Big Showers are a Big Priority for Today's Homeowners

According to the 2015 Houzz Bathroom Remodelling Survey, which polled over 3,000 homeowners who are currently or have just completed a bathroom renovation, more than two-thirds of those surveyed are increasing the size of their shower space. Of those homeowners, nearly one-third are increasing the size of their shower by at least half or more.

Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

"Monarch has seen the trend in bathroom showers growing over the last few years," says Monarch designer Amanda Willson-Suppa. "Today's shower designs are not just larger but more luxurious, as well! The shower has become a key feature in the design...a wow factor."

Monarch clients are choosing for their showers to be their oasis. Many are even steering away from having a large soaker or whirlpool-style tub. "Instead, their opting for a single larger shower, inviting luxury into their everyday instead of waiting for when they have the time to take a longer soak in the tub."

Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

Aging in place continues as a priority for many of the Baby Boomers surveyed in the Houzz poll, with accessibility features such as grab bars, curbless showers and shower seats making their way into the majority of the bath designs.

Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

Hoping to Celebrate Christmas in a Newly Designed Kitchen?

As you soak up these last few weeks of summer, Christmas is probably the last thing on your mind.

Here at Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre, however, we're busy planning kitchen and bath renovations through the fall months.

If you're dreading the idea of celebrating another Christmas in your outdated kitchen, we encourage you to drop into our showroom soon to speak with a member of our design team. Major design transformations take time, and if you'd love to be entertaining your family and friends in a new kitchen this Christmas, the planning process should begin over the next few weeks.

Why so soon? Here's a brief summary of what needs to happen:

• Find a design company you can trust
• Set a budget and establish your design goals
• Consult with your kitchen designer
• Final design approval
• Technical drawings to be produced
• Order of cabinetry and materials
• Manufacturing of custom cabinetry
• Demolition and reconstruction of current kitchen
• Shop for new appliances/schedule delivery
• Delivery of custom cabinetry and countertop
• Cabinetry, countertop and backsplash installation
• Finishing touches such as painting, installation of new plumbing and light fixtures

Our primary goal is to help you design a space that not only reflects your personal style, but also meets your requirements for function and versatility -- for this holiday season, and for years to come.

As a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association for over 30 years, we pride ourselves on our knowledge, creativity and the variety of services we offer. Although you many only have one designer assigned to your project, you'll benefit from having an entire team of dedicated kitchen professionals working together to serve you.

Call Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre today at 905-686-2001 and let us help you make your kitchen design dreams a reality. 

Caesarstone Reveals 8 Fresh New Designs for 2015

Caesarstone 4001 Fresh Concrete

Why choose Caesarstone?
Caesarstone surfaces consist of up to 93 per cent quartz, one of nature's strongest minerals. They retain the cool tactile qualities of natural stone, while offering design freedom with almost unlimited application possibilities. Caesarstone quartz surfaces are resistant to stains, scratches and cracks and are also highly heat-resistant. Enjoy the enduring beauty of quartz, an ideal choice for kitchen countertops, backsplashes and bathroom vanities.

Drop by the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre showroom today to view samples of Caesarstone's stunning new designs.

Caesarstone 4003 Sleek Concrete

Caesarstone 5130 Cosmopolitan White

Caesarstone 4004 Raw Concrete

Caesarstone 5111 Statuario Nuvo

Caesarstone 5133 Symphony Grey

Caesarstone 5212 Taj Royal

Caesarstone 5134 Urban Safari

All photos courtesy of caesarstone.ca

Three Ways Home Improvement Reality TV Differs from Real-Life Renos

There are currently more than 10 home improvement reality shows running on HGTV. If you’re like many homeowners in Canada, you’ve probably spent a lot of time inside watching a few of these shows this past winter. You may even be pumped and ready to get busy in your own home!

We all know that what we see on reality TV isn’t always an accurate portrayal of everyday life. However, watching these programs has undoubtedly changed your expectations, leaving you feeling more knowledgeable about the design and renovation process.

If you want to avoid frustration and disappointment while hiring contractors to do your own home improvements, it’s important to understand how TV reality shows differ from real life.

Major home improvements such as kitchen and bathroom remodels can take weeks, not days, to finish properly.
Don’t be fooled by the lightning-fast turnaround on television. Items such as countertops, cabinetry and plumbing fixtures usually need to be ordered months in advance. When you see a large project completed quickly on your favourite program, what you’re not seeing is the scrambling going on behind the scenes. Often, contractors on these shows are working around the clock to meet the show’s tight deadline. From the initial consultation and design, to obtaining the proper permits, ordering materials, and coordinating schedules, quality home renovations take time. The bottom line: The bigger the job, the longer it’s going to take.

The renovation costs on TV reality shows are unrealistic.
Are the contractors on the reality show lowballing their prices to get TV exposure for their company? Is the cost for labour factored into their quote? Did the homeowners have to pay extra for the cost of design? You need to keep these “realities” in mind when planning your own home improvement.
The bottom line: Superior design, quality materials and expert craftsmanship are worth paying for.

Drama is for television – not your home reno.
Unlike the sterile, fast-paced home renos you see on television, real-life renovations by experienced, qualified contractors involve weeks to properly plan, coordinate and execute. Unlike their entertainment-driven reality TV counterparts, successful contractors do everything they can to avoid drama and surprises by correctly anticipating each step of the renovation process. Before work begins on your home, you should be provided with a detailed description of all the work that will be done. If your design and renovation goals don’t match your budget, the contractors you consult will tell you that up front.
The bottom line: Choose a contractor with the qualifications and experience to get the job done right.

At Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre, we understand that our success depends solely on the satisfaction of our clients. To learn more, read 5 Reasons to Trust Monarch With Your Kitchen and Bath Design Needs or call 905-686-2001 to speak with a member of our design team.

Home Renovations -- Don’t Get Hustled!

Consumer Protection Ontario encourages homeowners to know their rights when starting renovations or repairs.



The first step to hiring competent home renovation contractors is asking the right questions.

As professional kitchen and bath designers for over 30 years, Monarch is proud of the solid reputation we’ve built throughout Durham Region, the GTA and beyond. Here, we answer Consumer Protection Ontario’s recommended questions for contractors:

Can I get references from people who have had a similar work done in their homes?
Absolutely! We are happy to provide you with references for jobs larger, smaller and similar to the project you are planning.

Will my estimate be included as part of my contract?
Yes, our contract will include your estimate, as well as a detailed description of all the work that will be done in your home.

Will you get any building permits on my behalf? Can you say so in my contract?
We will provide you with all of the necessary documentation and engineered drawings required for you to obtain your building permit. With the proper documentation, you will find obtaining your building permit a fast and easy process. We will gladly describe this within your written contract.

How will we handle any disagreements or disputes? Can you include that in the contract?We seldom have disagreements and disputes because Neil Samson, president and owner of Monarch, works closely with all of our clients to ensure they are well informed during every step of the renovation process and as happy as can be. Any disagreements or disputes will be resolved to your complete satisfaction. Our commitment to your complete satisfaction will be included in your written contract.

If I cancel my contract after the work is started, will I have to pay for any work or materials?
Yes, you will have to pay for any work and materials that have been custom ordered for you and work that has been completed to date. However, we endeavor to never put you in that position. We can say with pride that in our 33-year history, a client has never canceled a project while work has been underway.

More than just kitchen and bath design.
Monarch provides renovation services for every room in your home. We offer cutting-edge design services; licensed, bonded and insured trades; complete project management; and use only high-quality materials and finishes. That, combined with our commitment to your satisfaction, ensures you a seamless project. Visit our showroom or call 905-686-2001 to speak to a member of our design team.

5 Reasons to Trust Monarch With Your Kitchen and Bath Design Needs

Choosing a company you can trust to handle renovations in your home can be a huge source of stress. As kitchen and bath designers for over 30 years, Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre understands that the best way to put your mind at ease is to present you with the facts you need to make the decision that's right for you.

"When taking on such a large project in your home, trust and confidence in the people that will be performing the work is crucial," says Monarch designer Amanda Willson-Suppa. "That's why we provide all our potential customers with a copy of Monarch's Trust and Confidence Guide. It includes extensive detail of all Monarch's certifications, as well as a gallery of before-and-after pictures."

Why choose Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre?

1. We are experienced and qualified.

Take comfort in the knowledge that all Monarch designers are professionally trained and educated. Monarch has been a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) for over thirty years. The NKBA promotes professionalism and ethical business practices within the kitchen and bath industry, and is committed to helping design professionals create more energy efficient living spaces. 

Monarch is a member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA). The CHBA is committed to a fair and competitive marketplace and provides members with opportunities to learn and grow. Monarch shares the CHBA’s belief that all Canadians have the right to a reasonable opportunity to own their own homes, and the right to decent, safe and appropriate housing.

In 2012, Monarch became a Baeumler Approved contractor. The brainchild of Bryan Baeumler, host of HGTV’s Disaster DIY and House of Bryan, Baeumler Approved pre-screens home renovation companies to ensure their references check out and they have all the require insurance and licenses necessary to run their business. Baeumler Approved checks with previous customers and the tradespeople and companies they employ on a regular basis to ensure a company they deem “Baeumler Approved” has a solid reputation in the industry and with their clients.

In 2013, Monarch became a RenoMark Approved contractor. RenoMark identifies contractors who have agreed to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s Code of Ethics and a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. As a RenoMark approved renovator, Monarch is recognized as understanding the value of customer service as well as providing warranties and continually educating ourselves on trends, materials and new regulations.
Monarch also became BILD Approved contractor in 2013. The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) encourages innovations and excellence in the planning and building of sustainable communities and the redevelopment and renovation of existing communities. As a BILD approved contractor, Monarch must abide by a strict code of ethics.

2. We are committed to your complete satisfaction.

At Monarch, we understand that our success depends solely on the satisfaction of our clients. Our primary goal is to help our clients design a space that not only reflects their personal style, but also meets their requirements for function and versatility – now and for years to come. Many of our new clients come to us as a result of referrals. Not only have they walked into a friend or family member’s newly designed space and been blown away by its beauty, they have also learned firsthand about our attention to detail, expert guidance and respect for their time. Click here to read our reviews on HomeStars.

3. We design and renovate homes, cottages and condos!

Monarch offers customized design and renovation services for all rooms in the home, condominium or cottage. This service includes in-home consultations; detailed plans and designs; a written description of the scope of work for each project; computer-generated plans and perspective; "one-stop”shopping on a large range of cabinetry, tile, flooring, and plumbing fixtures; licenced, insured and bonded trades; complete project management; and several lines of cabinetry to cover a range of budget options.

Monarch specializes in condominium renovations of all sizes. Because each condo board has different rules and regulations, condo renovations are a more complex process than renovating a home. Monarch liaises with each condo board and superintendent to ensure a seamless approval process; delivery and execution of the renovation. Our qualifications exceed condo board requirements.

4. We understand how busy you are so we offer concierge services, too!

Recently, Monarch added a concierge service to help our clients manage the many steps and stages involved in a renovation. Our concierge service includes a pack-up service; professional organization; appliance moving; cleaning services; duct and filter cleaning; daily progress reports with pictures or video; product sourcing and interior design and decorating services.

5. We are your long-term renovation partner.

Our commitment to you does not end when your design project is finished. We offer a one-year parts and labour warranty on everything we supply and install. Should something get broken or damaged, we will help you obtain replacement parts. We are always happy to make time for you, your friends and anyone you refer to us.

Monarch Designers Pick Their Favourite Kitchen & Bath Trends for 2015

White, white, slightly off-white, and more white!

“White kitchens have been back in a big way over the last few years, and 2015 is not going to be any different,” says designer Amanda Willson-Suppa. 

“White is timeless, can meet a multitude of design styles, matches existing décor impeccably, and can be so versatile. 

"Whether you are looking to re-fresh your home with new cabinets, or looking at a much larger scale renovation, white cabinetry is something everyone is comfortable with.”

Complete bathroom remodel

According to designer Kevin Samson, the popularity of bathroom remodel projects has grown to become a substantial segment of the renovation market.

 "Twenty years ago, we rarely renovated bathrooms, perhaps a tub or cabinet was updated, possibly a counter top and faucet would be swapped out," says Kevin. "Interest in complete bathroom remodels started about ten years ago and has steadily increased since.

"The majority of these projects involve stripping the room down to the studs and sub floor, and starting with a clean slate."
 
When asked about current trends and what tops the client's wish list, Kevin says heated tile floors and larger, spa-type showers lead the list. "The number one complaint? A lack of useful storage in the existing space."

More texture

Image courtesy of saranatile.com

"This year, I think we'll be seeing a lot of texture," says designer Jackie Chambers. 

"I'm enjoying playful geometric patterns in tile like herringbone and hexagons, but installed in subtle and muted colours to add depth to the space. The variance in texture in a monochromatic palette adds a level of timeless  sophistication."

Sherwin-Williams 2015 Colour of the Year: Coral Reef

Sherwin-Williams has chosen its 2015 Colour of the Year and Monarch designer Amanda Willson-Suppa agrees that this cheerful colour is the perfect way to add warmth to your home during the long, dark days of winter. 

“How nice would it be to make yourself a tea, grab your favourite book and sit in a room adorned with Coral Reef? It's warm, bright colour pairs well with white and beachy accents, giving it a comfortable, welcoming feel."

From Sherwin-Williams:

Coral Reef (SW 6606), a vivacious hue, is Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year 2015. Upbeat and optimistic, Coral Reef celebrates a time for renewal and is the perfect mélange of pink, orange and red that can be used to liven up any space.

 

Add Coral Reef to your home’s palette and watch creativity blossom. Here are some ideas on where to use Coral Reef in your home:

• Let the color stand by itself on a single accent wall or on your front door for a pop of color.
• Paint a piece of furniture as a great accent piece.
• Pair Coral Reef with Cotton White (SW 7104), Black Fox (SW 7020) or other floral hues and lush greens.
• You can relax this bold color slightly by pairing it with warm neutrals such as Sedate Gray (SW 6169) or buttery yellows like Hubbard Squash (SW 0044).
• Driftwood, medium wood tones and metal finishes also complement its flower-garden hue.
• For vintage quality that’s hard to beat, Coral Reef and aged matte brass make a perfect pair.

Click here to find the Sherwin-Williams dealer nearest you.