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December 31, 2015

Did Your Kitchen Work For You or Against You Over the Holidays?

Nothing puts the functionality of your kitchen to the test like hosting a big dinner for friends and family.

While a bigger kitchen provides more space for preparing multiple courses and having more helpers on hand, if your kitchen is not organized properly, your frustration level can go through the roof!

Whether your space is big, small or somewhere in between, you can make your kitchen work for you with the help of some of these sanity-saving options from Blum:

Deep pot drawers with lids easily accessible



Food storage simplified



Plastic containers


 

Spice organization



Maximize that hard-to-reach corner storage!



Under the sink storage


 

A place for trays, cutting boards and bottles




Related posts: 

Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre Designers Discover New and Amazing Things from Blum

December 22, 2015

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre -- 2015 Holiday Schedule

In order for our staff to enjoy the holidays with their families and friends, our business hours for the 2015 holiday season are as follows:

Thursday, December 24th - Christmas Eve
9 am to 12 pm

Friday, December 25th - Christmas Day

Saturday, December 26th - Boxing Day
Closed

Sunday, December 27th
Closed

Monday, December 28th to Wednesday, December 30th
9 am to 5 pm

Thursday, December 31st - New Year's Eve
9 am to 12 pm

Friday, January 1st, 2016 - Happy New Year!
Closed

Monarch's showroom will reopen for the New Year on Saturday, January 2nd, 2016.

All the very best to you and your family for a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

December 18, 2015

There's Still Time to Help Monarch Feed Local Families in Durham

We're so grateful for the generosity of our clients and design team as they help us gather food for donation throughout our community. 

There's still time to drop off these much-need nonperishable food items to the Monarch showroom:

  • peanut butter
  • jam
  • canned pasta sauce
  • canned fruit and vegetables
  • canned stews / chilli /soup
  • meal replacement drinks (ie. Boost, Ensure)
  • sugar
  • canned tuna and salmon
  • rice, pasta
  • coffee, tea
  • diapers
  • baby formula
We'll be accepting donations until December 22nd. Our showroom is located at 1020 Brock Rd., Unit 6, Pickering.

For more information, please call our office at 905-686-2001.

December 10, 2015

Energize your Shower Experience with Aquatunes from GROHE

Still searching for last-minute gift ideas for the gadget-loving friends and family on your list? Why not give them the gift of music -- in the shower!

Aquatunes from GROHE

From GROHE:
Aquatunes is an exciting collaboration combining the benefit of PHILIPS electronics expertise with GROHE’s in-depth understanding of creating unique bathroom experiences. Developed to bring emotion to the bathroom space, Aquatunes allows you to play music via Bluetooth on the wireless water-resistant speaker, transforming your showering experience.

Connect via Bluetooth
The Aquatunes speaker connects with mobile devices via Bluetooth technology – within a range of up to 25 ft. Press the sync button to connect and stream music from your mobile device. Adjust volume and use the previous/next track buttons on the speaker to enjoy your favorite music of the day.

Water Resistant
The Aquatunes shower speaker has been designed for use in the shower. Position Aquatunes at the ideal height and location for a maximized audio experience.

Charge & Play
Place the ultra portable Aquatunes back in the docking station and continue to listen to music or radio, while charging. The Induction charged docking station is water resistant and will charge Aquatunes in no time.

Aquatunes is now available for order from Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre. To learn more, call us at 905-686-2001.

December 2, 2015

Help Us Feed Local Families -- Drop off Non-Perishable Food Items at the Monarch Showroom

Last year, we were overwhelmed by the generosity and thoughtfulness of our clients and design team as they helped us gather food for donation throughout our community. Please join us once again as we celebrate the holiday season with our annual food drive. 

Support the Families in Your Community

Drop off these much-needed nonperishable food items at Monarch's Pickering showroom by December 22nd:
  • peanut butter
  • jam
  • canned pasta sauce
  • canned fruit and vegetables
  • canned stews / chilli /soup
  • meal replacement drinks (ie. Boost, Ensure)
  • sugar
  • canned tuna and salmon
  • rice, pasta
  • coffee, tea
  • diapers
  • baby formula
 Our showroom is located at 1020 Brock Rd., Unit 6, Pickering.

For more information, please call our office at 905-686-2001.

November 27, 2015

More on Monarch's Stunning White Kitchen Makeover

 
White kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre


A few weeks ago, we posted a colourful white kitchen by Monarch designer Marion Cuddie.

Below are the before pictures, and Marion's comments on how she met her client's dream kitchen design requirements.

Before

"The homeowner delights in entertaining family and friends and found that the awkward peninsula in her old kitchen cramped movement and food prep," says Marion.

Before
The client's needs included a coffee area, drinks' storage, a sink for clean up and a sink at the prep island.

"They wanted lots of light and a bright open feeling," explains Marion. "To accomplish this, the kitchen window was enlarged to flood the space with light and expand the view to the green space beyond the property." Minimal upper cabinets also contribute to the openness. 

White kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

"With limited upper cabinet space, it became important to maximize storage in remaining cabinetry," says Marion.
 


White kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre





(Left) Pantry items in the extra deep wall/counter cabinet are outfitted with roll-out shelves (left of the ovens and in the tall angled cabinet to the right of the fridge) to accommodate the door placement and to house overflow items and pet food.

(Right) Special attention was paid to the coffee/drinks station to keep the flow comfortable for family and guests during breakfast preparation. 

Glassware for adult entertaining is immediately available above the bar storage.

(Below) The island has become the perfect spot for Christmas cookie decorating as well as after school snacks.

White kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

November 19, 2015

Cambria Adds Two New Countertop Designs to Their Oceanic Collection

OAKMOOR™

Oakmoor™ by Cambria

Earthy and organic, Oakmoor™ captures muted tones of cream, tan, and caramel drifting alongside linear waves of graduated grays reminiscent of stately wood aged to perfection.

Oakmoor™ by Cambria

ROXWELL 

Roxwell™ by Cambria


Complex and flowing, Roxwell™ presents elegant serpentine swaths of gray dappled with white, black, and charcoal flecks, and a hint of sparkle to create the fascinating effect of a wave-kissed sandy beach.

Roxwell™ by Cambria
Why choose a Cambria countertop? Cambria's natural quartz surfaces are durable, stronger than granite and non-porous (NSF 51 Certified), making them as safe as stainless steel for food preparation.

Drop by the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre showroom to view samples of Cambria's newest additions.

Related posts

Introducing Ridgeline -- Cambria's Newest Countertop Edge

Cambria Adds Two New Countertop Designs to Their Marble Collection

Cambria Does it Again with 13 Innovative New Countertop Designs

November 12, 2015

Help Monarch President Neil Samson Support Men's Health this "Movember"



The Movember Foundation is a global charity committed to men living happier, healthier, longer lives. Since 2003, millions have joined the men’s health movement, raising $677 million and funding over 1,000 programs focusing on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity.

Join Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre president Neil Samson in his quest to provide positive change for men's health. To offer your support for Neil this month, please visit http://mobro.co/neilsamson

To learn more about the Movember Foundation and how your donations are used, click here.

November 6, 2015

Fall Cleaning with a Conscience: Find a Home for Your Gently Used Items

This bit of extended warm weather has helped put many of us in the mood for fall cleaning. And since we tend to accumulate possessions over the holidays, fall is a great time to clear out some of the items we don’t want and make room for something new.

But what should you do with all the stuff you don’t want?

At Monarch, we are committed to being responsible stewards of the environment and encourage our clients and fellow members of the community to think twice before simply tossing personal or household items away. After all, your trash may indeed be someone else’s treasure.

Smaller items like books, clothing and textiles can easily be dropped off at your local Salvation Army, Goodwill or Value Village. If you have outdated electronics piling up in your home, visit recycleyourelectronics.ca to locate the dropoff location nearest you. In Pickering, you can drop off your used electronics for free at U-Pak.

For larger items, consider one the following options:

Habitat for Humanity ReStores

If you’ve never visited your local ReStore, prepare to be amazed! ReStores are retail facilities that sell new and gently used building supplies and household decorating items. Donations generate revenue that covers 100% of their administrative costs. That means 100% of the donations they receive go directly into their Build Fund -- providing safe, decent and affordable homes for low-income families in your community.



Furniture Bank

Furniture Bank offers full-service furniture removal across the GTA. They pick up gently used furniture and housewares from your home and transfer them to individuals who have recently transitioned out of homelessness and displacement. Your donations help turn an empty space into a true home. Click here for a list of items they accept.

October 30, 2015

Happy Halloween from Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre!

Looking for scary kitchen and bath renovation stories? You won't find any here.

While Monarch's kitchen and bath designers are happy to celebrate this spooky holiday, their clients know they don't have to worry about any design or renovation horror stories.

Visit Monarch's Homestars page to read satisfied client reviews like this one from Estelle and Don from Pickering:


If finding the perfect design firm to meet your needs has become a nightmare, drop by our showroom or call 905-686-2001 to arrange for a no-obligation consultation.

Your home renovations don't have to be a horror story.

Click here to find out what Monarch's clients are saying.

October 23, 2015

Make Your White Kitchen Design POP with Colour!

This stunning kitchen design by Monarch designer Marion Cuddie is a revelation of colour and customization. Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we uncover the details of this vibrant space.

White Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

White Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

White Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

White Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

White Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

October 14, 2015

Transcendent and Timeless, Benjamin Moore's 2016 Colour of the Year is Simply White!


http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-ca/for-architects-and-designers/benjamin-moore-colour-trends-2016?utm_source=eblast&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TrendsAnnounce16_Oct_AD_CAE&sp_rid=NzY1ODE1NTgzMQS2&sp_mid=49721215


Benjamin Moore has announced its 2016 Colour of the Year -- Simply White (OC-117).

"The color white is transcendent, timeless, and its versatility is unmatched. From weathered wainscoting to crisp canvas shades, porcelain tile to picket fences, white is everywhere in every form—it was inevitable we pick Simply White to be our Color of the Year 2016."



Click here to find the Benjamin Moore dealer nearest you.

October 8, 2015

Sweeten Up Your Thanksgiving Menu with These Great Dessert Ideas from Sarah Carey at Everyday Food

Lucky for us, the holiday weekend forecast for Southern Ontario includes mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the high teens. We hope you have the opportunity to enjoy some time outside with close friends and family over the next few days.

For those of you inside baking up a storm, here are a few videos from Sarah Carey at Everyday Food that will make preparing your holiday dessert a breeze.







Remember, there's still time to spruce up your kitchen before the Christmas holiday season. Call Monarch today at 905-686-2001 or drop by our showroom and speak with a member of our designer team.

Our showroom is open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. We will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday, October 12th.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre team

September 29, 2015

Introducing Ridgeline - Cambria's Newest Countertop Edge

Cambria's Ridgeline Edge shown in Ellesmere

Often referred to as a double pencil edge, Cambria's new Ridgeline Edge has a simple yet bold profile with a 1/8" radius.

A double-pencil edge is frequently chosen because of its smooth, comfortable feel. It can be used in relaxed atmospheres where people lean against the edge of the counter or sit at a breakfast bar.

The Ridgeline Edge is available in depths of 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm and 6 cm.

Why Choose Cambria?

Cambria's natural quartz surfaces are durable, stronger than granite and non-porous (NSF 51 Certified), making them as safe as stainless steel for food preparation.

September 17, 2015

What's Hot in Home Renovations?

Join Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre on Thursday, November 5th at 7 p.m. to find out!

Email info@mkbi.com or call 905-686-2001 to reserve your spot today! Spaces are limited.


September 10, 2015

Designing a Kitchen that Works for Your Family All Year Long

Here at Monarch, we often talk about preparing your home for the next big holiday get-together. Providing a comfortable working and entertainment space is a popular topic when clients walk into our showroom. However, homeowners initially looking for the “wow” factor during holiday season can often lose site of how the space is used the rest of the year.

“So often when we begin the process of designing spaces, we focus on the large events in our lives…the holidays and special occasions…but what we neglect to focus on are the routine comings and goings in our home,” says Monarch designer Jackie Schagen. “Our goal is to help you plan a space so that it best suits your everyday needs, as well as accommodate your special occasion needs.” 

Kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

The kitchen and dining areas are perfect examples of this. “Having your kitchen space work for you and your immediate family is very important,” explains Jackie.

Here are just a few of the factors to consider:

1. Do you have more than one cook, or more than one task being performed in your kitchen at any one time? Perhaps a designated homework area should be given priority, and not worry quite so much about accommodating 14 people for a meal.

2. Will homework be an everyday occurrence in your kitchen? You might want to incorporate a designated storage space for school items.

3. Are you an animal lover? If so, it may make more sense for your kitchen design to include an area designated for pet food storage instead of adding a fifth seat at the island.

When you work with a designer at Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre, we can help you streamline the needs and goals for your space, and refine it to be the most functional space it can be.

Drop by our showroom or call 905-686-2001 to speak with a member of our design team.

Related posts:

Hoping to Celebrate Christmas in a Newly Designed Kitchen?

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre Designers Discover New and Amazing Things from Blum

September 4, 2015

What's Open and Closed This Labour Day Weekend

Back to school is just a few days away! We hope you enjoy the last long weekend of summer!

Here are Monarch's Labour Day weekend long weekend hours:

Friday, September 4th - 9am to 5pm
Saturday, September 5th - 9am to 5pm
Sunday, September 6th - closed
Monday, September 7th - closed
Tuesday, September 8th - regular business hours resume

Below is a list of what's open -- and what's not -- around Toronto on Monday.

OPEN

Tourist attractions (ROM, Ontario Science Centre, Toronto Zoo, Ripley’s Aquarium)
Major malls (Eaton Centre,  Square One, Vaughan Mills)
Movie theatres
TTC (Holiday service)
Go Transit (Sunday service) 

CLOSED

Art Gallery of Ontario
Banks
Grocery stores
LCBO, The Beer Store
Libraries
Malls including Yorkdale, Fairview Mall, Sherway Gardens
Government offices
Post offices and mail delivery

For a full list of what's open and closed, click here.

If you're considering a kitchen or bath renovation in your home, condo or cottage, drop by the Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre showroom this weekend. Our design team would be happy to discuss your plans with you.

 We hope you enjoy a safe and happy Labour Day long weekend!

August 28, 2015

Cambria Adds Two New Countertop Designs to Their Marble Collection

BRITTANICCA

Brittanicca courtesy of Cambria

Vast and expansive, Brittanicca offers a velvety marbled background of neutral white that provides a stage on which gray streams meander among intertwining ashen veins dotted with veiled charcoal sparkles.
 
Brittanicca courtesy of Cambria



ELLA

Ella courtesy of Cambria

Combining classic marble beauty with legendary strength, Ella features a dimensional lattice of delicate dove-gray streams permeating throughout a creamy marbled backdrop.


Why choose a Cambria countertop? Cambria's natural quartz surfaces are durable, stronger than granite and non-porous (NSF 51 Certified), making them as safe as stainless steel for food preparation.

Drop by the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre showroom to view samples of Cambria's newest additions.

Related posts: