the power of collaboration.
Featuring a design by architect Louis Pereira of thirdstone design, this meticulous layout was further intended to optimize fit within a limited building pocket, while considering the city’s rigorous infill regulations with respect to height and setbacks. “Accessibility was key to ensure easy circulation with the attached garage. The low main floor provides a comfortable connection and barrier-free access between indoor living spaces and adjacent outdoor amenities, that includes a private south-facing outdoor courtyard,” describes Louis.
The clean, white, and minimalist décor was enhanced by Kim Chiles of Midori Spaces who brought definition to the client’s welldefined style sense. “Their active interest in architecture allowed them to readily pinpoint their preferences,” admits Kim. And because they enjoy hosting family and friends from out of town, the space is well appointed in both flow and function with an uninterrupted clear span ceiling on the main level for easy gatherings, and a dedicated home theatre in the basement.
“What was so rewarding about this project was that the clients had a very good design sense and specific goals for the home,” recalls Les. Working hard to satisfy style and address accessibility issues, the home was built to accommodate the needs of the family now and into the future with an elevator, attached garage, and curbless shower affording the opportunity to ‘age in place.’
“The intention was to experience the home in its entirety, which precluded standout features,” shares Les. “It’s a modern design with a very white palette and one of the challenges was that white is not necessarily white, so everything had to be carefully selected to
achieve that.” Showcasing 3,520 square feet of two story living, it also hosts a developed basement where cozier comforts abide.
Desiring a bright décor enhanced by natural light, the design demanded generous windows while managing privacy. Ultimately, windows placement was balanced to ensure both, while capturing the best views.
Effect Home Builders are the reigning experts when it comes to green homes and are long-time, active members of the Canadian green home building community. “People ask us what that means. It comes down to better materials, better structure, better insulation, and better airtightness,” admits Les. statement. “The facade of the home is definitely eye-catching, but it also assumes the character of Windsor Park, which hosts larger homes of lasting quality and original design,” shares Les.
Part of the Mike Holmes’ Approved Homes initiative, it certifies that Effect Home Builders uses only the best techniques, practices, and technologies, and that each home undergoes a series of inspections, including full reviews approved by Mike Holmes certified inspectors. “As a Holmes Approved Home, the Inspections team supplied unbiased, third party inspections at critical stages of construction. This provides homeowners with documentation and peace of mind,” assures Les.
The home consumes 68% less energy than a typical home of its size and has an 8.25-kilowatt solar electric system with roof-mounted panels. That and its ICF foundation and BASF HP + exterior wall system ensures an advanced building envelope that is extremely airtight with no thermal bridging amidst extremely energy-efficient windows. “Because the home is so air tight we have an HRV system that brings in fresh air efficiently. Plus there is a gas generator for uninterrupted function in the case of a power outage,” adds Les.
Located in desirable Windsor Park, mature trees line streets in this established neighbourhood of pedestrian-friendly appeal. The home enhances the lot effectively and complements the community while still making its own unique
Committed to helping clients build a home that’s perfectly suited to their lifestyle, Effect Home Builders incorporates environmental sustainability far into the future. “The clients were wonderful to work with. Their clear vision helped us realize their dream as they were specific with their selections and knew what they wanted,” says Les. “As soon as you walk in the door it feels so welcoming and fresh.”
A premium kitchen supplier that consistently provides a standard of excellence, quality, and client satisfaction that is second to none, Legacy Kitchens helps bring homeowner dreams to fruition.
A proud provider of exceptional kitchen designs and renovations in Calgary, Legacy Kitchens is home to a professional kitchen design staff and trades people whose high standards have satisfied homeowners and builders for over 35 years.
With a residence in the Calgary community of Oakridge, one such homeowner needed to replace their small kitchen and boxy layout that limited movement and family interaction. By removing some walls, Legacy was able to create a larger and more functional kitchen that offered a walk-through butler’s pantry and open access to the great room.
“The client wanted openness, space, and functionality,” shares Design Consultant, Jason Chambers of Legacy Kitchens. “The cabinetry selection satisfied a balance between her traditional tastes and his modern preferences with fresh, transitional styling.” White Dove painted Shaker-style doors complement quartz countertops that host a marble aesthetic. Providing an appealing contrast, the maple island features a Cobblestone finish amidst colourful ceramic tile above the cooktop that borders the stainless steel hood fan with copper banding.
The side butler’s pantry is enhanced by consistent grey-toned, ceramic subway tile that pops backsplash features and surrounds an oval window amidst floating maple shelves. Opposite, a wine fridge, microwave, and prep sink adds easy function to generous cabinet features.
“The clients loved their new kitchen and were very happy, saying it was the best decision that they made. They looked at moving as an option, but were so glad that they did the renovation instead,” relays Chambers.
Legacy Kitchens believes that the strength of their company lies in hospitality, value, and a systematic process that exceeds expectations, beautifully. Chambers affirms, “Our method and approach is comprehensive—we have a project team that’s been together a long time and we stick to a schedule that is thoughtfully planned, realistic, and well executed to ensure a completion that is on budget and on time.”