Renovation of the Month 
January 2009
Divine Reincarnation
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This ranch-style bungalow, located in the picturesque town of Oro Medonte in Simcoe County was a labour of love that became both the dream and stunning show home of the builder-owner. The 1900 square-feet residence on 3 acres was constructed in 1975. This was all too apparent when first purchased, right down to the kitschy details. After four months, the interior of the home was completely re-built, and it took about two summers to complete the outdoor area that included a beautiful in-ground pool and serene koi pond. The open concept main floor of the house perpetuated the exotic contemporary Asian-influenced style, which plays magnificently throughout the entire residence.
The whole house was gutted, the staircase was moved, and the kitchen was opened up into the family room. The old windows and doors were replaced with Jeld-Win windows and doors; several exterior doors and two bay windows added. The former, dingy two bedroom apartment in the basement was converted into a fancy new office that featured: recessed lighting, crown molding, a custom built-in bookcase under the stairs and a full wall of cabinetry. The downstairs also houses a home gym, full bathroom, and three bedrooms – perfect for overnight guests.
Ron Bowler and his wife Cheryl designed everything themselves, with Ron completing the majority of the construction. The show home has been featured in magazines as well as popular daytime show, Cityline; such kudos much deserved for the once dated structure that was truly reborn as a divine living space.
About the Builder
Ron Bowler is the Owner/ Designer / Builder of Natural Elements. He has been Helping Homeowners for over 25 years with every aspect of their Home Renovations – Inside & Out. Ron works closely with every client with the understanding that every homeowner is passionate about their home, no matter how large or small the project. His attention to detail is what keeps him in demand; first and foremost Ron prides Natural Elements on satisfying the discerning customer. As a result, the company is kept small to maintain “quality control”; Ron insists on personally working on every job with involvement in every aspect of the process of the project from the design to the building.
Renovator:
Natural Elements
Date Completed:
August 2006
Services Performed:
- gutted entire house down to the exterior studs
- all interior walls were removed or moved including the stairwell
- beams installed in the attic space to take the place of the load bearing walls
- added a bay window to the master bedroom, and bricked in old windows
- all plumbing and wiring removed and updated
- new hardwood flooring installed throughout
Budget:
The interior renovation was $112,000.00 and the backyard was $150,000.00.
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The Home Renovation Guide’s Renovations of the Month provide you with before and after pictures of complete home makeovers.
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