[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” gradient_type=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”2593″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]It’s pinch time for home-builders like few times before. Many builders are offering all types of wild concessions on home pricing, whether it be free appliances, finished basements, or “$35,000 off”. We can all rest assured one still pays for it somehow or other. It’s especially humorous to see when certain track-home builders advertise discounts larger than they can ever possibly make profit on a home. If anyone has gone through the new-home buying process, they know of the shocking prices for “upgrades” are other fees and premiums. At Millstone Homes, we believe we have always offered more value than other builders, by offering homes that are much better built and equipped– “upgrades” that would not be included or even thought of otherwise. We have been able to stand alone by designing creatively, sourcing materials locally and abroad, negotiating successfully, and working with the right trades at the right price. There are many details to consider from materials (Lumber dimensions, type), product performance (window, appliance specs), to interior finishing (material specs, size), but all very much worth it. At the same time, it is a buyer’s market and we are perfectly placed to take advantage of some materials and labour, prices that have been reduced, as well as reducing our own margins drastically. It is a very difficult time for all of us, but we continue to build our best.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Infinity is the name Carrier gave to its highest-end heating, air conditioning and ventilation system that precisely controls temperature, humidity and fresh air ventilation throughout the house. All this climate control accuracy can be controlled in separate zones, and remotely via the Internet. Currently we are the only local homebuilder to install this system in all of our homes. Not only is it the most advanced system as far as features and technology, it is also the most efficient, especially when programmed correctly. As people start understanding the impact of air quality on health, home air purifying systems are becoming a hot commodity. The Home Indoor Air Quality System is the leading air purifying unit within a heating system. Please click on image below for a quick overview of this unparalleled home heating system.

Ontario’s first 52”, 60,000btu Montigo fireplace found its home here… Not only is the colossal size impressive, the blower system dumfounded us with its enormous size and silent, efficient operation (the venting kit alone costs $3000). Custom fabricated in BC, this unit is truly unique, as are all the rest of the units, all with 38” of viewing area. (3 others: basement games room, master bedroom sitting area, 2nd floor bedroom). The master bedroom fireplace is a double sided linear burner model, separating the bedroom and ensuite. The mantles are all custom made on site by our carpenter. Four remarkable fireplace units throughout this residence bring loads of character and warmth to the area they garnish. (60,000 btu’s of warmth in one case…)

After the foyer was complete to the flooring stage we were ready to start designing the stone medallion. Not only were we concerned with a design that was both refined and impressive, the shapes were to compliment the surroundings. We settled on using the same stone types used throughout the home (we think even this colossal foyer can get crowded if too many elements are introduced) as we tried to impress with shape and pattern. A circular pattern we thought; to offset the angles in the rest of this area, and accompany the rounded staircase. Next step was to discuss our requirements with a computerized fabricating outfit to have our selected stone cut by means of water-jet. We’re quite content with our custom cut stone inlay. Our trusty tile setter (hats off to Mr. Adrian) did a swell job laying it.

From the start, our intention was the highest efficiency heating and A/C setup possible. We discussed the merits of a geothermal system, but the requirements and lot size presented limitations that outweighed the benefits. Having opted for the Infinity System, we discovered that Carrier also produces a “Hybrid System”– a heat pump.A heat pump is basically an air conditioner in that it will extract the heat from your home in the summer, but will also pull heat from outside air in the winter (like your– fridge but working both ways). In many climates, this setup will suffice as both a heating and cooling system, but in London, we still require an additional heat source (surprised?). The beauty of this dual-fuel setup is that the two systems share the heating load, each system operating when it is most cost effective. The heat pump is supposed to do most of the work, with the furnace taking over when the temperature drops below the heat pump’s ability to operate efficiently. We can’t wait to see what savings this system will produce in such a large home. Click image below for a complete overview of this system, and potential savings.

The cultured elegance of English exterior styling has become a favourite, considering our climate, environments and surrounding colours. The look of reclaimed brick and aged limestone, especially of light earthy tones were our choice of being both very sophisticated and fitting in. (A Mediterranean can stick out like a sore thumb in certain neighborhoods).

Perfectly proportioned, a staunch entry-way with a solid wood door “grounds” the whole façade, and draws you in.

In every single one of my wanderings through London, the use of greenery always impressed me, it seems they’re as good with shrubbery as the Italians are putting the perfect flowers in the perfect window at the perfect angle. Climbing ivy and large flower trays under windows seem to add so much history.To create the character we’re after, Permacon stone manufactures a stone that when mixed in the right ratio of sizes, laid square and over-grouted, creates that exact feel of permanence we’re after.

Very large chimneys add loads and loads of character, and positioned carefully make the home look very significant. They work especially well with bungalows.

Limestone in our opinion is one of the most timeless and impressive exterior materials. Lasting for centuries, it has been used on most of the historical monuments remaining. The exorbitant price of carved limestone is the major drawback, although faux limestone stucco can be an alternative that can mimic the style. (We are working on a direct sourced limestone alternative that can cut costs significantly),

Rooflines significantly affect the aesthetics of any home, especially when it essentially becomes half of what you see. Proportions and angles are paramount, and the material used, (a gray slate look in our case) are one of the most obvious features. (No mention here of cost, framing, or ice build-up considerations)

The use of different shapes that work together to create little nooks and crannies such as the arches over the garage doors (taking advantage of the viewing angle as well) can add that touch of charm and complexity that make a home look like it was built when there was time to build properly.

The two homes below are both new, yet I’m sure you were sure the first one was. We don’t want that when we build this façade. It really seems like one has more soul than the other. Even though both homes were built with the same goal in mind. Character, soul, personality… its what we’re after.

A lifetime of travel and 3 months of “spare time” last year resulted in a home design you might be interested to know more about. A desire to understand what details in the residences of Europe give them that timeless appeal, that character and personality that makes you feel “complete”, has led us on many an adventure. Loads of soul-less square footage doesn’t do it, this study in design is the anti-McMansion. As far as actual application, It’s one thing to like it in a magazine, and another to make it happen in reality. Products must be sourced and used well, details like environment colour and light all make a vast difference, and budgets are a reality once off the magazine page. We’ll post parts of our inspiration scrapbook for this home (clippings and photos from our travels), and each segment will take us through parts of this residence. Originally the layout was designed for lot 5 or 8 Broughdale Gates, but can be redesigned using the same inspiration. There will be no fluff, few superlatives, just our reasoning as to what certain details do to create style that transcends fads and how we can make it happen. We open this series with a look at the façade.

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” gradient_type=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”2557″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]Continuing our tradition of building truly unique homes in London, we’ve just unveiled our new model on Wickerson Gate. The main floor layout was designed and optimized with high living in mind. The dining room is placed in the middle of the home (boasting an18’ ceiling and a Swarovski crystal chandelier) with the living room, kitchen and 800 square feet of deck surrounding it. Resulting in some memorable entertaining to put it mildly. With a refined traditional style, the timelessness of this home is accomplished by carefully marrying modern translations of classic concepts with contemporary and old world touches. Like any of our homes, we’re quite proud of the finish quality – moulding, dark doors, glossy marble and other finishes that test the trade’s ability are executed as flawlessly as can be.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Timberline shingles byCVH Roofing, and the concrete drive is a custom stamped design.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Oak and Iron stairs, hand-hewn floors as in the entrance sitting area are throughout the main floor of the home. The gorgeously large chandelier peeks through the spindles from the centre dining area.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The impressive mud room features more than storage and laundry amenities. A shower by the door is the perfect spot to freshen your hound or your hockey player.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The handsome office features direct outside access through French doors and 10’ ceiling.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The living room features a cast stone fireplace. The wall-sized windows characterize the whole home.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The glamorous ensuite features built-ins on wither side of the tub and high style in Italian marble and glass.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]His and hers walk in closets with built-in organizer units and floor to ceiling windows make for quite the master bedroom. (With that spa-like ensuite, you don’t have much excuse to leave).[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Opulence defined, this sumptuous kitchen features tiled walls, a commercial sized stainless hood, Carrera marble counters, and floor to wall cabinets. Definitely a highlight of this home, this kitchen is one of those places that needs to be experienced[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]