According to the University of East Anglia, exposure to green space reduces the risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, premature death, preterm birth, stress, and high blood pressure.

Analyzing over 140 studies involving 290 million people, researchers studied the health of people with little access to green spaces compared to that of people with the highest amounts of exposure. Their findings show significant and measurable health benefits. 

Exposure to health-promoting environments is recognized as both preventing and helping treat disease. With a reduction in diastolic blood pressure and heart rate, and a significant reduction in the physiological stress marker salivary cortisol, exposure to outdoor green space provides meaningful health benefits.

The health benefits of the great outdoors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of greenspace exposure and health outcomes' is published in the journal Environmental Research on 2018 6 July.
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​You can’t go wrong with a classic white kitchen; it creates an uncluttered and clean aesthetic for preparing meals and spending time with family. A decade of market domination has meant few choices for adding colour.  Those wanting to bring the warmth of wood or bold colours into their kitchens will be pleased by the emerging trends retailers are noticing.  Everything from statement backsplashes, bold cabinetry to the understated coloured interior of stainless appliances are now offered by retailers to the white weary.​

​Adding a wood floor gives the consumer a wide palette to choose from, giving new life to existing appliances and cabinetry.  A pale wood subtly compliments pure white cabinetry and counter tops, while a dark rich wood will showcase flawless white with striking contrast.

Updating your white cabinets to a traditional dark wood or keeping current dark cabinetry and installing glossy white counters and tiling combines the trendy white kitchen with traditional ebony or mahogany for a dramatic twist on the two classic looks.

Counters in a vivid marbled granite or a daring hue in solid glass, will elevate a generic white kitchen to a statement of individuality and style.

Properties in Nanaimo can be irregular in shape with varied terrain.  A trade off for the ocean views.  Take advantage of your properties unused space with a raised deck and outdoor cooking area.

Gorgeous view but only from the corner of your yard?
Many feel their space just isn’t suitable for a deck especially here in Nanaimo when many have sloped yards or limited entry points. A freestanding deck can be a beautiful addition to any style of home giving an architectural element to the natural look of a steep slope. 

Lots of outdoor space but mostly vertical? 
Integrating with the land by using steps and several platforms looks stunning and gives the whole family space to entertain or practice their morning yoga routine.  This design works best for sloped yards, but steep terrain can  use extra-tall posts with required bracing.

No room for entertaining​?
An attached raised deck can add considerable square footage to your living space.  Speak with your contractor and designer on how you envision the space will be used.  Extra bracing for the added weight of a hot tub or extra load from crowded socials should be included from the start. 

Large trees in the way?
City Bylaws often forbid the removal of healthy trees, making a deck seem impossible.  Incorporating your trees into the design will create shady areas protecting your family from the harsh summer sun.  Leave a few inches around the trunk of each tree for future growth, ensuring water and air circulate at the base of the tree. 
A pergola, for those without the natural shade trees gives, will give a similar dappled effect allowing your guests to enjoy the sun without melting under its direct glare.

Unsure where to start?
It’s important to start the process early by hiring a reputable contractor.  Always contact your local Home Builders Association for a list of Contractors in your area.
Almost all decks require permits that take time for approval. Hiring your contractor before this stage will ensure the necessary drawings are completed and submitted for approval. They will know which styles will realistically work in your space and recommend products and designs to suit your needs.  
Inspections create stress for the average homeowner and can become costly, letting your contractor handle these details means inspections are precisely scheduled and all deficiencies are resolved.   

At the end of your project, what will make your deck truly enjoyable will be the little details that bring it all together.  Speak with your contractor they know where to go for the right lighting, railing accessories, and how to create a focal piece with water or fire features.