Will You Turn Off Your Lights for Earth Hour?

An annual event hosted by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour encourages individuals worldwide to show their support for the fight against climate change.

Last year, 1.8 billion people in 152 countries and almost 7,000 cities participated. Thirty-nine per cent of Canadians -- or 13 million people in 511 cities nationwide -- joined in. 

This year, Earth Hour begins at 8:30 p.m on Saturday, March 23rd. Millions of Canadians are expected to turn off their lights...will you be one of them?

During last year's Earth Hour, power use in Toronto dropped almost 7 per cent.

In support of Earth Hour, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre will be holding an EARTH WEEKEND at their head office in Pickering. At 5 p.m. tomorrow, Monarch will turn off their lights until 9 a.m. on Monday, March 25th. Only essential lighting will be turned on during business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m) on Saturday, March 23rd.

 You CAN make a difference.

To learn more, visit www.earthhour.org.

Ensuring Your Kitchen and Bath Renovations Run Smoothly From Start to Finish

Many thanks to our loyal clients who have recently posted their reviews of Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre on Homestars.com:

Monarch designed our kitchen a few years ago and we couldn't be more pleased with the result. We were referred to Monarch through a close friend, and after meeting with president Neil Samson, we knew our search was over. Our kitchen renovation was quite extensive and everyone -- from the designers to the contractors to the office staff -- kept us well-informed. Except for a few blips along the way (due in large part to the poor construction of our home), the project ran according to schedule. My wife and I always knew what to expect and the contractors Monarch chose to come into our home were professional and respectful of our space and our time. ~ Nick from Pickering

I was extremely pleased with the kitchen reno performed by Monarch. Sarah was most helpful with her design suggestions and all staff and trades were professional and responded to questions in a timely manner. Neil attended regularly to ensure all work was satisfactory. Family and friends loved the reno and I have recommended the company to two other friends. I hope to do a washroom reno in the future and will definitely contact Monarch again. ~ Susan from Pickering

The excellent staff at Monarch gave us the best quality of service from the time we walked in the door to the time the job was finished. We received a great design, honest and frequent communication and great care to meet our needs in a timely manner. Kevin, Neil, Melissa, Kelly, Rick, Clint, and Roland were all friendly, informative, and efficient, leaving no detail too small. I would highly recommend Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre to anyone who wants a company with integrity, creativity and great customer service. Thank you for helping to make our home more beautiful. ~ Shawn from Toronto

Addressing the Need for Kitchen and Bathroom Design Solutions for "Aging in Place"

As the "baby boomer" generation approaches the age of retirement, their need to downsize or retrofit their existing homes has become a priority.

Lessons learned from watching their own parents deal with the challenges of getting older and finding a safe place to live has no doubt inspired the "aging in place" movement.

From the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC): Impacts of the Aging of the Canadian Population on Housing and Communities
(2008) [Research Highlight]

“There will be profound changes in the age structure of the Canadian population over the next 25 years. These changes will transform our communities and significantly affect housing. Population aging is taking place in a society that is being reshaped by a range of remarkable demographic and socio-economic trends. These include changes in family size and structure, increasing numbers of immigrants with family traditions very different from those of earlier generations, a growing number of persons living alone and new urban dynamics with increased concern for sustainability in the face of urban sprawl.

Other significant trends include the intent of many of today’s near retirees to continue working beyond the traditional retirement age, the increasing participation by women in the workforce and the tendency of young adults to stay longer in their parents’ homes.

An aging population will change the pattern of housing needs and preferences, alter the nature of the demand for services, change transportation requirements, accentuate the need for making communities more responsive to people with disabilities and challenge existing neighbourhood design and community planning practices.

The increasing desire of seniors to “age in place” (that is, to continue to live in their current home and familiar community for as long as possible, even if their health changes) will have major policy implications for housing and communities. It will create a need for housing adaptations and other supports; for more innovative housing options; and for planning and zoning changes.”

At Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, we understand the challenges involved in designing a home which allows you to "age in place." Kitchen and bath suppliers such as Kohler do, as well.

Below are two videos which illustrate some of the options available to help you live safely in your home for as long as possible. If you're considering renovating your home as you age in place, drop by our Pickering showroom or make an appointment with a member of our design team by calling 905-686-2001.

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure Raises over $30 million

This past Sunday, Kelly Fonseca of Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre participated in the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure. We were proud to support Kelly in her Run for the Cure.

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

To everyone who donated, thank you for making this year’s Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure another truly inspirational day and for helping us work towards our vision of creating a future without breast cancer.

Thanks to your commitment and support, over $30 million was raised across Canada for relevant breast cancer research, risk reduction, education, community care and advocacy initiatives to improve the lives of Canadians affected by breast cancer.

We hope you join us again on Sunday, October 6, 2013,

Deborah Dubenofsky
Chair, National Board of Director
Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

Monarch's Beautiful Bar and Bath Designs -- in Bermuda!

This stunning bar design ties in seamlessly to the rest of the home.

Bar design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

An elongated bar sink adds a sleek, modern touch.

Keep it bright and white with a shower partition instead of shower curtain or door.

A white marble Bermuda bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre.

Only 9 Days Left -- Don't MIss Your Chance to Win a Granite or Quartz Countertop with Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Dreaming of a new kitchen or bath?

You could save BIG when you book a kitchen or bath project with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre before August 31st, 2012.

"Win Your Granite or Quartz Countertop" Rules

1. Any kitchen or bathroom renovation project contracted with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre will be given one ballot to enter into the draw to win your granite or quartz countertop.
2. There is one prize available valued up to a maximum of $5,000.00.
3. All entries must be entered prior to August 31^st, 2012.
4. Your entry will be valid if your Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre contract and deposit have been signed and collected prior to August 31^st, 2012.
5. The draw is open from June 1^st, 2012 until August 31^st, 2012.
6. The draw will be held on September 5^th, 2012. The winner will be contacted by a representative of Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre.
7. By entering the draw, you consent to Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, or its representatives,  the right to use the personal information you submitted on your entry form. You also give Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre the right to use your image, drawings, and project images for use in advertising. 

Visit our Pickering showroom today and find out how you could win a granite or quartz countertop (up to a maximum of $5,000) when you book with Monarch.

Dreaming of a New Kitchen? Only 4 Weeks Left to Book with Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre for Your Chance to Win!

If you've been contemplating a kitchen or bath renovation, you know that every dollar counts. Book a kitchen or bath project with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre before August 31st, 2012, and you could win a granite or quartz countertop (up to a maximum of $5,000).

Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

"Win Your Granite or Quartz Countertop" Rules

1. Any kitchen or bathroom renovation project contracted with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre will be given one ballot to enter into the draw to win your granite or quartz countertop.
2. There is one prize available valued up to a maximum of $5,000.00.
3. All entries must be entered prior to August 31^st, 2012.
4. Your entry will be valid if your Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre contract and deposit have been signed and collected prior to August 31^st, 2012.
5. The draw is open from June 1^st, 2012 until August 31^st, 2012.
6. The draw will be held on September 5^th, 2012. The winner will be contacted by a representative of Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre.
7. By entering the draw, you consent to Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, or its representatives,  the right to use the personal information you submitted on your entry form. You also give Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre the right to use your image, drawings, and project images for use in advertising.

Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre is committed to your complete satisfaction. Drop by our Pickering showroom today and let us know how we can make your renovation dreams a reality!

Book Your Kitchen or Bath Renovation Now and You Could Win Your Granite or Quartz Countertop!

Book a kitchen or bath project with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre before August 31st, 2012, and you could win a granite or quartz countertop (up to a maximum of $5,000).

"Win Your Granite or Quartz Countertop" Rules

1. Any kitchen or bathroom renovation project contracted with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre will be given one ballot to enter into the draw to win your granite or quartz countertop.
2. There is one prize available valued up to a maximum of $5,000.00.
3. All entries must be entered prior to August 31^st, 2012.
4. Your entry will be valid if your Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre contract and deposit have been signed and collected prior to August 31^st, 2012.
5. The draw is open from June 1^st, 2012 until August 31^st, 2012.
6. The draw will be held on September 5^th, 2012. The winner will be contacted by a representative of Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre.
7. By entering the draw, you consent to Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, or its representatives,  the right to use the personal information you submitted on your entry form. You also give Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre the right to use your image, drawings, and project images for use in advertising.

Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre is committed to your complete satisfaction. Drop by our Pickering showroom today and let us know how we can make your renovation dreams a reality!

Redesigning Your Bathroom? Check Out Monarch's Showroom Specials!

Italian-made vanity, solid wood, Italian glass countertop integrated and included.
(Faucet not included.)
Retail Price: $10,000+      Monarch Price: $1,800

Italian-made vanity, solid wood, Italian glass countertop integrated and included.
(Faucet not included.)
Retail Price: $10,000+      Monarch Price: $1,500

For more information, drop by our Pickering showroom or call 905-686-2001.

You Could Win Your Granite or Quartz Countertop from Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Contemplating a kitchen or bath renovation? Book a kitchen or bath project with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre before August 31st, 2012, and you could win a granite or quartz countertop (up to a maximum of $5,000).

Photo courtesy of dupont.coam.

"Win Your Granite or Quartz Countertop" Rules

1. Any kitchen or bathroom renovation project contracted with Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre will be given one ballot to enter into the draw to win your granite or quartz countertop.
2. There is one prize available valued up to a maximum of $5,000.00.
3. All entries must be entered prior to August 31^st, 2012.
4. Your entry will be valid if your Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre contract and deposit have been signed and collected prior to August 31^st, 2012.
5. The draw is open from June 1^st, 2012 until August 31^st, 2012.
6. The draw will be held on September 5^th, 2012. The winner will be contacted by a representative of Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre.
7. By entering the draw, you consent to Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, or its representatives,  the right to use the personal information you submitted on your entry form. You also give Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre the right to use your image, drawings, and project images for use in advertising.

Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre is committed to your complete satisfaction. Drop by our Pickering showroom today and let us know how we can make your renovation dreams a reality!

Walk-in Showers: Sarah's Favourite 2012 Bath Design Trend

Sleek and elegant, the walk-in shower is designer Sarah Overholt’s favourite bath design trend.

Often home to an elaborate, spa-like shower system, today’s walk-in showers can give an airy open feel to a large bathroom or keep a small bathroom from looking cramped.

“The walk-in shower is becoming a very important design feature in bathrooms where homeowners are searching for a 'spa-like' feel," says Sarah. "Where all aspects of the bathroom are open and flowing."

Walk-in shower -- Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

“There are many reasons why homeowners choose walk-in showers when redesigning their bathroom. For example, when you are looking to have open access to your shower, you can create a shower designs to incorporate many modern conveniences and contemporary looks suitable for a variety of bathroom décor,” explains Sarah. “And because walk-in showers are generally larger, you can also have a dry zone near your walk-out area. This is a great spot for adding teak benches and towel hooks.”

In this video, the designer of the 2011 NKBA Best Bathroom showcases an extravagant example of how seamlessly walk-in showers can be incorporated into a bathroom.

A Spa-Inspired Pickering Bath Design by Monarch

Pickering Bath Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Pickering Bath Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Pickering Bath Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Pickering Bath Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre