#furniture-on-sale-calgary

[emmabakersblog]

Rose and Fern Home Staging in Calgary

When it comes to selling a property, first impressions matter. Potential buyers often make up their minds about a home within minutes of walking through the door. That’s why home staging has become a crucial strategy in the real estate market. In Calgary’s competitive housing market, home staging services can mean the difference between a property that lingers and one that sells quickly and at a premium price. Whether you’re preparing your house for sale or simply want to refresh your living space, partnering with professional staging companies can transform your home’s appeal, making it more attractive to buyers.

What is Home Staging?

Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its aesthetics and functionality. This is done by rearranging furniture, decluttering, adding decorative elements, and sometimes even making minor repairs or renovations. The goal is to make the home as appealing as possible to the largest pool of potential buyers, helping them envision themselves living in the space.

In Calgary, home staging services go beyond just making a home look nice. They create an emotional connection between the buyer and the home by presenting it in its best possible light. From reimagining living spaces to creating a cohesive design theme, professional stagers know how to highlight a home's strengths and downplay any shortcomings.

The Benefits of Home Staging in Calgary

1. Faster Sales

One of the most significant advantages of home staging is that staged homes typically sell faster than non-staged ones. When a home is visually appealing and looks well-maintained, buyers are more likely to make an offer quickly. In Calgary, where the real estate market can fluctuate, a staged home can give sellers a competitive edge, reducing the amount of time their property is on the market.

2. Higher Sale Prices

Professionally staged homes tend to sell for more than homes that are not staged. By showcasing a home’s best features and creating an inviting atmosphere, staging companies help buyers see the value in the property. For homeowners in Calgary, investing in home staging services can lead to a higher return on investment by attracting more offers and possibly sparking bidding wars.

3. Helping Buyers Visualize

When potential buyers tour a home, they want to imagine themselves living there. An empty or cluttered home makes it harder for them to visualize how the space can work for their needs. Interior design and staging help to create an inviting and functional layout that appeals to a wide audience. Whether it’s arranging furniture in a way that optimizes space or adding décor that reflects current trends, staging helps buyers connect emotionally with the home.

4. Highlighting the Home’s Best Features

Every home has unique features, but not all of them are immediately obvious to potential buyers. Staging professionals know how to highlight these strengths—whether it's a spacious living room, a cozy fireplace, or a stunning view of the Calgary skyline. By drawing attention to these elements, interior designers can help elevate a property’s perceived value.

5. Neutralizing the Space

Personal décor can be a distraction to potential buyers. Family photos, bold paint colors, and unique furniture may not appeal to everyone. Calgary home staging experts often recommend neutralizing the space by removing overly personal items and replacing them with décor that appeals to a broader audience. This allows potential buyers to focus on the home itself rather than the homeowner's personal style.

What to Expect from Home Staging Services

Professional home staging companies offer a variety of services tailored to the needs of the homeowner. Here’s what you can expect when you work with a home stager in Calgary:

1. Consultation

The process typically begins with a consultation, where the staging company will assess the property and make recommendations. They will evaluate each room, the overall flow of the home, and its curb appeal. During this phase, they may suggest minor repairs, decluttering, or furniture rearrangement to make the home more appealing.

2. Staging Plan

Once the consultation is complete, the stager will develop a custom plan to showcase the home’s strengths. This may include renting furniture, updating lighting, adding artwork, and arranging furniture in a way that maximizes space and functionality. Some interior design Calgary experts also offer full-service staging, which includes sourcing décor items and managing installation.

3. Execution

Once the staging plan is approved, the staging company will begin transforming the home. This could involve everything from rearranging existing furniture to bringing in new pieces and accessories. Professional stagers also focus on creating cohesive design themes that are appealing to a broad range of potential buyers.

4. Photography-Ready Setup

After the home has been staged, it’s ready for professional real estate photography. Since most buyers start their home search online, high-quality photos are essential. A staged home is more likely to stand out in listings and attract more prospective buyers for viewings.

Home Staging vs. Interior Design: What’s the Difference?

While both home staging and interior design focus on enhancing a space's aesthetics, their purposes differ significantly.

Home staging is designed to appeal to potential buyers by depersonalizing a home and making it universally appealing. It focuses on creating a space that will sell quickly and for the highest price possible.

Interior design, on the other hand, is about personalizing a space to fit the homeowner’s tastes and needs. The goal is to create a home environment that reflects the personality and lifestyle of the people living there.

In Calgary, interior design services often work in tandem with home staging, as interior designers can bring valuable insights into making a home functional and beautiful, whether it’s for living or selling.

Why Hire a Professional Staging Company in Calgary?

There are many reasons why hiring a professional home staging company in Calgary is worth the investment:

Expertise: Staging professionals have the experience and knowledge to create designs that appeal to buyers. They understand how to make the most of every space, no matter its size or condition.

Objective Perspective: It can be hard for homeowners to be objective about their own property. Stagers offer an unbiased view, helping to identify areas that need improvement.

Access to Resources: Professional stagers often have access to high-quality furniture and décor items that can be rented for the duration of the sale. This can make a big difference in transforming a space.

Saves Time: Preparing a home for sale can be time-consuming. Hiring a staging company allows homeowners to focus on other aspects of the sale while professionals handle the design and setup.

Final Thoughts

In Calgary’s competitive real estate market, home staging is a proven strategy to help homeowners sell their properties faster and for a better price. By investing in home staging services, you can showcase your home’s best features, create an inviting atmosphere, and appeal to a broad range of potential buyers. Whether you’re looking for a full-service staging or just need advice on how to declutter and rearrange your space, professional staging companies in Calgary offer the expertise and resources to make your home stand out in the market.

For sellers in Calgary, partnering with a home staging company is more than just an investment in design; it’s an investment in a quicker, more profitable sale.

[budgethomerenovationonline]

Transform Your Calgary Home with These Affordable Renovation Projects

Renovating your home doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. For Calgary homeowners, there are numerous budget-friendly strategies to transform your space without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, refresh your bathroom, or create a more open and inviting living area, here are some practical tips to get you started.

1. Plan and Prioritize

Before diving into any renovation project, it’s crucial to plan and prioritize. Identify the areas of your home that need the most attention and create a detailed plan. By focusing on one project at a time, you can allocate your budget more effectively and avoid the stress of tackling multiple renovations simultaneously. Consider the impact of each renovation on your home’s overall value and your daily life. Proper planning is the foundation of successful Calgary home renovations.

2. DIY Where Possible

One of the best ways to save money on home renovations is to do it yourself. There are many tasks that you can handle without professional help, such as painting, installing new fixtures, or even tiling. Not only will this save you money, but it also allows you to add a personal touch to your home. However, it’s important to know your limits and hire professionals for more complex tasks like electrical work or plumbing to ensure safety and quality.

3. Repurpose and Reuse

Another effective strategy for budget-friendly home renovations is to repurpose and reuse materials. Look around your home for items that can be given a new life with a bit of creativity. For example, old wooden pallets can be transformed into rustic furniture, and outdated cabinets can be refreshed with a coat of paint and new hardware. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are also great places to find affordable materials and unique pieces that can add character to your home.

4. Focus on Cosmetic Upgrades

Cosmetic upgrades can have a significant impact on the look and feel of your home without requiring a substantial investment. Simple changes like updating light fixtures, adding a fresh coat of paint, or replacing old faucets and handles can make a big difference. These small updates can breathe new life into your space and make it feel more modern and inviting. Such changes are a staple in Calgary home renovations.

5. Invest in Energy Efficiency

While energy-efficient upgrades may require an upfront investment, they can save you money in the long run. Consider installing energy-efficient windows, adding insulation, or upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. These changes can reduce your utility bills and make your home more comfortable. Additionally, energy-efficient homes are more attractive to potential buyers, increasing your home’s resale value.

6. Smart Shopping

When it comes to purchasing materials and furnishings for your renovation, smart shopping is key. Take advantage of sales, discounts, and clearance items to stretch your budget further. Compare prices from different suppliers and don’t be afraid to negotiate for better deals. Online shopping can also provide access to a wider range of options and competitive pricing.

7. Hire Budget-Conscious Professionals

If your renovation project requires professional help, look for contractors who understand the importance of sticking to a budget. Get multiple quotes and check references to ensure you’re hiring reliable and cost-effective professionals. Transparent communication about your budget and expectations is essential to avoid unexpected expenses. This approach is crucial for successful home renovation Calgary projects.

Conclusion:

Transforming your Calgary home on a budget is entirely achievable with careful planning and strategic choices. By prioritizing projects, embracing DIY, repurposing materials, focusing on cosmetic upgrades, investing in energy efficiency, shopping smart, and hiring budget-conscious professionals, you can create a beautiful and functional space without overspending.

For Calgary homeowners looking to take the plunge into home renovations, Budget Home Renovation is your trusted partner. With our commitment to quality and affordability, we help you transform your space while respecting your budget. Contact us today to start planning your dream home renovation Calgary project!

[showhome-furniture-calgary]

Explore our extensive collection of modern furniture for sale in Calgary, featuring sleek and stylish designs that will elevate your living space.

At Showhome Furniture, Calgary we understand the significance of creating the perfect living room, and we're here to help you achieve just that!

[canadianjobbank]

Apply now: https://canadianjobbank.org/sales-associate-25/

[domiarkconstruction]

Cost-effective ways to update your home’s interior design in Calgary

The article outlines various low-cost solutions for updating the interior design of a home. These include painting, adding new accessories, changing lighting fixtures, reupholstering or refinishing old furniture, adding indoor plants, and repurposing old items. The article emphasizes that updating the interior design can be a fun and exciting way to refresh living space without breaking the budget. By being creative and thinking outside the box, one can have the home of their dreams at an affordable cost by purchasing items on sale or during off-peak seasons.

[calgarybestbuyfurniture-blog]

Calgary BestBuy Furniture makes available vibrant and inspired furniture pieces to our clients that are affordable yet flaunt the bling. We believe in sincerity with everything we market our customers with honesty and complete transparency. We believe in mutual benefit to everyone who is a part of the family and shares a common goal of presenting the best product in the market.

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[showhomecalgary-blog]

[maxx-cash-home-buyers-in-calgary]

Wondering How to Sell That Ugly House Fast?

These Pro Tips Will Help You Sell It Quickly!

Do you want to know how to sell an ugly house fast?

Perhaps you’re experiencing financial difficulties and need money right away. Or maybe you want to live in another location. Whatever the reason, you know that it’s not easy to sell a house in poor condition. If you’re looking to sell that ugly house, read these seven tips that will help you sell quickly.

How to Sell an Ugly House?

Yes, selling an ugly house can be challenging. But it’s not impossible. To increase the chances of a successful sale, take note of the following tips.

1. Highlight the Positives

To sell your ugly house, you should highlight the positives. If your home is in a superb location, you may want to mention that. Some buyers may want to live in your particular area but don’t have enough money to buy an expensive house.

You can also include furniture or appliances in the home’s purchase price. Although your house doesn’t have the best condition or appearance, you can still attract buyers by highlighting certain desirable features to your prospective homebuyers. Show the best parts of your home in photos and enumerate them in the listing description.

2. Don't Hide the Flaws

There’s a tendency to downplay the negative features when selling a house. You can certainly do that; however, based on our years of experience, hiding will not serve you well.

Be direct and upfront about your home’s problem areas.

Most buyers will thoroughly inspect the house before deciding on purchasing it because they want to know what they will need to fix before making an offer.

3. Give Your Home a Quick Upgrade

Unless you’re selling a house that has been fire or water damaged, there are some quick upgrades that you can do.

A fresh coat of paint, new window screens, re-stained cabinetry, or new landscaping can give your home a facelift that can potentially add thousands of dollars to your asking price.

4. Price Smart

If you want to sell your ugly house fast but plan to list your property at top dollar in the market, you should reconsider.

Pricing correctly can make months of difference in the time it takes to sell. It’s advisable to know property values in your city or neighbourhood. That said, you should also take into account repair and renovation costs.

Before listing your house for sale, do a realistic assessment of what potential homebuyers might offer. Remember, a high price may discourage buyers, but a reasonable price or a listing on the lower end can help sell that ugly house faster.

5. Be Open to Concessions

When selling a house in poor condition, buyers may negotiate certain things after making the initial offer due to findings based on home or property inspection reports.

For example, they may want you to shoulder the cost of repairs for certain upgrades by reducing the final amount or want you to pay for the real estate agent’s commission. Don’t be discouraged. Such concessions are part of the negotiating process. Plan, in advance, what kind of concessions you are comfortable with. In doing so, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate.

6. Be Patient

Selling your ugly house will take longer when compared to selling a move-in-ready home. You have to be patient because finding a buyer for a fixer-upper house may be more difficult than the buyer who doesn’t need to remodel or renovate before moving in. So be patient and realistic about the whole situation.

7. Look for an Alternative

Did you know that you don’t have to spend your valuable time listing in the MLS, make costly repairs, renovate, or wait months or years to sell an ugly house?

There’s an easier way!

If you want to sell right away, many real estate investment firms and home buying companies willing to buy your house as-is.

MAXX buys ugly houses!

That’s right. We buy houses in Calgary, and we are also popular as Airdrie home buyers, and we also purchase homes for cash in Chestermere, and we also buy houses in Okotoks, Alberta.

We buy and sell ugly houses all the time.

We buy ugly, and then we spend time and money renovating them and putting ugly houses turned beautiful and move-in ready for sale. We turn an ugly house into a lovely home for the next buyer, saving you time and money and sparing you from all those sleepless nights and frustrations.

Buying and selling houses privately is our profession. So, sell your ugly house fast with the help of MAXX Cash Home Buyers.

We can seal the deal in three days or less. That’s right. The majority of the time, we provide you cash offers on the spot and usually within 3 days or less.

Call us at 403-923-7725 and sell your ugly house today!

[wlmoe]

Brenda was born on June 3, 1925 in Calgary, Alberta. Her father, Ivan Halliday, was born in Myanmar and raised in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. Her mother, Winifred Ortmans, was born in London and raised in Buckinghamshire, UK. They met on board a ship taking them to Montreal, he to a bank position in Red Deer and she as companion to a woman and her young daughter. After their marriage they moved to Cloverdale where they bought a farm and began raising chickens.

As a child, Brenda struggled with severe asthma and found the long climb up to the local school very difficult. In the end, concerned family members in England made the decision to fund her admission to a boarding school in Vancouver. She was enrolled at Taunton House School for about ten years, graduating in 1943.

Sadly, her father died around this time and soon after, they sold the farm and moved to Vancouver. Brenda helped out in a kindergarten, worked at Birks jewelry store and took a tailoring course among other things until, in the late 1940s, she met Stan Moe through a family member. Brenda and Stan were married on October 11, 1950 in Vancouver. Christopher Eric was born September 7, 1953 and Wendy Louise followed on March 15, 1956.

They began their married life in a Kitsilano apartment, then bought their first house on Belmont Street near Spanish Banks. In 1957, they moved to Kelowna where Stan had family and a job opportunity. They moved back to Vancouver in 1961 and settled into a rented house on Elm Street in Kerrisdale. In 1968, they bought what would be their last home on 38th Avenue, which became a hub of sorts for family occasions and visiting relations.

After Stan passed away in 1991, Brenda continued to live in the house, happily self-sufficient, until 2007, when it seemed the right time for Wendy to join her there. For the next few years, along with Chris and his wife, Elaine, they continued to host family and friends for birthdays, Christmases and holiday visits. And Brenda, who was held in great affection by her neighbours on 38th, kept an equally affectionate eye on all of them from her chair on the front porch. Growing up during the depression, when looking out for your rural neighbours could mean the difference between thriving and failing, she had a warm sense of responsibility for everyone’s welfare and enjoyed a good chat as well.

Brenda loved gardening and plants of all kinds. She also enjoyed puttering around the house rearranging furniture and decorations just to keep things interesting. In our younger days we would often come home from school to find our bedrooms transformed or all the paintings switched out. She was hilariously funny and infamous for her puns, going all the way back to her school days when she was dubbed “the girl most likely to pun” at her graduation. She enjoyed getting out to the country on a Sunday drive and loved our many trips back to Kelowna, where she swore she’d seen the Ogopogo.

She had many pets throughout her life, beginning with a pair of rabbits she named Gizzard and Guts, followed by a Scottish Terrier named Joey. She was allergic to cats but managed to own two of them over the years, along with Sparky, the cocker spaniel and Willie, the corgi-spaniel mix. More recently she adored Piper, who came to us for puppy-sitting while her human was at work during the day. There were also various mice, hamsters, turtles and, of course, chickens.

At nine, on a visit to England with her mother, Brenda was given the opportunity to attend a singing class with Princess Elizabeth. A friend knew the instructor, who made the arrangements, and she was seated next to Elizabeth, who was told that, “This little girl has come all the way from Canada just to see you.” Apparently Elizabeth was wearing a yellow dress and they all sang The Skye Boat Song.

Early days in Cloverdale also included local dances during World War II. Young soldiers would drive around the neighbourhood picking up the girls and whisk them off to a nearby aeroplane hangar for an evening of much needed frivolity. Her 21st birthday was celebrated at the old Panorama Roof restaurant in the Hotel Vancouver. Brenda was a very beautiful, vibrant young woman and received several proposals of marriage, once from a man named Edwin Twaddle.

Music of many kinds, but especially classical, were one of Brenda’s greatest joys. PBS, Knowledge Network and the CBC were in constant play, and she knew most of the pieces by heart. Among her favourites were Mozart, Chopin and Brahms, Itzhak Perlman, Joshua Bell and Leontyne Price.

Brenda was also a devout Anglican with a strong faith; she kept a Bible beside her bed and found comfort in daily prayer. She attended St. Mary’s Kerrisdale Church for decades, always happy to help with the annual rummage sale and other parish activities.

Although life wasn’t easy for Brenda over the last few years, she accepted her limitations and was deeply grateful to be in her own house, in a beautiful neighbourhood with family and friends close by. She celebrated her 96th birthday on June 3rd and passed away peacefully at home on June 19th.

Brenda was very much loved and will be very much missed by everyone who knew her. She will be remembered for her humour, kindness and cheerful, common sense approach to life. She approached her death in the same spirit, had made her peace and was ready to go.

A memorial will be planned for a later date and we will contact you with the information.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Conrad Rusnak and his team, the nurses and staff of the Pacific Spirit Community Health Centre and the Evergreen Community Health Centre, the “Lift Assist” Firefighters and all our family, friends and neighbours for their compassionate support and care during this time. We appreciate you all more than we can say.

[inspirefurniture]

Looking for high-quality, long-lasting, tastefully modern furniture and decor for your beautiful home. Come and visit Inspire Furniture. We offer stylish and modern furniture Calgary from around the Calgary, Canada so you have the items you need to transform your home into a modern masterpiece. We provide the best Furniture.

[grahamauctions]

Graham Auctions

4321 84 St NE Calgary AB T1Y 7H3 Canada (403) 777-9393 info@grahamauctions.com https://grahamauctions.com/

Graham Auctions is a trusted and reputable online public auction based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. With over 25 years of experience and a focus on excellent customer service, we're confident we help you find whatever you may need at the best price possible.

We host weekly online auctions featuring a wide variety of furniture, electronics, appliances, watches, jewelry, home decor and more, all going to the highest bidder. Bidding opens up at the beginning of each week.

We also hold public vehicle auctions selling a wide variety of cars, trucks, SUVs and bank repos. Whether you're looking to sell your vehicle fast in a competitive bidding environment or get a bargain on the new/used cars for sale in the auction.

[showhome-furniture-calgary]

Your One-Stop Shop for Stylish and Durable Furniture in Calgary

Whether you're moving to a new house in Calgary, renovating, or just want to freshen up your space, choosing the perfect furniture is essential. Creating a cozy and stylish home is all about having the right furniture, customer service and much more.

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[canadianjobbank]

Apply now: https://canadianjobbank.org/sales-associate-25/

[heartlandians]

Throwback Thursday: Production Designer Rick Roberts answers fan questions! (June 2010)

Q: Hey Rick! I love Heartland, and of course the sets and scenery make it spectacular!!!! My question is, in the show Lou says to Tim that she bought most of the "Dude Ranch" decorations at yard sales, flea markets and the attic. Was that true, or where did you buy most of the decorations? Thanks! Posted by Jann on June 7, 2010 3:53 PM

A: I wish that were the case; however, my Set Decorators ( Lorraine Edwards, originally, for Seasons 1 & 2, and Laura Cuthill- Luft, currently, for Seasons 3 & 4) following consultations with myself which involve looking at examples, colour swatches, etc. pursue their sources and contacts which include antique dealers, furniture makers, private collectors, the "net" and even perhaps flea markets and garage sales. So the script was somewhat accurate in its tone, but the process was less "Lou" and more my staff...

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Q: Hello Rick! Heartland is a great show!! The sets are wonderful! Now, my question...Oh! When you were designing Lou's office, did you just print off a bunch of computer papers and stick them to the wall, or throw everything anywhere? How did it end up that the "neat-freak got a messy office", or was that just Marion? Posted by Janet on June 7, 2010 3:59 PM

A: The process of designing a set includes creating a furniture plan which the Set Decorator will use as a point of departure in decorating the set. In the case of Marion's office, which I believe you're referring to as "Lou's office," we had an interesting challenge. Marion was with us only briefly in episode 101, but her presence is with us through her family, and so we try to evoke that character in the decor of her space/ office, ie: her barrel racing, horse training, interest in equine homeopathy, etc. And she was a busy rancher with other priorities than "neat freak," perhaps with eclectic tastes and interests.

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Q: Hi Rick! Out of all the sets you've designed, what has been the most fun or creative set you've designed for Heartland? Posted by Kitty on June 7, 2010 4:02 PM

A: Of course the original design process of creating the Ranch and ranch house was great fun and challenging as we were creating "the world of Heartland" that would support and accommodate the story lines for seasons to come (while not knowing the details of those stories at that point in time). I can tell you of two sets that were great fun challenges to do (and very similar in requirement / process / & solution!) Think about last season's scripts... can you guess?

The horse transport accident in episode 301 required the creation of a highway wreck of a transport hauling a "national team" of equestrian players. We had to select the rig that would be seen as the "good one" rolling down the road, designing and applying appropriate graphics, etc. Then we had to find a "junker" trailer that matched the original in size and configuration, paint and graphic it to match, and then attack it with a track-hoe to crunch it, flip it on it's side, re-built rear doors as ramps to match and crunch them also. Then haul it all to site (a piece of highway that we could own for the day) have a wrecker flip it on it's side into position, scatter debris, shavings and manure, some cosmetic "blood," etc. Add people leading horses away, fire / rescue personnel, flashing red and blue lights, and unplanned for but effective, an overnight spring snow fall. I thought it worked well!

The other, similar set piece, was the plane crash from episode 310, when Scott and Ty go down in the bush while crossing the Rockies. Again the process was first to find a salvaged Cessna 172 (which we did with the help of Stephen at Global Aircraft Industries in Villeneuve, AB). Then we had to bring it to our shops in Calgary and set to work, again matching paint and graphics to the existing "flying double," and cut it up and crunch it further as appropriate to our scenario and story points. We actually had to "adjust" some of the damage from this Cessna's original accident as it had run out of fuel, nose planted and flipped straight over on its tail, a serious kink in the rear fuselage and tail that wasn't appropriate to our "crash".

We then hauled it to our "crash site", craned it into the forest, and arranged it in position as though it had glided in, shearing off some wing sections, running gear, etc. and nosing into an existing bank with already downed tree. We clipped the tops off spruce trees in the appropriate trajectory to it coming in, scattering debris on the flight path, scarring tree trunks where contact would have happened, etc. On the day we had some mist rising in the forest, we created some steam/ fumes rising from the engine compartment and sound provided the clicks and ticks of hot metal cooling in the still of the woods.

Analysis of the reality, selectivity of the details, practicality of making it shootable... that's the challenge of creating effective set pieces.

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Q: hey. I find you do an awesome job! my question for you is: how long did it take to make the house? Posted by alexandra on June 7, 2010 4:12 PM

A: In the Spring of 2007, after selecting the location and then following a design process of a couple of weeks, my Construction crew, under the direction of Dave " Grizz" Borley, Construction Co-ordinator Ian Wallace, Carp Foreman, and Simon Perrault, Lead Carp, built the Ranch House - Exterior in three weeks, along with re- configuring the corrals and the barn Interior, adding the barn office, etc. This included paint and landscaping. They then moved to the Calgary Studio and in two weeks we had the barn interior completed, and in three more weeks the Ranch House interior, complete with paint, furnishings and backings (the back drops for views out of the doors and windows).

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Q: Hi Rick! I know there must be many ways, but what's the number one way that you make the buildings such as the ranch house look so much older than they really are? Posted by JumperCowgirl on June 7, 2010 5:08 PM

A: The two basic ways of giving structures the look of some "age" are - 1) Alter the lines of the structure so they are no longer "true" ie. sag a roofline, wrack the whole building to bring the angles off 90 degrees (within reason, to avoid a cartoon look. This takes experience and judgement) and 2) Paint and texture to create the effects of time ie. build up of paint layers, softening of hard edges, weathering surfaces, effects of sun, crackling, flaking, gray aging of raw wood, exposing under layers of finish. The Heartland sets wouldn't look as authentic without the talents of Scenic Artist/ Paint Co-ordinator Tom Johnson. The aging process on exterior sets is never complete without the magic supplied by the Greens Dept., under the leadership and talents of "Big" John Dambraskus, in adding over growth around building bases, re-sodding with "long hair" sod and foliage of all size and type, both dead and alive.

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Q: Hi! When you got the job as the production designer for heartland and they first gave you an insight as to what the ambiance or the feel of the show would be how did you figure out what would work best? For example did you already have some idea or did you have to do some research etc. Thanks so much for taking the time out of your busy schedual to answer our questions! Posted by Free Spirit on June 7, 2010 6:53 PM

A: Generally in the design process, the script material gives you the physical requirements for staging the story, and then in conversations with producers, writers and episode directors leads to an interpretation of the tone, style, ambiance and mood that you wish to support or help to evoke with the sets and furnishings. If you as a designer are not familiar with the details of the world that you are creating, you will then do some extensive research on the subject, place, period, fashion, style, etc. to layer on to your interpretation of the "vision." Personally, as I am a westerner, born and raised, and in my career I have designed many "Westerns" (both period and contemporary), I know the world that Heartland inhabits pretty well, so little additional research was required. But by helping create and understand the history of the Bartlett / Fleming clan and the community of Hudson, it enriches the vision of the world we create for the characters to inhabit.

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Q: Hey Rick, Well may I say, you guys are awsome :D Have you done any other shows besides *Heartland* ? Posted by Calli on June 7, 2010 7:23 PM

A: I've been working in the film industry since the late 70's and as a Production Designer since 1986, I've done some feature films, lots of television movies and pilots. Much of it has been in a Western cultural genre. "Heartland" is the first television series I have designed. I had the good fortune to Art Direct (2nd in command of the Art Dept.) on some notable American projects, such as "Unforgiven," "Legends of the Fall," "Cool Runnings" and "Into the West."

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Q: My question is, How many stalls are actually in the barn? I love the design of it! Posted by Carly on June 8, 2010 12:16 AM

A: The Barn has 4 box stalls, a tack area, a feed area, and the stairs to the loft on the main floor plan, the design of which was based on the post configuration of the existing barn at the ranch site and what space requirements would allow. We built on the barn office addition to accommodate the script requirement.

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Q: Howdy from Australia! Great job on the show, especially on the ranch. How difficult is it staying the budget for the show? Posted by Natalie on June 8, 2010 4:15 AM

A: Really, not at all hard, I must say! Originally, in Season 1 we had some compromises to achieve what was required in the initial builds, but there was a lot to build in a short time to get us up and running. In subsequent seasons there have been major projects. In Season 2 we built the dude ranch and in Season 3 we had to move our interior sets to other studio spaces and we improved our Backings. Episode by episode, the budgets fluctuate to accommodate the demands of each different script, but we meet the challenges appropriately, creatively and responsibly... sometimes alternative solutions are presented, but in the end, creative producers make the ultimate decision in what gets spent, and it goes on the screen!

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Q: Dear Rick: How do you make the inside of the house appear bigger than it actually looks from the outside? Also, how much does weather affect your sets? Posted by Cindy on June 8, 2010 2:59 PM

A: I guess you are on to us! By actually making it slightly bigger, mostly deeper than the exterior set actually is, but we don't usually see the exterior house close up from that side angle. It is sort of a false perspective in the service of economics - if we aren't going to see it, let's spend the money somewhere else where we are going to see it.

Weather doesn't really affect the core sets, as they are built to cope with 4 seasons of our environmental conditions and we continually tweak things, such as site drainage, leaks, etc. However, as much of this show does take place Exterior, or outside in the elements, weather can play a large role in the day to day shooting of the series, particularly continuity wise, as we tend to Block shoot ie. everything at the Dude for two back to back episodes will be shot on our one day at the Dude, and if it snows that day we're going to see it for two weeks, and it may not have snowed at the Heartland ranch set, "just around the corner and over the hill" so to speak. In the episodic sets we try to cover ourselves for weather possibilities by having an indoor arena somewhat close to wherever we may be working at an outdoor arena if a move is necessary, but we "pretty much shoot whatever way the wind blows, and what comes with it!"

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Q: Hey Rick, Heartland is one of the best shows ever!! Absolutely me and my sister's favourite!! My question is: does Heartland own the cars you see in the episodes? Like Ty's antique Ford and Ashley's BMW and Jake's Chev? Thanks for taking the time to answer my question. Posted by Suzy on June 8, 2010 3:38 PM

A: Heartland owns Jack's and Ty's trucks as they play in virtually every episode, as we have to have absolute control of all picture vehicles that we see on a regular basis. For others, such as Ashley's BMW, our Transport Co-ordinator Bill Jansen secures and rents these vehicles from "reliable" sources so he can get them back when they are next scheduled to play on camera. Jack's original gold Chevy was rented for the pilot (as one never knows if the show will be picked up) and was continued on a rental basis (from a private owner) for the first two years. Even at reasonable rates, it was decided that it would be better to own it, but we couldn't acquire it (The owner had a serious sentimental attachment, not unlike Jack!) So, in episode 303 it dies, and Jack acquires a new "old favourite" truck (the New Goldie) and we have to find a junker match to the original to paint to match the existing one, then put it up on blocks in the "back 40" and (with added history) the show goes on!

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Q: Hey Rick! I love Heartland, and am starting to realize how each person is so important in keeping the beautiful balance that we see every Sunday! My question for you is: did you ever study or have an interest in architecture or building? Thanks for doing a great job, and answering all these questions! Posted by Teri on June 8, 2010 6:26 PM

A: I guess I have always had some interest in architecture, but certainly not as a career. I trained as a theatrical designer - sets, costumes, and lighting (at the University of Alberta) and I practiced that profession for over a decade prior to switching to the film industry. I have also done architectural design, both new construction and renovation, commercial, agricultural and residential, for select private clients, some on a repeat basis, most in Southern Alberta.

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Q: Hey Rick! :D You do an amazing job on everything in heartland. If it was different, it would not be the same, and I'm sure it would not be better either. My question is: What was the hardest thing to deside to make on the set. Like, did you have a lot of ideas of what the ranch house would look, or the dude ranch cabins? Thanks so much, and keep doing an amazing job for seasons and seasons to come! (lets all hope!) Posted by Allison on June 9, 2010 9:58 PM

A: Just some thoughts to try and answer your question, Allison... One can have a whole lot of ideas, but my main responsibility as the Designer is to implement ideas that manifest themselves as solutions to challenges in telling the stories... stylistic imagery and spatial solutions that support the demands of the script.... collaboration with the director in how he wishes to unravel the tale! Perhaps the broad strokes, as the beginnings, are harder... the details follow accordingly!

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Q: Hi Rick, love the show! I'm going to ask a random question because I feel random right now... what's your favourite pasttime when you're not working? Thanks for answering questions! Posted by Milly on June 9, 2010 10:27 PM

A: More Work! I would have to say spending the time on my own ranch, where the "To Do" list seems to be an endless scroll... especially when "Heartland" is an 8 month gig during the least frozen months of the calendar!

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Q: Hi Rick, Can you come and decorate my place! Just kidding! Seriously do you get a rough idea of what the set will be and then shop for it esp the interiors and/or are you always scanning yard sales, shops etc and looking out for stuff that would fit into the general Heartland look? I notice the bedrooms have changed with each season as it likely would with teenagers and yet everything looks like its been there for ever.â€̈Congrats Rick and team. Posted by meg on June 10, 2010 6:35 PM

A: I'm lucky to have an extremely dedicated and talented team in the Set Decoration Dept. who love to shop for this stuff, and after consultation, I'm happy to let them run with it.... see also an earlier answer.

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Q: Hi Rick, What's your favourite part of your job and what's your least favourite? Thanks for answering! Posted by Francesca on June 10, 2010 9:56 PM

A: Favourite: Payday Fridays, after a week of good productive work. The least? Wet weather Mondays, a potential crisis to deal with, and then mud bogs to repair!

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Q: Wow Rick, what a cool job you have! I must say that the rustic Albertan feel to the ranch and all the other locations are so extremely pleasing to the eyes, well done! I was wondering what kind of education is required to lead you to a production design job? and why did you decided to become a production designer? As always, keep up the awesome work, we're all looking forward to feasting our eyes on whatever you and your design team come up with in the new season! Posted by Dalaigh on June 11, 2010 2:06 PM

A: As mentioned in a previous answer, I trained at the University of Alberta in Theatre Design- Set, Costume and Lighting and practiced that profession for over a decade before starting to cross over. I did an apprenticeship as an assistant art director while learning the difference in media prior to gaining the position of Production Designer for independent feature film productions.

I also gained valuable learning experience as an Art Director working with noted Production Designers on major American feature films, such as the late Henry Bumstead ("Unforgiven") and Lilly Kilvert ("Legends of the Fall"). Basically I made the switch from theatre to film and television because I found the theatre for me to be limited in scope, financial resources to work with, and career return as a way to make a living, raise a family and maintain a lifestyle in Alberta, although certainly equal in the creative challenges. As a designer in either medium, I enjoy my role in collaborative story telling.

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Q: hi Rick i am a huge fan of heartland it is the most amazing show ever! and you are so lucky that you get to be apart of it! My question for you is what has been the most challenging set to create while working on heartland? Posted by Ashley on June 7, 2010 8:32 PM

A: I would have to say that the creation of the Dude Ranch in both it's stages, both the original derelict ranch site of falling down barns, bunk houses, etc. in three weeks for episode. 202, and then turning it all around into the finshed renovated and new cabins, horse corrals, and dock, etc. in the next three weeks for episode 204, during a very wet spring, would rank as one of the most challenging experiences so far on the series.

The site of the Dude Ranch on the lakeshore also happens to be the main drainage for the little valley. All that rain was running right through the centre of our construction site which soon became just a mud bog in which you could sink in up to your waist if you got off the boardwalk path. The road access was about a quarter mile away as the planned approach couldn't be built while it was still so wet. Thus all materials had to be hand carried in, and it was southern Alberta monsoon season of June with rain every day for about two weeks straight (or so it seemed, looking back now). I really have to credit the guys for stickin' with it and getting it done "on time & on budget!" The people you work with on a day to day basis behind the scenes always come through in the crunch and get 'er done!

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Q: Hello Rick. Thank you for being in Heartland the 'look' of Heartland is great and so is the Flemming house. Well done. Heartland is awesome!! :) My question is: Do you use a sheet screen of a certain photo outside of houses/buildings when you're filming inside? To make sure you have the right look outside? Thanks very much for answering. Have a nice day. Posted by Firefly on June 8, 2010 7:56 AM

A: Currently the backing we use for the Ranch house Interior set onstage at the studio is 135 feet long by 16 feet high, wrapping right around the front of the set to cover all the window and door angles on the front side. Process Color Print Ltd., a Calgary firm, digitally printed it on a non-reflective cotton material. The process is an extension of the billboard advertising technology. We have 5 different sets of backdrops, both for the house and the barn, to accommodate the seasonal changes in the look at Heartland Ranch.

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Q: Okay, the person who normally asks this is M.I.A (ahem by the way Twe, where are you?! I'm doing your job here for you!!), so I'll ask it... Rick, what's your favourite "comfort food"?

A: Being an Albertan and a (part-time) rancher, my favourite food is medium rare beef strip or tenderloin, barbecued, and preferably my own, grass fed "natural" beef from 24 month old black steers with no growth hormones! Serve that up with home fries, baked beans and a Caesar salad, with maybe a little homemade pie for desert!

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