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November 30, 2016

Help Monarch Support Local Families: Drop off Non-Perishable Food Items Until December 21st



Each year at this time, we are overwhelmed by the generosity and thoughtfulness of our clients and design team as they help us gather food for donation throughout our community. 

We invite you to 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 21st:
  • peanut butter
  • jam
  • canned pasta sauce
  • canned fruit and vegetables
  • canned stews / chili /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 24, 2016

The Second Step to Renovation Success: Hire a RenoMark™ Renovator

Toronto kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Last week, we discussed how crucial planning is to your renovation's success. In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of choosing a RenoMark™ renovator such as Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre.

Why a RenoMark™ renovator?

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


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

Related: The First Step to Renovation Success: Carefully Plan Your Project

Are you ready to renovate? Contact Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre at 905-686-2001.

November 17, 2016

The First Step to Renovation Success: Carefully Plan Your Project


A few years ago, Monarch became a RenoMark™ Approved contractor.

RenoMark™ identifies contractors who have agreed to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s Code of Ethics and a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. As a RenoMark™ approved renovator, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre is recognized as understanding the value of customer service as well as providing warranties and continually educating ourselves on trends, materials and new regulations.

In their "Read Before You Renovate" Reno Guide, Renomark™ reviews the five steps to a worry-free renovation or addition:
  1. Carefully plan your project
  2. Select a RenoMark™ renovator
  3. Get a written contract
  4. Check on progress
  5. Discuss your project
Toronto Bath Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Over next five weeks, we will explore the importance of each of these steps.

Let's begin with the importance of planning ahead.

From RenoMark
"Major projects may require the services of an architect and other professionals such as engineers and heating contractors. Their drawings are not only required to obtain building permits and other municipal approvals, but they provide the basis for your renovation contractor to price the project.
Be realistic about the time a project will take to get started and to complete. Consider its full costs, including at least a 10 per cent contingency for changes and unexpected conditions and the impact the project will have on the daily operation of your home and family activities.
If your project is likely to last more than a few weeks, it’s wise to discuss your project with neighbours. In addition to unavoidable noise and dirt, there will be vehicles parked on the street, disposal bins in the driveway and plenty of truck deliveries. Most neighbours will be understanding and accommodating, especially if notified first."
Toronto Kitchen Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Here are just a few of the questions Monarch's design team will ask you to consider before moving forward with your kitchen or bath design:
  • Are you going to keep or change the existing layout of the space?
  • What type of flooring makes sense for your family?
  • Do you want to keep the bathtub or make the shower larger?
  • Are you planning to remain living in your home during the renovation process?
  • In what order would you like the work completed?
  • Which countertop material is going to best suit your needs?
  • How many people need to use the space at the same time?
  • Do you want to allow for seating in your kitchen design?
  • Are warm bathroom floors a priority for you?
"Our design team is here to help you understand your options and the pros and cons of every choice," says Monarch designer Jackie Schagen. "We'll make sure you are always making an educated decision."

Are you ready to renovate? Contact Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre at 905-686-2001.

November 11, 2016

What's On Your Laundry Room Wish List?

Laundry room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre


As  more and more laundry rooms make their way out of the basement and onto the main and upper floors, it's becoming clear that homeowners want their laundry room's decor to flow seamlessly with the overall design of the house. Finally, a room that was once ignored is now getting some long overdue TLC.


What's on your laundry room wish list?

Below are the the top five requests Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre designer Marion Cuddie gets from her clients.

1. Hanging racks for drying
Not every item you wash can be placed in the dryer. That's where hanging racks come in handy. The size of the rack will depend on the space available and the amount of washing you do each week.


2. Storage bins, drawers and cubbies
Storage bins and drawers help keep the counter clear for folding. Cubbies are ideal for placing items you want to keep close-at-hand but out of the way.

3. Landing space for laundry baskets
Are you constantly tripping over laundry baskets? You're not alone. Even if you're updating the look of your laundry room, there's a good chance your available floor space is limited.  Having room to move around and place your baskets is a priority for may homeowners.

Bryan and Sarah Baeulmer's laundry room

4. Ergonomic folding space
While washer and dryer pedestals provide additional storage, they don't allow any room above the appliances to fold the clothes comfortably. Many homeowners are choosing to forgo the pedestals so they can install a counter above the washer and dryer for quick-and-easy folding. This is a great option if your space is limited and you don't have room to install additional counter tops.

5. Low-maintenance counter tops and durable cabinetry
If you've got room to spare, quartz counter tops are non-porous and make a stunning statement in a utilitarian space. Euro-finish cabinetry (pictured below) is a stylish choice that offers both durable and affordable.


Laundry room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre


Is it time to renovate your laundry room? Contact Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre at 905-686-2001.

November 3, 2016

Allusive and Enigmatic, Benjamin Moore's 2017 Colour of the Year is Shadow!

Benjamin Moore has announced its 2017 Colour of the Year Shadow (2117-30).


"Shadow is the new black," says Monarch designer Janet Dawson. "It's a neutral basic backdrop that can anchor any colour scheme."

From Benjamin Moore's Creative Director, Ellen O'Neill:

"It ebbs and flows with its surroundings, and light brings it to life. Rich, royal amethyst can fade into the soft lilac-grey of distant mountains or morph into lustrous coal. Indulge your mysterious side. Let Shadow set the mood."


Shadow 2117-30 is integral to Benjamin Moore's Colour Trends 2017, a palette of this year's most influential hues.



To learn more about incorporating Shadow into your new kitchen or bath design, contact Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre at 905-686-2001.

All photos courtesy of benjaminmoore.com.