Here's a look at the article we have in Fine Homes Kingston Magazine... The text from the article is below.
FACILITATING DREAMS
BY ALYSSA RUDYCK
What are two core expectations of the construction industry? Excellent craftsmanship and robust experience. Unfortunately, these terms can sometimes be mutually exclusive. Custom homebuilder Nicholas Sarich plans to change that.
“When projects are rushed, details are forgotten, and there is a lot of oversight,” says Sarich. “That is why I take the time with my clients. I listen to what they want, and if the customer is not 100 per cent satisfied with what I’ve produced, I will make it right. My expectation is to make my customer happy and forge a lasting relationship.”
As someone who has been in the construction business since he was a teenager — first as a framer gaining expertise and then as a respected homebuilder — Sarich’s decision to break out on his own came from finding himself increasingly disheartened by a general short sightedness in the industry.
“[I saw a] tendency for others to seek a quick profit out of every project, instead of building a reputation of quality and durability,” Sarich comments.
Recently, Sarich has been turning his small Portsmouth Avenue home in Kingston into a showcase of his abilities.
“It started out as a mere 328 sq. ft. bungalow when I first purchased it. I kept the foundation, built out the back, and am up to nearly 2000 sq. ft. I love the 500 sq. ft. loft above the garage. It has a gas fireplace, two dormers to bring in natural light, and a drive- through garage that is prime for anyone who has a boat or camper. Everything is new, inside and out. There are two gas fireplaces, hardwood floors, a sunken kitchen, recessed lighting, architectural accents, built-in theatre sound and central air throughout. The home is located in a private setting, with a fully fenced-in yard. I’ve really taken my time to make sure that everything is done right.”
The most unique feature in the house is the Scavolini kitchen, which was custom ordered from Italy. According to Sarich, what sets Scavolini kitchens apart is their superior structure, timeless finishes and versatile function.
“Topping off their uniqueness is Scavolini’s track installation method, [which increases] a homeowner’s investment in the ideal kitchen [because it] can be taken with them whenever they move, [which is] customary more so in Europe than it is here,” Sarich explains.
On the market for the perfect kitchen, Sarich turned to The Melon Patch in Bath, and Elizabeth Harvey, the region’s exclusive distributor of Scavolini kitchens.
“The process is really interesting,” explains Harvey, owner and resident designer at The Melon Patch. “I draw up the sketches and direction, then off to Toronto they go where Scavolini techs render the digital plans. I’m responsible for communicating with the client to make sure they get the best-suited model for their lifestyle and space. Once the client inspects and confirms the plans, the blueprints go to Scavolini headquarters in Italy and the entire kitchen is custom-built, carefully packaged and en route to your renovation. Scavolini-certified installers are on-site for the entire process. Included in the final price, without fine print, is a five-year warranty, delivery and installation. It’s really a lovely company to work with; very professional, and very organized.”
“Elizabeth definitely has tuned-in ideas,” Sarich adds. “I was at the stage where I just had my tile down in the
kitchen area, and was a bit indecisive about what I should do next, so she helped to guide me.”
The Melon Patch is an eclectic home décor store, where you can find personal attention and sourcing for interior decoration and renovation projects, and innovative products like Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, which can transform any surface finish without sanding or priming. Harvey is available for on-site home décor consultations, and also offers custom furniture creation.
“Really, I’m a facilitator to put all the elements together to make living space dreams come true. I listen to and absorb the customer’s style, then try to work with elements that the client already has. Sometimes it’s just as simple as rearranging the furniture, selecting a new wall colour or locating a few accent items or pieces of art,” Harvey explains.
Watch for the final result produced by this dynamic duo when the home hits the market this spring. Stay up on fine home trends and ideas by checking out Harvey’s blog on the Melon Patch’s website, or contact her directly. To set your project into motion, visit Sarich’s website for a wise place to start if you want to build smart.
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