Home tour: Don't just plan a renovation, experience it

Nine homes, six hours, one fabulous tour: If you’re considering a renovation, there’s no better way to check out potential renovators than stepping inside one of their projects to see, feel and experience their work — enter the RenoTour Parade of Homes. 

 

This house tour of renovation projects and more boasts everything from a kitchen makeover to a home rebuild. You’ll find two coach homes, aging-in-place/accessibility projects, a multi-unit infill and more from several of Ottawa’s top renovators. All participants are part of RenoMark, which is a national program that identifies professional contractors who have signed on to a code of conduct that protects the homeowner. 

 

“Experiencing a renovation firsthand allows you to truly immerse yourself in the space and envision what could work for your own home,” says Jason Burggraaf, executive director of the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association, which is organizing the tour. “I encourage everyone who’s considering a renovation project to check out what’s possible when you use a professional renovator.” 

 

Now in its 10th year, the tour will showcase nine homes in person on Oct. 6. Afterwards, most can be toured virtually via immersive 3D walk-throughs at RenoTour.ca. 

Participating companies are: 

 

• Amsted Design-Build — accessible main-floor makeover in Ottawa West 

 

• ARTium Design Build — main-floor renovation in Carp 

 

• GoodStory — multi-unit infill in Old Ottawa East 

 

• Lagois Design-Build-Renovate — basement & accessible main-floor remodel in Ottawa West 

 

• MBHE — coach house (secondary dwelling) in Hammond 

 

• Ottawa General Contractors — coach house in Orléans  

 

• RND Construction — whole-home renovation in Alta Vista 

 

• Spectrum Kitchen & Bath Design — kitchen addition and renovation in Centretown

 

• The Conscious Builder — whole-home renovation in Overbrook

 

“You won’t find a better chance to get a feel for local builders and their work, and even chat with other homeowners in your community about their projects,” says Casey Grey, founder of The Conscious Builder. “It’s a great way to get out and around Ottawa and get some insight —literally! — into what is possible.” 

 

There is no charge to take part. Brochures with details on the tour stops can be found online (scan the QR code). You can also pick up a map in person at the GOHBA booth at the Ottawa Fall Home Show (EY Centre, Sept. 26-29). Homes will be open between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and representatives from the participating companies will be on hand to answer questions and share details of their projects. 

“It’s like Pinterest come to life!” says Stephanie Haw, Amsted’s marketing and human resources director. “It’s a chance to get a sense for several high-quality renovators in the area … (and) if you simply have a love for interior design and architecture, this is a great way to spend a Sunday feeling inspired.”

 

If you go 

What: RenoTour Parade of Homes 

When: Sunday, Oct. 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (online tour available afterwards) 

Where: Nine homes across the region from Hammond to Carp 

Cost: None, admission is free 

Information: gohba.ca