HR 033113 Opt

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC.

AN EDITION OF

DESIGN IDEAS THAT BLOSSOM THIS TIME OF YEAR. See Page 12

As a pioneer of solar services in Hawaii for the past 20 years, Alternate Energy Inc. has earned the trust of longtime customers like Eddie and Grace Misaki by providing reliable, energy-efficient systems. See page 3

MARCH 31, 2013 | HAWAIIRENOVATION.STARADVERTISER.COM

Serving Hawaii Since 1981

Financing Available

HappyEaster

Easter, to me, has always beenassociated with new life —and it’s not limited to religious

connotations. You’ve no doubt noticedthe influx of baby chicks, bunnies andducklings adorning display windows,school projects and even monthly cal-endars. Maybe it’s just the spirit of theseason, but it makes me want tobreathe new life into my containergarden as well.

One of the key points I’ve learnedin my lanai gardening is to pay atten-tion to a plant’s sun and shade needs.This includes moving the plants, if nec-essary, to keep them from getting toomuch or too little sun. Why not makethe job easier and put your planter onwheels?

An easy way to achieve this is to

purchase a plant stand on wheels.You can find these at your localhardware or gardening store. Theycome in both square and circularshapes as well as in wooden andplastic materials. Make it your ownby spray-painting to match yourhome’s color scheme. Then, youcan set your containers on top.

Another option is to place yourcontainers onto a rolling cart ortable. If you have the space, anantique wagon can do the trickwhile adding character to yourgarden.

If you’re starting fresh, you canpurchase plant containers withwheels already installed. I did someshopping myself, and rollingplanters were somewhat difficultto find locally, but are abundant online.The good news is, though, you caneasily turn your existing containersinto rollers with items that are readilyavailable.

Take your existing (empty) contain-er, flip it over, and make sure it hasdrainage holes. If not, drill some intothe bottom, about 1/2-inch in diame-ter and at least 1-inch apart. Keep inmind where you’ll place your casters(small, freely swiveling wheels) andavoid those areas.

Then, take locking casters, whichyou can purchase at the local hard-ware store, and place them on the

bottom of the container. Make sureyou use enough casters to evenly dis-tribute the weight of the container.The number of casters will varydepending on the shape and size ofyour container. For most average-sized containers, four casters shoulddo the trick. Mark the caster holes,remove the casters, then drill themarks using a 1/8-inch drill bit.

Next, line the casters back up andbolt them into place. Turn the contain-er over and roll it around to make sureit works properly. Then, seal aroundthe bolt holes with caulk to avoidleaks. Now, it’s ready for planting.

JOANNE ROMERO2 MARCH 31 • 2013

Hawaii Renovation is a weekly advertising supplement published by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Send your comments and story ideas [email protected]

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Phone: 529 - 4740 | [email protected]

Let’s get your garden rolling

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2 • MARCH 31, 2013 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

In Hawaii, when we’re seeking wisdom in order to make animportant decision, we turn to our kupuna. Meet Eddieand Grace Misaki. Eddie, 85, is a retired Pearl City

Elementary School counselor. Grace is a retired CampbellHigh School secretary. Eddie enjoys golfing twice a week andworks out at the Waipahu YMCA; Grace is active at Pearl CityCommunity Church, singing in the choir and volunteering.

They have lived in their Pearl City home on Nanakai Placesince 1960. Over the last few decades, they’ve seen a lot ofchanges in Honolulu. But according to them, one thing hasstayed the same: great solar service from Alternate Energy Inc.(AEI).

Eddie first met Alternate Energy owner Bruce Ekimura in1998, just five years after the company was founded. TheMisakis had been watching their electric bill go up each monthand, knowing that water heating accounts for an average of 40

percent of a family’s electric bill, they decided to make theswitch to a solar hot water heater. Eddie called a few compa-nies and decided to go with Alternate Energy because, he said,“When I talked to Bruce, I just trusted him right away.”

This was back in the day before solar PV was widely avail-able. Originally a plumber, Bruce got his start in the ’70s work-ing side by side with his father. Gradually, he noticed cus-tomers’ growing interest in solar water heating. Bruce becamean early specialist in the installation of solar hot water heaters,and in 1993, Alternate Energy was officially incorporated.

For 15 years now, that original solar hot water heater thatthe Misakis installed with AEI has been tapping the sun’s energyto deliver piping hot water to the family home, with not a sin-gle disruption or problem. But last year, as electric rates keptcreeping up, the retired couple decided to take the PV plungeas well. Of course they called Alternate Energy. Today they are

proud owners of a new solar PV system,and Grace waits for the newly shrunkenHECO bill with glee.

“When you have that trust in some-one, you don’t need to worry. There’s noneed to go anywhere else,” said Eddie. “Iknew AEI would give us a good price andthe best quality panels. And their servicewas terrific, from our sales rep CraigKawamura, to the electricians to theinstallers. Everyone was so nice and pro-fessional.”

With the money they’re saving (about$175 per month), the Misakis can set aside

a little extra for the simple pleasures in life. “We got to travel toFlorida and Vegas,” Eddie said. “That’s what you want to bespending your money on in retirement. Not the electric bill!”

Meanwhile, the team at Alternate Energy continues tohelp Hawaii families like the Misakis with the finest solar hotwater heating and PV products, installation and service.Growing slowly but surely while quietly achieving the indus-try’s highest recognitions and certifications over the years,the company is proud to be one of Hawaii’s oldest residen-tial and commercial solar energy companies. It has been aHawaii Energy conservation and efficiency program-approved independent solar water heating contractor sincethe program’s inception.

AEI is a full-service, fully licensed solar company with thecomprehensive suite of Solar Power Systems Contractor (C-60), Solar Energy Systems Contractor (C-61) and ElectricalContractor (C-13) licenses — and licensed journeymanplumbers and electricians are all employed by AEI (not sub-contractors). They have been recognized as the No. 1 resi-dential solar PV installer in Hawaii, and designated as aMitsubishi Elite Dealer and Mitsubishi Electric CertifiedInstaller, the only PV company outside of Japan with this highhonor.

“We’ve been committed to customer needs from thebeginning,” said Ekimura. “It’s the foundation of our busi-ness and the reason we come to work every day. Wethank our customers, vendors and staff for 20 years ofsupport in helping Hawaii families move toward greaterenergy sustainability.”

Not to mention better use of their hard-earned money.

ALTERNATE ENERGY INC.

Go with a company our kupuna trust

ALTERNATE ENERGY INC. ON THE COVER

PHOTOS COURTESY OFAlternateEnergy Inc.

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC.

AN EDITION OF

DESIGN IDEAS THAT BLOSSOM THIS TIME OF YEAR. See Page 12

As a pioneer of solar services in Hawaii for the past 20 years, Alternate Energy Inc. has earned the trust of longtime customers like Eddie and Grace Misaki by providing reliable, energy-efficient systems. See page 3

MARCH 31, 2013 | HAWAIIRENOVATION.STARADVERTISER.COM

HR COVER STORY MARCH 31 • 2013 3

MARCH 31, 2013 • 3

contact // 842-5853 (Oahu) • 872-9592 (Maui)address // 96-1276 Waihona St # C124web // www.alternateenergyhawaii.com

Then and now: Alternate Energy celebrates 20 years of reliable solar service in Hawaii

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Just in time for those pending homeimprovement projects, customerswill be pleased to learn that Golden

Cabinets & Stone is adding 10 new coun-tertop varieties to its extensive inventory.

Owner Wayne Cao explained that with-in the month, five new quartz and granitecountertop styles will be available for thoselooking to build a kitchen or bathroom, orsimply spruce up an existing area.Reservations for brand-new countertopsare available now to aid in the planning anddesign process.

The company is also offering a huge saleduring which customers can take advantageof savings ranging from 40 to 50 percent offthe entire stock of cabinetry and countertops.

Golden Cabinets & Stone also offersmultiple elements of customization, includ-ing 30- and 40-inch wall cabinets as well asthe option of including glass panels as anadded artistic element. Special orders arewelcomed, and if customers provide themeasurements for their desired cabinetry,Golden Cabinets & Stone can create a 3D

computer rendering of what the fin-ished product will look like.

Cao also encouraged customers tostop in and check out Golden Cabinets &Stone’s new selection of porcelain tiles.Multiple varieties of the tile are available, andthe covering resembles travertine — a formof limestone deposited by mineral springs.

“The porcelain tile really provides thelook of natural stone, modeling travertine,”Cao said.

Golden Cabinets & Stone has gained areputation for offering quality, affordablecabinetry and countertops to meet theneeds of Hawaii’s consumers for more thanfive years. Cao noticed how expensive ithad become to purchase the products inHawaii and sought to bring more affordableoptions to residents looking to either build

from scratch or remodel existing spaces.Cao noted that Golden Cabinets &

Stone is fully stocked with inventory, and “awide range of choices” are available forcustomers shopping for everything fromcabinetry to hardware — including handlesfor an attractive yet functional touch.

“When we transform a client’s outdatedkitchen into a new, more functional space, itis most satisfying seeing their face and hear-ing how much their whole family enjoys thisnew element in their home,” Cao said.

With a 3,000-square-foot showroom atits Kalihi-Palama store located at 1299Kaumualii St., Golden Cabinets & Stone

offers a multitude of cabinetry in additionto 50 varieties of granite and quartz coun-tertops, 30 choices of sinks and an array ofhigh-quality porcelain floor tile varieties —the perfect combination when renovating abathroom or kitchen.

The cabinetry selections are constructedfrom solid wood doors and plywoodboxes, and provide customers with unsur-passed quality not available from competi-tors that offer particle or pressboard styles.The company is continually introducingnew products, which are in stock to aidhome or business owners with completingprojects as fast as possible.


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Buy Today. Install Tomorrow.Plus, when you buy Stainmaster®carpet from American Carpet One’s gigantic warehouse you could get it installed the very next day. That’s because AmericanCarpet One has their own professional in-house carpet installers. You don’t haveto wait & find out when your carpet will be installed. They can schedule theinstallation at the time of purchase. So now you can get new Stainmaster®

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CFI Certified Installers.The American Carpet One’s carpet installersare CFI certified carpet installers. A CFI certified carpet installer is an expert in seamconstruction, power stretching, trimming, pattern alignment and more, so you can beassured your carpet will be installed right thefirst time and on time. Come in today or call, 447-2752 for a Free Home Measure.

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The real estate market is starting toshow signs of improvement, whichis welcome news for people want-

ing to sell their homes. This positivemomentum alone isn’t enough to close adeal, though — a homeowner must maketheir properties appealing to potentialbuyers so they stand out from the compe-tition. The good news is it’s easy to createan appealing atmosphere with a few stag-ing tips and tricks from the experts.

“When people ask what is most impor-tant about home staging, I say, ‘delete,delete, delete and clean, clean, clean’,” saidCathy Mansour, an interior designer anddirector at Aqua Hospitality Carpets. “Youcan’t be too tidy or too well-scrubbed.”

Start by eliminating all clutter. Not onlydoes it make your home look unorganized,clutter also makes it look much smaller.Pack away papers, knickknacks, excessivephotography or decor and extra furniture.Uncluttered rooms highlight the space andpersonality of a home so buyers takenotice of these attributes rather than thecluster of family photos or stack of maga-zines on the coffee table.

Once clutter is gone, it’s time to assessthe flooring. More buyers desire carpetbecause it is comfortable, reduces noiseand improves indoor air quality. Sellersshould highlight this feature.

“Carpet is warm and inviting in a familyroom,” said Karen Dembsky, owner of

Peachtree Home Staging. “Area rugs overhard surface floors make the room looksmaller.”

While clean, fresh carpeting is an assetwhen it comes to selling a home, any floor-covering can be a drawback if it is dirty,dated or has an odor. Have carpets profes-sionally cleaned before opening yourdoors for showings. The Carpet and RugInstitute (CRI) recommended hiring onlyreputable carpet-cleaning professionalswho will use effective cleaning solutions

and equipment to do the best job possi-ble. Ask about training and certifications,and whether a cleaner will come to yourhome for an inspection first to determinewhat type of cleaning or repair is required,including any stain treatments. Visitwww.carpet-rug.org to find cleaning pro-fessionals who use CRI-certified carpetcleaning products as part of their cleaningprocess.

If repairs can’t be made, the carpet willneed to be replaced. Dembsky stressed

carpet is one of the most cost-efficientupgrades you can do when staging yourhome for sale. “Replacing carpet — youcan always get your money back,” she said.“Just don’t put it in the bathroom — buy-ers don’t like that.”

Once your home is clean and clutter-free, it’s time to let in the light. Dark hous-es look drab no matter how stylish orclean they are. Pull back drapery, turn onthe hallway sconces and update wattageson dim bulbs. About 100 watts per 50square feet is a good target. If you haveoutdated lighting hardware or lampshades,consider affordable replacements — it’stypically an easy update that transforms aroom instantly.

Once you let in all that wonderful light,some walls may look dated. A fresh coat ofpaint can liven up a room and make it lookmodern and clean. Focus on rooms wherewalls are dirty, damaged or feature a datedcolor to give your interior design a facelift.

What paint colors are best for attractingbuyers? Stick to neutrals like warm honeyor soft green so potential buyers can easilyenvision their own furniture and decor inthe space. If you have a smaller home, con-sider painting adjacent rooms or spacesthe same color. For example, a small diningroom and a small kitchen painted in thesame color tricks the eye so the spaceappears larger than it actually is.

Finally, remember sight isn’t the onlysense you want to stimulate when itcomes to selling a home. How your housesmells can make it appealing or distastefulto potential buyers. Before you know it,you’ll be reviewing bids and moving for-ward on the sale of your home.

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What do home buyers wantto see in their next home?

BY KAREN NAKAMURA

New Homes Month in April is a great time to think aboutwhat you want in your next new home. We’ve all seena stunning hillside mansion and dreamed of what it

would be like to raise our families there. Or, we’ve envied theamazing renovation makeovers depicted on television showsthat give the homeowners a sense of pride and accomplishment.But how does your dream home compare to what home buyersacross the country are looking for in their new home?

A recent study from the National Association of HomesBuilders, What Home Buyers Really Want, shared the resultsof a survey of the preferences of thousands of home buyers.On average, home buyers are looking for a home that is 17percent larger than their current home, a median of 2,226square feet. But, likely as a result of the ongoing challenges ofthe economic downturn, that size is 13 percent smaller thanthe average size of homes started in 2012.

The layout of the home is more important than the loca-tion to most buyers. Living space and the number of rooms

were ranked the most influential characteristics by 65percent of buyers, while only 33 percent ranked proxim-ity to locations they need to go as a top priority. A senseof open space continues to be popular, with about three-quarters of home buyers wanting a kitchen that is opento the family room, and nearly two-thirds looking for ceil-ings on the first floor that are 9 feet or higher.

Some of the most desired features in a home involve savingenergy. Energy Star-rated appliances were rated as essentialor desirable by 94 percent of respondents, and 91 percentwanted an Energy Star rating for the whole home. In fact, nineout of 10 buyers would rather buy a home with energy-effi-cient features and permanently lower utility bills than onewithout those features that costs 2 percent to 3 percent less.

Convenient organization and storage is another homebuyer favorite. More than 80 percent of the respondents saidthey wanted walk-in pantries and pull-out shelves in thekitchen, a laundry room and storage in the garage.

The latest technology is also important. While only 15 per-cent of homeowners currently have a wireless home securitysystem, 50 percent want one. Similar gaps in “have” versus

“want” occur with security cameras, lighting control, wirelessaudio systems and multi-zone HVACs (heating, ventilation andair conditioning).

The most unwanted home features include elevators, alocation in a golf course, high density or gated community andhaving only a shower stall and no tub in the master bath.

So whether you’re planning or dreaming about what yournext new home will look like, or you’re making renovations toyour current home so that it will appeal to its next owner,,keep these home buyer preferences in mind.

Contact [email protected] to learn about the latest fea-tures available in new homes in Hawaii.

Karen Nakamura is CEO of the Building Industry Associationof Hawaii.

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In late January 2012, the NationalAssociation of Home BuildersRemodeling Market Index hit its highest

level in five years. David Crowe, chief economist of the

association, stated: “For many consumers,fixing up their house now fits their senti-ments — and their finances — far betterthan selling or buying. I have found the con-sensus among remodelers is homeownersfeel they won’t be moving anytime soon.Clients are opting instead to do somethingthey themselves will enjoy or benefit from.”

Recent studies also show that installingreplacement windows like Amerimax has a120 percent return on investment.

Remember, your home is an appreciatingasset, one that grows in value over time,unlike purchasing a car or computer thatdepreciates over time. Invest in somethingthat increases in value.

So now is the time to invest in yourhome for not only financial reasons, but

to also improve the security, function andbeauty of your home.

Diamond Head Windows & Doors canprovide you with a free assessment ofyour home’s window, door and siding

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We can help you with products that willmake your home more secure, upgrade itsappearance, make it more comfortable to live

in, reduce maintenance and save you money.Call 799-8979 to set up a free consulta-

tion and estimate. The company offers avariety of window and siding brands so youcan find the one that fits your needs andbudget. It gives warranties for its productsand installation for the lifetime of yourhome, a warranty that can be transferredshould you ever sell your home.

Ask about the recycle credit and Aprilshipping rebates. They can save you hun-dreds of dollars.

Diamond Head Windows are windowsmade for Hawaii and installed with pride.


DIAMOND HEAD WINDOWS & DOORS8 MARCH 31 • 2013

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Take advantage of tax rebatesfor home improvement projectsWhen U.S. lawmakers made a deal

to keep the country from goingoff the “fiscal cliff ” at the end of

2012, they reinstated a tax break of up to$500 to help homeowners earn moneyback for energy-efficient home improve-ments. The tax credit included in theAmerican Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 isthe first home improvement incentivesince 2011, making this remodeling seasonan opportune time to upgrade your homebefore time runs out on Dec. 31, 2013.

While many of the products eligible forthe new tax credit are the unsung heroesof home energy savings — heaters, waterpumps, air conditioners — energy efficientreplacement windows and doors areincluded, helping to save energy while alsoinfusing new life into a dull home exterior.Many window and door manufacturers are

geared up with qualifying products that canfulfill any homeowner’s unique style needs.

Since 2006, there have been a numberof versions of the energy efficient tax creditfor homeowners. The current extensioncovers all purchases made in 2013 andretroactively gives credit for 2012 purchas-es. The credit is 10 percent of the cost ofbuilding materials and select energy effi-cient heating and cooling devices, insulationand roofing for primary residence, up to$500. Installation fees do not apply.

Some categories like windows arecapped at $200, but can be combined withother purchases to make up the fullamount. For example, if you buy qualifyingwindows for $2,000, roofing for $2,000 anda water heater for $1,000, you will receivethe entire $500 credit.

However, there are a few rules. The total

amount of savings allowed per householdis cumulative since the program began in2006. So, if you’ve already received $500 ormore in total credits since 2006, you arenot eligible to earn more credit. But, ifyou’ve received less than $500, you can stilladd new credits, up to the full amount.

Windows and doors that are eligible forthe tax credit must be ENERGY STARqualified in the region where they are beinginstalled. Look to products like the Ply GemWindows Mira Premium Series, which canbe configured to meet ENERGY STARrequirements in every U.S. climate zoneand are available in 38 colors, with multipleshapes and grille patterns.

According to ENERGY STAR’s website, allof the windows, doors and skylights in yourhome do not need to be replaced to qualify.

The tax credit will be given, dollar-for-

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MARCH 31 • 2013 9

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Refresh your roof with a new, protective coatingDo you own a home covered by a flat or low-slope

roof? Do you have an old Monier tile roof or metalroof? In this day and age, there are alternative

options to a complete tear off and installation of a newroof. But what are they? How do you know if your roof isa candidate?

A roof coating can be applied to just about any sub-strate. Surface Shield Roofing Company does, however,

have criteria regarding an acceptable conditionof the existing substrate before a coating sys-tem is recommended. The first requisite is thatyour existing roofing material must be indecent condition and the roof still must beattached to the wood or concrete that it wasoriginally adhered or attached to. Minor blister-ing or lifting of the material can be repaired

and cracked tiles replaced, butthere is a point of “no return.” Thispoint comes when the roofing sur-face has too many blisters, seamscoming apart in more areas thannot, a membrane worn down to apaper-thin state or brittle tile not able to bewalked on. These would all qualify as signs tothe home or business owner that a completeremoval and installation of new roofing materialmay be necessary.

The installation of a coating system is a lessexpensive way to enhance the integrity of thesubstrate (roofing surface) on your flat or low-pitch roof. This type of roofing can range fromroughly $3 to $5 per foot and hold materialwarranties ranging from five years to the life-time of the structure.

If your home is not a candidate for coating or

steeper roofing surfaces, asphalt products are a greatoption. They also are cost effective and have many greatwarranty options, from 20 years to the lifetime of the struc-ture. Pricing for this roofing system ranges from $3.50 to$5.50 per foot.

Surface Shield Roofing Company is a fully licensed andinsured roofing contractor. We offer a free visit to yourhome along with a free roof assessment and estimate. Wewill help you understand the options that are now availableto you. From the newest in fluid-applied coatings to thebreakthrough technology in heat-reflective asphalt shingles,there is always an option for everyone! Call the companytoday at 497-2716 or 396-9599.


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QUESTION OF THE WEEK: I saw a storepromoting a feng shui fish figurine for “moneyluck.” How does a figurine bring luck? It seemsbogus to me. What are your viewpoints of luckyobjects, lucky people, and people who live luckylives? I sure can use some luck in my life rightnow and would feel stupid buying the fish, espe-cially if it didn’t work.

I’m sure most of us feel that we can usesome extra luck in our lives, too! Lifethese days is challenging in myriad and

new ways and doing something to bringsome good luck our way probably seemsmore attractive than ever — but buying afish?

Feng shui symbolismLet me explain. Feng shui is heavy on sym-

bolism and what objects “represent.” You canfind lists of objects that can be placed in thehome to attract whatever you want more of— everything from fish figurines for moneyto elephants for fertility to deities and altarsfor protection. The million-dollar question is,do they work?

Most often when I ask the owner to tellme about the lucky items in his or her homeor office, I hear something along the lines of,“This is what the store sold me,” or “I readthat having these items are good luck.” Theitems obviously are not working because theclient wants to know what else he or she cando. Is it about purchasing another lucky objector is there more to it?

The bigger pictureI use feng shui symbolism to create an

intention in the environment. Placing some-thing in your environment that has meaningto you will symbolically and energetically sup-port you whenever you see it, but the itemitself has no magic ability to change your“luck.”

The other day a woman said to me, “You’lllove this! I put a money toad in my wealthcorner and I received a large check in the mail

the next day. Feng shui actually works!” Icringe when I hear stories like this. Feng shuihas nothing to do with luck or getting some-thing for nothing. The toad may have subcon-sciously helped her to focus on what shewanted, but it was she who created theopportunity for the check to arrive.

Feng shui is not about purchasing some-thing to place in your home so that theitem itself can bring you what you want.That is a fantasy that many people unfortu-nately buy into and what you sensed as“bogus.” If you want to manifest anything,you must hold the intention and vision ofwhat you want and recognize opportunitiesto create it when they arise. Symbols mean-

ingful to you will help to support you in thatendeavor.

Is there such a thing as luck?I feel we create our own “luck” and that

every event in our lives has two sides to it —the “lucky” and “unlucky” sides — based onour perception, or thoughts. Winning the lot-tery may seem lucky, but most people whohit the jackpot can give you a list of the chal-lenges that came along with winning all thatmoney, the “unlucky” side.

When something happens that we per-ceive as being challenging, the positive side isthat it is helping us find a better path, grow inways we never would have otherwise, or seea situation differently.

What about people who seem luckier than most?

In the same way, I do not think of one per-son being luckier than another. The lucky per-son is one who looks toward the positive,sees more opportunities, and acts on them.The person who thinks he or she is unluckyis stuck in a pattern of thinking that promotesor engenders “unluckiness” and missedopportunities.

Researcher Richard Wiseman (TheSkeptical Inquirer, 27, 1-5) showed this pat-

tern in an experiment. He had volunteersread through a newspaper and count thephotos in it. Those who thought they werelucky took a few seconds to complete it,while those who saw themselves as unluckytook an average of two minutes. Why is that?Because on the second page of the newspa-per, a large message read: “Stop counting,there are 43 photos in this newspaper.” Theanswer was clearly marked, but the unluckypeople were far more likely to miss it, whilethe lucky people tended to see it.

As an added bonus, half way through thenewspaper was another message that read,“Stop counting, tell the experimenter youhave seen this and win $250.” The peoplewho claimed to be unlucky in life, looked rightpast this message, never seeing what wasclearly in front of them, losing time andmoney.

This experiment shows that the same pos-sibility for money and success is latent ineveryone’s environment, but some peoplepick up on it and others do not. What yousee or do not see may be based on how yousee yourself. No one in that room had “morechances” than anyone else. We create ourchances or “luck” based on our outlook.

Using symbolismUse symbolism in your environment to

help you “see” and create more opportuni-ties in your life. The stronger your connectionwith what the objects represent, the morepositive and useful they become for you, butnever confuse “objects” with the power ofyour own intention. Your reality is a creationof your thoughts and intentions.

Alice Inoue is a life guide at Alice Inoue LifeGuidance LLC, a company committed to assist-ing people in living empowered lives. Alice sharesher wisdom as a professional speaker and per-sonal consultant, and offers a series of instruc-tional DVDs on feng shui, as well as her award-winning books on feng shui, happiness and spir-itual life wisdom. Visit www.aliceinspired.com toread her blog, sign up for her newsletters anddownload useful feng shui tips.

MARCH 31, 2013 • 11

withAlice Inoue

Looking for LuckWhile you can certainly fill your home or business with objects to bring you good fortune, the real keys to creating better chances are based on personal outlook and opportunities

ALICE INOUE MARCH 31 • 2013 11

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Consider these remodelingideas for the love of springImproved value, curb appeal and livability are the bench-

marks for any smart home improvement. But someupgrades you do for the sheer joy of it. The best home

improvements deliver all those smart qualities and speak toyour heart at the same time.

With spring home improvement season in motion, hereare four upgrades that you can do for the love of spring —and the love of your biggest investment:

Add/replace a skylightAbundant natural light and fresh air are among the joys

of spring, and replacing an old, energy-inefficient skylight, oradding one where none existed before, is a great way towelcome sunlight and spring breezes into your home.Sunlight’s positive effect on mood is well-documented, andadding a fresh-air skylight, which comes with a screen, offersother health benefits as well. Opt for an energy saving solarpowered fresh-air skylight and you can enjoy the benefits ofpassive ventilation to reduce humidity and stale air in yourhome along with more natural light.

From a practical standpoint, installing an Energy Star-qual-ified skylight like those made by VELUX America can helpyou control heating, cooling and lighting costs in your home.Replacing an older, less efficient skylight with a new solar-powered, fresh-air skylight that has a rain sensor, can alsoensure your home stays protected from spring showers. Youcan also choose solar powered blinds for even more energyefficiency, and both are eligible for a 30 percent federal taxcredit. To learn more about energy-efficient skylights, visitwww.veluxusa.com or energystar.gov.

Add/improve a deckThe trend toward outdoor living spaces continues, with

decks being one of the most sought-after amenities amonghome buyers. In fact, adding a wooden deck can recoupmore than 77 percent of the deck’s cost when you sell yourhome, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. ValueReport.

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it will be a great place to enjoy outdoor liv-ing. If you already have a deck, considervalue-enhancing upgrades like new balus-ters, lighted post caps, built-in seating andeven planters.

Upgrade bathroom floorsBathroom renovations are also popular

and a minor bathroom remodel can returnmore than 65 percent of the cost at thetime of resale, according to the Cost vs.Value Report. While replacing countertopsand fixtures are common remodeling tasks

in a bathroom, don’t overlook the biggestsurface in the room — the floor.

Many modern builders install vinyl floorsin bathrooms because they are durableand cheap. Switching out this commonmaterial for stone or ceramic tile is a greatway to brighten the room and give yourbath a whole new look.

Improve your entrywayYour front door and entryway are the

first impression visitors have of yourhome’s decor. A welcoming entry invitesguests in and gives you a mood boostevery time you walk through it.

This year, celebrate spring by replacingan old worn wooden door with a sturdy,decorative steel door — an improvementthat recoups nearly 85 percent of its costwhen you sell, according to RemodelingMagazine. To really celebrate spring, add ascreen door. You’ll be able to let in fresh airand spring breezes while keeping insectsout. Plus, a screen door is essentialAmericana, creating a welcoming opennessthat epitomizes the joy of spring.


MARCH 31, 2013 • 13

MARCH 31 • 2013 13

Spring brings a bright, colorful feelto the world, and you can easilyincorporate that sentiment into

your kitchen by adding a backsplash. Aproject easily within the capabilities ofmost do-it-yourselfers, backsplashesare both functional and decorative.Granite, ceramic or glass tile protectsthe wall behind the range or cook topfrom splatters of food or grease whilebrightening valuable workspace andserving as a visual focal point for theroom.

Great kitchens sell homes, and theroom is one of the most-used in anyhome. Upgrading your kitchen isalmost always a good investment, onethat improves resale value and yourenjoyment of home.


Flowering kitchen updates

G reen is the new black. Pantonenamed emerald green as its 2013color of the year, and Sherwin-

Williams touts aloe as its color of the year.Whether it’s bold, striking emerald or fresh,misty aloe, green in all shades is the colorof the moment in interiors.

Today you can’t go anywhere withoutseeing green — literally. Green is absolutelyeverywhere. So let’s explore this beautifulcolor and how it can work in your space.

The color green symbolizes nature. It’sconsidered the most restful color, combin-ing the cheerfulness of yellow and thefreshness of blue. It can represent anythingfrom tranquility to prosperity and ofcourse, even jealousy. When it comes todecorating, it’s often used to calm and cen-ter and can be used in just about any room.But as Pantone is predicting, green can beused to invigorate as well.

When I was recently at Las Vegas Market,green was featured in lots of showroomsand vignettes. A look that I really love is lay-ers of green with white and natural wood.From vibrant watercress to bright greenapple, layering your greens with the fresh-ness and contrast of white creates a spacethat is current and refreshing.

Natural wood introduces and reinforcesthe healing element in a room, and alsomakes it feel very up to date. In a space likethis I would limit blacks and harsh tones,and opt for accents of white, glass and nat-ural wood.

Another style I love is the opposite ofwhat I just mentioned — intense greenspaired with whites and blacks and pops ofa secondary accent color like yellow. This isa really fresh look that also feels strong andmodern.

Lighter greens can be used as neutralcolors. A watered-down, muted greencould easily take the place of a beige. If thisis what you’re going for, you can use it onall four walls and it would not only not be

too strong, it would be more understatedthan throwing color on one accent wall.

For a peaceful, relaxing setting in either ahome or office, you could incorporate yourbrown pieces of furniture with white trimand some deeper layers of green.

I love using blazing apple green as anaccent color because it’s fun and lively. Itevokes a lot of energy and can make akitchen instantly fresh. Be sure to havesome green apples around to tie in withthis color!

Finally, in decorating, you can also gogreen with mosses, succulents, other liveplants or fresh flowers in vases. I alwayslove displaying a single cut leaf in a vasewith water to add a breath of life and colorto any table. The side benefit? The leavesI’ve done this with usually end up sproutingroots and becoming a lasting pop of fresh-ness. Now that’s really going green!"

Cathy Lee is president and designer ofCathy Lee Style and Cathy's Marketplace, a

furniture and accessories showroom withdesign services at 1110 University Ave. Sherecently opened reStyle Hawaii, an affordable,style-conscious consignment warehouse withupholstering and repurposing services at 420Keawe St. To find out more, go towww.cathyleestyle.com.

Get the Green LightWhether it’s used as a bright accent or muted neutral, expect the color green tosprout up in interiors this year. Here are tips on how to work with the versatile hue


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The busy person’s guide forentertaining on short noticeIdeally, you’ll have a few days notice to get every-

thing in order when you’re hosting guests. Buteveryone knows that’s not always the case. Drop-

ins happen and you can make a choice between pan-icking or embracing the spontaneity of a last-minuteget-together with your friends and family. The key tobeing an unflappable host is having a simple process toget your home guest-ready in a hurry.

Enlist a full-time housekeeper. Maybe you don’t havethe means to put someone in charge of keeping yourhouse clean, but you can put gadgets on the job full-time. Rather than spending time to clean floors your-self, let a robot do the work for you. The iRobot Mint,which features both a sweep and mop mode, caneffectively handle the job of cleaning your hard floorsurfaces all by itself. It automatically cleans along walls,around furniture and into corners, while avoiding stairsand carpet, so there’s no need to supervise while itdoes its job.

Last-minute hosting doesn’t have to be stress-induc-ing, especially since your guests won’t be looking forthe royal treatment if they’re coming over on shortnotice. For more tools that can make keeping yourhome clean and guest ready even easier, visit www.irobot.com.


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Mapping tips for good measureA n important part of any kitchen or

bath remodel is taking measure-ments and drawing a visual map.

Measuring the existing cabinets will giveyou sizes for replacement cabinets.

WallsThe first step is to measure the walls of

where the new cabinets will be placed. Thebest way to measure a wall is from onecorner to the opposite end. It is alwayshelpful to have someone else hold one endof the measuring tape when measuringlarge areas.

Next, measure the ceiling height, startingfrom the floor. Measuring the ceiling heightwill determine the general height of thewall cabinets for proper counter space.When taking measurements, sometimesthere are spaces that will make taking accu-rate measurements difficult. In these situa-tions, it is better to round down to thenearest inch rather than round up.

Cabinets for a kitchen design with meas-urements rounded down will be sure to fit;the extra space can always be hidden witha filler piece. Whereas when rounded up, awhole cabinet may have to be changed toa smaller size to fit.

Openings and obstaclesIt is important to jot down all openings

or obstacles, such as windows, doorwaysor ceiling beams. Measure the placementof the obstacle from one end of the walland the sizes (width and height) of theobstacle.

AppliancesPlan on keeping the existing appliances?

Take measurements of their sizes to ensurethe cabinet design will allow space forthem to fit. Similarly, when getting newappliances along with new cabinets, takenote of the new sizes.

With existing or replacing appliances,measure their placement from one end ofthe wall to one side of the existing appli-ance. If the plan is to relocate appliances toa different area, however, make a note ofwhere.

Sinks and plumbing fixturesMeasuring from the center of the sink

to one wall will give a reasonably accu-rate idea of the existing plumbing andwhat cabinet sizes may work. Also, takethe measurements of the existing sink ornew sink so the sink cabinet size will beable to fit the sink. Although plumbingcan always be moved, using the existingsetup is most cost effective.

Stop by Da Wing Trading LLC todayfor help with designing your kitchen orbath layouts. Call 847-3288 or visitwww.dawingtrading.com for more infor-mation.


DA WING TRADING LLC16 MARCH 31 • 2013

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What does yourdream patiolook like? A wel-

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Custom flooring solu-tions from GranicreteHawaii can help bring yourvision to reality and trans-form your patio into aninviting living space thatflows effortlessly from theindoors to the outdoors.

Whether you like tropi-cal, rustic or modern styles,Granicrete Hawaii can helpcreate the look you desire.Want a tranquil and relax-ing space, a kid-friendly playarea, or an outdoor kitchenand dining area that’s per-fect for entertaining? Nomatter what plans youhave for your patio, thecompany’s team of con-crete artisans can help youfind the perfect flooringsolution. Instead of thecostly replacement of yourexisting concrete slab, theysimply resurface your exist-ing flooring with a customconcrete overlay or stain.

Concrete overlays arehandcrafted to create vir-

tually any look, includingflagstone, slate or tiles; withthe durability and easymaintenance of concrete.

Granicrete Hawaii’spolymer-modified concreteoverlays are applied just1/8 inch thick over existingconcrete and can be pat-terned, textured and col-ored to suit your needsand taste. Stains come in avariety of colors and are anaffordable option that adds

warmth and character. To get an idea of the

possibilities with overlaysand stains, take a look attheir gallery of work on theGranicrete Hawaii website.Visit their showroom tosee the concrete resurfac-ing solutions in person andspeak with a consultant. Ifyou don’t see exactly whatyou envision for yourspace, you can design aone-of-a-kind look with

the company’s team ofconcrete specialists.

Don’t settle for boringany longer. Spice up yourfloors and bring new life toyour outdoor space. Takeadvantage of 10 percent

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Thanks to its more than two decades of experience,All Island Bath Remodeling LLC has perfected aunique combination of services. These cost-effective

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• Bathtub and wall surround liners. Fit a new tub overyour old, rusty or hard-to-clean tub or wall, transformingyour bath in one day.

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• Repair fiberglass cracks and rusty tubs.The companyspecializes in the repair of fiberglass, tile, cultured marbleand rusty or worn tubs.

• Ultimate comfort.Nothing can make you more refreshedand comfortable than a newly remodeled bathroom.Theseoptions would make your bathroom safe and comfortable,and improve the quality of your life:

• Senior accessibility conversions. All Island Bath offersseveral options, which range from low cost “tub cut outs,”utilizing your existing tub and making your step-over heightabout eight inches lower than your existing tub, to completetub-to-shower conversions. The company also offers grabbars and safety accessories for making life easier for seniors.

• Cost-effective. Updating your bathroom offers one ofthe best returns on your investments, increasing the valueof your home. All Island Bath can offer you several optionsthat will fit your budget.

• Save time and money. Choosing to refinish or reline willbe less invasive and less time consuming than traditionalremodeling methods. At All Island Bath Remodeling LLC, thewidest variety of options can be customized to your needs.

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In the house ofthe rising sunPhotovoltaics are creating quite a buzz among Hawaii

homeowners. Also known as PV, photovoltaics are aform of solar energy.

“But instead of heating your water, it actually produceselectricity,” explained Chad Matsumoto, who co-ownsAlternative Electric with Bronson Apana.

Although the up-front costs may be high, there are manybenefits that make PV a wise overall investment, andMatsumoto offers these examples.

1. You’ll have a lower monthly electric billThis may be the most recognizable benefit. Alternative

Electric offers free consultations and estimates on howmany PV panels are needed.

A company representative visits a home and looks at itsroof design, electrical set up, electrical consumption and ahomeowner’s budget before recommending a suitable sys-tem.

2. Tax creditsAlthough the initial cost for PV is high, many people may

overlook the tax credits. State and federal solar energyincome tax credits can reimburse up to 65 percent of thecost of a solar system.

3. Solar energy preserves the natural environment and improves air quality

Hawaii’s electricity is mainly generated from fossil fuels. Byproducing electricity with a PV system, Hawaii can decreaseoil demand and greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Investment purposesA PV system is one of the best investments a homeown-

er can make. After tax credits, the payback on a PV systemis approximately six to eight years — maybe even sooneras the cost of electricity rises.

After the system pays for itself, a homeowner can enjoy 17to 19 years of virtually maintenance-free electric production.A PV system also increases the value of a home. It increases

equity and it’s a hot seller, according to some Realtors.

Alternative Electric designs, installs and maintains solarphotovoltaic systems.

“We take care of all phases of PV installations, so home-owners get the best-quality materials, design and workman-ship,” said Matsumoto. “We are also a full-service electricalcontractor offering residential and commercial electricalservices as well as photovoltaics.”

Hawaii’s year-round sunshine makes it one of the most effi-cient solar energy sites in the world. For a free estimate/con-sultation, call Alternative Electric at 630-6741 or 285-8663.

ALTERNATIVE ELECTRIC MARCH 31 • 2013 19

Call 630-6741 or 285-3663for a Free Consultation

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MARCH 31, 2013 • 19

ALTERNATIVE ELECTRICcontact // 630-6741 • 285-8663

Optimize small spaces in a big wayThe trend toward smaller, more efficient homes is still

in full swing, with new home builders offering floorplans that lower square footage while amping up

usability. If your home is older, however, or you live in anapartment, your smaller space may just feel ... well, small.

Being short on space doesn’t mean you have to be shorton style or efficiency. Here are a few ways you can optimizeyour small space:

Be size wiseNothing makes a small room look more cramped than fill-

ing it with furnishings that are too big for the space. For exam-ple, if your living room is 10 by 12 feet, a 9-foot-long sofa isgoing to dominate the room and leave little space for anythingelse. Conversely, placing a smaller bed (such as a twin or sin-gle) in a modestly sized bedroom is a classic trick designersand home stagers use to make a bedroom look larger.

Furnishings should fit the space well, leaving plenty of areafor you to move around them. Mohawk Homescapes blog-ger Cecilia Staniec advised homeowners to take roommeasurements. “You should never shop for furniture with-out a complete set of measurements,” she wrote.

Open up floor spaceSmart use of wall space can open up floor space, which

is often at a premium in small rooms. Some items mustoccupy floor space, such as sofas, tables and chairs. Others— like lighting, TVs and electronic components — don’t.

Wall-mounting TVs, especially flat screens, can be a great

way to conserve floor space and create an appealing focalpoint for a petite room. Low-profile wall mounts, like Sanus’Super Slim Full-motion VMF408, are perfect for small tomedium screens of 26 to 47 inches. The mounts keep thescreen close to the wall while providing a full range ofmotion for optimum viewing from multiple seating areas.

Work with your wallsYour walls can work for you in other ways, too. Even in

small rooms, the walls are one of the largest design ele-ments. Choosing a bright or light wall color can help asmaller room feel more open and airy. Adding mirrors isanother way to make a room appear larger. You don’t needto install a full-length mirror on one wall; a series of smallermirrors attractively positioned in a cluster can do the jobjust as well without being overwhelming.

Let there be lightA lack of lighting can make a small room look positively

cramped. Whenever possible, enhance the size and appealof your rooms with plenty of light. Natural light is optimumand adding a skylight or solar tube is a great way to bringsunshine into your home.

If that kind of renovation isn’t in your budget, however,maximize natural light by keeping window treatments lightand open. Recessed lighting overhead can help a room feelloftier, and wall sconces provide illumination without occu-pying valuable floor space.

With the right blend of furnishings, colors and acces-sories, it’s possible to live large in any small space.


20 MARCH 31 • 2013

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Want to learn more? Please attend our FREE seminar

WOOD AND STONE FLOORING 101Saturday, April 20, 2013 10AM

Please call to reserve a seat

Let’s Talk FlooringThere are many reasons why our Kahala Floors brand of wood flooring is a best seller in Hawaii. I personally designed this product at the factory for Hawaii and my overseas employees make sure moisture content, gloss level and species are appropriate for Hawaii. WE CARE about you and what we sell and the Kahala Floors label guarantees you quality! Aloha, Shirley

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Explore a full range of premiumbath products for your homeWhen TOTO® first came to the

United States, the companyimmediately gained popularity

for its well designed, highly efficient toiletsas well as the very popular electronicWashlet seats. In the last 25 years, Toto hassteadily become even more well known,yet the majority of people in the U.S. fail torealize that it does not only design andmanufacture the world’s most balancedand effective flushing toilets, but a full lineof faucets, sinks, accessories, tubs andshower fixtures as well.

The Bathroom Store is constantly workinghard to inform the public about these beau-tiful fixtures, which are often only discoveredafter the fact, when customers come intoour showroom to choose a toilet.

The public can rest easy installing a faucetor shower valve that they’ve chosen fromToto, knowing that it is backed by the world’slargest bathroom fixture manufacturer. Totois the global leader in plumbing products, sur-passing both Kohler and American Standardcombined. A warranty is only as good as thecompany that backs it. With a century ofexperience, Toto is second to none for after

sales and technical support. This year, Toto has introduced three new

lines to its constantly expanding fixtureselection. The Silas, Vivian and Wyeth col-lections offer full suites that include: show-ers, matching faucets as well as all of therequired accessories available in the mostpopular finishes. In addition to adding theoption of a new three-way diverter with or

without off positions, these new bathroomsuites are also the most economical optionsavailable from Toto. The new valve optionsgive the plumber or contractor the conven-ience to choose from the most basic to themost luxurious shower setup that a home-owner can imagine. Moreover, these suitesare perfect for builders looking to put in thehighest quality product at a very reasonable

price, while keeping the plumbing clean andsimple.

Having the full support of Toto, theworld’s largest bathroom fixture manufac-turer, is an added bonus for both builderand homeowner. Before starting any futurerenovation or construction project, checkout Toto’s full line of quality products at theBathroom Store. The company has been aproud source of Toto bathroom fixtures forthe last two decades here in the Islands,and it looks forward to serving the peopleof Hawaii for many more to come.

MARCH 31, 2013 • 21

THE BATHROOM STORE MARCH 31 • 2013 21

THE BATHROOM STOREcontact // 843-2005address // 985 Dillingham Blvd.email // [email protected] // www.tbshi.com

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One decision that’s not hard to makeW ith literally hundreds of solar companies to

choose from, it’s very difficult to find a solar com-pany that you can trust, let alone get a fair deal

from. Oftentimes when you call these companies, they willtry to persuade you with slick sales tactics and negotiations.

Look no further than Akamai Energy to make it easy andaffordable to go green with photovoltaic solar energy. Thecompany has earned accreditation from the Better BusinessBureau of Hawaii, so you know that it’s a company you cantrust for all your photovoltaic solar needs.

A simple phone call sets you up with a friendly AkamaiEnergy representative who will handle a short 30 minute on-site survey of your home and review your electrical needs.

If you’re tired of dealing with sales-people, no problem. Akamai Energyunderstands and values your time,and with a little information and helpfrom the homeowner, a quote can begiven right over the phone or viaemail.

“We make it very easy for our cus-tomers,” said Richie Aqui, AkamaiEnergy’s managing director. “Give us acall and we’ll be happy to answer

your questions. There’s never an obligation to purchase. Theestimate is free and we’ll offer you a great price on your

first phone call or visit with us. “We have a highly experienced electrical

and racking team to give our customers thepeace of mind that we will install your sys-tem as we would on our own home.”

To help expedite any financing needs,Akamai Energy has teamed up with one ofHawaii's top local credit unions to help youget financed quickly for your solar system inas little as three to four business days.

Plus, Akamai Energy is proud to intro-duce the new Kill-A-Watt Box powersaving device, which allows you to saveup to 25 percent or more on your elec-tric bill with no solar panels! Perfect forhomes with limited roof space, limitedbudgets, commercial buildings, condos,

renters and business owners.“A business owner with a $5,000 a month bill can save

$1,000!” said Aqui. “A renter or condo owner with no con-trol over their roof space can save $60-$80 a month for avery small investment. That’s $700-$1,000 a year in savings!”

Call Akamai Energy today at 445-9119 ext. 1, or [email protected] and lock in your 2013 PVinstallation before the summer rush.


AKAMAI ENERGY22 MARCH 31 • 2013

AKAMAI ENERGYcontact // 445-9119web // www.akamaienergyhawaii.com

Managing directorRichie Aqui

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BY KYLE GALDEIRA

Through his 25-plus years as a profes-sional painter, Jimmy Suh hasstressed quality and integrity when

it comes to assisting customers with a widerange of projects.

In early 2010, Suh moved to Hawaii tobe closer to family and friends, and broughthis successful painting business with him tothe Islands. The contractor spent nearly 20years in San Francisco building his businessand cultivating a sterling reputation for pro-ducing quality results. Whether the jobinvolves painting a home’s exterior, or afew walls of a commercial space, DeepPurple Painting has it covered.

“My main goal is to produce a quality job— that’s the most important thing,” saidSuh, owner of Deep Purple Painting.

Prior to each job, Suh meets with theowner to determine the necessary stepsinvolved in refinishing the desired surfaces.The painter and his experienced crew con-sider many factors, including the relation-ships between colors and how they com-pliment one another, and present theowner with the viable options. Otheraspects that Suh considers include the tex-ture of certain surfaces, and what variety of

paint will coat them in a way that protectsand beautifies for years to come.

Suh has accumulated a host of positivereferrals from satisfied customers — adirect result of his respect for his clientsand their needs. When meeting with Suh,customers are encouraged to view com-pleted jobs in person to fully understandthe stellar workmanship that goes intoevery Deep Purple project. After the lookand feel of the project is determined, the

client is presented with a written estimatedetailing both the cost of the job as well asa timeline detailing the work to be per-formed.

“The word-of-mouth referrals that Ireceive come from the extensive prepara-tion and excellent results from numerousjobs, both residential and commercial,” saidSuh of many notable projects in bothHawaii and San Francisco. “That’s why peo-ple like how I do business.”

Suh has honed his craft for over a quar-ter century, and can quickly diagnose prob-lems with paint jobs that have resulted inunsightly chipping and peeling. Suhexplained that the tedious tasks of primingand smoothing surfaces and filling in anycracks or imperfections with quality patch-ing materials go a long way in ensuring apaint job’s effectiveness. He stressed qualityand an honest approach to customer serv-ice throughout each project.

“A painter needs to follow the properprocedures,” Suh said. “That’s why thereare so many problems here in Hawaii withpainting projects. You need to prime thearea, and prepare it properly. It’s worth theprice for a premium paint job that’s doneright the first time, saving time and moneyin the long run.”

For more information or to set up aconsultation with Suh, call 739-2000.

MARCH 31, 2013 • 23

DEEP PURPLE PAINTING MARCH 31 • 2013 23

>> After

>> Before

Rolling in the ‘Deep’

DEEP PURPLE PAINTING contact // 739-2000

A ccording to Bella Pietra showroom managerJacob White, adding decorative mosaic tiles toyour home is easier than you think.

“Many people love the idea of using mosaic tile, butaren’t sure how or where to use them in their homes,”said White. “We show you how these tiles can be usedto add color and texture to the decor of almost anyroom in the house.”

The key to using mosaic tiles in your home is to choosethe right size and color of tiles for the space that you aredecorating. Think carefully about these two aspects of thetiles as well as what the overall purpose of the room isintended to be, and you’ll find that using mosaics is simple.

At Bella Pietra, the staff encourages you take homeswatches so you can visualize the tile in the actual spaceand see it with your lighting, cabinetry, etc.

Kitchen and bathroom backsplashes are perfect placesto consider using mosaic tiles. Your kitchen and bathroomcounters are usually clean planes and often with a highpolish. Mosaic tiles add elements of texture and color tooffset the long lines of the countertop.

Different choices in the color and size of the tiles can

really make a room look different. Instead of blending in,choose mosaic tile walls that are really set apar t fromthe rest of the cabinetry in the kitchen. If you want akitchen that is modern and expressive, larger tiles thatare set in a way that creates a textural pattern on the

wall could be one way to go.Instead of a standard 1 by 1 inch tile, go with a subway

tile (2 by 4 inches) or something very linear, like 1 by 10inches. Most of the tiles that there are to choose fromare square or rectangular but those aren't the only choic-es that you have. Choose tiles that are of a differentshape and you can create cool patterns and designs inyour home without a lot of hard work on your part.When making this choice, always go small with the tilesbecause it creates a look that blends together well with-out attacking the senses.

Mosaics are not only for the kitchen and bathroom.They can be used as a border around the floor’s edge ofa room. Use an 18 by 18 inch tile as the field with a 2 by2 inch on-mesh matching travertine mosaic as the bor-der. This helps define the space.

Mosaics are also used for entire walls. Rather than cre-ating an accent wall with different color paint, use a stonemosaic veneer to clad the wall and anchor the space.

Bella Pietra has mosaic glass, stone, pebbles and veneer.Come by the showroom to browse the selection andconsult with the staff.

BELLA PIETRAcontact // 587-7779address // 701 N. Nimitz Hwy.web // bellapietra.com

BELLA PIETRABACK PAGE STORY24 MARCH 31 • 2013

See how mosaicscan make a difference


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