Energy-saving kitchens

By Frank O'Brien
Home Makeover Magazine April 09 issue

Kerr Construction Ltd. of Vancouver captured a 2008 gold Georgie Award for the best kitchen under $100, 000-and the national SAM Award for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association as the best kitchen in Canada-for this renovation in Vancouver’s Southlands. But it is the emphasis on the environment that may truly set it apart.

The 1970s-era rancher was transformed into a 21st century contemporary statement in green, from solar-heated hot water to bamboo floors and energy-saving appliances.

All the water used in the kitchen was heated via twin roof-mounted solar panels, which are estimated to cut the cost of hot water heating by at a least 30 per cent.

Then Kerr worked out how to reduce the amount of water used, opting for a compact drawer-style dishwasher that runs smaller loads. The company also installed a built-in water filtration system and ionizer to improve the quality of the drinking water.

Environmental measures extend to the recycling of interior doors and trim, the use of low-E and triple-glazed windows and extra insulation in the walls and ceiling. The large counters are engineered quartz, which is recognized as having a lower carbon footprint than granite. Bamboo floors, considered more environmentally friendly than hardwood, were installed, as were new Energy Star appliances, most hidden behind the custom-made, vertical-grain, solid mahogany cabinets.

www.absoluteroof.ca
www.kerrconstruction.ca

Gold Georgie Helps Windfall for Business

Even though the 2009 economy has started in a recession, this years CHBA (Canadian Home Builder’s Association) 17th annual Georgie awards gala displayed a positive forecast of this year’s building and renovation industry.

With greater Vancouver dominating the provincial awards, homeowners can be assured that they are being serviced by the highest caliber in the industry.

Georgie Gold winner Doug Kerr of Kerr Construction says, “These awards really give our business a boost in tougher economic times. Winning a Georgie award gives consumers confidence in what we can do for them and the quality of workmanship they will receive.

Even Stephen Harper is encouraging Canadians to make those small renovations with his tax credit of up to $1350 for one year.

“There are lots of incentives from the government for home energy improvements,” says Kerr. “Additional to the tax credits there are programs such as LiveSmart BC and Solar BC with rebates of up to $12,325.”

Now with the encouraging rebates and tax credits it is prime opportunity for homeowners to take advantage of these and increase the value of their homes.
With materials prices coming down now and trades more available homeowners are able to get their projects done faster and at less cost.

Kerr Construction is celebrating their 4th Gold Georgie and has been one of Vancouver’s trusted Design/Build Firms for over 20 years. "With good design and proper planning we are able to really provide value to home owners" added Kerr.

Media Contact
Jamie Beliveau
Kerr Construction
Office: 604.263.0343
Jamie@kerrconstruction.ca