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A model 300 sunroom features all aluminum and glass with composite decking for a floor inside. (Submitted photos)
The green advantage
BY TRINA REHBERG BOYKO
that building envelope and give you the improvements you’re after. Some programs, such as those offered through Efficien- cy Manitoba, can ease the up- front financial costs, so you can reap the long-term benefits. It’s also worth considering the durability and sustain- ability of other improvements you might make to your home through the years. If you’re making an addition, for in- stance, the materials and design you choose now can have last- ing effects in the years to come. Keith Bourgeois, owner of Elite Sunrooms, tells of a cli-
ent who wanted a sunroom his company had constructed more than 20 years ago taken apart and relocated. Nearly all of it was able to be moved, the few replacement pieces effortlessly fitting with the existing mate- rials. “Our products are made to last,” says Bourgeois, whose company is an authorized deal- er of Sunspace Sunrooms, “and if you ever had to take them apart, everything is recyclable.”
your building envelope — that is, the parts of your home that separate the indoors from the outdoors — means less energy wasted through heating your home, which also means a less- er need to reach for a sweater or shell out a fortune for your energy bill. Weatherstripping your win- dows and doors is a cost-effec- tive, relatively easy DIY option that will make an immediate difference. A more significant fix might be to upgrade your insulation and install new, en- ergy efficient windows and doors, which will help to seal
Green living isn’t a luxury reserved for those with money to spare. Whether you’re al- ready a homeowner or in the market to buy, green options are more accessible — and af- fordable — than ever. Even small, green choices can make for a healthier and more com- fortable home that not only touts environmental benefits, but saves you money, too. Let’s say your home feels a little drafty on cool days and you’ve noticed your heating bill creeping up. Improving
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tance of amenities, or being able to bike or bus where necessary, will reduce your environmental footprint. As such, Choy mentions the homes in this new neighbourhood are entirely modular, so they can be picked up and moved if a homeowner needs to relocate or expand their living space. “You’re buying the home, not the property, which means you’re not respon- sible for the taxes,” Choy says. She adds that all homes in the com- munity are built within Manitoba, avoid- ing the shipping — and environmental — implications of transporting these homes from elsewhere. “It helps us feed the local economy,” Choy says, “in turn, reducing our envi- ronmental impact.” Making green choices, wherever you can make them, can help you make the most of your home for as long as you live in it. While there may not be a one-size- fits-all solution, there are certainly solu- tions out there to fit you and your budget.
at $153,000. This housing concept merg- es green features with small-home living, offering enhanced insulation, triple-pane windows, high-performance heating, cooling and ventilation, and LED light- ing to its buyers. Cindy Choy, a director for Glendale Homes and the chair of Sustainable Building Manitoba, says the idea for a pocket neighbourhood originated on the West Coast, though the COVID-19 pandemic proved how beneficial these tight-knit communities could be. “We’re all human and we need that connection,” Choy says, explaining that it can be hard to get that neighbourly feel in some communities. Pocket neighbourhoods are designed so you share common spaces, and there- fore interact more with your neighbours, while also enjoying the privacy and func- tionality of your own space. “A rule of thumb with green building is to only take up as much space as you need,” says Choy. Another, she says, is to ensure active transportation is an option, if it fits your own abilities. Living within walking dis-
It’s key to look at what an addition would mean for the heating and cooling of your home, too. Location can make all the difference, particularly when it comes to using — or avoiding — natural sun- light. “When you put a sunroom on a house, it does help keep the sun off that house area, which will keep that part cooler in the summer,” says Bourgeois, adding that the vertical-stacking windows his com- pany uses can help to increase airflow. “Obviously, when it’s 30 above outside, it’s going to be 30 above in the sunroom, too. But in the winter, depending on where you’re positioned, it could be mi- nus five or 10 outside and 20 above in the sunroom because of the solar effect.” If you’re looking to buy new, ener- gy-efficient features are typically built into today’s new homes — and they’re not necessarily going to cost you more, either. Brandon’s very first pocket neighbour- hood, built by Glendale Homes, is under- way, with energy efficient homes starting
Glendale Homes park owner Cindy Choy sits on the steps of a newly constructed single-bedroom home on Brandon’s North Hill.
(Photos by Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun)
live small without compromise
Choy advertises the park as Brandon’s first Pocket Neighbourhood, with small energy-efficient homes that come with highly insulated walls, roofs and floors, LED lighting, triple-pane windows, and modern equipment for those who want efficient, green living. Space-saving furniture fits in well with the pocket housing concept.
Simple, affordable living is one step closer at 235 Glen Avenue. Our small homes make space for a carefree, comfortable lifestyle by providing larger home conveniences without the higher cost and maintenance.
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Choy demonstrates the space-saving techniques used in a newly constructed single-bedroom home on Brandon’s North Hill.
glendalehomes.ca 204-724-7907 Sales office at 260 Glen Avenue, Brandon, MB
Choy lifts up a bed to show the storage space under the mattress, another storage solution that is easy on the budget.
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From bold colours to energy efficiency, homebuyers are embracing new trends Incorporation of natural wood timbers both inside and outside the home is a prevalent design preference among many homebuyers. (Submitted)
BY ABIOLA ODUTOLA F rom bold accent decor to sus- tainable building practices, Alair Manitoba managing regional partner Mike Peters told the Sun the housing market is witnessing a surge in demand for innovative design elements that marry aesthetics with functionality. “One notable trend making waves in the Brandon housing market is the rise of dark and moody accent decor and fea- ture walls,” Peters said. “Homeowners are gravitating towards bold, deep, and rich colours to add character and depth to their living spaces.” Another prevalent design preference among homebuyers, he said, is the incor- poration of natural wood timbers both inside and outside the home, adding softwood trims and ceilings are utilized to infuse living spaces with warmth and elegance. “Coupled with high ceilings and ex- pansive windows that flood rooms with natural light, this design approach cre-
ates a seamless blend of comfort and style,” Peters said. Regarding shifting preferences, he added, homebuyers are increasingly prioritizing practical layouts that op- timize space utilization. While larger square footage comes with a cost, clients are keen on maximizing common ar- eas while ensuring other rooms remain effective and efficient. With custom- ization being a key aspect of his work, the Alair Brandon owner acknowledged the uniqueness of each client’s taste and strives to tailor designs accordingly. Longtime homeowner Melanie Len- ton told the Sun that the architectural style she favours is the bungalow. “What attracts me most as a home- owner is a bungalow style with a garage,” Lenton said. “I appreciate the conve- nience and accessibility it offers, espe- cially as I look towards retirement. Ad- ditionally, an open concept layout for the entertaining space it provides is a major draw for me.”
Alair Homes’ managing regional partner Mike Peters. (File)
In the ever-evolving landscape of home design and architecture, certain features and trends stand out as particularly appealing to homebuyers in Brandon.
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The size of a home, she said, is a pref- erence for each individual depending on the size of their family. “We are downsizing to a one-level home now that the children have moved out, and we don’t require as much space. A layout of open concept is preferable, and must-haves include an ensuite off the master bedroom and a fireplace in the living area for added coziness.” Regarding desired amenities and fea- tures, Lenton noted the importance of nearby parks and schools, large closets and storage space, an updated kitchen and a well- thought-out basement area for family time. “Con-Cor Homes Ltd. has been amazing in meeting our demands,” she said, reflecting on her positive experience with builders in Brandon. In alignment with the growing impor- tance of sustainability and energy efficiency, Lenton looks for homes with high insulation levels and airtight, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. “These features not only help keep utility bills low but also con- tribute to a greener environment,” she added.
An open-concept layout that’s sought after by many homeowners. (Submitted)
wood,” he told the Sun. “It adds a touch of warmth and character that’s hard to repli- cate with other materials.” Emily Abi, another Brandon resident, highlights the importance of practical lay- outs.
Gboye Johnson, a recent homebuyer in Brandon, agrees with Peters on the em- brace of natural wood elements in modern home designs. “When we were searching for our dream home, we were drawn to proper- ties that showcased the beauty of natural
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Incorporation of natural wood timbers both inside and outside the home is a prevalent design preference among many homebuyers. (Submitted photos)
Bungalow-style homes with a garage are ideal for many homebuyers.
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becoming increasingly urgent,” he said, “it’s refreshing to see builders prioritizing energy ef- ficiency and sustainability.” Omole recognizes the im- portance of investing in green technologies, not only for the benefit of the environment but also for the long-term cost sav- ings it offers homeowners like himself. He envisioned a fu- ture where sustainable homes are the norm, contributing to a healthier planet while provid- ing comfort and affordability for residents. In addition to catering to design preferences, Peters added builders in Brandon are adapting to meet the growing
demand for amenities and sus- tainable building practices. “We are putting a lot more emphasis on building envelopes and the science behind the ef- ficiencies of a home,” he said. “With home heating and cool- ing costs increasing, this is su- per important to our clients to make sure their home operates affordably and efficiently.” Sustainable building prac- tices, such as solar and geother- mal technologies, he observed, are gaining traction in the con- struction of homes in Brandon. “We live in an environment that has 60-degree swings in temperature throughout the year,” Peters said. “So, there
are many different options out there to attain an energy-effi- cient home.” As the housing market in Brandon continues to evolve, he said, builders and design- ers are committed to staying abreast of emerging trends and meeting the diverse needs of homebuyers. “Whether it’s incorporating bold design elements or imple- menting sustainable building practices, the focus remains on creating homes that blend style, functionality and efficiency for modern living,” Peters added.
“As a growing family, we needed a home that not only looked great but also func- tioned well for our daily lives,” she said. “Practical layouts that maximize space are essential for us, and it’s reassuring to see builders in Brandon recogniz- ing this need.” Though Akin Omole does not own a home yet, he looks forward to owning one that features sustainable building practices. As an environmentally con- scious individual, Omole ap- plauds the adoption of these practices in the construction industry. “With climate change
» aodutola@brandonsun.com » X: @AbiolaOdutola
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3 landscaping trends for 2024 LET YOURSELF BE INSPIRED! Do you want to add some flair to your yard? Here are a few trends that’ll be everywhere in 2024. 1. ZEN SPACES It’s essential to make time to escape from the hustle and bus- tle of everyday life and recharge your batteries. That’s why many homeowners are creating Zen gardens on their property. These gardens are distinguished by their stunning rock arrangements, flagstone paths, minimalist plants, soothing sculptures and water features like pools, waterfalls and fountains. 2. PERGOLAS Often made of wood, vinyl or aluminum, these structures are a must for elegantly defining your outdoor space and creating a casual shaded area. Depending on your preferences, you can install yours on a paved surface or your deck. With some well- placed furniture and decorative elements, it’ll become your fa- vourite place to enjoy the summer!
(File photo)
3. ROCK GARDENS Rock gardens are ideal for creating a modern-looking land- scape, featuring a few well-chosen plants that require very little maintenance. If mowing the lawn and weeding aren’t your go-to pastimes, a rock garden is the way to go. Visit your local nurseries and garden centres to find every- thing you need to enhance the beauty of your yard this year.
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Rising construction costs reshape home buying preferences
Some buyers opt for existing homes due to their location in well-established neighbourhoods, proximity to schools and amenities. (File photos)
AS THE DUST SETTLES ON THE TUMULTUOUS PERIOD FOLLOWING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, BRANDON’S REAL ESTATE MARKET FINDS ITSELF NAVIGATING NEW CURRENTS SHAPED BY THE RISE IN CONSTRUCTION COSTS.
BY ABIOLA ODUTOLA
ly capture all new home sales, as there are also non-multiple listing service sales, such as custom home builds, which occurred during the year. What’s driving this trend? Munn iden- tified several factors influencing buyer de- cisions. “For new homes, buyers are drawn to modern amenities, energy efficiency and the allure of customization,” he said. “However, with the surge in construction costs post-Covid, some are finding new construction less attractive than in previ- ous years.”
Sun. “In contrast, 96 existing homes have changed hands during the same period.” Some buyers, he said, opt for existing homes due to their location in well-es- tablished neighbourhoods, proximity to schools and amenities. “Older properties often boast archi- tectural features and craftsmanship not commonly found in newer constructions,” he added. “Buyers are also attracted to the potential for renovating and restoring old- er homes, further enhancing their appeal.” However, Munn noted that the num- ber of sales of new dwellings may not ful-
Recent observations from real estate professionals shed light on a notable shift in buyer preferences, with existing homes gaining traction over newly constructed dwellings. Brandon Area Realtors president Zach Munn delves into the numbers, revealing a stark dichotomy in home sales. “Looking at sales on our Keystone Matrix system in 2024, there have been only three sales of new, to-be-built, or un- der-construction homes,” Munn told the
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“Existing homes are more of the trend right now,” Chorney told the Sun. “Buyers appreciate the tranquillity of developed ar- eas, free from the disruptions of ongoing construction.” Demographically, while immigrants are part of the buyer pool, Chorney said, they don’t represent the majority. As for the advantages of new homes in this shifting landscape, Chorney said their appeal lies in reduced upkeep compared to older properties. “Newer homes generally require less maintenance on heating, plumbing and electrical systems,” Chorney said. “Howev-
er, well-maintained older homes can offer a blend of character and functionality that resonates with discerning buyers.” As buyers weigh their options against the backdrop of rising construction costs, Munn said, “the demand for homes in popular neighbourhoods remains robust, underscoring the enduring value of estab- lished communities in Brandon’s evolving landscape.”
Regarding the demographic makeup of buyers in the Brandon real estate space, Munn said, “There does seem to be a trend of many homebuyers being immigrants. I don’t have any data to say what that num- ber is locally. The Brandon market attracts buyers from various demographics, includ- ing immigrants, locals and individuals re- locating for job opportunities or lifestyle reasons. Real estate agent Darcy Chorney agreed with Munn, noting the allure of existing homes amid ongoing construction concerns.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com » X: @AbiolaOdutola
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Intelligent Watering INVITE HOME AUTOMATION INTO YOUR GARDEN!
Home automation is a modern technology that allows you to control various systems in your home using your smartphone. It’s an efficient way to save energy and money. If you have a garden, it’s a great idea to consider home automation for optimizing plant watering and conserving drinking water. HOW DOES IT WORK? Using a watering timer and several sophisticated sensors and algorithms, the system detects numerous data points and variables in real time, such
as soil moisture and weather. Based on these readings, the system can adjust the irrigation in your garden to provide your plants with the precise amount of water they need, and only when they need it. This means no more wasting water. Moreover, you can also program the system to water your plants at the best times, such as early in the morning. Depending on the system you choose, you may be able to connect it to other sensors, such as a sunlight sensor and your rainwater collector or well. This allows you to set up personalized water ing programs for different areas of your yard. Talk to local home automation com- panies to learn more about designing a connected and sustainable garden.
How to make your yard an eco-friendly haven
Diversify your lawn Grass is commonly used as ground cover. However, this monoculture re- quires a lot of water and sometimes pesticides, which can limit biodiver- sity. Instead, plant drought-resistant plants such as clover and thyme that Many foreign plants don’t have natural competition in your local ecosystem and can quickly become invasive. Choose species adapted to your local climate to preserve the na- tive flora and fauna. Use rainwater Install a rain barrel underneath your gutters and use the collected water to give your plants a drink. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to save precious drinking water. feed pollinators like bees. Choose native plants
Make your soil permeable Consider transforming a section of your concrete driveway or walk- way into porous tiles or crushed gravel. This will enable rainwater to seep into the ground, reducing run- off and preventing soil erosion. Ad- ditionally, this helps minimize the number of pollutants in your local water treatment plant. Grow a vegetable garden Emissions linked to transporting food are a significant source of pollu- tion. Tackle this problem head-on by harvesting cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce directly from your garden. Creating an eco-friendly yard may seem long and arduous, but the benefits are worth it. Plus, it requires less maintenance in the long run.
The impacts of climate change are already evident, and it’s essential to take action to reduce them. One way to start is by making your landscaping more environmentally friendly. How can you make your yard green? Here are some principles to follow.
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There are endless options when it comes to outdoor lighting. Halogen or LED? Electric or solar? Here are a few ideas to help you make the right choice. Lighting options to brighten your yard
BULBS Each type of bulb has its advantages. LED bulbs are renowned for their durabili- ty. Plus, you’ll end up saving on replacement costs. They also consume up to 75 per cent less electricity than halogen bulbs. However, halogen bulbs give off more heat, which can
melt the snow around your trees in winter and save you some time and effort shovel- ling. POWER One big question remains: is it better to opt for lights that run on electricity or solar energy? Here’s a quick comparison:
• Electric lights are affordable and reliable. However, they require more equipment, and it can be hard to hide the cables. • Solar lights are practical, remov- able and low maintenance. Howev- er, the light’s intensity is weak and limited to the amount of sunlight the fixture receives during the day.
(File photos)
You’ll also need to consider the charac- teristics of your yard, the slope and the visual effect you want to achieve. Not sure which product to choose? Talk to a landscaping professional for enlightenment.
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Kitchens: Spotlight on 3 key trends in 2024
Are you thinking about renovating your kitchen? Are you building a new home and designing your kitchen from scratch? Here’s a look at some of this year’s latest trends to inspire you. 1. Create a spa-like atmosphere. Melt away the stresses of everyday life by creating a relaxing, warm and uncluttered space. This means doing away with bright, clinical lighting (think low lighting!). Fill the space with soft, organic colours like san- dy brown and warm grey. Ideally, the cupboards should have no handles and focus on natural materials. 2. Curate a space for social in- teraction. Modern kitchens are designed to be a space for cooking together or breaking bread with loved ones. Spacious islands with rounded corners, along with stools or benches and other types of dining areas, are
all the rage. The focus is on creating a convivial atmosphere where family and friends can gather and enjoy each other’s company. 3. Make eco-responsible choices a priority. Incorporate sustainable practices into every aspect of the space. This includes using recycled materi- als, VOC-free paint and wood from sustainably managed forests. You can also choose intelligent or ENERGY STAR-certified electrical appliances, such as the refrigerator and dishwash- er, to reduce your carbon footprint fur- ther. Creating the kitchen of your dreams requires careful planning. Otherwise, you could exceed your budget or run into other unpleasant surprises. Call on the services of a kitchen design specialist in your area to ensure your project goes off without a hitch.
DARK BASEMENT 6 bright ideas to liven it up
Is your basement dark and gloomy? Here are a few clever tips to shine some light on the situation:
1. Use thin, full-length curtains. Sheer, lightweight curtain fabrics allow light to pass through while adding texture to your space. Long curtains can help create the illu- sion of bigger windows. Use wide curtain rods mounted close to the ceiling to help accentuate this sense of grandeur. 2. Multiply your light sources. In addition to overhead lights, in- vest in floor lamps, table lamps and wall sconces to brighten up your space. Recessed ceiling or floor lights are also worth considering. 3. Opt for reflective materials. Consider a glossy stretch ceiling, polished concrete floors or metal- lic accessories, such as gold frames, to help maximize light reflection.
4. Choose light colours. Light shades are a great option whether on the walls, ceilings, floors or furniture. In addition to reflecting light, they help visually enlarge the space. Choose a con- trasting colour for the walls to make the ceiling appear higher. 5. Install mirrors. Whether practical or decorative, mirrors are unparalleled when it
comes to reflecting light. 6. Use glass partitions.
Glass doors and partitions are ideal for dividing your space with- out compromising brightness. Use textured or frosted glass to add a bit of privacy.
(File photos)
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