The owners of the house known as the "Monteith Home" in Stratford were struggling to find someone to tackle the seemingly monumental task of replacing the deteriorating hundred-plus year old columns of the house's facade. Built in 1872 in the Italianate style, the neoclassical portico with four massive columns was later added at the turn of the century. Build jumped at the opportunity to preserve the appearance of one of Stratford's best houses.

The primary task was acquiring the 22 foot permacast columns which were chosen as exact replicas of the originals with the intention of less future maintenance for the homeowners. The task was complicated by a code requirement to sleeve the new columns over a structural wood post and bracketry. The end result is an architecturally correct, structurally sound improvement that is built to last.

Restoration of Neoclassical Portico

WInter 2015 • VoluMe 4 • ISSue 3

The new columns are lowered into place by crane.

The existing column structure is secured by scaffolding while the Build team prepares the replacement columns.

It's more than a tagline!Build is fortunate to be able to choose projects which allow us to maintain our integrity and establish our company as a purveyor of high-end home renovations. As heritage builders, we consider ourselves the preservationists of existing heritage as well as the creators of future heritage. We are proud of our ability to do things right the first time, as well as using the best materials available so your home will withstand the test of time.

Whether it is restoring an existing home to its heritage roots with careful consideration for the aesthetics of the period, or designing and building a new home with a nod to traditional ideals, we utilize modern technology and materialsand old fashioned "know-how" to impress with every project. RoRy

RoRy McDonnell buIld4u.ca

519 275 3250 RoRy@builD4u.ca A team member going to great heights to get the job done.

We loVe Your HouSe!This beautiful St. Mary's stone cottage with two storey addition was built by

John Sanderson in the mid 1800's. The entrance porch was added later; however, the integration is seamless and stunning.

SneAK PeAK Craftsman style in St. MarysWhen we were approached late last year to design and build a home in a St. Mary's subdivision, we realized that there would be some inherent restrictions involved. But we liked the clients and their aesthetic tastes and knew it was worth the challenges. The project has been everything we hoped, a thoughtful design process, a build that has been on time and on budget and clients with open minds, great taste and attitudes.

The transitional design has a modern appeal with a craftsman influence. The layout is

based on a central staircase, creating an open concept to facilitate the needs of this young, active family. our client had a list of needs that we were able to accommodate in the design, including a large, bright kitchen and living room area facing the backyard, a dining room that could easily transition from everyday use to formal entertaining, a spacious mudroom and roomy upper level laundry. All of the modern conveniences in an attractive package. More photos on the horizon for our next edition.Influence of the Craftsman style on the exterior front.

The Good, The Bad & The ugly BlogIf you would like to see more photos of the projects in our newsletter, as well as insight into the houses we love, check out our website and blog at: http://www.build4u.ca/our-blog.

Build DesignWe are working on a design for an addition and attic remodel of a quaint ontario Cottage; as well as a kitchen and sunroom addition on an edwardian house. Also, we are very excited to begin plans for a total restoration and renovation of a "Canadian Farmer" home near Ayr.

The Modern country Kitchen

In the shop: A client's iron, Baroque-style, Parisian fence piece to be included in new design and build project.

A large island is the hub of this long-time client's country home kitchen renovation. The large work surfaces and tremendous storage space allow the home owner to keep everything organized and tidy for everyday use as well as entertaining.

Walls were removed to utilize an existing sun porch as part of the living space; a bright spot for dining with a gorgeous view of the pool and acres of fields and forest in behind. White cabinets, with a contrasting dark wood island, ogee tile backsplash and granite countertops are all on trend and create a contemporary look in the country.

our client also took the opportunity to update the neighbouring living room with new cabinetry and fireplace; and laundry room with clever dog wash station.

Photos: Sunny dining spot; spacious island; and many smart storage options.

Restoring front entrance of "Canadian Farmer" near Ayr.