East Bay September 2010

1 September/October 2010 THM East Bay

EAST BAY

Phot

o: Je

ldwe

n Do

ors

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010

ideas and resources for your home

BayArea.com

Interior Trends Home Show Festivities

Eco-flooring


H O M E O F F I C E S • W A L L B E D S • S E W I N G C E N T E R S • C L O S E T S • G A R A G E S

C U S T O M S O L U T I O N S TA I L O R E D

T O Y O U R S P E C I F I C N E E D S A N D S PA C E

V I S I T U S N O W A T W W W . V A L E T C U S T O M . C O M

A N D A T T H E F O L L O W I N G S H O W R O O M L O C A T I O N S :

C A M P B E L L 1 1 9 0 - J D E L L A V E N U E 4 0 8 . 3 7 0 . 1 0 4 1

D A N V I L L E 6 0 2 S Y C A M O R E V A L L E Y R O A D , W E S T 9 2 5 . 3 6 2 . 8 8 3 8

G R E E N C E RT I F I E D • S I N C E 1 9 7 3 • L I C E N S E # 7 8 2 2 1 7

$500 O F FM U S T A C T B E F O R E 1 0 - 3 1 - 1 0

MINIMUM $5,000 PURCHASE. SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY.

East Bay THM September/October 2010 3

50-60% OFFCabinets and

Counter Tops!

Custom Designed and Crafted Remodeling Solutions

CONTRACTOR OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1977

MAKING important remodeling decisions is

easier at Ric’s Kitchen and Bath. The latest

computer technology enables you to visualize your

kitchen and bath. Choose from an extensive line of

cabinets and products in our beautiful showroom.

Kitchen&Bath

(510) 733-55433664 Castro Valley Boulevard

Castro Valley

Rics-Kitchen-Bath.comcontractors license #602812

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 O 1 O

[ C O N T E N T S ]

18

10

10 Eco-Friendly FlooringNew eco-options for flooring keep your homegreen and your air clean.By Deborah Burstyn

14 Multi-Function Comes HomeFrom home office to guest room in seconds.By Xu Bei Shi

CCIDC16 Blending of Styles

Merging traditional and contemporary provideunique results.By Zara Stender, CID, IDS, CMG

18 Feng Shui EnergyConnecting you with your living environment.By Julia Arndt

TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com

14


I N T E R I O R T R E N D S



BayArea.com

Search the Bay

Area’s ultimate

resource guide

for more articles

of interest, links

to more resources,

Web sites, and

professionals

who can help

you with all your

home projects.Unique BackyardsLocally designed and manufactured garden ornaments.

www.thmag.com/e-giannini

One-Stop Kitchen and Bath A showroom for your complete

kitchen remodel.

www.thmag.com/e-zmckitchen

Backyard Storage.Enjoy your yard and gain storage space.

www.thmag.com/e-ccidc

First ImpressionsExciting new ways to enhance your home front.

www.thmag.com/e-feature

ON THE COVERMarmoleum black and red amaranth vinyl tile.Photo courtesy Forbo (www.forbo.com).

20

8

NARI8 Committed to Quality

National Association of the Remodeling Industry’scode of ethics.By Beandra Bey

20 A Room for all ReasonsContemporary garages are garnering new respect.By Beandra Bey

EVENTS22 Let the Festivities Begin

These local home shows encourage a sense of fun.By Tammy Hansen

Find more great ideas and resources for your home onTodaysHomeBayArea.com

Post your company information @ TodaysHomeBayArea.com!Call 925.389.3481 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.


TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com6 September/October 2010 THM East Bay

Volume 10, Issue 5 • September/October 2010

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES

[email protected]

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

(925) 389-4821

[email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND GENERAL INQUIRIES

[email protected]

(925) 389-4821P.O. Box 2025 • San Ramon, CA • 94583

WWW.TodaysHomeBayArea.com© 2010. All editorial (headline, subhead, story, captions) published in Today’s Homeis copyrighted and remains the sole property of Today’s Home. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or reprinting without permission is strictly prohibited.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Jeff Curry

FEATURE WRITERS

Julia Arndt

Beandra Bey

Deborah Burstyn

Tammy Hansen

Zara Stender, CID, IDS, CMG

Xu Bei Shi

ART DIRECTOR

Jeff Clinton

WEBMASTER

Christina Carey

ACCOUNTING

Diane Nasadiuk

The Bay Area’s best resource for your lifestyle at home.

Today’s Homehas openings for part timeSales and Marketing

RepresentativesWork from home, flexible schedule,competitive earning potential

Please e-mail resumes to [email protected].

Search forToday’s Home

HOME TEAMINC

T H E

GO Have Fun GIVE Us Your “To Do List”

Trained professionals in every aspect of home repair

866-750-9230

10% OFF All Services

Expires 10-31-10

Clean RoofsGuttersWindowsSidewalksDrivewaysAttics

SidingDownspoutsCrawlspace Garage

Other ServicesHaul debrisPull weedsTrim trees and hedgesLandscape MaintenanceMow lawns and landscapeClean & Repair everything on a home

Repair SprinklersIrrigation systemsDecksPatiosFencesGatesLightsAwningsCabinetsDoors

Door locksRoofs

To Do List

We’re a Handyman Company not a licensed contractor so we save you money!

01-13-0s 1eripxEecivrel SlA

01 F% O

seF

TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com East Bay THM September/October 2010 7

�

51O-226-9627showroom

43645 S. Grimmer BoulevardFremont

www.ZmcProducts.com

KITCHEN& BATH

Kitchen Cabinets & Countertops

Bathroom Vanities

Granite Marble & Porcelain Tile

Sinks Faucets & Toilets

FREE In-Home Estimates � Installation

�

�

Distinctive Products for Your Kitchen & Bath

New Location in San Ramon!

acanthusFINE FRAMES & MIRRORS

Purveyors & Craftsmenof

Fine Picture FramesCustom Mirrors, Art Conservations

Frame Restorations, Mirror AntiquingCarving, Gilding

&Other Fine Things

Master Certified Picture Framer

www.acanthusonline.com

Exquisite frames from around the world.

San Ramon3120-B Crow Canyon Road

(Behind Max’s Diner)

866-1144

MANUFACTURED ON SITE:

FOUNTAINS

WALL FOUNTAINS

PLANTERS • TABLES

BENCHES • STATUES

BIRDBATHS

DIRECT IMPORTERS OF:

ITALIAN TERRA COTTAPOTS AND CERAMICS

PATIO FURNITURE

WOOD BURNING PIZZAOVENS FROM ITALY

OUTDOOR FIREPLACES

Thousands of items on display!

Visit Our Factory and Showroom225 SHAW ROAD, SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO

MON–SAT 8 AM–4:30 PM

650.873.4493 • gianninigarden.com


IT’S NOT HARD TO SPOT remodelingprofessionals. They are smart people whokeep up-to-date on emerging trends in

their industry. More often than not, theyare also savvy marketers. But above all,these pros are distinguished by the waythey treat their customers and their peers.

So it was surprising to Gary Collins, owner of Concord-basedWindows and Beyond, that there was no remodeling code of ethicswhen he entered the industry twenty-one years ago. He discoveredthat the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI)did have one and he’s been a very active supporter of thisassociation ever since.

Collins was so convinced of the importance of having theserules–to–work–by that he founded a San Jose NARI chapter in 1989,and in 2007, another NARI chapter in Concord.

The persistent recession has hit the housing industry hard, saysCollins, with professionals from the worst-affected sectors seekingremodeling work. NARI’s code ethics offers very relevant guidelinesfor these trying times. “We all play out of the same sand-box andit is critical that we treat each other fairly. How we treat customersand how we treat each other are one and the same.”

If you are looking for remodeling professionals who take pridein their profession and offering you a project of the utmost quality,consider using NARI’S network of experienced craftsmen. Theircommitment to NARI’s code of ethics will make all the differencefor your remodeling needs.

Finding NARI professionals is just a click way. Homeowners can perform a quicksearch of the local Diablo Valley NARI Chapter’s website: www.naridiablovalley.orgor by calling (925) 864 5680. For membership information, contact Jeff Curry at (925) 389-3481. THM

National Association of the RemodelingIndustry’s code of ethics.

Committed To Quality

[ N A R I ]

ALTERA DESIGN & REMODELING INC.www.alteradesign.com925-938-1100 • License # 577881

DOUGLAH DESIGNSwww.douglahdesigns.com925-284-4560 • CID # 6194

GREEN ENVIROTEK, INC.www.greenenvirotek.com800-968-9007 • License # 86326

HOMETELLIGENT INC.www.hometelligentinc.com800-298-2003 • License # 935175

MAXINE CHRISTISON INTERIOR DESIGNwww.maxinechristisoninteriordesign.com925-937-2448 • CID # 0532

PACIFIC STONE INC.www.pacificstone.com925-680-8741 • License # 876202

STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCEwww.standardsofexcellence.com925-459-5300

TWILIGHT SOLUTIONSwww.twilghtsolutionsinc.com925-525-6105

VALLEY OAK DESIGNS925-938-3833 • License # 513421

WINDOWS & BEYONDwww.windowsandbeyond.net925-689-6600 • License # 852798

For membership information: Jeff Curry • 925-389-4821 • [email protected]

NARI’s Code of EthicsEach member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry is pledged toobserve high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct ofbusiness by:

Promoting in good faith only those products and services which are known to befunctionally and economically sound, and which are known to be consistent withobjective standards of health and safety.

Making all advertising and sales promotion factually accurate, avoiding thosepractices which tend to mislead or deceive the customer.

Writing all contracts and warranties such that they comply with federal, state, andlocal laws.

Promptly acknowledging and taking appropriate action on all customer complaints.

Refraining from any act intended to restrain trade or suppress competition.

Attaining and retaining insurance as required by federal, state, and local authorities.

Attaining and retaining licensing and/or registration as required by federal, state,and local authorities.

BY BEANDRA BEY

�

$O Down • 15 Year LeaseNo Up Front Costs

Early Buyout OptionComplete System Installation

NEW!30%FEDERAL

TAXCREDIT

Highest efficiencypanels on the market.

Unique all-black lookcomplements your

home’s architecture.

Strongest warranties.

SOLAR LEASE $0 Down! a.a.c.$0 Down! a.a.c.

SUNPOWER QUALITY…NOW IN A LEASE!

Locally owned, based in San Ramon. Contractor’s License #800947

FREE SITE EVALUATION &FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

925-380-1362SKYPOWERSOLAR.COM

Interlocking Pavers Synthetic Lawns Full Landscaping

20 %OFF

ANY PROJECT

EXPIRES 9/30

Experience You Can Trust, Results You Deserve, at a Price You Can Afford

FREE CONSULTATION

®Locally Owned & Operated

High-Quality Craftsmanship

Professional Project Management

Award Winning Landscape Design

Bonded & Insured. Contractor’s License #908736

Gold Medal Winner at the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show

AS SEEN ON TV!Watch Saturdays on

The Bay Area Home Show9:00 am on KICU

888-804-9180 • PaverPro.com

Let your Car Back in your Garage with

Overhead Storage Racks

Overhead Storage by CDR Co.www.cdroverheadstorage.com

Adjustable to any Height

Holds Up

$275 heavy duty 4'x 8'

installedinstalledy duty 4'x 8' vhea

527$

Our Hea

Overhead Storage R

y Duty Frames require

acksOverhead Storage Rith your Garage w

et your Car Back in L

Our Hea

Holds Up

y Duty Frames require

acksith

et your Car Back in

Holds Up

o Center supports, perfect for NOur Hea

elivered, installed, tax and all wys quoted: Dalwae leader on installed units! Our pricow pricGuaranteed: L

any Height Adjustable to

y itemsstoring bulko Center supports, perfect for

y Duty Frames require vOur Hea

o add-ons!ith Nelivered, installed, tax and all wes are e leader on installed units! Our pric

o Center supports, perfect for y Duty Frames require

o add-ons!es are

TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com East Bay THM September/October 2010 9East Bay THM September/October 2010 9


[ I N T E R I O R T R E N D S ]

JUST LIKE OTHER MATERIALS FOR THE HOME,many kinds of flooring now come readily available inattractive new choices that are design-driven, long-

lasting and eco-friendly. This new wave of sustainableflooring options is as stylish and strong as their non-sustainable varieties. But these “green” floors are not only good for the planet; they are good for you, too. That means they are made from components that do notdeplete our natural resources and also do not “off gas”—that is, release—toxic chemical by-products that maycontribute to indoor air pollution.

Today, there are green versions of traditional materialslike hardwood and tile, new selections like bamboo andcork as well and a choice that’s both new and old—linoleum,brought back to the marketplace because of its environmentallysound qualities.

To make sure that you don’t get floored by all thechoices out there, here’s a run-down on the some of thetop choices in eco flooring today.

Put a Cork on ItWith a rich earthy color and textures reminiscent of wood,cork flooring provides advantages all its own. Cork floorsare great for areas where maximum comfort and high noiseabsorption is required like a kitchen or playroom.

The inherent qualities of cork make it an attractiveflooring choice in all living areas in the house. Cork provideswarmth and resilience, sound insulation and a comfortablecushion underfoot. Harvested every 10 years from theouter bark of the cork oak, it is a renewable resource and considered environmentally sustainable.

There’s even a unique type of cork flooring made fromwine bottle corks—how’s that for recycling? The wine corksare cut into circular discs about 6mm (1⁄4") thick and gluedon a special paper backing to form interesting and uniquemosaic patterns. They resemble penny tiles and can be mixedwith their ceramic cousins for an interesting design options.

Bamboo–Not Just For the JungleBamboo flooring is an excellent environmentally-sensiblealternative to hardwood floors or carpet. Actually a grass,not a tree, bamboo is harvested from managed plantationsand does not destroy the habitats of wildlife. Whether youprefer the deep espresso hues or gym floor light tones,properly aged bamboo will make a stylish and strongaddition to your home. Bamboo is silky smooth to thetouch but harder and more dent-resistant than manyhardwoods such as white oak and maple. High-qualitybrands of bamboo flooring will give you a durable, non-toxic, and beautiful floor for many years.

Wooden It Be Nice to Have a Guilt-FreeWood Floor?Yellow heart pine, Douglas fir, maple, oak, and hickory—there’s nothing like a real hardwood floor. For homeownerssold on traditional hardwood floors, the Forest StewardshipCouncil makes sure that your lumber comes from sustainablymanaged forests. Many of types of wood are produced inFSC-certified forests in which the trees are regenerated,biodiversity is conserved, and air and water quality arepreserved. FSC-certified wood flooring is comes in hundredsof different shades and styles. >>

New eco-options for flooring keep your home green and your air clean.BY DEBORAH BURSTYN

Eco-Friendly Flooring

Walnut flooring, historic stain with tung oil.



Phot

o co

urte

sy E

cotim

ber (

www.

ecot

imbe

r.com

)

Phot

o co

urte

sy G

lobus

Cor

k (w

ww.co

rkflo

or.co

m)

Solid horizontal-grain bamboo flooring, in amber.

Phot

o co

urte

sy F

orbo

Floo

ring

(www

.forb

o.com

)

Phot

o co

urte

sy C

arlis

e W

ide

Plan

k Flo

ors

(www

.wid

epla

nkflo

orin

g.co

m)


Another option is to go with salvaged or reclaimed flooringrecycled from older buildings. Most reclaimed wood flooring ismilled from structural beams and timbers that were used inwarehouses and factories in the early 1900s. Some might even be salvaged tongue/groove planks flooring. In either case, thevintage wood instantly brings charm and character to a room.

Roll Out the Green CarpetEasy-to-find natural carpets are those made from natural sisals,jutes, and sea grass. But for a softer yet natural floor covering, you can also find low-toxic100 percent wool carpets made withundyed or vegetable-dyed yarn and minimal natural latex (rubber)glue. Thick and resilient, real wool offers natural insulatingproperties. For more color varieties, try carpets with high recycled(synthetic) content and less-toxic backings and adhesives.

Back to the Future with LinoleumA popular kitchen floor of mid-20th century America, linoleum was first introduced and patented in 1860. Made of natural andrenewable materials such as linseed oil, pine resins, wood flour,and pigments, it was ready for a comeback in eco-conscious the21st century—and it’s here.

Today, natural linoleum is available in many colors rangingfrom pastel and subdued to vibrant and daring colors. Available in both sheets and tiles, linoleum is a durable, biodegradable

material that is comfortable, warm and quiet. Linoleum is alsohypoallergenic and antistatic; characteristics that help linoleumrepels dust and dirt. Linoleum is an excellent option for playroomsand home gyms. Unlike vinyl flooring, the colors in linoleum areembedded all the way through the material.

Add Class with Recycled Glass TilesRecycled glass tiles have grown up. It used to be that the only kindavailable was a bright rainbow mash-up of many bits of glass. Notanymore. Today tiles that are 98% recycled glass are available insolid uniform colors and sizes. Made of reclaimed windows from oldbuildings, and manufacturing waste from window and windshieldproduction, recycled glass mosaic tiles have only been availablesince 2008. It is suitable for floors in both dry and wet areas.

Whatever room you’re flooring, you can make sure what’sunderfoot is green by choosing eco-friendly materials like ForestStewardship Council certified wood floors, durable cork, maturebamboo, natural wool carpeting, natural linoleum or recycled glasstiles. All you got to lose are indoor pollutants. THM



BayArea.commore on

interior trends

Eco-friendly bamboo stair treads.

Marmoleum Click is made from renewable resources, including linseed oil, wood flour, and pine rosins.

Phot

o co

urts

ey E

co F

riend

ly Fl

oorin

g (e

cofri

endl

yflo

orin

g.co

m).

Phot

o co

urte

sy F

orbo

Floo

ring

(www

.forb

o.com

)

TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com East Bay THM September/October 2010 13TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com


IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD IDEA at the time, turning yourinfrequently used guest room into a home office for thefamily. It was a good idea…until the houseguests arrived

and you didn’t have a comfortable space for them. Whycompromise? With a custom designed home office andwallbed you can have your work space and your guest room.The ideal solution!

Larry Fox, president and owner of Valet Custom Cabinetsand Closets, points out that in a standard 12 foot squareroom a homeowner has more than enough space for bothan office and a guest room without sacrificing workspaceor a comfortable room for company.

A typical design will have a desk and workspace onone wall wrapping around to a wallbed with side cabinetryon the adjacent wall. Custom office features might includemultiple workstations, specialty cabinets designed forcomputer equipment, concealed wire management, andlighting. Wallbeds are often accompanied with side cabinetsthat offer wardrobe storage and nightstands. “It’s a fullyintegrated solution that meets the needs of the family andthe individual,” says Fox. The results go far beyond whatmost of us could conjure up using elements from a catalogor furniture store.

Customers often start by visiting one of Valet’sshowrooms to gather ideas and see the product featuresand quality first hand. They gain a good feel for what canbe accomplished and an expectation of cost. The focusthen shifts to design and a complimentary in-home designconsultation is scheduled. “We ask a lot of questions tofully understand each customer’s specific requirementsand goals,” says Fox. “With the aid of our computer

CAD program we are able to develop a custom solutionthat ideally meets their individual needs in both functionand style.”

A designer will ask about things the client may nothave even considered. For example: How much filingspace is needed? Will you be using a laptop or computertower? Would you like your guests to have reading lights intheir bed? Follow up questions are then asked, such as doyou need standard or legal size files or both?

“We work on thefunctionality first and then we craft the aesthetics andstyling options,” says Fox.

Valet’s experienced designteam excels at making themost out of any space whilecomplimenting the eleganceof the home. Whether it is utilizing corner spaces,placing printers and CPU’s on slide-out shelves under adesk, or adding in a lockingergonomic laptop tray thatslides under the desk whennot in use, every inch of spaceis thought out. Designers willalso recommend which type of wallbed will work best inthe room. In addition to twin,double and queen sizes,wallbeds are available in

Multi-FunctionComes Home

by Xu bei Shi

From home office toguest room in seconds.




both vertical and side-tilt options. Vertical tilt beds can even beordered with an integrated fold down table.

“Our primary objective is to create a unique solution that fits for you,” says Fox. In one home, Valet installed an office andwallbed in San Francisco for a customer who has back issues. Toaddress the customer’s need to be standing while working, onesection of the desk was raised to 45 inches high for his laptop.

Customers can choose from a wide range of material optionscrafted in Valet’s 15,000 square-foot Campbell factory, a certifiedgreen manufacturing facility that uses 95 percent environmentallypreferred products.

Valet services the entire Bay Area with over 40% of their businesscoming from repeat customers and word-of-mouth referrals. Fox, whohas owned the company for 10 years, prides himself on the 96.4%on time rate once an installation appointment is set. “We provide aunique and personal service,” he says.

For more information on Valet CustomCabinets and Closets, Organizers, go to www.valetcustom.com and visittheir showrooms:

Campbell Showroom & Manufacturing1190 Dell Avenue, Suite J(408) 370-1041Mon– Fri 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sat 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM;

Danville Showroom602 Sycamore Valley Road West (in the Danville Livery) (925) 362-8838 Tues– Sat 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. THM

866-502-1880Call For a Free Estimate!

[email protected]

Office/Showroom: 49049 Milmont Drive, Fremont

Why Synthetic Turf:

• No Maintenence

• No Water Usage

• Best for Pets

Why PolyGrass:

• Experts in Synthetic Turf

• Easy to do Business With

• LOW PRICE GUARANTEE

$500 OFFINSTALLATIONOF 250 SQ. FT. OR MORE

With this ad.Not valid with any other offer.

Expires 10/31/10

The Very Best in Synthetic Turf

Artifical Lawns

Putting Greens


CONTEMPORARY OR TRADITIONAL and never the twain shall meet?Well, not anymore. With the financial caution all of us are exercising,we are more drawn to customs that represent a safer, saner time period.

However, there is new fresh thought that will not be denied. I find that whenclients want contemporary style in their home but still yearn for traditional,blending the two takes a steady hand and keen sense of balance.

Simplicity was key with this client who wanted a modern look for his new home, but found he was still drawn to the comfort and familiarity of hisMidwestern/German roots.

To successfully accomplish this, we needed to:• Blend clean, straight lines of contemporary style with the ornatequalities of 18th Century furniture

• Honor the modern architecture of the space • Incorporate old world into the new.• Mix metals, woods and stone• Keep color shades, tints and tones in the same family

Mix metals, mixwoods, mix styles?Sounds like a designnightmare…not so…although it could easily go wrong. Paint can solve theproblem by creating a “bridge” between these elements. The trick is to blendcolors to produce a hue that pulls it all together seamlessly.

Using Sherwin-Williams 7005 Pure White as a base, metallic gold andsilver were added in to ‘platinumize’ the wall color. The brushed nickel,antique gold, and bronze [not shown] elsewhere in the space make a smoothtransition. The finished result is a soft, multi-dimensional feel. The mirrors

of ornately carved mahogany blend with the brushednickel of the light fixture, travertine, and marble offsetting the hard surfaces and curvilinear lines. For awarmer effect add more gold or a greater amount ofsilver for a cooler end product.

The result was a space that seamlessly blended the two and was not so retro as new, fresh and forward.To accomplish the same in your home you may want to consider hiring a Certified Interior Designer. Mergingstraight lines into sensuous curves requires therestrained and balanced perspective of a professional.You’ll find that a little guidance will save you a lot oftime and money in the long run.

Zara Stender is a Certified Interior Designer, CCIDC Board member,Chairholder with the Color Marketing Group, and STIR MagazineAdvisory Board member. You can find information on CertifiedInterior Designers in your area at www.ccidc.org/cidpages. THM

[ C C I D C ]

BY ZARA STENDER, CID, IDS, CMG


BayArea.comfor more on

interiors

Merging traditional and contemporary provide unique results.

Mirrors are from Thomasville’s Brompton Hall Collection.

Blending of Styles

Phot

os b

y Zar

a St

ende

r

Call for a free in-home consultation!

(800) 953-0053 or(925) 472-8760

SUNSHINE-CONSTRUCTION-INC.COMContractor’s License #670051 + Insured

WE’LL IMPROVE,SO YOU

DON’T MOVE!There is no reason to move

to get that extra room orspace you’ve always

wished for.

NEWCONSTRUCTION

ADDITIONS

BATHREMODELS

KITCHENS

� � �� #"�



NOWADAYS, WE TEND TO USE THE WORD “ENERGY”in casual conversations to often describe our impressionsof another person. We might say, “he has great energy”

or “their energy is so negative”. What we are really referringto is one’s internal character or Qi (Chinese for vital energy).Typically, and without it being completely obvious to us, ourexternal environment, as well as the dwellings where we liveor work, affect our internal energy.

Winston Churchill’s statement, “We shape our dwellings,and afterwards our dwellings shape us” may indicate somedeeper level awareness and understanding of the relationshipbetween people and their surroundings.

Homes, offices, and rooms provide varied emotionalresponses. When we talk about energy in terms of a room wemight say, “I have difficulty concentrating in this room” or “I feel energized in this room”. Many of us might rememberentering a space where we felt like we could move right in and,contrarily, we have entered spaces we couldn’t wait to leave.

Determining the tangible and intangible energies thatexist within a space and how they correspond to the personoccupying a space is something the Chinese figured out manyyears ago. Feng shui (literally translated as wind and water)refers to a complex and dynamic system that can simply bedescribed as energies that combine movement or flow (wind)with containment (water). It is not necessarily literallytranslated into wind and water but the two elements areessential to achieve a healthy and nourishing environment.

On a basic level, good feng shui means creating energywithin a space that feels good, looks good and works toenhance the needs and well-being of individuals who inhabitthem. While feng shui does not adhere to any one particulardesign style, interior design plays an integral role in thebalancing and harmonizing of individual spaces. It makesgood sense; when there is balance and harmony in the

environment one is more likely to experience a natural shift towards a happy, healthier and more prosperous andproductive life.

Inspired Place’s client responses range from, “I’m nowfeeling inspired and motivated” to “this experience providedme with solutions that enhanced my business, creatinggreater success”. Approaching design from a classical fengshui perspective or by integrating its core principles placesthe occupants at the center of design resulting in interiorsthat create a tangible and measureable harmony between the two that brings about a higher quality of living.

Next time you are conscious of how you feel in a space,it’s likely the feng shui. Others who have found success by integrating feng shui principles into their homes andbusinesses are Donald Trump, Steven Spielberg, DonnaKaran, Madonna, Oprah Winfrey, Tommy Hilfiger, PonderosaHomes, The Wall Street Journal, MGM Grand, Bank ofAmerica, Citibank, McDonalds, Dreamworks, Virgin Airlinesand the Los Angeles Zoo—and that’s just the short list!

Julia Arndt, Allied ASID, NKBA, NCGBP, is a certified Classical Feng Shuispecialist. To learn more about classical feng shui, contact Julia Arndt at(415) 300-7175 or visit www.inspiredplaces.com. THM

BY JULIA ARNDT

Connecting you with your living environment.

Feng Shui Energy


�

8 0 0 . 9 9 9. 3 8 2 8 www.solarcontrolcompany.com

�

1600 Duane Avenue • Santa Clara (408) 748-8100CompleteBackyards.com

SHOWROOM HOURSTUESDAY-FRIDAY 10-7

SATURDAY 10-6 • SUNDAY 10-5CLOSED MONDAYS

30-60% Off All Patio Furniture.

THE COMPLETE BACKYARDTHE COMPLETE BACKYARD

LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEED!

LIST $4995

SALE $1995$200 Free Accessory

package with Purchaseof medium or larger.

OUTDOOR CUSTOMKITCHENS!

10 Islands on Display!



Reducing their total area space triggers them to lookfor ways to maximize all available room space, he says.“Homeowners are really starting to conceptualize theirgarages as an extension of their homes. Once theymake that thought transition, it’s a natural progressionto visualize their garage as not only a place to storetheir cars. It’s a place that also can double as, forexample, a recreation room, a hobby workshop or a home office.”

Smart StrategyWith the garage often being one of the largest rooms in a house, it’s reallya very smart strategy, says Granato.The large array of cabinets and otherorganizing product options availabletoday make designing a multi-usegarage easy, “one of the three partners(Nick, Viny or Scott) visits our clients’homes for a free consultation so they arealways dealing with one of the owners to ensure the most personalized service.We bring along our computer-baseddesign templates so our clients canvisualize how their garage will lookonce we agree on a design plan.”

Garages are also perfect places to store a lot of items that, left in the home proper, can contribute to a cluttered look, he says. “We provideour customers with attractive storagesolutions for such items as shoes,backpacks and seasonal clothing. Wealso can design areas for refrigerationunits and wine coolers.”

HAVE YOU EVER LOOKED INSIDE YOUR GARAGE AND

had that irritating feeling that it is a space goingto waste? If so, you are in great company.

Many savvy homeowners have had that same feeling.The good news is that quite a few of them took actionwith great results.

It’s actually an important trend, says Nick Granato,owner of Premier Garage. ”Plenty of homeowners aredownsizing their lifestyle, buying smaller houses.”

A Room forAll ReasonsBY BEANDRA BEY

Contemporary garages are garnering new respect.

WE GO BEYOND THE LAWN

Proper Pruning • FertilizationWatering • MulchingLandscape Design

Flower/Bulb PlantingGardening Consultation

Offering weekly,monthly & quarterly

maintenance programs.

Call 925.937.2253 masterpiecegarden.comTODAYSHOMEBayArea.com East Bay THM September/October 2010 21

APPLIANCES

Direct Appliance 925-560-0500www.directappliancedublin.com

ARTIFICAL TURF

PolyGrass866-5O2-188Owww.polygrass.com

AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT

Mechanical Air Service800-913-4822www.mechanicalairservice.com

CABINETS & CLOSETS

Valet Custom Cabinets & Closets925-362-8838www.valetcustom.com

CLEANING SERVICE

Spring Fresh Cleaning800-750-7175www.springfreshcleaninginc.com

CUSTOM FRAMING

Acanthus925-866-1144www.acanthusonline.com

GARAGE STORAGE

Premier Garage866-497-2880www.premiergarage.com

GARDEN ORNAMENTS

Giannini Garden Ornaments650-873-4493www.gianninigarden.com

GRANITE & CABINETS

ZMC Kitchen & Bath866-497-2880www.zmcproducts.com

HOME THEATER

Hi-Def Audio Video408-294-6632

KITCHEN DESIGN CENTER

Ric’s Kitchen & Bath510-733-5543www.Rics-kitchen-bath.com

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Masterpiece Gardens & Design925-937-2253www.masterpiecegarden.com

LUMBER & MILLWORK

Jackel Enterprises800-711-WOOD (9663)www.jackelenterprises.com

RESOURCE GUIDE

List your business, call 925-389-3481

OUTDOOR FURNITURE & BBQ

Complete Backyards408-748-8100www.completebackyards.com

PAINT CENTER

Professional Paint Center925-933-3315

PAINTING CONTRACTOR

Rhino Shield888-868-7575www.rhinoshieldca.com

PAVING STONES

Black Diamond Landscape & Designs800-942-1955www.blackdiamondlandscape.com

PaverPro888-804-9180www.PaverPro.com

REDWOOD FENCING

Borg Redwood Fences925-426-9620www.borgfence.com

REMODELING CONSTRUCTION

Sunshine Construction, Inc.925-472-8760www.sunshine-construction-inc.com

SHOWER DOORS & ENCLOSURES

California Shower Door Corp.800-675-6225www.calshowerdoor.com

SOLAR

Sky Power Systems925-380-1362www.SkyPowerSolar.com

SWIMMING POOLS

Lifetime Pools650-494-7070www.lifetimepools.com

TILE AND STONE

Western Tile Design Center925-671-0145www.westerntiledesign.com

WALLBEDS

Wallbeds ”n” More925-570-5663www.wallbedsnmore.com

WINDOW TINTING

Solar Control Glass Tinting Co.800-999-3828www.solarcontrolcompany.com


BayArea.comfor more

resources

Design TradeoffsMost design plans require some type of compromise by the owners,says Granato. “Usually the space choices active families must makehave to do with their bicycles. Bicycles are space hogs, each requiringat least six feet of space. With a sports-loving family typically havingthree or four bikes, homeowners have to decide how many cars andbikes they can realistically store in their garage.”

Thinking of their garage as an extension of their home tends totap a homeowner’s creative vein, he notes. “We see our clients askingfor such personal touches as customized floor treatments, such as the Harley Davidson logo we embedded in a customer’s garage floor.”This kind of options puts the “S” in Home, Sweet Home.

For more information or a free consultation and design, give PremierGarage a call at (866) 497-2880 or visit www.premiergarage.com.THM


[ E V E N T S ]

LOOKING FOR THE FUN IN FENG SHUI? A BIT OF LAUGHTERwith your landscaping? How about a little recreation to go with your remodel?

Home improvement may be a serious subject—you want goodquality at a fair price—but it doesn’t have to be dreary, says KariDamron, show manager for the 24th Annual Alameda County FallHome & Garden Show, which runs October 1-3 at the AlamedaCounty Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Damron encourages her 300-plusexhibitors to offer enjoyment along with enlightenment.

“’Look at this! How much fun is this! I’m so glad to see youtoday.’ That’s the energy that I want to flow to the homeowner when

they walk through thatdoor,” Damron says.

Companies like The Floor Store, Wallbeds “n” More, and S.A.F.T.E. (Safety Alert ForThe Elderly) are happy to oblige because they are sharing their newestproducts with truly interested shoppers. Vendors at the Alameda showand its sister, the 15th Annual Contra Costa Fall Home & Garden Show,October 22-24 at Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord, offer valuable ‘facetime.’ Home shows are a great place to get one-on-one interviews withmanufacturers and service providers ranging from general contractors toproducers of specialty vinegars.

“Homeowners are careful, especially today, to compare,” Damron says.“At the show you can ask a question and get it answered right away.”

The 11,000 visitors at the Alameda Spring show came with specific jobs in mind. Damron expects a similar crowd for the fall show, in which exhibitors will help homeowners refine plans, shop for new products, and spark some creativity. Show goers also go home with sacks of promotional materials and giveaway items.

That’s part of the fun. The first 300 customers at the Alameda showreceive a free flowering plant. Playing exhibitor bingo can net a prizefrom one of the 26 participating companies. There are also plenty ofsamples and a bevy of jaw dropping booths designed to showcase newproducts. Don’t forget the huge apple treats from De Brito ChocolateFactory, commonly known as “The Candy Apple Lady.”

Come with a sense of fun, Damron says, “and by all means bringyour ideas.”

For more information visit www.capitalshowcase.com or call (800) 222-9351. Newexhibitors are always welcome. THM

The 24th Annual Alameda CountyFall Home & Garden Show

Alameda County FairgroundsFriday, October 1 • 12 PM-6 PM

Saturday, October 2 • 10 AM-7 PM

Sunday, October 3 • 10 AM-6 PM.

$6 general admission (kids 12 and under are free)

The 15th Annual Contra Costa Fall Home & Garden Show

Concord Sleep Train Pavilion Friday, October 22 • 12 PM – 6 PM

Saturday, October 23 • 10 AM – 7 PM

Sunday, October 24 • 10 AM- 6 PM

$6 general admission (kids 12 and under are free)

These local home shows encourage a sense of fun.Let the Festivities Begin

For a FREE Pass Visitwww.TodaysHomeBayArea.com

BY TAMMY HANSEN


DESIGNS FROM SCRATCHFull-Service Projects from Start to Finish

WATERFALLS • WATERSCAPES • PONDSFIRE PITS • LANDSCAPING AND DESIGN

Black DiamondPaving Stone & Waterscape Specialists

Contractor’s License #841042

Call Today for YourFREE Design Consultation

800.942.1955BLACKDIAMONDLANDSCAPE.COM

Beautiful Homes

BEYONDYour Imagination

Specializing in PAVING STONESDriveways • Patios •Walls

Beautiful Homes

BEYONDYour Imagination

Specializing in PAVING STONESDriveways • Patios • Walls


Affordable Solutions for Every Organization BudgetCabinets | Accessories | Floor Coatings | Overhead Storage

Free Estimates, Free Installation, Lifetime Warranty on Cabinets, 20 Year Warranty on Floors

Proudly Serving the Bay Area

For more information, call 866.497.2880 or visit PremierGarage.com* Offer must be presented at time of estimate/order. Offer may not be copied, duplicated, transferred or combined with any other offer. Valid at participating locations only. Minimum purchase requirement

must be met. No cash/credit back. Not valid on prior purchases. Void where prohibited. Lic.#894280

© 2

009

Pre

mie

rGara

ge

. A

ll rig

hts

re

serv

ed

. E

ach

fra

nch

ise

in

de

pe

nd

en

tly o

wn

ed

an

d o

pe

rate

d.

Sp

ace

is

wh

at

you m

ake

of

it. M

ake

it

wo

rk.

Ma

ke it

last

. M

ake

it

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e is

a t

rad

em

ark

of

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e.

© 2

009

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e. A

ll rights

rese

rved.

Ea

ch f

ran

chis

e independently

ow

ned

and

opera

ted.

Sp

ace

is

what

© 2

009

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e. A

ll rights

rese

rved.

Ea

ch f

ran

chis

e independently

ow

ned

and

opera

ted.

Sp

ace

is

what

you m

ake

of

it. M

ake

it

work

. M

ake

it

last

. M

ake

it

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e is

a t

rad

em

ark

of

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e.

you m

ake

of

it. M

ake

it

work

. M

ake

it

last

. M

ake

it

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e is

a t

rad

em

ark

of

Pre

mie

rGa

rag

e.

Tired of your messy garage?

SAVE$25000 on any Cabinet & Floor Coating Package.*

Before

East Bay September 2010

Documents

Transcript of East Bay September 2010