Alair Magazine | Edition #4

Feels Like Home:

As a beloved TV host, Cheryl Hickey has come into our homes for years. Now she’s welcoming us into hers.

COVER PHOTO:

Photography:

Mosaic Productions

ABOUT THIS EDITION

Welcome to the latest edition of Alair Magazine, celebrating the people, projects and places across the Alair network of 98 locations across North America. We are excited to share the very best in residential construction and building community. This issue is packed with inspiring stories, helpful tips and expert advice for anyone considering a large renovation or custom/luxury home build.

First up, we take a tour of beloved Canadian TV host Cheryl Hickey’s stunning Toronto home, which has undergone a major renovation. With beautiful new features and a sleek modern design, Cheryl’s home is a true showstopper.

CONTRIBUTORS

98% of this magazine is made by humans. 2% is machine assisted. Thank you to the following humans:

Managing Editor

Natalie Harper

Map and Directory Design

Chelsea Hamre

Production Art

Tracey Risser

Contributors

Kristina Matisic

Whitney Brown

Jacqueline Tyler

Jessica Leavitt

Natalie Harper

Kayla Fagan

Naomi Kerchinsky

Brynn Bagot

Olivia Rathle

Adam McCaa

Kristy Wright

Next, we explore the hot topic of urban density and redevelopment. As cities become increasingly crowded, more and more people are looking for ways to make the most of their space. Industry experts weigh in on the many benefits to urban redevelopment, and why we will see more of this as many cities across North America continue to grow in population.

We also talk to some of our top design partners to learn why working with a professional is always a smart move. From ensuring that your vision becomes a reality to saving time and money, a designer can make all the difference.

In our profile section, we take a closer look at the Sylvan Lake Gulls collaboration in Red Deer, a project that is truly bringing the community together. We also showcase some of our latest project profiles, including a stunning home in Park City, Utah and Ladysmith, Vancouver Island.

Finally, we celebrate 15 years of Alair’s progress in the construction community with a look back at some of our fondest memories and proudest moments. From humble beginnings to becoming a leading name in the industry, it’s been an incredible journey – and we’re just getting started.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this edition. With so much focus on machine assisted content right now, I’m truly proud that this magazine was created from the hearts and minds of remarkable humans doing remarkable things in our community and industry.

Natalie Harper Managing Editor

Feels like

STORY Home

As the longtime host of ET Canada, Cheryl Hickey has been a fixture in homes for decades. Now she’s welcoming us into hers.

By Megan McCarty Photos by: Mosaic Productions

Cheryl Hickey is no stranger to renovations. In addition to hosting ET Canada, which she has been at the helm of since 2005, Hickey is also the host of Family Home Overhaul on HGTV Canada. Having an insider’s view into the many moving parts of other people’s home renovations, she was excited to undertake an overhaul of her own Toronto home.

When Hickey and her husband, Kevin Foley, moved into their home in 2010, they knew it’d need work. This was in stark contrast to their previous house, a new renovation with a contemporary kitchen full of modern appliances. “On paper, our first house was everything you’d ever want it to be,” Hickey says. “But it never felt like home,” she says. After expanding their family, the flaws of that paper- and picture-perfect home soon became apparent. The backyard was too small and the stairs were too steep. Hickey couldn’t imagine her son Jaxson, then just a baby, crawling around in that house.

When it came time to explore the real estate market, their (at times heartbreaking) search led the pair past the 1950s-built home Hickey instantly knew had to be theirs. “We drove by, and this feeling came over me, like I’ve been here before,” she says. Despite Cheryl’s immediate fondness for the house, she knew it would take some serious elbow grease and upgrades to make it their permanent home. That meant committing to updates and changes, bit by bit as their budget allowed. That never deterred the pair from their long-term vision of a family-friendly house though.

“It had great bones; it just needed some lovin’,” Hickey says. “The moment we moved in, it immediately felt like home.”

“We had to find a company that could bridge our two styles, and that’s where Alair came in,” Hickey says.

Three years after moving in, they embarked on round one of renovations, which included a new primary suite and dining room, as well as an updated backyard with a pool and lounge area. It perfectly suited their style and needs. It also perfectly emphasized the awkward juxtaposition between the modern addition and the rest of the house, which felt cramped and dated. “It felt like we were living in two houses,” Hickey says. “It never jelled.”

Come 2022, Hickey and Foley determined it was time to tackle the rest of the main floor, creating one fluid space. On deck? The entryway, living room, and crowded kitchen. The task: creating effortless flow with an open concept that lends itself to entertaining. Hickey had visions of summertime soirees, when kids could run in and out, dripping from taking a dip in the pool. She could see family visiting for the holidays, and her children’s friends gathered around the island.

To bring those visions to life in a way that honored Hickey and Foley’s similar-but-different styles, the pair needed help. Foley prefers a clean, contemporary look—no knick-knacks; Hickey does too, but with a lived-in feel and perhaps a knick-knack here and there. “We had to find a company that could bridge our two styles, and that’s where Alair came in,” Hickey says. (Plus, Foley needed assistance convincing Hickey that living in an RV parked in the driveway during the four-month renovation wasn’t a good idea.)

CONSULTATIONS

Hickey has heard plenty of horror stories about renovation schedules going awry and budgets being blown, but she knew from Day 1 that she was in good hands with Alair. The team took all of their wants and needs into account, and then presented them with tiers of options for everything from finishes to cabinets to appliances. “They were all great, just different price points, but it was all laid out for you in a way that made you feel like you weren’t missing out on anything,” Hickey says.

There were no monetary shocks along the renovation road either. “You would see where every penny was going,” she says. “Nothing was ever a surprise, which was really refreshing—especially when you have two kids, two dogs, and a husband.”

CAMBRIA INSTALLATION

CELEBRATION

When renovations began in April 2022, down came a wall, up went the ceilings, and in went a massive island—one of the largest Alair has ever installed. Throughout the whole process Hickey says she felt listened to and taken care of, remarking how accessible and honest the team, who ultimately became like family, was. They moved back in by July 2022, with just a few finishing touches to go.

Now that the space is completed, it’s hard for Hickey to pick a favorite feature. The long, exaggerated fireplace perhaps? Or maybe the ‘70s-style slat wall in the entryway, a solution to needing a partition between the stairway and living room, that now doubles as an art piece. Then there’s the front door, a sleek design with serious security features from Greece. “It’s like they crawled inside my brain and found the door that’s perfect for me,” she says.

More so than any note-worthy feature though, even the wine fridge or doublestacked dishwasher, Hickey appreciates the overall openness that will serve their bustling household for years to come. With a fluid feel and a flood of natural light, the renovated spaces balance familyfriendliness with elevated elegance. “Now when people come in, you can feel the love,” Hickey says. “You can feel all the energy that went into the house—beautiful design, craftsmanship, and appliances.”

“Now when people come in, you can feel the love,” Hickey says. “You can feel all the energy that went into the house—beautiful design, craftsmanship, and appliances.”

“We want people to feel like they can come and be themselves in the house and they don’t have to tip-top around,” Hickey says. “Alair really nailed it with that.”

Now, time for those summertime soirees.

A Special Thank You to our Renovation Sponsors:

PLATINUM

Fisher & Paykel for providing the appliances and installation.

Dee McQueen Design for the supply and installation of all cabinetry and millwork in the kitchen, front entrance/mudroom and built-in TV unit, shopping and styling.

GOLD

Stone Tile for the hardwood and heated entry way tile floors.

Cambria for the quartz countertops and full-height backsplash.

SILVER

Canadian Electric for the plugs, switches, pot lights and wiring.

Elegant Solutions for the template and installation of all Cambria products.

BRONZE

BMP Flooring for the installation of Stone Tile engineered floors, capping of steps and nosing. ManPower Demolition Inc. for the demo of the main floor and kitchen.

COPPER

Kohler for the fixtures; faucet, sink and pot-filler. Concord Fireplaces for the fireplace insert and installation.

A Heartfelt Thank You to:

Julia Black Design for the interior design consultations and selections.

John Bella and Justin Thompson with Alair Ontario for absolutely everything! Tune into the #AlairXCherylHickey Renovation Docuseries on YouTube, Facebook Watch or at AlairHomes.com

Giving Back

Wounded U.S.

Navy Seal Bathroom

By Brynn Bagot & Olivia Rathle

Dan Licardo served 16 years as a U.S. Navy Special Operations (SEAL) member, including combat tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. During this time, Licardo suffered brain injuries resulting from a blast in Iraq that caused him to have seizures.

After retiring from service, he and his family made their home in Flower Mound, Texas. However, even after he became inactive, Licardo continued to serve by volunteering at the Adaptive Training Foundation.

On September 4, 2018, Licardo experienced a seizure while he was driving, causing an automobile accident that resulted in the amputation of both legs. While these injuries did not occur during active duty, Licardo’s former military service and continued dedication to serving his community caught the attention of Spirit of a Hero.

Renovation

Spirit of a Hero, an organization that recognizes heroic character in wounded veterans, named Licardo their 2020 recipient. The organization, based in Dallas-Fort Worth, provides financial, moral, and community support to veterans. Although the pandemic forced Spirit of a Hero to cancel their gala that year, Licardo was still eligible for support from the organization.

Mike Scarlett, a partner of Alair Frisco and a 30-year veteran of the construction industry, has served on the board of Spirit of a Hero for more than five years, including as a past board president. Inspired by the Spirit of a Hero recipient, Scarlett shared Licardo’s story with the Alair Dallas-Fort Worth team.

As a member of Alair, Scarlett aims to give back to the communities in which we live and work, especially for those in times of need. When Scarlett learned Licardo needed renovations to his home to become more accessible, he quickly notified his partners and the Alair team immediately got to work.

The Licardos are thrilled with their stunning bathroom renovation, and Licardo has plans to share the design with Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to help other wounded veterans in the future.

The bathroom Licardo and his family were using before was not designed for wheelchair access, making daily tasks such as showering and getting dressed more difficult. After talking with other veterans who have had similar needs, Licardo and the Alair team created a plan to renovate the Licardos’ bathroom to increase its functionality. The Alair team secured participation from numerous trades and suppliers, all of whom readily agreed to donate time and/or materials to make this bathroom dream a reality.

Donors include: Jimenez Construction (demo and framing); Liberty Glass (shower doors/mirrors); Alair Partner Cole Lowry (tile); Expressions Home Gallery (plumbing fixtures); Lonestar Plumbing (plumbing labor); Charter Drywall (drywall); Alair Partner James Hammel (painting completed by Travis McLaughlin Finishing Contractors); Fox Electric (electric) and Gant Custom Granite (countertops). One of the most notable features is the customized shower entry for Licardo. The shower now has a heated tile bench with a drawer for prostheses, where he can undress and easily slide into the shower. A regular shower door and fixtures will accommodate his fiancée and additional shower fixtures are adjustable to accommodate Dan’s needs.

The Licardos are thrilled with their stunning bathroom renovation, and Licardo has plans to share the design with Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to help other wounded veterans in the future.

Utopia in Utah

The Team of Alair Salt Lake in this total transformation renovation in Sandy, Utah.

This original estate home on 2.25 acres was originally built in 1995. The project entailed a complete remodel, including structural redesign of the interior and exterior. All major systems were updated including radiant heating. The esthetic was redesigned with a Modern European influence.

The home is 9,214 sq ft with a 3,200 sq ft detached garage, which was remodeled into a cross-fit gym and sport court.

• Builder: Alair Salt Lake

• Architectural: Jewkes Design

• Interior Design: Caitlin Creer Interiors

• Photography: Drone Your Homes Photograph

Before

Before Before

Before

Why it pays to work with a designer.

By Kristina Matisic

If you’re building a new home or renovating your existing space, you’re likely going to need to hire a builder, a project manager, and a wide variety of trades.

But do you really need to add an interior designer to the team? Is it worth the cost?

We talked to a number of experts in the construction industry, including Alair builders, designers, and homeowners, to get their take on why hiring a designer is money well spent.

Designers can provide better results.

“A designer’s job is to reflect you in the space. We have such a plethora of products at our fingertips that the average person doesn’t have. So you get a much more exquisite space than if you do it on your own, just because of our experience. And, we get there faster.”

Ami McKay, Pure Design Inc.

Designers can make your space more user friendly.

“A lot of people are really great at pulling together materials and knowing what looks nice, but we’re digging deeper at the functionality of it all. As interior designers, we are looking at the technical side of things, how your electrical should be planned, how your lighting should be planned, the functionality of your kitchen and how you work in it. When we work with our clients, it’s an extremely personal experience.”

Madeleine Sloback, Madeleine Design Group

“Working with a designer results in higher client satisfaction due to more certainty and a superior end product. When clients are making their own choices, it often leads to second guessing, uncertainty, mismatched product selections and in general, a more stressful experience. And for us, it provides our team with a very clear direction on finishes and details, creating a much more streamlined construction process.”

Chris Klaasen, Alair Chilliwack

Alair Delta

Photo: ISHOT Design: Madeleine Design Group

Alair Chilliwack

Photo: Carsten Arnold Photography Architect: SuCasa Design Design: Gregory Funk Design

Alair Vancouver

Photo: Janis Nicolay Design: Pure Design Inc.

It will definitely save you time.

“The amount of time it takes to design and see the design through is tremendous. And I think anyone who has tried to design their own homes without training as a designer would agree that it is extremely time consuming.

Designers take a lot of the not-so-fun aspects away from their clients: communicating with trades, cost comparisons of design and decorative components, problem solving, and understanding how things are made and therefore making adequate recommendations.”

Julia Black, Julia Black Design

Designers can help ease the stress.

“Creating these personal spaces for people, there’s a lot of emotion attached. Especially where people are spending a lot of money. Midway through the process, when things are discontinued or backordered and frustrations arise, having a trusted someone there with you, having a team that is truly supporting you, is so helpful. We are all working for the client. It’s very much a support team. You’re not in it alone.”

Jaime Butcher, Butcher & Company

Designers can help you smooth out

“Working with a designer makes our job as builders easier because we get a detailed spec package that we know the client has approved. So quoting the items and planning the installations is that much easier.”

David Babakaiff, Alair Vancouver

“I was recently involved in a project that had only been completed a year before, and it all had to be redone. It wasn’t what the client had wanted at all, and it wasn’t quality materials or work. The stress of the project visibly left their faces as we discussed the steps of the processes, from drawings to finishes. Ultimately, they got what they had envisioned two years ago, but they really did have to do the whole thing twice.”

Sheila Bouthillier, SMB Interior Design

Alair Forest Hill

Design: Julia Black Design

Photo: Jules Lee Alair Vancouver

Photo: Jason Babakaiff

Design: Calvert Design

Alair Delta

Photo: ISHOT

Design: Madeleine Design Group

Alair Chilliwack

Designer: SMB Interior

Design

Photo: Carsten Arnold

Photography

the entire construction process.

Design:

A designer can help you save money.

“The budget is part of the initial design discussion and is also part of the conversation as we work through the entire design process. We ensure that you do stay on budget, but also ensure that you get the most ‘bang’ for your buck. Regardless of budget, we want every project to look like it was professionally designed with every detail considered.”

Jacqueline Pasquali, Beyond Beige

Designers can help spot problems before they happen.

“We really wanted a mud room and in our initial design, the mud room was designed as a second front door. And the pantry was basically a corner cupboard. It wasn’t functional or what we wanted and we were really unhappy with it. But we didn’t know how to make the changes until we brought on an interior designer. She took one look at our plans and she said, “We can do this and we can do that,” and it was like a lightbulb going off, of course that’s the solution!

I would say that hiring a designer is the best route to go because not only will you get what you are hoping for and paying for, you’ll also get peace of mind.”

Cate McMillan, Homeowner

House Design: RG Designs

Interior

“In most cases, the cost of a designer will be spent one way or another. If a designer isn’t hired, it will require much more effort and work on the part of the project manager, which means more PM hours. Plus, finishes aren’t always the PM’s area of expertise. I do believe you get what you pay for.”

Glen Harris III, Alair Sanibel

“There are definitely fewer mistakes when a designer is involved. For example, one client chose plumbing fixtures and then decided to move from custom vanities to pre-built ones that came with countertops and sinks. As a result, the faucets that were chosen didn’t fit. Luckily we managed to resolve it, but things like this can cause major delays and unnecessary costs.”

Roman Taurbekov, Alair Burnaby

Alair Sanibel

Photo: Wanderlust Photography

Design: Freestyle Interiors

Alair Burnaby

Photo: Roman Taurbekov Design: Marvellous Home

Alair Delta

Photo: Sonja Poller Photography Design: Sarah Gallop Design

Alair Whistler

Beyond Beige

Photo: Provoke Studios

DESIGNER PROFILE

Jamie Banfield

Vancouver interior designer Jamie Banfield was dabbling in design from a very young age, often in unconventional ways.

“My parents would go out for dinner and leave me with a babysitter and I’d repaint my mom’s wall. The babysitter would have a fit but my mother would just say, nope, that’s him!”

Banfield spent his early childhood in a small coastal town in Wales. His mother, a nurse, and father, a welder, moved the family to the Lower Mainland area of British Columbia when the budding designer was 11.

Growing up, Banfield found himself immersed in many facets of the construction industry. He often helped his father and his trades friends on their job sites during his summer vacations, learning about plumbing and electrical work.

Upon high school graduation, Banfield spent some time in Australia, where his love for travel was born. He spent some time working at a marketing company there and then returned to BC, where he got a life-changing job at Home Depot.

“They would send me on training to learn about building products. So I learned about flooring and grouts. Then another week, I’d learn about how to install hardwood flooring and veneer flooring, and then how to measure and install carpet, and how to install tile. And then I went to the kitchen and bath program. I learned so much there,”

Kristina Matisic, Photo by Steven Chen

To complement this extensive hands-on experience, Banfield attended the British Columbia Institute of Technology where he graduated with an Interior Design diploma. He gained more experience at a kitchen design company and then a small design firm, before deciding to venture out on his own.

“I always knew I was going to end up in construction but I didn’t know how or what. I never had an ambition to run anything. But after Home Depot and BCIT, step by step, everything kind of aligned,” says Banfield.

Today, Jamie Banfield Design is made up of architectural technologists, other designers, and Banfield himself. The tight-knit team focuses on residential projects, big and small.

While they specialize in kitchen and bathroom design, Banfield explains that their offerings have grown.

“Technically, if someone came in we could design them a house. The exteriors, the permitting, all the way through to the interior. We’re taking on all the permit drawings, and we cover all the communications with the city, with the consultants, the arborists and the geotech. Or, if someone wants to come in and do a renovation of a bathroom, we can do that too.”

The one thing not on the service menu is project management.

“We want to partner with people like Alair Homes who know how to run the management, how to run the procurement and the entire site.”

Banfield’s own strengths lie in space-planning and the overall functionality of design. He begins with a “Meet and Inspire” consultation with clients, gathering information to help craft their ideal space. He then works closely with the homeowners to uncover exactly how they’ll utilize their home, not just in its current iteration, but for years to come.

“I love function. I get the most satisfaction out of making change and finding a solution for a homeowner. Let’s figure out where your cups are going to go, where your dishwasher is, how you’re going to unload the dishwasher. That’s what I love and what I kick ass at.”

When it comes to design inspiration, Banfield draws heavily from his surroundings, frequently incorporating the West Coast aesthetic into his work. “The older I get, the more I realize I need water. I need trees and water. We have so much beauty around us, so we love bringing in elements of that. Our style is to suck the outside in.”

Alair Vancouver

Photo: Janis Nicolay

That extends to his preferred color palette too. He’s drawn to colors found in nature like blues, greens and the dark purples seen in stone and shadows. Banfield adds that texture always plays a big role, not just in his work, but in his daily rituals.

“When I come home, I like to shut off and cooking does that for me. Just having this nice wood chopping board and a nice knife… the fact that I’m touching these real metals, these real woods while chopping an onion, I can get my head out of life.”

When his schedule allows, Banfield seeks solitude to refuel. He finds solace in spending time at home with his partner, Brett, and their rescue dog, Paulie. The couple enjoys globetrotting and is looking forward to resuming their travels in order to feed inspiration and decompress.

Banfield also regularly invests his time in charitable initiatives, where he can make use of his design expertise and exercise his creativity. One of his most recent projects was the renovation of the Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon playroom, which he worked on with Alair Homes. The resulting space is both magical and grounded: It includes a dress-up zone, a pint-sized kitchen, a mini grocery store and an out-of-this-world reading nook.

“It’s a safe space to be anything you want to be. When we were finished and I went in there, there was one little girl and she was dressed up as an astronaut. She robbed the grocery store and had a bag of cash on her. And then she wanted to cut my hair and told me that I was the princess. How amazing is that?”

Banfield was also a designer for a fundraising event in Calgary, Barley & Smoke. Along with Alair Calgary, he helped build forts for a Western Towne at Camp Kindle, a place where sick kids can let loose and play.

“Sometimes the things we don’t get paid for mean the most to me. We want to do good things for good clients with good trade partners. We just want to do good.”

Alair Vancouver

Photo: Janis Nicolay

Alair Vancouver

Photo: Janis Nicolay

Alair Vancouver

Photo: Janis Nicolay

Team Alair in Calgary with Banfield at the Barley & Smoke event.

No more Boring Boards!

Tips for creating the perfect savory board start with three Cs: Cheese, Complements and Carriers

Cheese

For cheese, you want to remember the 4 Ss to provide variety in flavor and texture. The four Ss are Soft, Salty, Stinky and Special.

Soft cheeses would be goat, brie (baked or room temp), camembert, muenster, and havarti.

Salty cheeses are those that may in fact have the infamous cheese crystals that do provide a little crush. Sharp cheddars, parmesan, romano or Swiss as examples.

Stinky cheeses usually appeal to mature audiences. You could try a blue, a stilton, or even a feta or gorgonzola for this category.

For the special category, you want to look for something a little different, a bit out there — something to make your guests go, “Oh, that sounds interesting!” Some examples would be an herb-infused cheese, a wine rind cheese, a cheese with mustard grains, or perhaps something with a fruit component.

Complements

For the complements, you want to have sweet and sour options to enhance and elevate the flavors of the cheese you are using. For sweet options, honey, jams, chutneys, grapes or dried fruits (cherries, cranberries and apricots are great). For sour options, think pickled veggies, mustard, and pepper jellies.

By Jessica Leavitt

When it is time for gathering, entertaining and enjoying lots of wonderful food, one of the easiest ways to please discerning guests, as well as those that prefer finger foods, is with grazing boards.

As the host, you are off the hook from having to prepare an elaborate meal, and as a guest, you get to enjoy nibbles of different noshes all while crafting the perfect bite for your tastes.

Carriers

When thinking of carriers, you want to remember their job is to be the foundation to the bites. Crackers, fruit and meats are the traditional options. With your crackers variety is key — and don’t forget your gluten-free guests.

The neutral Cambria pattern Carrick provided a grounded base for our board. It has a concrete look and it made the board feel rustic and cozy at the same time.

Sweets

For your sweets board, the easiest way to keep it cohesive is by sticking to a color palette. This Cambria board in the Summerhill pattern inspired the mixed metal approach to this board for the holidays. For a sweets grazing board you want to keep the four Cs in mind as well: Chocolate, Chewy, Crunchy and Cleanser.

Chocolate is easy! Pick a mix of milk, dark, and white in a variety of shapes to add visual interest. Individually wrapped pieces make for easy ways to stick to a color theme.

For chewy, think about dried fruit, like raisins or cranberries, sour candies, gummy candies, caramel and jellybeans. Using pretty bowls to corral smaller items is a way to stick to a color story as well.

Crunchy additions could include cookies, nuts (plain or covered), fresh fruit, flavored rice cakes, coated pretzels or rock candy sticks.

Cleansers are for when you want to take a break and reset. These could be mint gum, a salty complement (like a raw nut), or even just a sip of water, tea or coffee near the board.

The most important tip: have fun with your creation, and when you’re lacking inspiration, check social media for ideas!

Savoury.

Mini sweet peppers are a crunchy complement to the soft and stinky cheeses in particular

Salami, crisp water table crackers and apples make for great carriers

A soft herded goat cheese

Carrots provide a colorful complement item

Sweet and sour red pepper jelly

Salty cheese: Cheddar, save some time by getting it cubed from the cheese counter

Everything crackers provide a flavorful carrier

Rosemary crackers provide a herbal infusion to your bite

Special cheese: Dill Havarti brings a herbal infusion to the board

Sweet and Sour complements of grapes and whole grain mustard enhance the flavors of cheese

Garlic stuffed olives provide a nice sour bite in between cheeses

Stinky cheese: a powerful Stilton gives the board depth

Sweet.

Use a local bakery to take some of the pressure off and ask them to ice or use sprinkles in your chosen color palette

Wrapped chocolates provide color and a simple way to take a treat to go

A white chocolate candy bar goes a long way when you break it into bite size chunks

Yogurt covered raisins are corralled in a brass bowl

Pineapple is a sweet addition for those who prefer their sugars natural

Champagne flavored jelly beans are chewy and celebratory

Caramel mini rice cakes provide crunch

Rock candy is a surefire way to get a sugar high for the younger set and a fun cocktail stirrer for those attendees of imbibing age

Spend a Day with Project Manager Emmy Ray

PROJECT MANAGER SPOTLIGHT

6:15 - 6:20 am:

I’m usually awakened by my rambunctious 3-yearold. She’s like her dad, an early riser. I’ve never been a morning person, which seems like an oxymoron when you work in construction.

6:45 - 7:45 am:

For the next hour, you can find me wrestling two greased pigs otherwise known as Hollis Kate, 3, and Piper, 6. All while trying to get myself presentable for the day. Thankful for my husband who helps me with our man-to-man defense and provides me with a large cup of hot coffee!

8:15 am:

We made it! Both girls are safely in the loving arms of their teachers at their day school. Now time to report to my other job, Alair Homes.

9:00 am:

Today is Wednesday, so I start my day onsite for one of my bi-weekly homeowner meetings. We’ll discuss budget, schedule and any decisions that we need to keep the momentum moving forward.

10:00 am:

I’ve finished my homeowner meeting and now I’m headed to meet with one of our trade partners, RSW Electrical Contracting, to complete an electrical rough-in walkthrough.

11:00 am:

The electrical walk took a little longer than expected, but we’ve answered all questions and are so close to being ready for inspection! Now I’m off to check on my other project on Habersham. It’s a new build in a historic district so I have learned a lot thanks to the architect on the job, Josh Ward. I’ve got exterior paint by JD Painting, and tile prep by Acros Tile happening, so things are progressing!

11:45 am:

All is well at Habersham. Headed to meet with Applied Concrete, a trade partner at my Sweetbriar project. This is a renovation project, so we need to correct a few piers to make sure we are sound before reconfiguring the floor plan.

12:30 pm:

I’m on the road again. I’ve got just enough time to swing by Foxy Loxy for some incredible tacos and make it to the office in time for the All Company Mastermind Call.

1:00 - 2:00 pm:

Time to chow down, catch my breath and gather exciting intel from our incredible group of partners and PMs throughout the company.

2:00 - 4:15 pm:

I’m catching up on some paperwork. It’s around this time I call trade partners and vendors and confirm schedules and material deliveries and ensure everyone is ready for the next day. I even squeezed in a little study time for my Construction Industry Specialist exam through NAWIC (National Association of Women In Construction).

4:15 - 5:00 pm:

Finally, I get to see my girls again. Picking them up from aftercare and headed home.

5:15 - 5:45 pm:

Time to pound the pavement! I’ve got to get a quick run in since I’m training for another Half Marathon.

6:30 pm:

Since it’s Wednesday, we are headed to church where I serve in our Kids Ministry Program, Olympians. Tonight’s theme is favorite sports team, that’s a no brainer for me - Roll Tide! Humble brag, I won the golden hat award last year for being best dressed on theme nights, so I’m defending a title here!

8:30 pm:

We are home and the girls are in bed. My husband and I are catching up on the day with a glass of wine, a pinot noir he picked up from local store, Chu’s and watching an episode of Lincoln Lawyer, our new binge!

10:00 pm:

Getting ready for bed and excited to do it all over again!

Alair Locations

Celebrating 15 Years

Alair started with humble beginnings in Nanaimo, British Columbia and is today celebrating 98 locations in more than 80 cities across North America. In this time, the company has completed thousands of notable custom home builds and renovations, stacked up hundreds of awards, contributed millions of dollars back to communities, and helped to reimagine the construction industry along the way.

However, there would be no celebration without the hundreds of people working with Alair; supporting their families and their communities all across North America today.

At Alair, people matter. The Alair culture was built by these people on a foundation of deeply shared values and a rich spirit of collaboration. If you asked anyone at Alair to reflect on their time with the company, you’ll likely hear much of the same message.

So, who better than to help take a look at how the last 15 years have helped shape where Alair is today, as well as where Alair is going tomorrow than members of Team Alair.

These people, as well as the hundreds of others not featured here, work hard to help realize a common vision: to positively impact more people through residential construction than any other company in history.

It may sound like a lofty vision, but if we look back at the last 15 years of what Alair and its team has achieved, it’s clearly possible.

And the people who made it all possible

“I am a Chartered Professional Accountant and have been for the last five years, and have worked in various accounting roles for over 10 years before joining Alair. Today, along with the amazing accounting team, I have the privilege of helping my Alair Partners reach their financial goals. Working with this incredible group of professionals, who share such strong values, has been inspiring. Although I have only been at Alair for two years I have been welcomed into this amazing culture as if I was here far longer. I have truly appreciated the opportunity to become a part of both my Accounting and Partner teams. I can’t wait to see where we go together with Alair.”

“The heart of Alair is a strong one. It is a heart of not just one, but hundreds of people, who care deeply for their families, teams, and communities. It beats the strongest as it joins together to support, encourage, and build up those around it. Together I have seen this heartbeat as one to rebuild homes lost in house fires, give new hope to families facing homelessness and hunger, run miles in the fight to cure cancer, stand by friends through unimaginable loss, and mentor and encourage youth without parents. I have been proud to share the heartbeat of Alair. I have seen and know that when the Alair family joins together nothing is impossible. I look forward to seeing more of the impossible conquered.”

“I think back to when I was considering buying a home building franchise. It seemed like Alair was going to take all my problems away. What I didn’t realize back then that it was still going to be a lot of hard work and struggles. The difference was that the Alair structure was going to keep me on track and the strength of the brand was going to give me that added edge over my competitors. I am proud to be part of Alair, and I wear it as a badge of honour.”

“I became part of Alair back in 2018 after being involved in this industry for almost 20 years. I have worked for others, I have owned and operated my own remodeling business, and in the past, I was a part of another franchise brand, so my experiences are quite vast. The reality is I have accomplished more in my five years with Alair than I was ever able to accomplish in my first 10-15 years on my own. One of the most exciting things for me is that I have grown the valuation of my business beyond what I thought was even possible. And the most rewarding of all is that two of the people that have helped me scale the business with Alair and are now both owners in this business with me. Unbelievable!”

“It’s never about the project; it’s always about the people. One of the greatest accomplishments over the last 15 years is the people and the impact they have been able to make on others. Thank you to everyone who has been part of the last 15 years.”

“I can clearly remember the day everything changed for me. It was a cold Sunday in December of 2013. I was exhausted, drained and needed a change. I had been running a renovation business for years, and had been struggling to grow and scale. I needed a change. I wasn’t looking to own another business at that point, I just wanted a 9-5 role. My wife and I came across an ad for a General Carpentry position with a newer Regina home builder/renovation company – Alair Homes. I accepted a job as a carpenter and soon began training as a Project Manager. I got to know more of the Alair team from across the country and newly expanded offices in Arizona. What amazed me was the collaboration and the like-mindedness of everyone involved. The company was evolving in front of us, and we soon realized we were a major contributor to how this company would be shaped. This company embraces the ideas and thoughts of everyone in the room, and collectively pulled together to develop one of a kind innovative processes and solutions to the biggest problems in our industry. Thank you, Alair Homes, and congratulations on 15 years!”

“To put it simply, working with Alair has been life changing. Having worked in the construction industry for 20 years now and losing hope that it was a viable career, I came across an ad for a Project Manager with Alair. I had thought this would be the last kick at the can in this industry as I was losing hope that there was any company in this industry that cared about the people it worked with. Fast forward five years and I am now an Owner of 3 Franchises and life has completely changed for me. I work for a brand that is built with integrity, accountability, passion and empathy. Our business has grown from when I started with just myself and my business partner to now, we have a team of 9 people, and it continues to grow. I have time to spend with my family again that I didn’t have in my previous life. I get to be a part of an amazing network of like-minded individuals all fighting for the common goal; to be the best in the industry and a brand that has focus on the client experience and not just the finished product. “

“What Alair means to me:

• The confidence of knowing I’m supported – you may make mistakes, but you would have to push away those around you to fail

• Hundreds of years of construction and business knowledge at my fingertips

• Going to every cheer competition or volleyball tournament for my girls

• My guys being able to raise their families knowing they don’t have to ever miss an event with their kids

• Never having to hide information from a client

• REALLY knowing the numbers – ALL the numbers good or bad

• Motivation to be better everyday

• Friends that I can call on at any time

• Music by the fire

• The best-looking truck wrap in the business!”

A History of Growth over the Last 10 Years.

A few firsts...

2012: First Alair Franchise in Edmonton, Alberta

2013: Planted the first flag in the USA – Phoenix, AZ

2017: First flag in the Midwest – Green Bay Wisconsin

2017: Launched #AlairCares Community Give-back Program

2022: First flag in the state of California – February

2023: First flag in the state of Washington – March

Budget Questions

to Ask Your Builder

By Kristy M. Wright

You’ve saved for your dream home, but is your money paying for someone else’s home, too?

When you invest money in a home build, you expect it to go towards the budget you approve with your builder. However, many construction companies often pool money from multiple clients, especially when they’re over budget.

In fact, some companies may juggle most projects on credit, using money from a newer build to pay contractors from the last project. Not only is this practice unstable for the company, but it also leaves you unaware of how project managers are spending your money and flexing your budget.

Instead of robbing Peter to pay Paul, your building team should help you feel confident your investment goes directly toward your new home.

Before you commit to your home build, you can protect yourself by preparing questions to ask your project manager.

Step One: Credibility

When selecting a construction company, be sure to vet the accountability of the team. Consider the company’s credentials as well as their experience before starting your build.

Alair Homes has a team of controllers who are certified as Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs). This accounting team collaborates with a network of Alair regional partners and partners, meaning all franchise locations have access to a variety of Alair resources.

Alair controllers review each project and help project managers keep their budgets on track.

Step Two: Protection

Once you’ve researched your team’s credentials, ask your project manager what steps they take to ensure your money is protected. A series of checks and balances within the company can help spot red flags before your entire budget is in the red.

For example, Alair’s project managers must first upload invoices to Client Control™, Alair’s proprietary project management software. After the client approves the invoices, Alair controllers begin their review. They survey how much the builders have spent as well as how much actual profit they have earned, then add back receivables and payables.

If you’ve been overbilled, the team ensures that money is back in your bank account.

Alair’s controller team tracks everything on a job-by-job basis, then produces reports for partners every two weeks.

Step Three: Transparency

While your team should answer any questions you have, you should still be able to see your home’s progress for yourself.

You can track the status of your project at any time with the Client Control™ software. After your builder selects a quote, you can log in to approve invoices and see what has been spent so far.

If you want to follow up, you can connect with your project manager throughout the build to ask questions or suggest changes.

When it comes to your money, you deserve to know it’s going only towards the budget you approve. If you’re unsure, ask your building team what steps they’re taking to protect your investment.

Questions to Ask Your Construction Manager:

· How do I know where my money is going?

· How often do you review project spending?

· How can I track the status of my project?

Project by Alair Houston Bryan Phillips, Partner

Project by Alair Old Naples Steven and Emma Cowan, Partners

Mud Room Roundup

By Kristina Matisic

The mudroom may not be the most glamorous room of the house, but it is definitely a well-used one. “A place for everything and everything in its place,” a purposefully designed mudroom can minimize mess and solve a myriad of organizational and storage problems.

One popular layout is the mudroom/ laundry combo. Modern meets the farmhouse aesthetic in this beautiful combined space in Charlotte. The clean white and cream palette create a room that’s soothing, stylish, and functional.

Alair Charlotte

Photo: MB Productions

Design: KVID Interiors

No room for a full-sized mudroom? This mudroom/ breakfast nook mashup flows into an open concept kitchen and living room. The dining area includes ample seating and additional storage below the banquette.

The owners of this home are clearly good sports. Hats, shoes, and even skateboards are neatly tucked away here. The navy blue old school lockers provide space for coats and other outdoor paraphernalia.

Speaking of mashups, this mudroom/laundry/office truly maximizes the space. Warm wood cabinetry and complimentary tiling on the floor and walls all help create a cozy place to walk in, wash, and work!

This stand-out mudroom features striking black custom cabinetry with warm wood accents. With a family of five and two dogs, the owner of this 1970s rancher style home required a mudroom that was both spacious and sturdy. Check!

A minimalist aesthetic goes a long way towards minimizing the mess. This mudroom features plenty of hooks and nooks to store the family’s outerwear. Design tip: Baskets that match your decor are perfect for storing everything from mittens to mukluks (that’s “winter boots” in Canadian).

Alair Chilliwack

Design: SMB Interior Design

Photo: Carsten Arnold Photography

Alair Arlington

Photo: Greg Hadley Photography | Architect: Jon Hensley Architects

Alair Scarborough

Alair Aurora

Photo: Jim Craigmyle | Architecture: Custom CADD Inc.

Alair Lake Norman

Design: Nicole Perri Architecture | Photo: Katy Perry, Ascendent Imaging

Alair Aurora

Photo: Jim Craigmyle | Architecture: Custom CADD Inc.

This entryway includes wicker baskets, hangers, and wire bins for boots and shoes. It’s all housed in gray metal-colored custom cabinetry reminiscent of high school lockers. Just no stickers on these please.

This mudroom has clearly gone to the dogs. It includes a special doggy shower featuring concrete gray subway tile and a hand-held shower head, perfect for rinsing off those muddy paws.

Looking for something a little sleeker? This pretty in pink entranceway incorporates storage space and plush banquette seating that picks up on the colorful wallpaper seen in the powder room.

The mudroom features a repurposed 6 inch cedar planks from the roof-deck of the original house. They were the perfect way to add warmth, character and a sense of history to the space.

Store-bought dog crates so rarely match the decor. Plus, where to put them? This Savannah home includes custom cabinetry and roomy crates for pups, affording everyone in the house a good night’s sleep.

Seating in a mudroom is a must, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. This one uses boho and moroccan-inspired poofs to provide a place to don and remove footwear. The rest of the storage is tucked away in sleek, custom built-in cabinets.

Table for three? This entrance way was specially plumbed to include a watering station for the household pooches. The “dining” area also includes its own “countertop” and built-in bowls, making for easy maintenance and clean up.

Alair Vancouver

Photo: Janis Nicolay Design: Moor Design

Alair Decatur Design: Gordon Dunning Interior Design Photo: Mark Mauldin

Alair Delta Design: Buro

Photo: Janis Nicolay

Alair Forest Hill Design: Ali Budd Interiors

Alair Winnipeg

Photo: Nowaday Studios Design: Sharayah Moffat

Alair Savannah Design: Elizabeth MacDonald Architecture: Hansen Architects Design: Elizabeth MacDonald

Urban Redevelopment Creating Sustainable, Vibrant Communities

By NatGPT

As cities across North America continue to grow, the need for urban density solutions becomes increasingly important. With a focus on reducing urban sprawl and reinvigorating mature communities, many municipalities are heavily supporting urban redevelopment. We spoke to three subject matter experts about the benefits of urban redevelopment and why more cities should be supporting it.

Multi-generational and Multi-family Living: Encouraging Community

The pandemic has inspired many people to reimagine their living situation, leading to a growing trend of multi-generational or multi-family type

living. Yasushi John Ohki, Executive Director of Green Violin Community Development Company, says that “this trend is robust, resilient, and full of community encouragement. Multi-generational and multi-family living can bring people closer together, fostering a deeper sense of community.”

The benefits of this trend extend beyond the personal. According to Ohki, cities can create more vibrant and lively communities by promoting multi-generational and multifamily living. “Every city planner waxes poetic about the romantic Sesame Street of the 15 min community where everyone knows your name,” he says. “But in order to get to that point, we need more people living in closer proximity with a deeper history of each other, and that means multi-generational and multi-family living.”

Cliff House Lane will be Edmonton’s smallest laneway home. Architectural design and rendering by Space Squared.

Infill Development: Building More Diverse Communities

Edmonton’s infill industry has responded to the city’s needs for choice and diversity by creating more medium or high-density developments. The industry has also spent significant time educating its teams through programs like the Builder Education Program. According to Mariah Samji, Executive Director of Infill Development in Edmonton Association, this has resulted in a decline in neighbour complaints relating to infill by 50%.

The success of Edmonton’s infill industry is largely due to its commitment to the city’s vision of 50% infill in communities that are prime for redevelopment. Between 2010 and 2020, infill neighbourhoods saw an increase of 20,839 net new residential units. In 2018, infill first surpassed the 25% infill target set in The Way We Grow, peaking in 2020 at 35%.

According to Samji, infill development is an excellent way to build more diverse communities. By building a mix of low-density housing options and medium or high-density options, the infill industry can create a variety of housing options that cater to different needs and budgets.

Ground-Oriented Attached Homes: Meeting the Growing Demand

As the millennial generation continues to have children, there is an increasing demand for familyfriendly, ground-oriented homes. Kerriann Coady, CEO of CHBA Vancouver Island, says that there is a housing supply deficit for mid-density groundoriented attached homes such as row homes and stacked townhomes. This style of homes is most attractive, especially when in walkable communities close to transit and for first-time homebuyers.

If the current trends continue, Canada will be an estimated 300,000 family-oriented units short over the next decade. CHBA Vancouver Island is advocating across the Island to adjust rules that prevent accessory suites and calling on governments to remove excessive red tape. Out-of-date zoning and NIMBYism are having a direct impact on the ability for members to produce housing at an appropriate pace.

This CHBA Awarding Winning 7-plex in Edmonton, Alberta is an example of how developers and builders are helping increase urban density in urban centres

“As the millennial generation continues to have children over the next decade it is expected to see a continued increasing demand for familyfriendly, ground-oriented homes.”

Kerriann Coady CEO, CHBA Vancouver Island

Preparing for Tomorrow: The Importance of Urban Density Solutions

With Edmonton’s population expected to grow to 2 million people (about the population of Nebraska) over the coming decades, it is essential to start working on urban density solutions today. According to Samji, cities across Canada face consistent barriers to redevelopment that require holistic solutions. Outdated zoning and regulations, unpredictable permit and licensing processes, and a lack of funding for infrastructure are just a few of the challenges that municipalities must tackle to encourage densification.

One potential solution is to incentivize developers to build denser, mixed-use developments in areas that already have infrastructure in place. This could include offering tax breaks or reduced fees for developers who prioritize affordable housing or green building practices. By doing so, cities can encourage development in underutilized areas, reduce urban sprawl, and promote sustainable growth.

Another approach is to introduce more flexible zoning regulations that allow for greater density and mixed-use development. This would involve revising zoning bylaws and land-use policies to create more opportunities for infill development and transit-oriented development. By allowing for a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial uses in the same area, cities can create vibrant, walkable communities that are more conducive to a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

Ultimately, the success of any urban density solution depends on the buy-in and support of the local community. As Samji notes, “Engagement and collaboration are key to ensuring that urban density solutions are inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.”

By engaging with community members and stakeholders, cities can develop solutions that meet the needs of everyone, from developers to residents, and ensure a prosperous future for all.

Urban Redevolopment FAQs

Question

Why is urban redevelopment important for sustainable development?

Answer

Urban redevelopment promotes the efficient use of land and resources, reducing the need for sprawl and the development of new suburban areas. It also encourages the use of public transportation and walking or biking, reducing carbon emissions and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Question

How does urban redevelopment contribute to economic development?

Answer

Urban redevelopment can attract new businesses and industries to an area, creating job opportunities and increasing economic growth. It also increases property values, which can generate increased tax revenue for local governments.

Question

How can architects, designers, and builders contribute to successful urban redevelopment projects?

Answer

Architects, designers, and builders can contribute to successful urban redevelopment projects by incorporating sustainable design practices, creating affordable and desirable housing options, and engaging with the local community to ensure their needs and concerns are considered. They can also work closely with local governments and other stakeholders to ensure that projects are well-planned, economically feasible, and environmentally responsible.

“We are starting to see more flexibility in design and a willingness for cities to consider greater density as a means of accommodating a growing (and aging) population within the city infrastructure without expanding ever outwards.”

Yasushi John Ohki

Executive Director,

Green Violin Community Development Company

One lot subdivided for two uniquely styled infill homes is becoming increasingly popular in fast-growing cities.

A More Sustainable Approach Green Remodeling

By Whitney Brown

Riverview has long been one of the most coveted neighbourhoods in Winnipeg. While homes in established neighbourhoods like Riverview are sought after, they come with their own unique challenges. The homes in these neighbourhoods often need updates, and many homeowners feel their only option is to demolish and rebuild.

Alair Homes partner Curtis Moffat is asking his clients to take a more sustainable approach.

“Sustainable home building seeks to minimize construction waste by repurposing the materials and footprint of the existing home,” says Moffat. “If the integrity of the home’s structure is still in place, then I recommend collaborating with your design-build team to bring new life into the space and create a more sustainable building approach versus tearing down the entire existing structure.”

Green remodeling is a form of sustainable home building. This trend is on the rise across North America as homes in neighbourhoods like Riverview become more and more sought after.

Many homeowners are finding that giving new life to their existing home is often a more affordable way to improve their lifestyle while also reducing their carbon footprint.

Recent studies by the Canadian Environment and Natural Resources division found that construction, renovation and demolition waste represents 4 million tonnes, or 12%, of the solid waste stream generated in Canada. A similar study completed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that 600 million tonnes of construction and demolition debris is generated in the United States, with demolition-specific waste representing more than 90% of that total.

Green remodeling discourages the demolition of existing homes and encourages the reuse of materials, reducing the amount of construction waste that goes into landfills.

By using this more sustainable approach on a recent renovation in Riverview, Moffat and his team reduced construction waste by keeping the existing structure and doubling the homeowner’s space for their growing family.

They repurposed second-growth cedar that had grown in the 1800s from the existing roof as Millwork and architectural details. The team also integrated energy efficiency into the design with geothermal and a high-performance envelope, increasing the size and value of the home while also reducing its carbon footprint. Before

Making a better Tent City, EVEN BETTER

Team Alair visited “A Better Tent City” site celebrating the recent completion of a long-awaited commercial kitchen by sponsoring a lunch for 50 residents catered by “The Big Jerk,” a local favourite.

Nearly a year ago, David Butler, partner of Alair Kitchener/Waterloo and Aurora/Newmarket, responded to an urgent need to help the homeless in his community. 50 residents living in 42 tiny homes were being relocated from an open parking lot of a major event centre that had been sold.

The owner of the lot, Ron Doyle, a well-known local philanthropist and visionary of “A Better Tent City,” had passed away. The concept A Better Tent City was just that: a step-up from a tent and a hard roof over the heads of the chronic homeless, primarily individuals with mental health and addiction issues.

With support from the City of Kitchener, A Better Tent City was granted access to a new location, an empty grass field loaned by the local school board. Once a group of volunteers moved the tiny homes during a cold winter day, David Butler stepped in.

Prior to the individual amenities and shared communal area, residents were using outhouses and eating under a vinyl tent outdoors. Now, thanks to more than 25 trade and product suppliers, Butler and his team have transformed steel sea cans into laundry, washrooms (complete with flushing toilets and running taps), and shower facilities.

They also constructed donated classroom portables into a commercial kitchen and communal eating and lounge area, all of which were craned into place. Finally, they ensured power and hydro was accessible.

Butler donated over 150 project management hours and Alair Ontario contributed an additional $6,000 cash gift to the cause, but nothing could compare to what Team Alair received in return.

The experience was eye opening and humbling, and something we will never quite forget. We are proud to have provided not an entire solution for these deserving individuals, but something better.

Butler has become an essential part of building this tent city. After capturing positive local and national media attention, cities like Hamilton and Kingston, Ontario have expressed plans to pilot the design in their communities.

Alair would like to thank the following individuals:

• Jeff Wilmer

• Laura Hamilton

• Nadine Brown

• Father Toby for continued inspiration of their selflessness and admirable volunteerism

Craning the school portable on to helical piles

Father Toby helping dig trenches for the hydro lines

David Butler bringing blankets to the residents

CONSTRUCTION WEEK APPRECIATION

We had so much fun thanking our trades partners for all they do to bring our projects to life!

From electricians to plumbers, carpenters to painters, we’ve been thanking them all in dozens of locations across North America. And boy, have we been getting creative.

In some places, we’ve been hosting BBQs and cookouts, grilling up some juicy burgers to feed our hungry heroes. In others, we’ve been handing out free coffee and donuts to keep our tradespeople fueled up and ready to work.

So, let’s give a big round of applause to all our tradespeople out there, and keep the appreciation flowing all year long!

Alberta

Team Alberta hit the jobsites with all new ARTist T-shirts as a gift for the many artisans and craftspeople who bring their talents to our projects.

We gave out 250 T-shirts on dozens of active job sites across the province over the week in addition to many, many beverages and snacks.

British Columbia

Project sites around the Lower Mainland of BC raised a cup in celebration of Construction Appreciation Week. Project Managers and Alair Partners treated trades and market partners with everything from morning coffees and baked goods to lunchtime pizzas and gourmet sandwiches. Our favorite part of the week-long event is the element of surprise and the smiles we see on our trades’ faces when we come by bearing unexpected treats. Thank you for helping us build!

Texas

Project Managers from the Dallas Fort-Worth team dropped off pizzas and Alair swag to a few job sites to show how much Alair appreciates our trades and market partners. We are so grateful for their hard workday in and day out, and we could not get the job done without them!

The Carolinas

Ontario

The Ontario team hosted several events across the Province and delighted with donuts on the job sites. Are you even Canadian if you don’t bring some Tim Horton’s coffee and donuts?

Southeast Georgia

When you have Jessica, the event expert in Savannah, Georgia you throw a special event for the trades including foods, awards and fun!

Surprise and delight on the jobsites with yummy BBQ lunches was the name of the game to say Thanks for Building!

Building Bonds Ball Parks and

Alair Red Deer and Sylvan Lake Gulls Team Up

By Naomi Kerchinsky

Have you ever felt that sense of pride and connection when a group of people come together to create something great? That’s exactly what happened in Central Alberta recently, when the Alair Red Deer team came together with the Sylvan Lake Gulls baseball club to be part of an amazing opportunity that was coming to Central Alberta in the summer city of Sylvan Lake.

Nestled among rolling fields and the shimmering waters of Sylvan Lake lies the Gulls stadium, the hub of summertime excitement in Central Alberta. Gulls Baseball has captured hearts and minds like no other sport or event in the region. The Sylvan Lake Gulls sold out all 28 home games and every playoff game last year, demonstrating the high demand for this sports experience. The enthusiastic response from fans highlighted the urgent need for a facility like this.

The story of the Sylvan Lake Gulls’ stadium goes beyond being a mere project. It is a tale of friendship, cooperation, and hard work. It all began with the personal relationship between Alair’s Project Manager, Mike Ronnie, and Gulls’ head coach, Jason Chatwood, who used to play baseball together. Later, the project grew to include the Town of Sylvan Lake, the Gulls’ ownership team, founders Graham & Jen Schetzsle, Gulls’ President Aqil Samuel, and Alair Red Deer partners Derek Fredeen and Nate Rempel. Together, they transformed an idea into a reality. Alair’s local team of skilled designers, suppliers, and tradespeople dedicated themselves to creating an unforgettable stadium experience. The stadium boasts a beautifully designed interior with luxurious suites, a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, executive bar and serving area, dressing and umpire rooms, modern office and board rooms, and more. The final result is a testament to Alair’s unmatched expertise and commitment to excellence.

The partnership was a natural fit as it allowed the Alair Red Deer team to show off their work in an unique and inspiring way. The 10 Alair Homes Executive Suites create an elevated experience for fans cementing the companies’ reputations for excellence. The partnership also takes branding to the next level with the Alair logo on display for thousands of fans to see every ballgame. Above all else, the partnership was a way to share in the team’s aligned values of community support and collaboration above all else. The Gulls aren’t just about entertainment - they’re also passionate about giving back. The team’s charitable efforts and support for local businesses through the Gulls Gives Foundation truly make a difference in Central Alberta. It’s no wonder the partnership was a success from the start.

The Sylvan Lake Gulls stadium is a one-of-a-kind project that combined passion for building and design with a sport the whole Alair Red Deer team also loved. The suites offer an elevated space to treat their team, trades, and clients to an exciting game of ball, all while fostering a sense of community. The Gulls stadium is more than just a ballpark: it’s a gathering place where people can come together to cheer, laugh, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

“The Sylvan Lake Gulls’ stadium is more than just a ballpark: it’s a gathering place where people can come together to cheer, laugh, and make memories that will last a lifetime.”

From Houses to Hospitals

Alair Commits to Help Sick Children Feel More at Home While They Heal

By Jacqueline Tyler

Alair proudly announces five-year sponsorship supporting SickKids Foundation, the brand’s first national commitment to charity.

Pledging $100,000 over the next five years, all 60 Canadian offices are joining the fight to fund a new hospital – a world-class institution located in downtown Toronto that serves not only Canadian children and their families, but families from around the world.

From mending broken hearts to broken bones, SickKids is a home away from home for thousands of Canadian families. Choosing #AlairVSMissingHome to champion efforts is a heartwarming mission for everyone at Alair. With the goal of donating $100,000 in five years (or, most likely, less), Alair has become an official “Accelerator,” earning a signature “VS” tagline connecting to the hospital’s fundraising campaign.

Taking great pride in being community builders and supporting hundreds of local and community “Alair Cares” initiatives over the last 15 years, Alair realized there were several people on our team across Canada that either had a first-hand experience with a loved one being cared for, and one partner with a dedicated wife holding an important role as a doctor at SickKids.

To honour these connections, we interviewed three Alair partners in the Ontario region to learn more about their families’ stories and why this commitment is so important to them.

The Alair Ontario team is launching these efforts through an official partnership with Canadian TV host, media personality and SickKids supporter, Cheryl Hickey.

Alair and Cheryl Hickey have been filming a digital docuseries featuring the design, planning and total transformation of her family home in Toronto, as they also raise awareness and funds towards an organization, which they both care deeply about.

To find out more about our pledge, how to donate and learn about the ways in which we plan to fundraise with such activations like our Cheryl Hickey project #AlairXCherylHickey, visit AlairCares.com

SickKids is facing their biggest battle: the limits of an old building. As their facilities deteriorate and the demand for their services grows, the team at Alair has a once-in-a generation position to help fund the build of a state-of-the-art hospital facility.

Alair believes children and their families deserve to feel as much as home as possible as they heal together.

“As a leader in building custom homes, Alair knows the importance of creating spaces that not only meet the needs of families today, but also tomorrow,” said Seanna Millar, senior vice president, corporate and community partnerships, of SickKids Foundation.

“We are thrilled to partner with Alair over the next five years to help us build a new home for SickKids, where the spaces in which our patients receive their care will match the quality of services the hospital provides.”

ALAIR ACCELERATORS #AlairVSMissingHome

“Once we decided it was SickKids, I was 120 per cent on board; we signed a fiveyear deal to raise a $100,000 donation as Alair, and I think it’s more than attainable and that we can even do much better. We are working with many people to see if we can double or triple that amount. The hospital means a lot to my family, at this moment especially, since one of my nephews, Rocco Cerisano, is going through treatment right now for leukemia. He was diagnosed about a year ago, so it was a big hit to the whole family.

Having as well, my own kids, I’ve been to SickKids a few times (thankfully nothing serious); it is extremely busy, they do need more and more room. They definitely need the help…People waiting in the halls, babies waiting in the coffee shop. A lot of our partners are parents, a lot of us have used SickKids and we are lucky to have one. As Alair, us coming together is huge and I think it will benefit everyone.”

“SickKids is a fantastic establishment. It serves the entire country, not just the GTA. But it’s an old hospital that’s filled with young vibrant professionals – the best in the world – and they need the best environment to do their best work.

My wife Charlotte has been a pediatrician at the hospital for 18 plus years. It’s been her life passion. She also does work outside of the hospital in pediatric policy nationally.

Similarly to what SickKids does – we’re a team of individuals at Alair that come together for a goal. My wife Charlotte very much relies on her team. To fundraise $100,000 is a lot of money, but it’s going to go to great use. I think we have the people, the interest and the commitment help achieve that.”

“When I heard Alair was joining SickKids in helping to rebuild their facilities, I was overwhelmed. Alair Homes’ motto is ‘living better starts here,’ and I believe that starts with what’s around us. A hospital like SickKids can help us live better.

They do such a good job taking care of us when we need it. We have a moral obligation and responsibility to ensure hospitals like SickKids are constantly updated, and have proper equipment, so when we’re in need, they have the proper tools not just for us, but for generations to come.

I have a close connection with SickKids. I have a niece being treated there; her name is Leia and she has been diagnosed with rare genetic condition called Dyskeratosis Congenita, and she will require a bone marrow transplant. SickKids has done a great job caring for her and treating her during this time. When we first heard that news, we didn’t have the answers – it’s amazing how quickly everybody picked up and reached out. My family, especially my brother and his family, have spent tons of hours there, and the team and staff have done a great job caring for her.

Visit JourneyWithLeia.com to find out more info about her condition and her journey as she goes through this.”

John Bella Craig Hepburn

Mike Fallico

Craig Hepburn of Alair Lawrence Park and his wife, Dr. Charlotte Moore Hepburn Wicks

John Bella of Alair King and his nephew, Rocco Cerisano

Mike Fallico of Alair North York and his niece, Leia Luna Fallico of “Journey With Leia”

From Worn Down Waste...

By NatGPT

This waterfront home on Vancouver Island was in dire need of some serious TLC when the homeowners stumbled upon it. Despite renovations in the 1990s, the leaky, rotting structure felt like it belonged in a horror movie rather than on the stunning waterfront location it occupied. However, the location and view that came with the property presented a rare opportunity to polish up a diamond in the rough.

Enter Alair Cowichan Valley Partner, Dustin Marsh, and his team who were no strangers to taking something that no one desired and turning it into an award-winning property that turned heads. The challenge was significant, as the home’s original location in proximity to the ocean was grandfathered and not able to be torn down and rebuilt. However, the team rose to the challenge and delivered a stunning renovation that achieved the client’s goals for a smart, efficient, and beautiful forever family home.

The Opportunity

When the homeowners first set foot on the property, they knew that they had their work cut out for them. The dilapidated state of the structure was daunting, but they recognized that the location and view offered a rare opportunity to transform the property into something special.

The Challenge

The home’s location presented a unique challenge as the original structure was grandfathered, and not allowed to be torn down and rebuilt. The team had to get creative in their space planning, make structural alterations to create open floor plans, and work closely with architects and designers to maximize the building envelope’s cohesive design. The client’s goals for higher efficiencies were met by volunteering the home for energy modeling and testing, which achieved a much higher rating than required by the building code of a newly constructed home. Additionally, the mechanical systems were selected with netzero compatibility and premium air filtration, and all fossil fuel consumption was removed.

Overall Appeal and Design Elements

The client had fantastic taste, which provided a fun and unique material selection process. Timeless natural products and high-end finishes brought the inside of the home to life. The use of shiplap ceilings, wainscoting, 300 lineal feet of customized millwork, quartz on both horizontal and vertical applications, and top-of-the-line Wolf appliances made every room in the house a joy to be in. The client’s goals for a smart home were met with home automation, Tesla charging stations, and full generator backups in case of an emergency. The exterior of the home was complimented with antiqued exterior shakes and timber accents, along with 360 degrees of stamped concrete hardscapes and beautiful landscaping.

Creative Use of Space and Functionality

Without the ability to alter the building footprint, adjustments to the interior floor plan were essential in creating efficiency and comfort inside the home. 90% of the interior walls were adjusted, larger windows were added to capture the ocean views, and millwork and storage were added to every room. Hidden rooms were also added to provide additional storage options in the roof lines. Entertaining was a big client goal, and the addition of a 19’ folding glass wall allowed the living area to expand to the thousand square feet of new decks and patios. The original great room was divided by walls, disjointed rooms, and a large stone fireplace, which had to be removed to create the large entertaining kitchen space. Along with the home renovation, the entire property was landscaped to provide full usage of the property, including direct access to the private beach.

Addressing Challenges

The site conditions and alterations required to create a functional home were extensive, including obtaining a variance permit to adjust the roof lines and upper floor ceiling heights, which were as low as 5’ tall in the original structure.

#AlairCaresRoundup

Alair Manitoba supported Habitat for Humanity MB in launching the largest development in its history. Located on Pandora Avenue West in Transcona, this sustainable development is the largest, carbon free/mid density residential development in Canada. It will consist of 55 high energy efficient homes and will house approximately 275 people including 175 children.

Alair Manitoba hosted a Good Neighbour Day at the build site to celebrate the launch of the development. The family friendly event included live music, a bounce house, face painting, and fair themed snacks.

The #AlairLovesLocal campaign has been making waves in communities across the country, encouraging people to support their local businesses. In February, many Alair offices joined in on the campaign, showing their love for local businesses in a creative and heartfelt way. From Vancouver to Tampa Bay, Alair offices showed their support through various initiatives and activities.

#AlairLovesAnimals

It’s been a ruff year, but #AlairLovesAnimals has been paw-some! This doggedly determined initiative launched one year ago with a mission to support local animal welfare organizations. And boy, has it been a howling success! With the sale of the new branded doggie bandanas, Alair fetched over $4,200 for these deserving organizations. But that’s not all! Alair locations across North America have been doing their part to support our furry friends through a variety of dog-tastic events. From the Strathearn ArtWalk Alair Pawcasso Station to Bark and Build events, National Adopt a Shelter Animal days to Barkitecture Fundraisers, team Alair has been going above and beyond to lend a paw. So, if you’re an animal-lover who wants to make a difference, get involved with #AlairLovesAnimals. It’s a pawsitively wonderful way to help local animal shelters, and it’s sure to make you wag your tail with delight!

Top HeART Moment:

Alair Edmonton created their first-ever Paw-Casso Station at this year’s Strathearn Art Walk – a community event that brings over 6,000 people together to support local artists.

More than 250 pups and their paw-rents participated in the station to create original works of art on a canvas that could be brought home and paw-roudly put on display. Each dog was given a branded #AlairLovesAnimals bandana to wear as a thank you for creating a custom masterpiece.

Thank you for 15 years.

To everyone on our team, to our design and market partners, to the trades, vendors and suppliers— we thank you for the expertise, artistry and craft you bring to the homes we build or renovate that beautify and enrich our communities.

To the thousands of clients across North America, we thank you for welcoming us into your homes, and for allowing us to be part of constructing your special spaces.

We look forward to celebrating 15 years over the rest of this year, and invite you to join us as many of our locations celebrate this, and other, momentous milestones.