CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS
MILNE HOMES
This article originally appeared in Profiles
Magazine.
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(continued...) Several times a year, Milne Homes organizes
a team meeting with the various trades to review the building
process and analyze what could be improved. According to Doug,
this “think tank” is a chance for tradespeople to
exchange ideas and realize how their roles are interconnected.
Explains the builder, “If you can fine-tune your process
and make it as efficient as possible, you can keep changing
and improving. I’m always looking to improve our homes.”
In fact, Milne works with the trades and encourages the
introduction of new processes or new ideas to keep things
fresh. He also knows how to make old ideas work in a modern
setting, such as reintroducing heated ceramic floors, the
butler’s pantry and traditional coved mouldings to dress
up a new home.
Milne Homes is one of the most active certified R2000 builders
in Manitoba. Constantly upgrading his knowledge with new courses,
Doug has completed the Builder Training Session for constructing
highly energy-efficient homes. He is also a member of the
Manitoba Home Builders’ Association, the New Home Warranty
Program, the Better Business Bureau and an active participant
in the Lions Club, as well as other local community functions.
People often tell the builder how much they are looking
forward to his next creation. One year’s showhome featured
a revolving bookcase, a vision realized by the skilled hands
of Milne’s talented cabinetmaker. Another creation included
a split staircase, starting from the foyer with a separate
descent to the kitchen. Yet another feature was an oak panel
wall that pulled down into a bed, transforming a den into
a spare bedroom.
“We try to make every design liveable as well,”
says Janet, the self-described inspector on the Milne team.
While Doug has the unique ability to visualize a design, Janet
adds the element of practicality to each plan. She is the
one who ensures that the plan flows well and addresses issues
of comfort and function.
The company’s combination of creativity and functionality
was just what the Paraplegic Society was seeking when they
asked Milne Homes to build houses incorporating specifications
for the physically disabled. Features such as wider doorframes,
lowered kitchen workstations, elevators and a full, glass
block wheel-in shower stall required diligent preplanning
and unerring attention to details.
Whether building a residence in Winnipeg or rural Manitoba,
a house that spans 1000 square feet or 3000, the Milnes apply
the same dedication to superior design, craftsmanship and
quality. Remembering their own experience 10 years ago, Doug
and Janet know that each project is someone’s dream,
waiting to come true.
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