Introducing the Self-Cleaning Toilet from American Standard

For over 50 years, homeowners have enjoyed the convenience of self-cleaning ovens. In 2016, we can banish one more dreaded chore from our to-do list with the ActiClean Self-Cleaning Toilet from American Standard.

Featuring a fully integrated self-cleaning system, the ActiClean Self-Cleaning Toilet offers two cleaning options: the one-minute Quick Clean or the extended 10-minute Deep Clean.

From American Standard:

ActiClean is the toilet bowl that cleans itself with a simple touch of a button. Using a simple, easily replaceable cartridge of our toilet bowl cleaning solution, and featuring two cleaning cyles for either a Quick Clean or Deep Clean, the ActiClean Toilet is always left with a freshly scented, sparkling bowl. Featuring our innovative Clean Curve Rim and EverClean surface, the ActiClean self-cleaning toilet stays cleaner, longer. This amazing toilet also includes our revolutionary VorMax flushing technology, for a powerful flush and unstoppable performance.
 

Click here to see how the ActiClean Self-Cleaning Toilet works.

Fall in Love with Your New Bath Design with Kohler

Leave it to Kohler to find exciting and inspiring ways to ramp up your bath design while creating a spa-like experience in your home.

In this video, learn how Robern's stunning cabinetry can transform the rituals of everyday life.

Kohler's DTV Custom Showering Experience allows you to create a spa-like environment in your home. Using just one simple electronic control, DTV's advanced digital platform wraps water, sound, light and steam together in a seamless and totally customizable system.

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre is Now RenoMark™ Approved!

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre is pleased to announce we are now among a limited number of renovation contractors in the Greater Toronto Area who are RenoMark™ Approved.

From Renomark.ca:

RenoMark™ raises the bar and identifies renovation contractors, who have agreed to the Canadian Home Builders' Association's Code of Ethics and a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. RenoMark™ renovators understand the value of customer service, provide warranties and continually educate themselves on trends, materials and new regulations.

As an approved RenoMark contractor, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre can assure their clients they meet the following criteria for membership:

• RenoMark™ renovator members believe in professionalism. They are committed to their industry and to their businesses and are willing to pay annual dues to keep informed and to help educate consumers.
• RenoMark™ members have legitimate business licences. They do not support the underground economy of renovators who avoid paying taxes and operate "fly-by-night" and "cash only" businesses.
• RenoMark™ members are informed. Information and education are important benefits of membership. Our member contractors are the first to know about changes in building codes, municipal requirements, health and safety regulations and more through our courses, information sessions, and communications program. Local Renovator Councils meet regularly for industry updates and information exchange sessions.
• RenoMark™ members are "in-the-loop." It makes sense to hire a renovator that is part of an extensive home building and renovating industry network. Our members are in touch with manufacturers, suppliers, and experienced trade contractors. They know what's new and where to get it.
• RenoMark™ members offer peace-of-mind. Joining this association program is your sign that a renovator is concerned about fair and honest quotes and reliable start and finish dates. They understand that keeping the lines of communication wide open is the key to a successful job.
• RenoMark™ members subscribe to the association’s general Code of Ethics applicable to all members plus a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. It's all about integrity. Our members believe in treating not only their clients appropriately, but also deal fairly with trade contractors and employees.
• RenoMark™ members offer a wealth of advice. Put them to work for you in the planning stages of your renovation. Our members can offer design and technical advice to achieve designs you may not have thought possible. They are a call or email away.
• RenoMark™ contractors take care of the details. Hiring a professional means that the details like ensuring all necessary approvals and permits are in place, all employees and sub-contractors have the provincial workers’ compensation coverage, and obtaining the appropriate insurance are not only taken care of, they are readily available to you for your assurance.
• RenoMark™ members offer a warranty and after sales service. A contractor committed to professionalism will offer you the coverage you need. Under the table deals leave you no recourse - so make sure your renovator spells it out on paper. Our members will also provide you with a written list of referrals so you can check on their performance and expertise.
• RenoMark™ renovators are members of the local home builders association. A crucial first step in knowing that you’ve hired a professional.

As an approved Renomark™ contractor, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre must adhere to Renomark's Strict Code of Conduct:

• Be a member in good standing of the local Canadian Home Builders’ Association.
• Abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics.
• Provide a detailed, written contract (including scope of work) for all jobs.
• Offer a minimum two year warranty on all work (excludes minor home repair).
• Carry a minimum of $2 million liability insurance.
• Have coverage for workplace safety and employers' liability and/or work only with subcontractors who carry such coverage.
• Carry applicable licenses and permits.
• Have access to information, education, training and professional development through membership in the Association.
• Maintain a safe and organized worksite.
• Return phone calls within two business days.

Are you planning a kitchen or bath redesign this spring? Call Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre today at 905-686-2001 or drop by our showroom. You can trust us to make your renovation dreams a reality.

More Before and After Pictures from a Toronto White Kitchen -- and "Whole Home" -- Makeover

Last year, Monarch designer Sarah Overholt began consulting on a project that started as a kitchen renovation but turned into a whole home renovation!

Built in the 1920's, this 1,000 sq. foot Toronto home was completely gutted and all new electrical, plumbing and insulation was installed. The main floor was opened up and the existing tiny isolated kitchen was transformed into an airy modern space.

Toronto home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Front hallway/stairs BEFORE

Toronto home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Living room/stairs/kitchen BEFORE (during construction)

Toronto home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Living room/stairs/kitchen AFTER

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto kitchen BEFORE

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto white kitchen design AFTER

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto white kitchen design AFTER

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto white kitchen design AFTER

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto bath design BEFORE (during construction)

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto bath design AFTER

Home makeover by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Toronto bath design AFTER

How Can Your New Bath Design Help Save You Money and the Environment?

Choosing a new toilet and faucet is often one of the final design choices you'll have to make in a bath renovation, but potentially the most important.

From Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC):

A high-quality toilet can help you save money, protect the environment and conserve water, all without sacrificing performance or peace of mind. Choose the wrong toilet, and you could wind up flushing your hard-earned dollars down the drain.

In this short video, master plumber Ed Del Grande explains how Kohler's new products have been re-engineered to help you save up to 30% off your water bill.

With so many makes and models to choose from, deciding on which product is right for your home can be a bit overwhelming. If you're considering a bath renovation, Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre can help.

Drop by our Pickering showroom today or call us at 905-686-2001 and speak with one of our designers. Book your bath renovation with Monarch before August 31, 2012, and you could win your new granite or quartz countertop. To learn more, click here.

Say Goodbye to Water Spots with Spot Resist™ by Moen

Leave it to Moen to find a way to make cleaning your kitchen and bathroom—often the most used rooms in your home—easier!

"Spot Resist™ does just what it says—resists fingerprints and water spots. This innovative Spot Resist™ finish maintains the brilliance of your faucet or shower head to help you spend more time enjoying your home...and less time cleaning it. And, when it is time for periodic cleaning, Spot Resist™ easily wipes clean."   
— moen.ca

Spot Resist™ brushed nickel and stainless steel surfaces are available on a wide variety of kitchen and bath faucets and shower heads. For a full list of products featuring Spot Resist™, click here.

GROHE's Answer to the "Ultimate" Shower Experience

Like most things in life, when it comes to getting what you want -- it's all in the details.

As experts in water technology, GROHE's mission is to develop superior showers with outstanding features. Their DreamSpray® technology provides optimal water distribution for an unparalleled showering experience. With an advanced shower engine ensuring an equal flow of water through each and every nozzle and six luxurious shower settings to choose from, DreamSpray® technology allows you to tailor your shower to your mood and prepare for maximum exhilaration.

"Teamwork and Dedicated Staff" Still the Backbone of Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre's Success

Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre's team took a trip down memory lane recently with this article from The News Advertiser which appeared almost 15 years ago.

Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre Presented with Phase II Eco-Business Cerficate

(l-r) Melissa Foley, Kevin Samson, Gary Strange, Peter Forint, Neil Samson, Sarah Overholt, Amanda Willson-Suppa, Kate Beranger

Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade representatives paid a visit to Monarch's Pickering showroom recently to present president Neil Samson and his team with their Phase II Eco-Business Certificate.

From the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade's e-newsletter, The Bulletin:

"On Tuesday, November 1st, APBOT representatives were on site at Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre in Pickering to present the company with their Phase II Eco-Business certificate. The certificate was presented by Peter Forint of Wardell Professional Development, Chair of the Board of Trade's Eco-Business Advisory Committee, and Gary Strange of First Durham Insurance and Financial, the first vice-president of the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade.

Whereas the Phase I certificate is awarded to businesses who make a commitment to take steps to make their business more sustainable, Phase II rewards the follow-through and the tangible efforts made by a company.

Congratulations to Neil Samson and the team at Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre. This is truly an accomplishment of which the company can be proud."

Happy Halloween! Looking for Scary Kitchen Renovation Stories? You Won't Find Any at Monarch.

www.homestars.com

A review from Laura in Uxbridge, posted March 11, 2011, on HomeStars:

Finally moved into my dream home, and had quite a bit of renovations to do to bring it up to date. I used Monarch Kitchen and Bath for my kitchen and 3 bathrooms. From the start, I felt good about my decisions. I knew exactly what I wanted and they had all the products and the skill. Their staff is fully knowledgeable and they covered all the details, so I didn't have to worry about a thing. They even come back later to give you a complimentary "tune-up". They made sure I was completely satisfied, and now I get tons of compliments on my kitchen and bathrooms and I recommend them to everyone!! Thanks Monarch!

Visualizing Your Kitchen or Bath Design Using 20-20 Design Software

One of the biggest challenges homeowners face when renovating and designing a kitchen or bathroom is visualizing the way their new living space will look when the job is done. Although floor plans are helpful for measuring out what goes where, there's nothing quite like 3D imagery to help you get a true feel for how the room will look once the renovation has been completed.

At Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, we use 20-20 Design software to guide our clients through the design process, showing them their ideas as both a floor plan and with elevation views with 2D and 3D shapes.

"I've found the 20-20 Design program to be incredibly beneficial," says Monarch designer Sarah Overholt. "Not only can my clients see the layout we are proposing to them, but they can literally stand in their new space...and this is very helpful since most clients come to us because they are unable to visualize how their new space will look and feel."

This industry-leading software allows Monarch to design, plan and visualize kitchens and baths using thousands of products from manufacturer catalogs and realistic 3D renderings. Created specifically for the kitchen and bath industry, this dynamic program ensures that all designs follow the industry-standard design guidelines set out by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. In fact, when Monarch designer Melissa Foley submitted her design to the NKBA Kitchen Design Competition earlier this year, she submitted 3D renderings created with 20-20 Design software.

"With a wide range of appliances, furnishings, plumbing items, and finishes, our clients can get a true concept of their space," adds Sarah.

If the inability to visualize your new kitchen or bathroom is keeping you from making your renovation dreams a reality, Monarch's team of designers can help. Drop by our Pickering showroom or call us at 905-686-2001.

The Waterstone Collection™ by Cambria -- now at Monarch

Drop by the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre Pickering showroom to view The Waterstone Collection™ -- the latest collection of countertop colours and styles from Cambria.

Visit cambriacanada.com to view The Waterstone Collection™ swatches in detail.

"Influenced by the natural movement of water over stone, these trendsetting looks capture the unpredictability of flowing water. The range of neutral and vibrant tones are reminiscent of granite and marble, yet offer the benefits of Cambria, such as strength greater than granite or marble and its maintenance-free, non-porous surface."     cambriacanada.com

Each new colour is named after locations in Wales and England.

For example, Buckingham™--named after the home of the British monarchy--was chosen because the colour is rich and versatile with spots of brown, gold and gray.

Torquay™ on the other hand, has a posh, continental feel similar to the town it was named after and its pure milky colour is complemented by swirls of gray and tan.

To view the entire collection, visit Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre today.

Giving Back to the Community with Habitat for Humanity

A proud supporter of Habitat for Humanity for many years, the Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre team is always left more inspired than ever when they come into the office--as they did last week--for a presentation.

A non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of economically disadvantaged individuals through home ownership, Habitat for Humanity is committed to helping low-income families caught in the vicious cycle of poverty. 

How can you help? If you're planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation, give Habitat for Humanity a call before tear down begins. Their volunteers will remove your old kitchen cabinets, appliances or bathroom fixtures at no-charge and issue you a tax deductible receipt for the value of your donation.



"I feel Habitat for Humanity is such an important entity to have in the community because they help families achieve goals that they would otherwise not be able to achieve on their own," says Amanda Willson-Suppa of Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre. "Each family who is granted a Habitat for Humanity home not only pays a mortgage on the home that is structured to their income, but they also help build their own home, giving them a sense of accomplishment and ownership. If you are contemplating a renovation and are updating items in your home that are still perfectly functional...think about donating them to Habitat for Humanity."

Renovating Your Kitchen? Chances Are You'll Need a Building Permit

At Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre, we don't begin any renovation project without obtaining the necessary building permit first.
 
"I can’t emphasize enough the importance of permits and inspections,” explains Monarch president Neil Samson. “This is your guarantee that work will be done according to Ontario Building Code Standards and your home will be returned to you in a safe and secure manner."

The City of Pickering's planning and development department describes a building permit as "your formal permission to begin construction or demolition."  

A building permit from the City of Pickering ensures it has approved plans for any new structure, addition or renovation. Most importantly, all approved plans must comply with the Ontario Building Code, local zoning bylaws and other applicable laws and regulations.

From the City of Pickering's Planning and Development website:

It is unlawful to start construction or demolition before you obtain a permit.

Building permits regulate types of construction permitted in the community and ensure that building standards are met. The building permit process protects each homeowner's interests, as well as those of the community at large, and provides for the erection of safe structures.

By obtaining a permit, you can also take advantage of the professional expertise of Building Division staff. Inspectors are good sources of information and can offer suggestions to help solve construction problems, often before they occur. They have extensive hands-on experience, so try to be around during their visits.

In many cases, your designer or contractor will obtain permits on your behalf. But remember, it is the building owner who is ultimately responsible for complying with all building requirements.

For a full list of projects you'll need a building permit for, click here.

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, click here for more information on obtaining a building permit for your renovation.

While obtaining a building permit from the city or town you live in may seem like a nuisance, it ensures your project is completed according to code and will often safe you time and money later on.

“You’re spending a lot of time, energy and money on your renovation—be safe and protect your investment," says Neil.

Don't Miss Monarch's 30th Anniversary Celebration!

Please join us on Saturday, June 11th at our Pickering showroom -- 1020 Brock Road South, Unit 6 -- as we thank our new and previous clients, local business partners and the City of Pickering for their patronage and support over the past 30 years.

There will be food and refreshments, live musical entertainment and wine tasting from 12 to 4 p.m. Pickering Mayor Dave Ryan will be on hand to speak with guests and congratulate Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre owners Neil and Sharon Samson on their continuing success.

Drop by our showroom and put your name into a draw for "no-strings-attached" raffle prizes from such companies as:
Hamilton Beach
GROHE 
ProSource
Riobel 
Cuisines Laurier and more.

For additional information, contact Amanda Willson-Suppa at 905-686-2011 or email her at amanda@mkbi.com.

Achieving Balance Through Rituals: The Secret to this Durham Kitchen Design Firm's Success

While perusing BainUltra's website recently, Monarch designer Marion Cuddie discovered some thought-provoking information on wellness and how best to achieve balance in our lives. One item she found particularly relevant involves rituals--their goals and effects.

From BainUltra's Guide to Your Vedana Experiences:

Rituals can be defined as organized ceremonies that involve predetermined actions, the manipulation of objects, or interior practices designed to effect certain results. During rituals, participants direct their energy toward a defined goal.

"This got me thinking about Monarch's commitment to our weekly production/design meeting," says Marion. "Although we all feed off one another in the creation of the perfect solution to the design challenges we are given--and have an open and ongoing communication with our crews and management--we really do benefit from the set and structured meeting each Wednesday."

And while BainUltra is undoubtedly referring to how the predictable, structured nature of rituals can be used to benefit one's physical and mental well-being, Marion believes Monarch's weekly meetings--their ritual--has played an integral part in Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre's success.

"Through our weekly meetings, we have an opportunity to collectively celebrate our successes and manage the challenges of our business," adds Marion. "We are able to stay on track, all of us with the common goal of creating an organization that services our clients in their homes with professionalism, sensitivity and creativity."

Monarch Puts the Finishing Touches on John & Cindy's "Whole-Home" Transformation

If you've been following our blog over the past few months, you'll know that Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre has been working diligently on updating the look of John and Cindy's almost 100-year old home located in the Lawrence Park neighbourhood of Toronto.

Monarch also managed the construction of the exterior of John and Cindy's home.

In the picture above, you can see that the exterior of their house is almost complete. "We had to remove the main floor exterior wall to reconfigure for the new location of the windows and doors," says Monarch president Neil Samson. "Brick was an option for reconstruction, however, stucco was used and is a future consideration for the second storey. Once we put flashing at the top, install the lights and repair the deck, then the outside will be finished."

Monarch installed a white kitchen in John and Cindy's Toronto home.

"The stunning white kitchen cabinetry has been installed and we are waiting for the solid surface countertop. Once the countertop is added, we will install all the appliances and backsplash tiles," says Monarch designer Sarah Overholt. "Note, the floor is covered with a protective recyclable cardboard surface. Once all the trades are finished, the floor will be buffed and one more coat of finish will be applied."

The solid oak staircase awaits its final coat.

"The same attention to detail will apply to the custom solid oak staircase," adds Neil. "After the trades are finished, the protective covers will be removed from the stairs and a final coat of finish will applied to both the stairs and the banister."

The Advantages of Using a Kitchen and Bath Design Firm

Monarch's "Whole-Home" Makeover Continues: Drywall Done Right & Small Bathroom Design Strategies

After weeks of construction, John and Cindy are starting to get a real feel for how their “new” home will look and are eagerly anticipating getting their life back to normal.

Drywall and corner beads have been installed.

“The drywall and corner beads have been installed,” says Monarch president Neil Samson. “We apply Durabond before taping the board on all Monarch renovation jobs. It’s an additional step, however, it helps reduce the risk of cracking later.” Once the drywall has been primed, Monarch’s crew will install the solid oak staircase.

Work continues on John and Cindy's ensuite bathroom.

Stay tuned in the coming weeks for a blog post featuring John and Cindy’s ensuite bathroom--complete with a steam bath in the shower.

“We have selected a very interesting 20” x 36” tile for the walls and a river rock mosaic on the floor that adds a natural touch to the space,” explains Monarch designer Sarah Overholt.

“Designing warm, inviting spaces in a 1,000 sq. foot home can be a challenge.

In this case, we chose larger ceramic tiles to make the shower appear bigger than it actually is,” says Sarah.

Monarch uses Schluter products wherever possible in wet areas. “We find this to be the one product that is truly waterproof,” adds Neil.

Watch for further progress next week.

Monarch's "Whole-Home" Makeover Continues: The Importance of Inspections and Permits

John and Cindy's home is now insulated, inspected and ready for drywall.

The electrical and plumbing rough-in has been completed and inspected at John and Cindy’s 1,000 sq. foot home in Lawrence Park.

“We found the vent to the basement water closet terminated under the backyard deck instead of being tied in to the main stack,” says Monarch president Neil Samson. “This is just one of many issues that Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre finds on renovation jobsites on an ongoing basis.

“Everything in John and Cindy’s home is now safe, insulated, inspected and ready for drywall. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of permits and inspections,” explains Neil. “This is your guarantee that work will be done to Ontario Building Code Standards and your home will be returned to you in a safe and secure manner.

“We’ve been hearing a lot more stories about insurance companies denying homeowners’ insurance claims because work was done by unlicensed trades and the required permits were not issued. You’re spending a lot of time, energy and money on your renovation—be safe and protect your investment.”

Next week: Finishing begins