Thirty Two Custom Homes & Renovations

Brentwood Addition / Renovation Update

2012-09-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

Coming together...

It's just a matter of days before 1932 finishes this project. It has been a labor of love for both 1932 and the homeowners. A sentimental home becomes new and functional for a lovely family.

An older home with sentimental value becomes new again.

5 Acre Parcel in Deep Cove invites 1932...

2012-09-13T20:04:00.006-07:00

1932's most recent project is a barn / loft structure in beautiful North Saanich. This young couple chose a great design for their 5 acre picturesque bare lot. Bright, treed with ocean glimpes, we know this build will be one of 1932's best.

It takes a lot of finishers for a slab this size!

The framing starts

1932's hardest working employee shows off her project...an original '32 Ford!

Everything coming together

Walls going up with help from the crane

Setting the rafters with help from the crane...and Doug's nerves of steel!

Clear blue sky, all the rafters set within a days work

Timber framing by 1932

Having some fun after a long day

Piece by piece, it all comes together

Doug puts in some finishing touches

More updates to come!
'32

Muse Winery Update

2012-09-13T19:37:00.001-07:00

This is a long overdue update, however the Muse Winery barn / storage facility is a job that '32 is so proud to have been apart of. Not to mention the lovely family and business that we hope will enjoy it for years to come...

Muse owners' vintage motorbike is an excellent finishing touch

Cedar soffits are planned for the fall

When the time is right, the finishing touches will be added.

Always Local, '32 Homes

Loft Addition

2012-05-17T19:44:00.003-07:00

A great couple from Sidney hired 1932 Homes for a small addition, a quality built "loft" structure constructed into one of their existing rooms - complete with a ships ladder and hardwood floor finishing

Ships ladder

Hardwood finishing with railing

1932 Homes loves neat little jobs like this, it's a fun change of pace and it's great to bring a homeowners creative idea to life

Locally, '32

Brentwood Family Renovation

2012-05-17T18:27:00.004-07:00

This remodel in Brentwood has been a pleasure for 1932 Homes to take on. A lovely couple and their young daughter have taken on this project to create their dream home. This renovation is currently still underway, but here are some photo highlights...

The original home

Excavation for foundation...

Head builder Doug oversees the demo

Framing for foundation

Hardworking crew from Stone Mountain

Concrete is set!

A couple of 1932's sub-trades put in some long hours

Second storey completed

Trusses installed

Framing in the expansive deck

Destined to be a home gym

Custom hot tub inset

Hot tub is craned over the roof and fits perfectly!

Coming together...

Thanks for checking in, more pictures to follow soon! We hope you're all enjoying this early summer weather!

2011-11-24T13:04:00.001-08:00

The Muse : Progress Update

I'm happy to report The Muse project is well underway, and excitement is in the air as this new addition to the beautiful winery property takes it's shape.

A picture diary...

(of the construction...the wine drinking happens after hours and there are no photos available at this time!)

Concrete Slab was mixed using a colour additive, giving it a red finish

Walls!

Custom Douglas Fir beams from Nanaimo Lakes

Forking around

Trusses


Taking shape, and looking at home in it's surroundings

Glad to have a roof!

Thanks for checking back, and don't forget to visit The Muse

...the sooner the better!

From beautiful Deep Cove...

Construction + Great Wine

2011-09-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

1932 Homes is excited to announce our latest project at

Muse Winery


Doug, Mike & Bill pour footings, and toast with a glass of the new release, the 2010 Viognier

An exciting endeavor, we are thrilled to be apart of this new addition to a local landmark. Check back for progress updates, or if you'd like to see it in person, I highly recommend you take the scenic drive to Muse Winery for a tasting!

If Muse is new to you, you've been missing out! Muse Winery

Visit their Blog

Handyman's Tip - #1 {Pressure Treated Lumber for Decks}

2011-05-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

A popular trend in deck building - especially for do-it-yourself-ers, is the use of "pressure treated wood". It is often the first choice for a variety of reasons, it's inexpensive - both upfront and in the future because of it's extremely long life span. It retains a new appearance for years, often with as little maintenance as an annual pressure wash. Finally, it is easily accessible and comes in all the same sizes as standard dimensional lumber.

So what, you ask, is the problem? This product sounds like a miracle!

The problem is this, prior to 2003 all pressure treated lumber was manufactured using CCA (chromated copper arsenate). The presence of this chemical has been proven not to reduce in toxicity over time, and I always recommend that when children are involved, all pressure treated decks and floor space be replaced. After 2003, the dangerous chemical was replaced with other, less toxic chemicals and copper based pesticides, however for my family, I wouldn't take the risk.

Wikipedia shares a similar explanation:
"On December 31, 2003, the US wood treatment industry stopped treating residential lumber with arsenic and chromium (chromated copper arsenate, or CCA). This was a voluntary agreement with the United States Environmental Protection Agency. CCA was replaced by copper based pesticides, with exceptions for certain industrial uses. During the Industrial Revolution wood preservation became a corner stone of the wood processing industry. Inventors and scientists such as Bethell, Boucherie, Burnett and Kyan made historic developments in wood preservation, with the preservative solutions and processes. Commercial pressure treatment began in the latter half of the 19th century with the protection of railroad crossties using creosote. Treated wood was used primarily for industrial, agricultural, and utility applications, where it is still used, until its use grew considerably (at least in the United States) in the 1970s as homeowners began building decks and backyard projects."

Pressure treated lumber, comes in a variety of stains and finishes, and looks similar to standard lumber. Make sure to read the tags! Or speak to the salesperson at your local Sleggs, Rona or Home Building Centre.

My recommendation for outdoor decking is Cedar, for it's natural ability to preserve itself. While more expensive upfront, a few simple design modifications can aid in it's preservation, such as aeration and drainage in wet climates. It simply can't be beat for it's distinctive look and feel, it's weathered appearance after several years can be chalked up to "character", and you will never have to worry about the potential negative health effects on children and pets, or yourself during hot barefoot summers. A little maintenance every few years, such as pressure washing and staining will only aid to it's life and appearance, however it can be done at your discretion.

Beautiful cedar, natural and long lasting, always adds a rich look and feel.

Thanks for reading, and if deck building isn't your forte, I also recommend calling a local contractor for advise and/or assistance.

Kitchen Renovation

2011-04-19T00:20:00.000-07:00

This particular renovation and update was a necessity in a newly purchased home. The original floorplan was utilized, and replaced with new cabinets, appliances and countertops. A fresh look and feel can be acheived in this fashion with minimal invasiveness to the rest of the home. The homeowner desired a modern feel, which worked beautifully with the rest of this view home.

Before

Tiled countertops and cheap, outdated cabinetry didn't do this home justice - being in it's own room, steps above the expansive views in the living room, this kitchen required much more presence and appeal

After

A welcome change - Quartz countertops, combined with a selection of both Ikea and custom Cabinetry and new appliances made this room bright, modern and inviting on a budget

Material List

Cabinetry - Ikea "Abstrakt" and Custom island end pieces by Chris Bickerton
Quartz Countertops - Eurocraft Marble
Appliances - Future Shop

Have a look around your kitchen, does the floorplan work? Do you like the location of your plumbing and appliances? Working within the confines of these can add lots of value to a modest budget - and rarely impedes the wow factor of a fresh new kitchen. Also, mixing high and low, in this case Ikea Cabinets with Quartz, can create the illusion of expensive taste, while none are the wiser that your kitchen was half the price of the common show room. Plus, a good company will always pass their pricing on to you!

Georgina

Past Projects - New Construction

2011-04-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

A post from Doug, 1932's head builder...

I am frequently asked for a portfolio of my work...being good with my hands I have not always made it a priority, however looking back - my 20+ years of Contracting does provide a good representation of my accomplishments. Here are a few examples, of some projects that are close to my heart.

.33 acres on Esquimalt Harbour Waterfront

This project required subdivision and several variance permits to allow construction of a 1100sq ft "Carriage House". A building designed to be resided in, with all the bones to later become a double garage with upper loft. Designed by my wife and myself, and Zebra Design.

1100sq ft "Carriage House"

Vic West Duplex

This project was a labor of love. The property, belonging to the City of Victoria as an old piece of road, required lots of paperwork. It was a great opportunity for a unique structure which was close to town, had views of the Gorge Waterway, and as a duplex - expelled all traditional methods and design.

Vic West Duplex - Unit A & B

Surfwood Supply (Commercial Construction)

A one level commercial structure in the Western Communities.

Beach Drive - Care Award Winning Home (Silver)

While not a descriptive photo, my portfolio wouldn't be complete without including a photo of my first award winning build.

Beach Drive - Uplands Victoria B.C.

Glenview Animal Hospital

A multi-unit building, constructed on pilings to mitigate environmental concerns stemming from a bog-like soil quality and nearby stream.

View Royal Condo Building & Show Suite

This building was designed both myself and Misra Architects of Victoria B.C. The main initiative of this project being Land Development, the parcel was later sold to a Vancouver development company based on my design, as well as my construction of the free standing show suite.

The Aspen

Show Suite

I enjoy taking an active part in the design process, in some cases using my own vision and creativity, and in others, interpreting the owners to ensure a custom build. In any case, I always ensure quality and satisfaction.

Thanks for looking,

Doug

Decks, Decks and More...Well, Decks.

2011-04-16T18:04:00.000-07:00

It's always hard to envision a project like a backyard Deck. We all love them, and they really become the centerpiece of Spring and Summer entertaining. Fortunately, there are plenty of methods to building a deck that make the project quick and easy - And depending on its size, they can be put together and ready for BBQ's and furniture within a week!

Here is one example to inspire:

*During Construction* These homeowners were looking for an extension of their original upper

deck, and addition of a full lower deck. The railings were also later matched to the original to

provide cost savings. A second staircase was later added to provide access to the yard, eliminating

the original, rotted stairs (red).

Railing choices can be as simple or elaborate as you choose, and also depends on your need for privacy. I personally favor a combination of Cedar and Aluminum products. This adds to the longevity while still providing the "wow" factor of beautifully stained cedar.

An example of this use can be seen here:

A small "Juliet" Deck is inexpensive and creates a wonderful

addition to a master bedroom or ensuite. This example also

includes solar post lamps.

This photo shows fresh concrete on a cascading patio design.
Railings and stairs are planned at a later date.

Deck construction can be a simple and non-intrusive way to add floor space to your home during warm weather. The addition of a covered area, right away or down the road, will maximize it's usage even more.

Happy Spring!

Spring Barn Repair?

2011-04-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

does your barn look like this?

In addition to our typical work of new home construction and renovations, this time of year we like to offer Barn and Stable repairs, or new construction. You may be looking to rebuild or fix your paddock or stall fencing, build shelving or lockers in your tack room, fix the leaky roof or get the arena prepped for the busy spring/summer. Or perhaps you are looking to build the barn or arena of your dreams.

We're happy to come out and provide a free cost estimate.

Welcome!

2011-03-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to ThirtyTwo Custom Homes & Renovations' blog. We are looking forward to keeping a record of current projects, with some helpful "handyman's tips" and DIY advise along the way.

We're happy to take on all jobs, big or small. Our pricing is competitive, and we work almost solely on word-of-mouth advertising, so quality and customer satisfaction is our priority.

If you are looking for someone to stick handle the subdivision of land, find you a development property, build your dream house from start to finish, or simply renovate your bathroom or kitchen, we do it all and sub-contract the best tradesmen along the way for areas outside our expertise.

Feel free to give us a shout if you'd like to price your job. Estimates are free, and there's no obligation.