Contributed By Kathy Flaxman – The holiday season unleashes the designer in us all. The entranceway at this festive time lets everyone know that there may be good things inside.
Cabbagetown resident Johanne Laperrière, whose home has been almost entirely renovated by Weenen General Contracting Limited in stages over many years, embraces the concept of decorating for the holidays. The exterior of the home she shares with her spouse Christopher Wirth, daughter Veronique and son Francois, exudes festive touches including, depending on the year, a Santa, Rudolph the red nosed reindeer, ribbons, lights, balls (both gold and red). “I change things from year to year,” she says. “I might use candy canes, for example and there are always wreathes.” Fortunately, the renovations have never interfered with the family’s holiday season plans. “Items like the kitchen were done in the summer,” Johanne notes. “We have had many wonderful experiences with Weenen General Contracting, especially Joe Rozman, over the course of our renovations.”
The importance of the front entrance is important all year round. Owen Robinson of Weenen General Contracting Limited, points out the many homeowners know they want a beautiful entrance but need help deciding on what would be best. Among the most popular door colours are black and red. “Black, especially in a high gloss finish, looks terrific – just think about 10 Downing Street!” Owen says. “And who doesn’t have a soft spot for a fire engine red front door? It is a very simple way to change the appearance of your house – high impact, low investment.”
Factors to consider for a front door and home entranceway include storage and weather. “The continuing trend in open concept homes also proves a challenge;” Owen points out. “On paper a free flowing front entry into the living space looks great, but the realities of a Canadian winter may mean no protection from an icy blast each time someone opens the door and nowhere for boots/jackets.”
A small vestibule will help, or as in the case of Johanne Laperrière, closets. “We have a closet near the entrance for each of us,” she notes.
Meanwhile, for the Holiday season, it’s all about the looks. Santa may be coming down the chimney but in many cases the rest of us will be entering not just a front door, but one that is decorated in celebration of the festive season.
Happy Holidays!
