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inaugural issue
feat. shawn marsh of timberworx & more community builders
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TOWNS
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER ‘COMMUNITY BUILDER.’ IT’S AN OFT-USED –
consciousness when we think of building
And the folks who shape these dwellings and
OVERUSED, EVEN – TERM THAT’S BECOME A
community?
edifices – who design and build them; steward
SORT OF CATCHPHRASE USED TO DESCRIBE FOLKS REPUTED TO ‘DO GOOD’ IN (AND FOR) THEIR COMMUNITIES. SERIAL VOLUNTEERS. CHAMPIONS
OF
THE
ARTS. SAVANTS
OF
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS. NON-PROFIT LIFERS. THESE ARE ‘COMMUNITY BUILDERS’ WHO COMMIT
THEIR
LIVES
STRENGTHENING,
AND
INTANGIBLE, AND
IMMATERIAL
CULTURAL
ENERGIZES
TO
ASSEMBLING,
MAINTAINING THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC
INFRASTRUCTURE
AND
SUSTAINS
A
THAT
THRIVING
NEIGHBOURHOOD OR CITY. But what about that other category of ‘community builder’? Those folks who commit their lives to erecting, strengthening, and maintaining the tangible, material structures that constitute a thriving community: Homebuilders. Developers. Realtors. Designers. Property managers. Planners.
Winston Churchill once observed that ‘we shape our buildings and afterwards our buildings shape us.’ If there’s any truth to this notion (and I wholly believe there is), then our very essence as a community has been, and continues to be, determined at least in part by the structures we occupy. From Guelph’s famous quarried stone century homes to its newest residential developments to its re-purposed downtown
and manage them; buy and sell and invest in them while helping others do the same – are our builders of community. We don’t often enough celebrate them as such, and fully recognize their role in shaping our city’s splendid, buoyant trajectory toward social, cultural, economic, and environmental sustainability and leadership in the region and beyond. Chris Tiessen, Publisher
buildings that function as beacons of a renaissance of urban renewal and prosperity, our buildings speak to us, and about us. The bold, material infrastructure of our city – our urban landscape – reflects and shapes and defines who we have been and who we are. And surely, as Churchill declared, it determines in some measure whom we will become.
What place do they occupy in our collective
‘Our urban landscape reflects and shapes and defines who we have been and who we are.’
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inaugural issue
CONTENTS
the know is published five times annually
5. Publisher’s Letter
by the Guelph Chamber of Commerce.
8. The Chandler Company: Building Towards An Inspired Future
It offers a glimpse into the lives of our
12. wayfinding. A Map of the know
community’s locals and celebrates the good works of its organizations and innovative businesses.
14. Odd Bedfellows: How GORBA And The GHTC Are Blazing New Trails Together 16. in the know with Jeff Neumann: Don’t Wait To Buy Real Estate 18. Building A Legacy: How Tom Bartlett Made A (Global) Name For Himself Mastering His Craft 21. wayfinding. 60 Manitoba 22. Craftsmanship Beyond Reproach: Welcome To Timberworx Luxury Homes
CHRIS TIESSEN publisher
25. in the know with Shawn Marsh: On The Guelph & District Home Builders Association
CAi SEPULiS designer
27. ‘The Germ Assassinator’: Vapour Clean’s Dana Gvoich Is Cleaning – And Greening – Our Community
26. wayfinding. The Gummer Building
LAUREN KHALIL contributing writer
28. Locally-Rooted. Globally-Trained: ‘Big’John Leacock Brings A Unique Perspective To The Real Estate Game
ELLYN LUSIS contributing illustrator
32. in the know with Michelle Fach: U of Guelph OpenEd Achieves Quality Matters Certification Mark
30. Battle Of The Brands: Kazolu’s Rob McLean Searches For The Secret(s) Of TrilliumWest’s Success
34. Flashes Of Brilliance: Scott Pattinson Builds Paintings Quickly Over Time 38. Building A Community One Athlete, One Team, One Sport At A Time
For advertising and editorial opportunities, holler at chris@guelphchamber.com
43. ‘Transitions Over Transactions’: Realtor Catherine Lough Focuses On The Human Side Of Real Estate 44. Driven To Lead: Maria Finoro’s MF Property Management 45. in the know with Andrea Schweitzer: Tips For Stress-Testing Your Mortgage 46. Creators Wanted: Celebrating The Metalworks In Photos 48. Not Just Any Showroom: Eurohomes Kitchens And Appliances 53. Jenny Hilborn Is Taking Centre Stage And Standing Out From The Crowd 54. The Guelph Y: A Made-In-Guelph Gem 56. Boomers Ask; Guelph’s Real Estate Market Delivers 58. in the know with Kevin Thompson: Guelph’s Rental Supply Problem
the know:
60. Finding Her Niche: For Irene Szabo, Community – And Downtown – Is Key 62. ‘Building A Raft’: How 10 Carden – 10C – Is Creating Space For Change In A New (Old) Home
you’re either in it. or you should be.
66. The Mercedes Sprinter 4x4: Build Your Own Adventure 69. wayfinding. ANAF 70. Think Green Solutions: A ‘Silver Bullet’ For Business 72. Angela Crawford: There’s Family In Real Estate 74. Macdonald Hall: The New Home Of Business At Guelph 76. wayfinding. The Petrie Building 78. Eve Claxton Realty: Selling High-End Luxury Real Estate
GUELPH CHAMBER TEAM:
>> 6
GUELPHCHAMBER.COM
Kithio Mwanzia, President & CEO, kithio@guelphchamber.com Wendy Smith, Senior Manager, Operations, wendy@guelphchamber.com Chris Tiessen, Manager, Marketing & Communications, chris@guelphchamber.com Shanen Brazeau, Financial Administrator, shanen@guelphchamber.com Bette Ann Cannon, Member Services Coordinator, bette_ann@guelphchamber.com Amanda Derksen, Office & Events Assistant, amanda@guelphchamber.com Ellyn Lusis, Graphic Designer, ellyn@guelphchamber.com Lauren Khalil, Communications & Public Affairs Specialist, lauren@guelphchamber.com Hilary Parkin, Member Engagement Associate, hilary@guelphchamber.com Jane Wielhorski, Executive Assistant, jane@guelphchamber.com
#theknow – inaugural issue
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SPOTLIGHT: OUR BUILDERS
THE CHANDLER COMPANY: BUILDING TOWARDS AN INSPIRED FUTURE BY CHRIS TIESSEN
‘Architecture is . . . the truest record of life as it was lived in the world yesterday, as it is lived today or ever will be lived.’ -Frank Lloyd Wright >>>> 8 8
‘I
LIKE TO DESCRIBE WHAT I DO AS LIVABLE ART’, MUSES THE CHANDLER COMPANY’S MARK LOUGH AS WE SIP ESPRESSOS IN THE UNCLUTTERED, OPEN-CONCEPT,
UPPERMOST LEVEL OF HIS HOME ON MARY STREET – A BREATHTAKING RESTORATION-MEETS-NEW-BUILD PROJECT THAT MARK DESIGNED AND (RE)BUILT TO SERVE BOTH AS FAMILY ABODE AND MODEL FOR THE BUSINESS.
And how could I disagree? Everything about the place – from the wide-plank pine floors and vaulted ceiling of the original century home to the organic-inspired features of the new addition (joined to the original home by a breathtaking second-storey vaulted glass catwalk that Mark suggests is ‘an ideal space to watch lightning storms’) to the large vertical and horizontal windows strategically located throughout the space that showcase the surrounding natural environment– feels deliberate and comprehensive. And seamlessly integrated into its environment(s). Which is a common theme for The Chandler Company projects – inspired design/build undertakings where architecture and nature, interior and exterior, wood and stone, concrete and glass, old and new, happily converge. Take one of Mark’s more recent endeavors, for instance: the former Macondo Books building at 18 Wilson Street next to Guelph’s City Hall. For years home to a cherished, integral staple of our community, the building had become a dilapidated shadow of its former self when Mark purchased it last year. And could have remained as such had Mark (and his small but mighty team, whom he praises consistently) not unceasingly moved forward – literally: stone by stone, beam by beam – with a brilliantly-innovatory vision for re-imagining the place. The (emergent) result? A splendid mix of traditional stone hearkening back to the building’s heritage as one of Guelph’s first retail spaces and sleek horizontally-driven wood elements pointing to its future. Expansive glass virtually dissolves normallystark transitions between outside and in; and unique design/build details convey Mark’s respect for our city’s architectural past. Details like the old Macondo Books sign incorporated into a second-storey outdoor patio as a countertop for evening pints. Or stone from the historic Petrie Building used to rebuild the building’s gorgeous façade. Or the original (but now unnecessary) structural beams re-purposed in an open-concept staircase and main level feature encased under glass that functions as a sort of window into the building’s – and our city’s – past.
Mark (bottom) with the old Macondo Books sign on the second-storey patio at 18 Wilson St; (top) room with a view – of City Hall and beyond – at 18 Wilson St
The buildings Mark works on are livable art, yes. They are also living monuments that bring together the past with our present – and point to a future in which the places and spaces we live, work, and play can shape and inspire. Architect Frank Gehry once posited: ‘In the end, the character of a civilization is encased in its structures.’ In the case of The Chandler Company, we might remark simply that the character of Mark’s buildings serve to influence the character of our community. A city like Guelph dare not fail to recognize the veracity of Frank Lloyd Wright’s observation that architecture is ‘the truest record of life’ – and to value brilliant creative agents like Mark Lough, who build on Wright’s legacy to show us who we were, and are, and can be. >>
>> 10 >> 10
Mark (top) in his upper-floor office at his Mary Street home; (middle) plans of the trade; (bottom) The Chandler Company’s signature use of verticals and horizontals letting the light in
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#theknow – inaugural issue
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wayfinding.
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#theknow – inaugural issue
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GUELPH GRYPHONS ATHLETIC CENTRE UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH >>pg. 38 >> 13
SPOTLIGHT: OUR TRAILS
ODD BEDFELLOWS:
HOW GORBA AND THE GHTC ARE BLAZING NEW TRAILS TOGETHER BY CHRIS TIESSEN
S
INCE THE INCEPTION OF THEIR SPORT IN THE LATE 1970S WHEN CALIFORNIANS JOE BREEZE, GARY FISHER, TOM RITCHEY AND PALS FIRST CONVERTED THEIR OLD ONESPEED KLUNKERS INTO ‘SOMETHING DIFFERENT’ TO SHRED THE TRAILS OF MARIN
COUNTY’S MT TAM, MOUNTAIN BIKERS HAVE FOUND THEMSELVES ENSNARED IN TRAIL ACCESS BATTLES WITH OTHER USERS.
The relationship between mountain bikers and
Speed River Trail and Kissing Bridge Trail),
hikers has been especially contentious as trail
GORBA stewards the twenty-plus kilometres of
hikers continue to stereotype mountain bikers as
trail systems at Guelph Lake. It’s a system that’s
rambunctious upstarts intent on destroying trails
been worked out by the two organizations – and
and scaring the hiking set, while many mountain
that works!
bikers like to lampoon hikers as khaki-wearing, binocular-toting bores.
What’s more, as part of the arrangement that originally allowed mountain bikers access to the
You think Republicans and Democrats hate each
Guelph Lake trails, GORBA graciously agreed
other? You ain’t seen nothin’ til you’ve witnessed
to give Starkey Hill Trail – a gorgeous 4k loop
the contempt displayed by hikers and bikers
just east of the town of Arkell that I hike every
when they run into one another on a trail that
Saturday and Sunday morning with my lil’ uns in
each claim as their own.
tow – to the trail hikers alone. Just try looking for
Which makes the case of Guelph so curious – and so awe-inspiring. Instead of squabbling over what little local trail access is available to begin with, our local Guelph Hiking Trail Club (GHTC) and Guelph Off-Road Biking Association (GORBA) have managed to forge a truly inspiring collaborative partnership in which local trails are stewarded and trail access battles are fought – together. As past-GHTC President Dave Culham has noted of the close-knit partnership: ‘The Guelph Hiking Trail Club and GORBA share the common goal of supporting responsible and sustainable use
mountain bike tracks at Starkey. I bet you won’t find any! As our community’s population continues to boom under the province’s Places To Grow legislation which mandates literally tens of thousands more residents moving to Guelph within the next couple decades, our vibrant trail systems will only become more integral as increased numbers of users take to the great outdoors – by bike or hike. It’s a great thing that – in Guelph, at least – our hikers and bikers have been blazing new trails together for a long time now.
of area lands for outdoor activities … common
Wanna collaborate and get active too? Visit
goals, common sense.’
guelphhiking.com and gorba.ca >>
Specifically, while the GHTC diligently manages and maintains over 85 kilometres of footpaths between three main trails (the Radial Line Trail,
>> 14 >> 14
‘..as Guelph’s population grows, our vibrant trail systems will only become more integral..’ Six-year-old Oliver with his dog Lucy about to embark on the ‘Starkey Loop’
in the know with Jeff Neumann:
DON’T WAIT TO BUY REAL ESTATE safest investment in the world. The human urge to reach for the next rung on the ladder all but guarantees it. For some, the next rung is a larger home. For others, the next rung is a better community. For others still, it’s a better country. All three conspire favourably to buoy real estate values locally. Economics 101 taught us limited supply will lead to increased demand. Increased demand leads to higher prices. And higher prices lead to security – for those who have been patient.
E
VERYONE YOU MEET TODAY – EVERYONE YOU GREET, WAVE TO, SHARE A LAUGH WITH, HOIST A PINT WITH OR SHED A TEAR WITH – HAS SOMETHING IN COMMON WITH YOU. Real estate. We all live somewhere. And most of us wish we lived somewhere better. This is the root of the oak that stabilizes real estate values and ensures that it will forever be the
MACT_Ad_MT1_7.5x4.75_SB_HR_Aug2316.pdf
“A STRONG COMMUNITY PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE.”
Guelph currently boasts a population of 130,000. Meanwhile, Ontario’s ‘Places to Grow’ legislation has imposed a target population of 170,000 for Guelph by 2031. How might we accomplish adding some 3000 people a year to our community? A pessimist might say we won’t. Even the most ardent optimist would concede that it won’t be through the creation of 1
2016-08-23
new single-family homes. Given what we already know about supply and demand, what would you suppose will happen to the values of existing housing stock? Real estate is the boring tortoise to the stock market hare. It may appear to nap once in a while, and sometimes look like it is losing the race. But the land upon which your home sits will be there long after today’s most profitable companies have disappeared. Unless you believe that in the future fewer people will inhabit the (local) earth, your choice is clear: Don’t wait to buy real estate; buy real estate and wait. >>
11:22 AM
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Will Mactaggart 519-827-2906
Mike Hryn 519-827-2918
TheMactaggartTeam.com Richardson GMP Limited, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Richardson is a trade-mark of James Richardson & Sons, Limited. GMP is a registered trade-mark of GMP Securities L.P. Both used under license from Richardson GMP Limited.
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Prayer of the Procrastinator I hesitate to make a list of all the countless deals I’ve missed; Bonanzas that were in my grip – I watched through my finger slip The windfalls which I should have bought Were lost because I over thought; I thought of this, I thought of that I could have sworn I smelled a rat, and while I thought things over twice another grabbed them at a price; It seems I always hesitate then make up my mind much too late. A very cautious man am I and that is why I never buy. How Nassau and how Suffolk grew; North Jersey! Staten Island too! When others called those sprawling farms and welcomed deals with open arms; A corner here, ten acres there, compounding values year by year, I chose to think and as I thought they bought the deals I should have bought The golden chances I had then are lost and will not come again. Today I cannot be enticed for everything’s so overpriced The deals of yesteryear are dead the market’s soft – and so-s my head. Last night I had a fearful dream I know I wakened with a scream. Some folks approached my bed – For trinkets on the barrelhead (in dollars bills worth twenty-four and nothing less and nothing more) They’d sell Manhattan Isle to me, the most I’d go was twenty-three The seller scowled: ‘Not on a bet!’ and sold to Peter Minuit. At times a teardrop drowns my eye for deals I had, but did not buy; And now life’s saddest words I pen – ‘IF ONLY I’D INVESTED THEN!’ Farm and Land Realtor Magazine (October 1917)
This reminder that the real estate phenomenon is not a new one is brought to you by
SPOTLIGHT: OUR CREATORS
BUILDING A LEGACY: HOW TOM BARTLETT MADE A (GLOBAL) NAME FOR HIMSELF MASTERING HIS CRAFT BY CHRIS TIESSEN
‘Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind.’ - Johannes Brahms >> 18 >> 18
‘I
FIGURE I’VE GOT ABOUT A THOUSAND GUITARS IN ME BEFORE I CALL IT A DAY,’ MUSES TOM BARTLETT AS WE SIT TOGETHER IN HIS BACKYARD IN ‘THE WARD’ – JUST STEPS AWAY FROM BOTH HIS HOUSE AND THE
SHOP WHERE HE CREATES WHAT ARE WIDELY CONSIDERED TO BE AMONG THE FINEST ELECTRIC GUITARS IN THE WORLD.
I quickly do the math in my head. Almost a decade of building guitars under his belt. About twenty-five guitars built each year. Phew. That leaves at least a few more decades of Bartlett guitars coming out of Guelph – which is splendid news for folks who want an instrument that, as Guitar Player magazine noted in 2014, ‘is so beautifully put together that every little detail is worthy of examination.’
#theknow – inaugural issue
Tom Bartlett turns a crude block of wood into the neck of what’s to be one of the greatest electric guitars in the world
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Tom in his shop; (below) detail of Tom doing what he does best
Folks like Paul Langlois of The Tragically Hip,
landing as a carpenter’s apprentice. Before long,
career. Which is a beautiful thing, really. That is,
for instance, who toured this past year (including
he was building high-end custom cabinetry and
a dedicated craftsman not intent on building up
the nationally-broadcast concert that brought a
furniture for clients out of a backyard ‘shop’ (shed)
his company, or selling it to the highest bidder,
nation together) with a most special instrument
so small that he had to cut a horizontal hole in its
nor obsessed about wearing the crown beyond
built by Tom – The Maple Leaf Forever electric
wall in order to plane a piece of lumber – pushing
his days; but instead recognizing and cherishing
guitar. Constructed with wood from the famed
it out the hole as he went.
the temporal nature of his fine craftsmanship.
Most of each year brought plenty of work, but
>>
(and felled) Toronto silver maple that inspired Alexander Muir’s unofficial 1867 Canadian anthem The Maple Leaf Forever, The Maple Leaf Forever guitars (one acoustic and one electric) are held in trust and loaned each year, for a year, to a touring and/or recording Canadian guitarist.
the period between Christmas and February always remained quiet. So, almost a decade ago, Tom tried his hand at making a guitar. ‘I paid one thousand dollars in materials for that first guitar and broadcast the building process on a website,’
‘I can’t overemphasize how important The
he recalls. ‘I ended up selling it for three thousand
Hip’s music has been in my life, ’ Tom says. ‘I’ve
dollars to someone following my posts. I invested
identified with their music for much longer than
the cash back into materials to build another
I’ve been making guitars. Having them tour
guitar – and a bigger shop.’
and make music with one of my instruments is something I’ll cherish always.’ (After The Hip’s last show, the guitar was passed to the Sam Roberts Band.)
Within three months Tom doubled his price. Within another three, he doubled it again. And still the waiting list grew – to as much as four years. Tom finally found a sort of rhythm, and the
Tom Bartlett’s story hasn’t always been this
waiting list for a Bartlett guitar is down to a mere
glamorous, though. He moved to Guelph at
two years. Things are good.
seventeen – ‘chasing after a girl’ – and found work in the restaurant kitchen scene before >> 20 >> 20
And yet, even as Tom continues to build towards one thousand guitars, he’s dreaming of his next
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long and storied history in Guelph.
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Sitting on its original fifth-acre lot, the home was used by businessman, politician and national co-op movement pioneer Samuel Carter as a small scale knitting factory from 1882/83 to 1893. The knitting factory, which employed over half a dozen folks who manufactured gloves, mitts and hosiery, was the forerunner to the Royal Knitting Company Carter later established with Thomas Wootton at 41 Norwich Street which employed just under 100 workers by 1908. COLLEGE AVE E 60 Manitoba contributes to our understanding of cottage industries in the
later part of the 19th century and the local character of St. Patrick’s Ward as a working class neighbourhood with a long history of mixed uses. VICTORIA RD S
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Builders wanted.
Learn, Lead, Inspire… Together. ugdsb.on.ca #theknow – inaugural issue
>> 21
SPOTLIGHT: OUR BUILDERS
CRAFTSMANSHIP BEYOND REPROACH: WELCOME TO TIMBERWORX LUXURY HOMES BY CHRIS TIESSEN
>> 22 >> 22
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HAWN MARSH HAD NO IDEA GROWING UP THAT ONE DAY HE WOULD BE IN CONSTRUCTION – LET ALONE THAT HE WOULD BECOME A LEADING CUSTOM HOME BUILDER IN THE GUELPH REGION. INSTEAD, AS AN
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT IN AGRICULTURE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH, HE HAD HIS SIGHTS SET ON MUCH MORE RURAL AFFAIRS. AND YET HERE HE IS: ENTREPRENEUR. AWARD-WINNING BUILDER OF LUXURY HOMES. GUELPH AND DISTRICT HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT. AND ARDENT GUELPH ENTHUSIAST.
Shawn’s trajectory to success began when, as a student at the University, he picked up a part-time job framing homes. ‘It was such a great satisfaction to build,’ he notes of that time in his life, ‘and to see and feel communities come to life.’ It was not long that Shawn decided to put Agriculture in the rear view mirror and found his own business – Timberworx Custom Homes – that, twenty five years later with partner Eve Claxton (featured on pg78), is doing fantastically.
Luxury home builder Shawn Marsh outside his painstakingly-beautiful Timberworx model (and temporary) home at Heritage Lake Estates
#theknow – inaugural issue
>> 23
Shawn with partner Eve Claxton in their expansive kitchen at Heritage Lake Estates
After finding that working on their first home
complete each home from the ground up. Shawn
Shawn prides himself on his hands-on approach;
together was a somewhat seamless process,
can’t say enough about his team: ‘Our trades and
he works closely with each client to ensure the
Shawn and Eve recall thinking: ‘It can’t be this
suppliers are a phenomenal bunch – and are
ultimate custom home experience. ‘This business
easy!’ Eve adds with a smile: ‘it hasn’t been that
the same crew who work on every Timberworx
is built on relationships,’ he notes. ‘A home is the
easy since.’ And no wonder, as Timberworx
home.’
biggest investment people ever really make,
has earned a reputation in and well beyond Guelph as a luxury builder that simply doesn’t cut corners. None. It’s obvious when you enter a Timberworx build. Sure, the sheer size of the homes is impressive – including the twelve-foot ceilings (up to ten feet in the basement) and ten-foot doors that require six hinges each. But for Timberworx, size matters less than timeless design and outstanding craftsmanship. As Shawn notes: ‘We tend not to follow trends that include building bigger and bigger. Instead, we work closely with each client to design a space – a home – that makes perfect sense functionally and serves to highlight outstanding craftsmanship above all else.’ Indeed, Shawn’s entire construction schedule revolves around his trusted staff, tradesfolk and suppliers who >> 24
And, in the case of Timberworx homes, it shows both locally and nationally: 2014 Builder of the Year (Guelph); 2014 Most Outstanding
so when working with a client I ask ‘what can we give you that meets your budget and has everything you need?’
Renovation Project (Guelph); 2012 Project of
Next up for Timberworx? Building the first
the Year for Aberfoyle Creek III; and CHBA’s
luxury net zero home in the area. It would appear
2014 Most Outstanding Renovation. With
that the list of esteemed designations by which
these sort of accolades, you might think it would
Shawn Marsh is known will continue to grow, and
be a tough go trying to get your hands on a
the Guelph region will continue to benefit from
Timberworx home. You’d be right!
his boundless creative energy and craftsmanship
Consider this: Timberworx has currently sold out this season at its Heritage Lake location and has a waitlist of almost two hundred eager prospective clients. Two hundred. It seems as though Shawn, Eve and their crew certainly have their work cut out for them at least for the next few years.
beyond reproach. >>
in the know with Shawn Marsh: ON THE GUELPH & DISTRICT HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION homes and renovations that the residents of
In so many ways, our members literally do ‘build’
Guelph are looking for.
this community. We provide the places people
Our work is focused in three major areas. First, we support our members through a wide range of information and professional development opportunities. Second, we work with the City on a variety of issues related to development, and on building the kind of community that
T
will continue to be such a great place to live. HE GDHBA SERVES AS THE ‘VOICE’ OF THE
RESIDENTIAL
INDUSTRY
IN
OUR
CONSTRUCTION COMMUNITY.
Our members include new home builders, professional renovators and developers as well as our partners – including trade contractors, lenders, equipment and material suppliers, and
In so many ways, the success of our industry is tied to the success of Guelph – as a place to live, work, and play. Third, we work hard to provide
to suit their changing lives. And our members invest in the future of Guelph and surrounding communities. Unlike other industries that can pull up stakes and move somewhere else in tough times, our industry is rooted here and in order for us to succeed, our community has to succeed. We have a huge stake in making sure the Guelph region remains a great place to live and work. >>
information to the residents of Guelph to help them make informed decisions when they are buying a new home, or renovating their existing home.
folks in engineering and surveying. Members
Our members do business the right way, so
also include those professionals who help us
helping consumers get, and stay, informed is just
design, create and deliver the quality of new
good for business.
#theknow – inaugural issue
call ‘home’. We renovate and improve these places
>> 25
wayfinding. LONDON RD W
SA
RD
O
SUFFOLK ST
METCALFE ST
PAISLEY
RD
THE GUMMER BUILDING 5 DOUGLAS ST STEVENSON ST N
EDINBURGH RD N
AM
ER
Originally built around 1870, The Gummer Building/Brownlow
GRANGE RD
Block is built of locally-quarried limestone. Bertrum Gummer took on full ownership of the building by 1912 and operated the Gummer Press, publisher of the Guelph Herald. Over the decades,
EL
IZ
barristers, insurance agents, retailers, artisans, creatives and others
AB
ET
H
ST
called Gummer home. WATER ST
In April 2007, the building was severely damaged by fire. In 2009, Skyline Group took a massive risk to restore the burnt-out residential space that has helped give new life to our downtown – DEAN AVE
spearheading a renaissance of sorts that includes the new City Hall and Market Square, the Tricar towers, Fusion’s The Metalworks, The Chandler Company’s Wilson Street design/build, 10 Carden, COLLEGE AVE E
The Petrie Building and more.
Current Gummer occupants include the Skyline head office, Buon Gusto, Necessary Arts co-working space, and a few lucky folks who live in the Gummer’s lavishly appointed apartments with the best balconies in town.
VICTORIA RD S
EDINBURGH RD S
shell into 77,000 square feet of fabulous office, commercial and
STONE RD E
REPLACING EMPLOYEES a
PAIN IN THE BACK? Solution: Offer group benefits like your
COMPETITION DOES! Relax. We’ve got this. Specialized health and wellness services should be available to everyone. Bensol specializes in group benefits programs designed specifically for small business... affordable, flexible and focused on your needs. >>BEN_Advertising_2016_Ads_Chamber_JBH_.indd 26
1
519-829-2860 bensol.ca @bensolbenefits 2016-09-27 11:46 AM
‘THE GERM ASSASSINATOR’: VAPOUR CLEAN’S DANA GVOICH IS CLEANING – AND GREENING – OUR COMMUNITY BY CHRIS TIESSEN
D
ANA GVOICH IS A WOMAN ON A MISSION: TO EDUCATE FOLKS ABOUT THE INHERENT
TOXICITY IN EVERYDAY CLEANING SUPPLIES, AND
TO
CONVERT
LOCAL
BUSINESSES
AND HOMEOWNERS TOWARD A GREENER CLEAN. HER BUSINESS, VAPOUR CLEAN, IS A PROFESSIONAL FULL SERVICE CLEANING COMPANY THAT HAS ELIMINATED THE USE OF HARMFUL CHEMICAL CLEANERS BY UTILIZING A
REVOLUTIONARY 375F
SUPER
HEATED
VAPOUR TECHNOLOGY. A driven entrepreneur, Dana passionately promotes her weapon of choice: a sophisticated commercial grade dry vapour technology engineered for and utilized in hospital cleaning all over the world. Vapour Clean’s Dana Gvoich getting ready to take it to dirt & grime
‘There’s so much going for cleaning with vapour,’ Dana says. ‘Firstly, it foregoes excessive use of toxic cleaning chemicals, which have been
‘Harmful chemicals shouldn’t have a place in
doing something great! I love knowing that by
shown to be hazardous to our health.’ Indeed,
our regular cleaning routines,’ Dana remarks,
choosing Vapour Clean for both our home and
the David Suzuki Foundation has cited the
‘especially when vapour cleaning kills bacteria
office I’m eliminating the use of chemicals and,
inherent toxicity in everyday cleaning agents,
on contact.’ That’s why vapour cleaning is ideal
in turn, am making a healthier, more positive
noting that there is currently no requirement in
for healthcare, fitness studios, and hospitality
choice for myself, my family, my co-workers
Canada for manufacturers to warn consumers
use. ‘Moreover,’ Dana adds, ‘using vapour not only
and our clients. The difference Dana has made
about the health and environmental hazards
cleans – it also disinfects and deodorizes all in
in our environment is tangible. She is the germ
associated with chronic exposure to the chemical
one step.
assassinator!’
The result: ‘showroom’-condition clean that
Vapour cleaning is not only toxic-free; it’s green.
‘Super heated dry vapour is the most effective
reaches into all the nooks-n-crannies where
The method not only promotes overall health
way of getting heat into all the nooks and
cloths simply end up pushing dirt and bacteria
and well-being; it also contributes to a healthier,
crannies where dirt, germs, and bacteria collect,’
into those hard-to-reach corners. Which is why
more sustainable environment by producing
the Vapour Clean website declares. Traditional
more local businesses – including local brokerage
less pollution in landfills (its agents use reusable
cleaning methods, it goes on, are no match for
TrilliumWest, leader in LED retrofitting Think
microfiber cloths) and less pollution in waterways
this innovative, highly efficient and effective
Green Solutions, and Michael House – are
as well. As the Vapour Clean website declares,
technology that was initially perfected by and
booking Dana and her crew for regular cleaning.
we can all ‘live life with a clean peace of mind.’
ingredients found in many cleaning products.
for hospitals in Europe. Super-heated dry vapour, after all, ‘is proven to kill 99.9% of bacteria (MRSA, VRE, C.Diff, E-Coli, Salmonella) viruses, dust mites, bed bugs, mold and mildew.’
#theknow – inaugural issue
Brooke Hillson of TrilliumWest chooses Dana
Visit vapourclean.ca >>
for her home and office cleaning. As she notes: ‘When even my six-year-old is wowed by the cleanliness of our home I know Dana’s >> 27
SPOTLIGHT: OUR REALTORS
LOCALLY-ROOTED. GLOBALLY-TRAINED: ‘BIG’ JOHN LEACOCK BRINGS A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE TO THE REAL ESTATE GAME BY LAUREN KHALIL
Y
OU’LL KNOW ‘BIG’ JOHN LEACOCK WHEN YOU SEE HIM. LARGER THAN LIFE WITH A CHARISMATIC PERSONALITY, WICKED SENSE
OF HUMOUR AND BOOMING VOICE, THIS FORMER MUSIC PROMOTER-TURNED REALTOR IS HARD TO MISS. AND EASY TO FIND – MORE OFTEN THAN NOT HOLDING COURT ON THE HUGE FRONT VERANDA AT HIS DISTINCTIVE STUART STREET HOME.
>> 28 >> 28
‘Big’ John began his career in real estate ten years ago and has since been involved in almost three hundred transactions. He traces his passion for real estate back to his childhood on the small island of Tobago watching his mother working in land transactions, affidavits, deeds and titles. It’s where he traces his passion for community too. Real estate and community. Inextricably linked, in John’s mind. As he posits: ‘Real estate is not about houses; it’s about people. It’s not about selling homes; it’s about selling Guelph as a place to live.’ A place that John continues to nurture in a variety of volunteer capacities. Co-founder of the Guelph Black History Society (GBHS). Past Board Member and current Committee Member at the Hillside Festival. Member of the Downtown Renewal Committee. Past Board Member of Guelph & District Association of Realtors. The list goes on. John is also a regular sponsor of such community-minded phenomena as the Guelph Jazz Festival, Hillside, Guelph Pride and the Gospel Festival. Guelph became John’s second home when he attended University of Guelph as a varsity athlete and student of Agriculture. His early years here – as a student and as a pizza delivery guy – served to fuel his ambition to work in real estate. As he notes: ‘My background in Agriculture gave me an understanding of how land is used and developed, and it was through delivering pizza that I got to know the social demographic in Guelph.’ A demographic that continues to grow. John suggests that the unprecedented upswing in Guelph real estate is due to a multitude of factors, including relative affordability compared to Toronto as well as Guelph’s identity as a university city attracting professionals who want rural and city living all in one. Our city’s recent ranking as fourth best large city in Canada in which to start a business certainly doesn’t hurt either. John notes: ‘Guelph has a huge buzz following it right now. There are lots of people who want to move here – including those who attended university here and want to come back to have a family. The largest growth can be seen in the downtown core,’ he adds, ‘and I’m very excited about that.’ (When you won’t find ‘Big’ John on his veranda, he’s most likely striding shop to shop downtown, where he knows seemingly everyone.) ‘Big’ John Leacock is the only local realtor with a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation, which allows him to collaborate and build within the global marketplace. His main specialties are in development and international real estate, but he also loves finding the perfect home for first-time buyers. ‘Big’ John Leacock is a firm believer that ‘by building community, community builds you.’ Indeed, he has shown this to be true.
‘Big’ John doing he does –issue real estate business on the veranda of his Stuart Street home #theknow – what inaugural
>> 29
SPOTLIGHT: REAL ESTATE BRANDING
BATTLE OF THE BRANDS:
KAZOLU’S ROB MCLEAN SEARCHES FOR THE SECRET(S) OF TRILLIUMWEST’S SUCCESS
A
GREAT
BRAND
REPRESENTS
ALL
IMPRESSIONS
AND
Rob: How does TW’s brand attract potential clients?
EXPECTATIONS A PRODUCT, A
Is this philosophy a conscious effort to differentiate your business from other brokerages?
COMPANY, OR AN ORGANIZATION EVOKES.
Alan: ‘Everybody in the community is a potential
TRILLIUMWEST – AN INDEPENDENT REAL
client whom we address as an engaged member
As much as it’s a people-focused business, real
ESTATE BROKERAGE – HAS STRATEGICALLY
of the community. The information we provide is
estate has always been fairly faceless. We know
BUILT A BRAND THAT SUCCESSFULLY COMPETES
never ‘selling,’ it’s informing. We provide value, we
that your house is where you’re going to raise
AT THE LOCAL LEVEL WITH THE LARGEST
invest in our community, and trust that people
your kids, and we begin there. We know that you
MULTINATIONAL REAL ESTATE COMPANIES. IN
will remember us when they’re ready to buy or
have to feel good about this whole process.’
THIS FEATURE ARTICLE, GUELPH-BASED BRAND
sell.’
DEVELOPMENT
How has your brand-development approach differed from real estate franchises?
‘We partner with our agents. We don’t have desk
‘Most agencies have a brand, and every agent is
homes and to build the brand – the best people,
responsible for developing their own sub-brand
photography, design. This team partnership
underneath that. That’s not what we’re doing.
allows our agents to do the absolute best for
Our brand is delivered by our people, and they
their clients.’
AND
COMMUNICATIONS
PROFESSIONAL ROB MCLEAN DISCUSSES THE TRILLIUMWEST BRAND WITH BROKER ALAN MASON.
deliver on the expectations of the brand. We’re in the people business, not the sales business, and we’re unified in that approach.’
How do you support your team? fees. We don’t have franchise fees. We ensure that our agents have everything they need to sell
What are the pillars of your brand strategy? ‘Community. Partnership. And we put ‘happy and healthy’ far above profit margin. We’re trying to build partnerships, whether it’s with the
Illustrations by Ellyn Lusis
University of Guelph, the Guelph Film Festival, or new home builders. We do what we can inside our community to help it grow, which will in turn come back on us.’
Alan Mason
>> 30 >> 30
Your listings focus on aesthetics – make use of professional photography and videography, for example. Why do these details seem to be unique to TW?
What drove you to build a new brand rather than purchase a franchise for an existing real estate brand?
‘That’s easy – we are prepared to invest more for
but we’re looking at real estate from a different
a better result. We’re one of the only real estate
perspective. We’re a marketing company that
companies that uses drone videography and
sells real estate. Marketing has always been a sub-
high-res photos in our advertising, which the
section of this industry. Real estate has tended to
brokerage pays for. We can’t market effectively
focus on simple exposure -- not marketing.’
with iPhone photos. We show angles that nobody else does, especially with commercial properties. The conventional boring shot of boring commercial space – who wants to see that?’
‘It takes a lot more work to build a new brand,
Rob McLean is a Guelph-based brand development
and
communications
professional, a writer, an instructor at the University of Guelph, a parent, and a
semi-retired
folk-punk
songwriter.
Rob operates Kazolu, a marketing & communications consultancy that helps people to understand their brand.
What difference does this allow TW to provide for its clients?
Alan Mason is a ping-pong fanatic who
‘The selling price per-square-foot for our
Brokerage here in Guelph.
also runs TrilliumWest Real Estate
brokerage listings this year are 12% higher than
So, what is your strategic intent behind this approach?
the median in the region, and our days on the
‘Attention to detail. Everything we do must be
numbers back up everything we do. I wanted a
polished. Why put something out there that
brand that means something, and everything
market are fewer. So, marketing is providing significant added value for our clients. The
isn’t excellent? We present homes properly.
comes back to that. If you see a ‘TW’ on
Beautifully. I care about ‘better.’ We target buyers,
something, you know that it’s going to be at a
we design and target our advertising, and the
higher level.’
brokerage pays for the ads to ensure that our listings are marketed as well as they can be.
Rob McLean
in the know with Michelle Fach: U OF GUELPH OpenEd ACHIEVES ‘QUALITY MATTERS CERTIFICATION MARK’ FOR ONLINE COURSE Submitted to QM for review in August of 2016,
integral to continuous quality improvement.
the online course successfully met the QM
The rubric used in the quality review is based
Review Standards, making it eligible to carry
on national standards of best practice, research
the QM Certification Mark.
findings, and instructional design principles. QM
This is a significant accomplishment for OpenEd and the University of Guelph. Quality Matters evaluates the quality of the learning experience
O SCHOOL
from OPEN
COLLABORATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL
IN
institution to join Quality Matters (2009), and is
THE
aspects of course design. I’m truly thankful for the
now the first Canadian university with a course
DESIGN
expertise of our staff and for their commitment
that has been reviewed by QM and carries the
to quality.
QM Certification Mark. >>
MARK FOR THE ONLINE DEGREE-CREDIT –
43 standards, including 21 essential standards. The University of Guelph was the first Canadian
THE QUALITY MATTERS (QM) CERTIFICATION EDRD*4010DE
perspective.
validates the approaches that we take in all
AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT, HAS ACHIEVED
COURSE
design
Review Standards, a course is reviewed against
Achieving a Quality Matters Certification Mark
SUPPORT, WITH
instructional
delivery or course content. In order to meet QM
AND
LEARNING
EDUCATIONAL
an
focuses on the design of the course rather than
TOURISM
PLANNING IN THE LESS DEVELOPED WORLD.
Quality Matters is a leader in quality assurance for online education and has received national recognition for its scalable, peer-based approach. Designed to promote student learning, QM is
Need a co-op student this Winter?
Recruit Guelph www.recruitguelph.ca
• No waiting for a match at Guelph. Just post, interview, & HIRE! • From the office to the plant floor, from the lab to the field, our co-op students are ready to work for you! >> 32
Post your jobs today! (519) 824-4120 x52323
#theknow – inaugural issue
>> 33
SPOTLIGHT: OUR CREATORS
FLASHES OF BRILLIANCE: SCOTT PATTINSON BUILDS PAINTINGS QUICKLY OVER TIME BY CHRIS TIESSEN
>> 34 >> 34
‘Technical skill, discipline, the elusive ability to distill experience and channel energy into an expression that simultaneously listens and speaks in an original voice without timidity – there are the attributes of a real artist.’ -Carlyn Moulton, Curator Oeno Gallery #theknow – inaugural issue
‘H
OW DID WE GET HERE?’
HIS VOICE TINGED WITH EQUAL PARTS INCREDULITY AND BEMUSEMENT, SCOTT PATTINSON REPEATS THE QUESTION WHILE SLIGHTLY ALTERING HIS INFLECTION:
‘HOW DID WE GET HERE?’ I GLANCE AROUND AT OUR ENVIRONS. We’re seated in the shade of Scott’s century-old barn-turned-painting-studio, situated in the nearby hamlet of Clyde, sharing bottles of Royal City Autumn Ale and Hibiscus Saison. Scott Pattinson in his studio – a converted century barn that used to serve as the town’s dance hall
>> 35
The barn – used as a community dance hall a century back – is a magical mix of stone and barn board and farm implements and partially-finished canvases. The adjacent yard, complete with expansive vegetable garden and quaint stone house that Scott and his wife Shelley have been restoring since moving to this little piece of heaven in 2013, is equally gorgeous. How did we get here? I got here by car, I think to myself. Simple enough. Scott’s journey here, on the other hand – a journey that saw him retire from a stable teaching career with the Upper Grand District School Board in 2013 for a life as a professional artist – is far from straightforward. Part luck. A whack of talent. An unrelenting creative spirit. And a wife crazy enough to dive with Scott into the abyss of self-employment as an abstract expressionist painter. These are the ingredients that have helped propel Scott to international acclaim – including exclusive representation by Oeno Gallery in Prince Edward County and works in Corporate and Private Collections throughout Canada and around the globe. The luck, as Scott recounts, came quickly enough. ‘Incredibly enough, art critic RM Vaughan visited my first solo show [in Yorkville] back in 2005 – a show I hung myself, I was so green to the scene – and wrote it up in The National Post! I haven’t looked back since.’ Indeed. As RM Vaughan has more recently noted of Pattinson’s work: ‘Pattinson wants to show us the guts of an image by capturing the toofast-for-the-human-eye flash of creation, that nanosecond of sweet indecision and glorious uncertainty that transpires in the building of an image…’ Scott’s own ruminations about the ‘too-fast-for-the-human-eye flash of creation’ in his works – the brush strokes themselves – are poignant, and provide a glimpse into painting sessions that can easily last the entire day. As he notes: ‘For me, painting is about being prepared – about getting into the zone. It’s about being ready to paint, but not necessarily about painting itself. While a single piece might take a year to complete, there might be only 45 seconds of combined time I was actually putting paint to canvas.’ Where Scott sits in contemplation ‘getting into the zone’ – partially completed canvases set up all around him at the ready – is in the aforementioned barn-turned-studio. It’s a glorious space – and one where almost anyone might find inspiration, I think to myself. And one where Scott and wife Shelley have found a home – to renovate, and restore, and enjoy one another’s company and the company of their friends. How did we get here? Not to worry, Scott. The point is that we’re here. And the barn is warm. And the beer is cold. And the journey continues. >>
>> 36 >> 36
Vignettes from life in the studio
NAME-A-SEAT in the new
GUELPH GRYPHONS ATHLETICS CENTRE
Opening Winter 2016
Help us build the Gryphon community! For only $1,000, your name will be recognized on a seat in the new Guelph Gryphons Athletics Event Centre. Only 362 seats are available, so name yours before they are gone!
YOUR NAME HERE
NAME-A-SEAT TODAY! Visit www.buildingpotential.ca Questions? Contact Sam Kosakowski, Alumni Advancement Manager 519-824-4120 x58463 | skosakow@uoguelph.ca #GryphonsNameASeat
SPOTLIGHT: OUR FUTURE
‘Today, over 7,500 kids, playing on both competitive and house league teams across 5 sports will benefit from the Jr. Gryphons’ program.’
BUILDING A COMMUNITY ONE ATHLETE, ONE TEAM, ONE SPORT AT A TIME
M
BY ELIZABETH THOMSON
ANY OF US ARE PROUD
youth in sport through activity programs and
grades,
TO
summer camps.
aspirations and the likelihood of graduation.1 In
CITY
CALL
THE
HOME.
ROYAL
THIS
YEAR
GUELPH WAS RANKED THE THIRD BEST CITY TO RAISE A FAMILY IN CANADA BY READERSDIGEST.CA. SEVERAL
REASONS
FOR
THERE
ARE
THIS:
STRONG
INFRASTRUCTURE, MIXTURE OF OLD AND NEW
GREEN
NEIGHBORHOODS,
GOOD
PUBLIC TRANSIT. And certainly the University of Guelph adds to the unique culture of our community. In recent years the University’s Gryphon Athletics’ outreach has grown significantly
In 2013 the University’s Gryphon Athletics initiated a multi-year partnership with the Guelph Minor Hockey Association, connecting with 1800 players across 34 rep teams. A few months later the Guelph Girls Hockey Association signed on, adding another 500 players. In 2014
attachment,
educational
young women it can be a game changer with many reports indicating more positive selfimage; lower body mass index; reduced rates of teenage pregnancy, depression, suicide, smoking and illicit drug use; and more opportunity for higher earning jobs.2
Guelph Minor Football joined, followed by the
Despite these renowned positive benefits,
Guelph Youth Basketball Association in 2015.
41% of girls between the ages of 3 and 17
This year two additional organizations entered
don’t participate in sport – and this number
the fold: the Guelph Youth Soccer Association
jumps to an astounding 84% in adult women.3
and the Guelph Youth Volleyball Association.
In 2012-2013 Stats Canada reported only 9%
– by both encouraging fans to watch varsity
Sports and physical activity clubs can have a
and professional games on campus and
powerful influence on children’s lives. Studies
demonstrating a commitment to engaging
have shown that participation can improve
>> 38
school
of 5- to 17-year-olds in Canada meet the daily recommendation of at least 60 minutes of daily moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity.
Jr. Gryphons in all their different guises – an impressive (community building) sight indeed
The
benefits
for
Guelph
youth
sports
organizations and their athletes are many: • Reduced rental rates for campus fields, gyms and arenas
them to train and become the best they can be –
If you live in our great city and have not been on
even if a sports career isn’t in the cards.
campus in a while, chances are you’ll be visiting
Varsity sports can open doors for leadership training, scholarships, careers and comradery.
• Team discounts for apparel
When I asked my 11-year-old daughter what she
• For athletes: camp discounts and free entry to regular scheduled varsity games • Scheduled interaction with varsity athletes • Access to paid, age-appropriate training from strength and conditioning professionals in the renovated High Performance Centre
thought about her volleyball team becoming Jr. Gryphons, she said – ‘Cool. Will I get to play in the new gym?’
teams and the community. There will be more events in 2017, when the Event Centre and the
interact
with
competitive athletes who can inspire and mentor
Business After 5 on Tuesday November 22 from 5 to 7pm! Learn more at buildingpotential.ca
>>
memberships, is opening doors for Jr. Gryphon tournaments, training, and large spectator
to
come see for yourself at the Guelph Chamber’s
which currently boasts 8,379 active student
opportunities
kids
Gryphon Athletics has to offer. Or you might
The new Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre,
As a parent I am happy to see the many for
soon with your Jr. Gryphon to enjoy everything
remaining space is fully operational.
Division of Adolescent and School Health for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; review of over 50 studies, 2010.
1
2
www.sportforlife.ca
WOMEN IN SPORT: FUELLING A LIFETIME OF PARTICIPATION, Canada’s dairy farmers & The Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS), 2016.
3
‘I love letting my mind wander when I’m with Finnick.’ -Cai Sepulis, Designer & Illustrator >> >>40 40
>> FALL 2016
At Royal Canin, we believe that pets make our lives better. We know that pets have tremendous positive physical, emotional and social impact on our lives. Dogs, in particular, promote the physical activity and health of their human companions. Pets contribute to our sense of purpose, reduce the negative effects of stress and foster social connections within our communities.
‘Lucy taught me to love the great outdoors again.’ -Chris Tiessen, Publisher
At Royal Canin, our purpose is to create a better world for pets. We are pleased to promote awareness about human-animal interactions and support the advancement of pet friendly communities.
royalcanin.ca Royal Canin customers Cai Sepulis & Chris Tiessen with their happy, well-fed dogs, Finnick & Lucy
>> 42
>> FALL 2016
SPOTLIGHT: OUR REALTORS FEATURE ARTICLE
‘TRANSITIONS OVER TRANSACTIONS’:
REALTOR CATHERINE LOUGH FOCUSES ON THE HUMAN SIDE OF REAL ESTATE BY CHRIS TIESSEN
N FOR
THE
O ONE’S EVER SAID MOVING’S EASY. SORTING THROUGH LIFE’S BELONGINGS IN PREPARATION
MOVE.
PACKING
BOXES
TOO
NUMEROUS TO COUNT WITH ASSORTMENTS OF
THINGS
TOO
DIVERSE
TO
LABEL
COMPREHENSIVELY. SETTING UP SERVICES FOR THE NEW HOME. SHUTTING DOWN SERVICES TO THE OLD HOME. FIGURING OUT NEW SCHOOLS. New bus routes. New neighbours. It’s all so physically exhausting. What’s important to remember is that moving is
Catherine at her home on Mary Street – a glorious spot that she’s also currently listing
emotionally and psychologically exhausting, too. For you. For your spouse. For the whole family. As
Indeed,
such, it’s important that your realtor – that person
professionalism makes her a great ‘companion’
who’s along for the ride with you through the entire
when navigating the complex and taxing world
process – is as empathetic as she/he is a shrewd
of buying and selling. And her experience
negotiator.
with renovation management, rental property
Local realtor Catherine Lough certainly falls into this category. From her calming presence and intuitive demeanor – no doubt honed during a career working with seniors at St. Joe’s Health Centre – to her decade of experience investing, restoring, renting and re-marketing real estate around Guelph and beyond, she’s the complete package. And now that her two kids have grown from babies to boys, she’s devoting her
Catherine’s
integrity
and
warm
ownership and long-term investment holding gives her the edge as an astute advisor and advocate. Not to say that she doesn’t know when to take her real estate hat off. Indeed, you’re likely to find Catherine at a rink watching her oldest, Chase, play hockey on any given night (or very early morning). Or cooking, playing any number of sports, or just relaxing with the family in front of a movie at home.
professional life to a career in real estate. A career
‘Working in real estate is all about work-life
in people.
balance,’ adds Catherine. ‘Not just my own,
As Catherine notes: ‘For me, real estate has always been more about transitions than transactions. It’s been – and continues to be – about helping my clients move through the various stages of their lives. From purchasing a first home to moving into something a little larger that accommodates the kids (or not) to finding a forever home to
either. It’s also about understanding that my clients need balance. It’s about grasping the complexities of their lives and – most importantly – working hard to ensure that I’m making things just a little bit easier during what’s usually a fairly stressful transition period. It’s about empathizing. Advocating. Helping.’
downsizing during retirement – I feel both
Reach Catherine at catherine@cbn.on.ca –
grateful and satisfied when I’m invited along for
she’s keen to help guide you through your next
the ride!’
real estate transition. <<
#theknow – inaugural issue
>> 43
SPOTLIGHT: OUR BUILDINGS’ STEWARDS
‘Our MF team is an incredible bunch – they’re conscientious, experienced and dedicated.’
DRIVEN TO LEAD:
MARIA FINORO’S MF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
C
BY CHRIS TIESSEN
Maria Finoro looks out over the Hanlon Business Park from the top floor of her brand new building
HATTING TOGETHER ON THE
experienced and dedicated. As the area’s premier
Jim Fryett, the place includes spacious and well-
(YET-TO-BE-LEASED)
TOP
ACMO-2000 certified property management
lit offices for staff, expansive meeting spaces for
FLOOR OF HER IMPRESSIVE
business [which attests that MF’s processes
condo boards, room to grow, and district energy
BRAND NEW BUILDING IN THE HANLON CREEK
and procedures are effective], our staff are
heating and cooling. Indeed, Maria’s building
BUSINESS PARK, IT BECOMES OBVIOUS TO
knowledgeable of current legislation that affects
is one of only a few that’s currently hooked up
ME WHAT PIONEERING BUSINESS OWNER
our business’ and clients’ needs. And always
to the City’s fledgling district energy attempts.
AND ENTREPRENEUR MARIA FINORO’S BEEN
striving to raise the bar in property management.’
While she’s ecstatic that her own building is
WORKING ALL THESE YEARS TO GROW, NURTURE AND SUSTAIN – A LASTING LEGACY. AND THIS MUCH IS CLEAR: SHE’S WELL ON HER WAY. Trusted and respected in the industry as a sage of property management, Maria’s been growing her firm, MF Property Management Ltd,
into
a
progressive,
industry-leading
Long-time friend Frank Valeriote is quick to praise Maria and her business. As he remarks: ‘Maria’s a true pioneer of property management in our region. It was her business, MF Property Management, that almost single-handedly raised the bar regionally to a level of unrivalled
heated and cooled by district energy – citing its energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact and utter simplicity as benefits of the green solution – Maria’s less than enthused that for now, at least, others will not follow suit as the City continues to re-evaluate the solution.
professionalism and competency. She has helped
It’s definitely not the first time that Maria’s
innumerable condo owners and boards over the
pioneering efforts haven’t been taken up by
Indeed, over the past twenty-five years MF
years. And, at the same time, she has grown her
those around her. And it certainly won’t be the
Property Management has been a leader
business into a local success story – providing
last. And in the meantime, as we stand on the
in property management serving Guelph,
jobs and security for so many in our community.’
top floor of this marvellous building, Maria finds
juggernaut since 1992.
Cambridge,
Kitchener-Waterloo,
Elora
and
Fergus.
Most of whom now work in the brand new building Maria had built in the Hanlon Creek
The secret to Maria’s success? It all starts with
Business Park – the building we’re standing
her team. As Maria’s quick to note: ‘Our MF team
in now – to house her growing number of
is an incredible bunch – they’re conscientious,
employees. Designed by the firm of area architect
>> 44
herself in a familiar position – alone yet again at the front of the pack. Striving for greatness. Building her legacy.
in the know with Andrea Schweitzer: TIPS FOR STRESS-TESTING YOUR MORTGAGE in to a mortgage, home owners should calculate their mortgage payments at a higher rate to see how much their mortgage may cost in the event rates were to rise in the future.
W
ITH MORTGAGE RATES AT AN ALL-TIME LOW, LOCKING INTO A MORTGAGE IS A TEMPTING COMMITMENT. However, these low rates have experts cautioning homeowners: can you still afford your mortgage if rates were to rise? Stress-testing your mortgage is a smart way for home buyers to prepare for the future in the event that mortgage rates go up. Before locking
‘When homeowners stress test their mortgage at different rates, they have a better understanding of what they can and can’t afford,’ says Wade Stayzer, VP, Retail and Investment Services at Meridian, Ontario’s largest credit union. ‘It’s a simple and quick test that can save homeowners from future stress and worry.’ Meridian offers the following tips to help homeowners stress test their mortgage: Test at 1 to 2 per cent higher than your current rate: Financial advisors recommend stress testing your mortgage at 1 to 2 per cent higher than your current rate. Many financial institutions offer online mortgage calculators that are designed to help calculate your mortgage at different rates.
MF Property Management Ltd. 28 Bett Court Guelph, ON N1C 0A5 Phone: 1-855-824-4208 Email: mfprop@mfproperty.com
Not just for first-time homeowners: Stresstesting your mortgage isn’t just limited to first-time homebuyers. Current homeowners who are looking to renew their mortgages can benefit from this exercise too. ‘While you can’t predict the future, you can at least prepare for it,’ says Stayzer. ‘This is a better-safe-thansorry approach to ensure you can comfortably afford your home now and ten years from now.’ Double check your results with a mortgage specialist: Mortgage specialists are well versed in the financial implications associated with home ownership and can help you stress-test your mortgage but also help find ways to pay down your mortgage faster. To learn more about stress-testing your mortgage, visit meridiancu.ca
Celebrating 25 years. 1992-2017
mfproperty.com #theknow – inaugural issue
>> 45
CREATORS WANTED
To celebrate the launch of its second phase of The Metalworks community – ‘The Studio’ – located just across the river in The Ward, Fusion Homes ran a social media campaign asking our community to come up with concepts for a great social gathering at the site. The result: a late-September Friday-night bash that included local food trucks, local breweries, location musicians and local artists who came together in revelry – just as creative types have been gathering on this site for almost two hundred years! Here’s just some vignettes from that (glorious) evening. Visit themetalworks.ca to reserve your spot in ‘The Studio’. They won’t last long!
>> 46 >> 46
>> FALL 2016
>> 47
>> FALL 2016
SPOTLIGHT: INTERIORS
NOT JUST ANY SHOWROOM: EUROHOMES KITCHENS AND APPLIANCES Eurohomes’ Hauke and Marina in the showroom’s working kitchen
BY CHRIS TIESSEN
O
NE OF THE GREAT PLEASURES
appliance showroom in 2015. Now this isn’t just
names like Liebherr and AEG out of Germany
OF
SOUTH-
any showroom; it doesn’t have that warehouse
and Italy’s stylish SMEG.
WESTERN ONTARIO IS THE
feeling that makes you wonder why you’ve
LIVING
IN
LURE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE. NO MATTER WHAT THE SEASON, A DRIVE ‘IN THE COUNTRY’ CAN
subjected yourself to being there.
These are not conventional items. Imagine colours and styles and sizes you don’t normally
At Eurohome, among mostly installed and live
see. From Italian SMEG gas ranges to German
appliances, you can actually test out the models
Liebherr
– while sipping a freshly-brewed cup of coffee
combos, and Porter & Charles dishwashers,
or sampling a local beer from a local brewer.
there’s something uniquely satisfying about
Not an ordinary shopping trip, not an ordinary
European appliances – their gorgeous design,
And not every rural town has a kitchens and
showroom experience, and not – by any means
their solid engineering, their unmatched fit and
appliances showroom like Wingham (also the
– ordinary appliances. These are high quality
finish.
home of Alice Munro), located in Huron County
and energy efficient. They are fashion items,
about an hour and a half west of Guelph. I’m
produced in countries like Italy and Germany,
thinking, in this case, of Eurohome Kitchens and
for example, with established and reliable brand
MAKE YOU FEEL REFRESHED – LIKE YOU’VE ‘BEEN AWAY.’ NOT EVERY LANDSCAPE IN THIS GREAT WIDE NATION OFFERS AS MANY DIVERSIONS AS DOES OURS.
Appliances, which opened its new kitchen and >> 48
refrigerators,
AEG
washer/dryer
Eurohome sells and delivers these striking, dependable appliances throughout Canada, and also functions as the entire country’s authorized
service centre. Which means that Eurohome staff – ranging from young and enthusiastic to experienced industry experts – are particularly knowledgeable. Indeed, they make it their business to remain connected with the appliance factories in Europe – both to gain greater knowledge of the high-end products they sell and to deliver feedback to the companies who, in
‘Not an ordinary shopping trip, not an ordinary showroom experience, and not – by any means – ordinary appliances.
turn, incorporate it into the product lines. And for those who crave high-end European
So, if you’re in the mood for a drive in the
kitchens and appliances which might be a little
country on a fine day, and your appliances are
bit out of reach – Eurohome offers clearance
failing you, or you’re just yearning for something
sales and scratch and dent bargains (up to 60%
new and spectacular, think of heading west to
off the retail price) with full warranties. Indeed,
Wingham, where you can admire and test out
Eurohome is the only spot in Canada that’s able
the latest and best of European technology for
to offer these luxury brands at clearance prices
the kitchen and laundry. And you might enjoy a
with full warranties.
cup of coffee or a taste of beer when you arrive. >>
#theknow – inaugural issue
>> 49
Committed to providing the very best insurance coverage and service to both you and your business. Delivering sound advice for over 145 years.
CELEBRATING ONE YEAR IN GUELPH! Talentcor provides recruitment services for professionals seeking new opportunities in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most in demand fields. We stand out by creating an exceptional experience for candidates and client companies. Whether the need is temporary, contract or permanent, our candidates and clients trust us to understand the uniqueness of each situation and advise them to make the right decision. Talentcor is a brand of DGSI, who has been in business for over 39 years! Whether you have Administrative, Light Industrial or Skilled Trade roles to fill, our team in Guelph is ready to connect you with the right candidate for the job! We are thrilled to be celebrating our first year of service in your city! For more information, please contact us at: Suite 54, 111 Farquhar St, Guelph, ON N1H 3N4 Phone: 519.963.8260 Email: guelph@talentcor.com www.talentcor.com Connect with us:
Talent at Work.
>> 50
Luxurious. Efficient. European. Clearance Warehouse 39822 Belgrave Rd., Belgrave, N0G 1E0 Mon – Fri 9 – 4 or by appointment www.eurohomes.net 1-877-543-2437
Showroom 40550 Amberley Rd., Wingham, N0G 2W0 Mon – Fri 10 – 5, Sat 10 – 4 or by appointment www.eurohomes.net 1-877-543-2437
'Making your home the Centre of attention'
centrestaged.com jenny@centrestaged.com 519-591-2656
At Meridian, we’re big on small business. Meridian offers small business banking with a personal touch. Your dedicated Business Account Manager will take the time to know your business and can offer market leading rates and a full suite of competitive products. For more information, please contact our Senior Small Business Advisor, Marie Furfaro, at 519-400-1231 or at marie.furfaro@meridiancu.ca
Small Business feels BIG at these Guelph area branches: Speedvale Branch – 200 Speedvale Ave. W. Wyndham Branch – 153 Wyndham St. N. Stone Square Branch – 370 Stone Rd. W. Clair & Gordon Branch – 2 Clair Rd. E. Fergus Branch – 120 McQueen Blvd.
SPOTLIGHT: INTERIORS
‘To remain competitive, sellers need to ensure that their home stands out in the crowd. This is where home staging comes in to play.’
Jenny in her finely-appointed Exhibition Park home
JENNY HILBORN IS TAKING CENTRE STAGE AND STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD
P
BY CHRIS TIESSEN
ERHAPS YOU’VE SEEN TELEVISION
At thirteen Jenny became obsessed with
return on their investment – needless to say, I
SHOWS
have many happy clients!’
YOU’VE
redecorating her bedroom – to hang wallpaper, to
REFERENCES
shop for drapery and linens. By the time she was
TO IT IN MAGAZINES: HOME STAGING –
nineteen, Jenny was seriously restoring furniture
PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR THE REAL
and selling it on EBay. At twenty, she decided to
ESTATE MARKETPLACE, MAKING IT APPEALING
formally pursue her passion in Interior Design,
TO
HAS
and in 2008 she graduated with distinction from
CONFIRMED THAT HOME STAGING CAN REDUCE
an Interior Design college in Wigan, Lancashire.
A LISTING’S TIME ON THE MARKET BY AS MUCH
So that’s how it all began – her journey to
AS ONE HALF, WHILE ENHANCING THE SELLING
becoming a Commercial and Residential Interior
PRICE. IT CAN MAKE IT POSSIBLE, THAT IS, FOR
Designer, a Certified UltimateStager™, and
ANYONE TO SELL A HOME BOTH MORE QUICKLY
founder and president of Centre Staged Inc., a
AND FOR A GREATER RETURN.
fully-insured Home Staging company based in
ABOUT
CERTAINLY
POTENTIAL
SEEN
BUYERS.
IT;
RESEARCH
Growing up surrounded by European architecture
Guelph.
and design both in the UK and during Jenny’s
Jenny is that rare breed of entrepreneur who
European travels meant that inspiration was all
possesses equal parts experience, ambition, and
around. As a teenager and young adult it was
execution – core building blocks that continue
the finer details of design that sparked Jenny’s
to ensure the rapid growth and sustainability of
interest – ‘the elaborate ceilings and staircases
Jenny’s business. As she remarks of her business’
of
the
success: ‘It’s thrilling that I get to help people sell
exterior mouldings around doors and windows
their houses quicker, for more money, every day.
of centuries-old stone buildings; the interior
On average, my clients make an average 390%
eighteenth-century
manor
homes;
Indeed, it doesn’t take long to find someone who speaks highly of Jenny’s professionalism and results-driven approach to staging. As local realtor Gia Lucchetta notes of Jenny’s work: ‘One professional I can always count on to do the right thing and make me look good at the same time is Jenny Hilborn.’ Gia continues: ‘She has an innate talent to turn homes into top notch multiple offer contenders ultimately ensuring more money in the pockets of my sellers.’ Jenny Hilborn is a true local success story – helping make the stressful situation of selling your home easier and more profitable too. Just ask around. You’re sure to hear good things! Visit Jenny at centrestaged.com, or check the business out at its awesome new location at Unit 7, 265 Hanlon Creek Blvd. >>
stonework of old churches in France and Cyprus.’
#theknow – inaugural issue
>> 53
SPOTLIGHT: OUR COMMUNITY
THE GUELPH Y:
A MADE-IN-GUELPH GEM
‘E
Local architect David McAuley pores over the Guelph Y plans at his office on Woolwich St
BY CHRIS TIESSEN
THE
He’s right. And he should be. It was David’s firm,
Take the gymnasium, for instance. Smartly
AND
J. David McAuley Architect, along with local
built directly below the weight machines and
BUILD OF OUR GUELPH Y,’ POSITS
firm James Fryett Architect, who collaborated
stationary bikes so that parents and guardians
LOCAL ARCHITECT DAVID MCAULEY, HIS
on the Guelph Y nearly three decades back – a
can keep an eye on their kids while they train. And
HANDS MOTIONING UPWARD TOWARD THE
glorious team effort that birthed one of our
the basketball courts – deliberately shorter than
BUILDING’S VAULTED CEILING AS WE SIT IN ITS
city’s most resoundingly-successful community-
regulation-size to prevent regular high-intensity
SUN-FLOODED ATRIUM, ‘DELIBERATELY ALIGNS
building efforts. An almost wholly homegrown
full-court games of pick-up ball. ‘The smaller
WITH CORE Y PHILOSOPHIES AND MANDATES.’
effort.
courts encourage different types of play more
He continues:‘Engaging community. Encouraging
Jim Fryett, seated with us (along with the Y’s Erica
participation. Advocating for and supporting
Charlesworth and Facilities Manager Brad Daw)
health & wellbeing. Caring for our children.
interjects: ‘During the time David and I submitted
Every detail in this space serves to encourage
our proposal for the new Guelph Y building,
and facilitate these tenets. And, in turn, folks
YMCA/YWCA new builds were essentially all
who come here – to swim, to play, to drop off
taken from a shared design template. We wanted
The pool was also deliberately built shorter than
their kids for care, to gather as community – are
to do something uniquely local. Something that
a full-length lap pool. ‘Other pools in Guelph can
driven through design and architecture (either
encouraged play at all levels. And we did.’
accommodate competitive, or lane, swimming,’
VERYTHING ARCHITECTURAL
ABOUT DESIGN
consciously or unconsciously) to engage with these tenets.’ >> 54
suited for a diverse range of games and activities,’ David observes. Sure enough, as I peer down into the gym a dozen or so small children are running all about, kicking balls back and forth. Having lots of fun. Sharing. Learning. Participating.
Jim comments. ‘We intended this pool to be a
Your role model. A pioneer for women. An outstanding achiever in Guelph and Wellington County.
Who will you nominate for Women of DistinctionTM?
much more communal, less intimidating space, where individuals of all ages and skill sets could enjoy themselves.’ ‘Like the Aquafit class,’ Erica adds, ‘where the focus is on lessons, games and involvement.’ David and Jim’s imprints are perhaps most noticeable in the childcare wing, where ‘mischievous’ details function as both kidfriendly elements and the architects’ signatures. Window cutouts so that kids can observe the buildings’ plumbing and electricals. A child-sized door. Reading lofts. A closet with built-in drain and heater for kids’ wet mitts and boots. The list goes on. David’s recitation of the Y’s ideals echoes in my head: ‘Engaging community. Encouraging participation. Advocating for and supporting health & wellbeing. Caring for our children.’ As I look around, I can see that through their courage and determination, creativity, innovation
Award categories include: • Arts & Culture • Canada’s 150th Community Builder • Community Champion • Education, Training & Mentorship • Entrepreneurship & Innovation • Health, Wellness & Fitness • Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) • Trades & Labour • Young Women (16-21 years) Nominations are open from November 3, 2016 to January 31, 2017.
and insight, these local community builders – veritable builders of community – got it right. >>
Visit guelphy.org for more information.
SPOTLIGHT: REAL ESTATE
BOOMERS ASK;
GUELPH’S REAL ESTATE MARKET DELIVERS BY CHRIS TIESSEN
E
EVERYWHERE
YOU
SEE
THEM,
EMPTY NESTERS ARE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING NEW – NEW
LIFESTYLE, NEW HOME, NEW ADVENTURES – ESPECIALLY IN GUELPH. BUT THESE AREN’T JUST ANY EMPTY NESTERS; THEY’RE BABY BOOMERS, THE LARGEST DEMOGRAPHIC IN THE COUNTRY. WHAT THEY WANT THE MARKET DELIVERS.
The Planet Realty team – Matthew LaFontaine, Karen Kessel & Tyson Hinschberger – at Village by the Arboretum; (next56 page) at the pool in the Village Recreation Centre >>
>> FALL 2016
Boomers were born to parents who lived through
and include space for visiting kids and grandkids.
sold exclusively by the Planet Realty team which
WWII – close to 10 million people in Canada.
And then there’s the condo, another specialty of
recorded sell-outs in record time. Boomer buyers
Born between 1945 and 1965, they actually
the Planet Realty team. Condos give boomers
were quickly drawn to these well-appointed
represent two separate generations, with the first
the easy mobility they desire and a new name:
buildings that feature state-of-the-art fitness
group entering retirement around 2010. For the
zoomers.
centres, guest rooms, lounge areas and terrace
younger generation retirement is still a decade or so away.
Guelph’s lifestyle metamorphosis is thanks to
retreats.
builders like Reid’s Heritage Homes and the
Both buildings are within easy reach of the Old
The majority of baby boomers have benefitted
Tricar Group, who have delivered praise-worthy
Quebec Street Mall, GO Transit, the indoor
from post-secondary educations and enjoyed
adult lifestyle communities demanded by this
farmers’ market and Market Square, downtown
well-paying jobs, nice homes and travel to exotic
massive influx of purchasers. Reid’s Heritage
shopping, dining and entertainment. The Speed
locations. As a generation they are said to be in
Homes was on the cusp of meeting boomer
River offers green space along its banks for miles
line to inherit trillions of dollars in investments
demand for resort-style retirement living some
of walking and biking trails.
and savings from their more thrifty parents, who
years ago, with the development of the Village
came of age during WWII. Boomers appreciate
by the Arboretum, featuring bungalows and
luxury and leisure, and have tended to keep
condos with putting green, tennis courts and a
retirement planning in sight.
42,000 sq. ft. social and recreation facility, plus
Exceptionally well positioned to introduce boomers to their lifestyle options in Guelph are real estate professionals like Guelph’s Planet Realty team, who are well aware of how today’s real estate trends have been inspired by the
gardens throughout. Its ‘age in place’ philosophy features an on-site medical centre and a new Independent and Assisted Care Building. Nearby shopping, restaurants and golfing round out this portrait of easy living.
What do boomers want? Boomers want real estate professionals like Guelph’s Karen Kessel, Broker of Record and founder of Planet Realty Inc., to offer the services they need in order to realize their lifestyle dreams. Rounding out the Planet Realty team with Karen (herself a boomer) are Matthew LaFontaine, also a boomer, and Tyson Hinschberger. Each offers a unique perspective on the luxury condo market
sheer numbers of boomers in the marketplace.
In 2012 the Tricar Group led a resurgence
and the adult lifestyle opportunities burgeoning
These trends include main floor master suites,
in the renewal of downtown Guelph with
in Guelph. >>
home offices and guest suites – designs that
the construction of two luxury high-rise
minimize stairs, offer work-at-home convenience
condominiums—RiverHouse and River Mill—
#theknow – inaugural issue
>> 57
in the know with Kevin Thompson:
GUELPH’S RENTAL SUPPLY PROBLEM
R
ECENT CHANGES TO MORTGAGE ELIGIBILITY RULES WILL FORCE MORE ASPIRING HOMEOWNERS TO LOOK BACK TO THE RENTAL MARKET, PUTTING ADDITIONAL STRAIN ON DEMAND AND PRESSURE ON GUELPH’S ALREADY LOW VACANCY RATE. While the City is looking towards long-term solutions to encouraging more affordable housing, it is primarily focused on the so-called ‘primary’ market for rental suites – or, in other words, multi-residential buildings. A recent report to City Council recommends financial incentives to encourage developers to create more affordable units, and proposed provincial legislative changes will pave the way for inclusionary zoning and changes to how
development charges are collected. Together, these proposals may help alleviate the supply problem. However, a key area that remains a pinch-point in Guelph is the ‘secondary’ market, including converted homes and accessory apartments (also known as secondary suites or in-law suites). Accessory apartments are theoretically permitted in single-detached and semi-detached dwellings in the City, but overlyrestrictive, outdated zoning regulations make conversion practically difficult. As many people who have attempted to create an accessory apartment in Guelph can attest, there are significant barriers that make development of accessory apartments in Guelph either unworkable or cost-prohibitive. This is in large part why there are so few apartments being created, which in turn has a direct and significant effect on the number of affordable housing options in the City.
Irene Szabo
“Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.”
Thirsty for knowledge, fun, wine, beer or coffee? Join us on the second Thursday of each month. Visit ThirstyThursdays.ca
– Kay Redfield Jamison
Royal Lepage Royal City Realty | 848 Gordon Street Guelph, ON N1G 1Y7 | 519 824 9050 | rightrealtors.ca
The Planning Act requires every municipality to revise its Official Plan and zoning to permit accessory apartments in single-detached, semidetached, and townhouses. While ambitious, there is no Provincial enforcement mechanism and many cities – Guelph included – have yet to update their policies and zoning. While it is encouraging to see that staff have recently recommended a comprehensive review of the 1995 zoning, which will include provisions for the creation of accessory apartments in all types of housing, including townhouses, these amendments are forecasted for 2017-18. In the meantime, case-by-case zoning amendments and minor variances will still be needed in many situations to legalize these secondary housing options.
with over 30 years experience in high-rise and low-rise lifestyle condominium communities throughout Ontario, Planet Realty offers the experience, knowledge and expertise buyers demand when searching for their ideal lifestyle living options.
Planet Realty caters to the active urban boomers and zoomers of today seeking the best of city life, designer features, accessibility and luxurious care-free condo and retirement living. Connect with us today to learn more!
Planet Realty Inc. Brokerage Karen Kessel, broker of record karen@planetrealty.ca
Matthew LaFontaine, broker matthew@planetrealty.ca
Tyson Hinschberger, broker tyson@planetrealty.ca
planetrealty.ca 519.837.0900
SPOTLIGHT: OUR REALTORS
FINDING HER NICHE:
FOR IRENE SZABO, COMMUNITY – AND DOWNTOWN – IS KEY BY LAUREN KHALIL
I
RENE SZABO’S MOTTO STATES ‘COMMUNITY IS KEY.’ INDEED, THIS LOCAL REALTOR MAKES IT HER BUSINESS TO KNOW – TO UNDERSTAND – OUR
COMMUNITY. AND TO PASS HER KNOWLEDGE ON TO CLIENTS, COLLEAGUES AND FRIENDS. It’s apparent
in everything she does. From Irene’s volunteer roles as Member of the Guelph Chamber’s Marketing & Membership Committee and Chair of the Trillium Waldorf School Board to her ardent support of community-minded initiatives and non-profits including Art on the Street and Michael House, she’s always striving to get involved. To learn. To understand. To share.
Irene Szabo on the steps of Church of Our Lady; in her ‘downtown office’ at Planet Bean
Like so many local realtors, Irene found her calling
past couple years, Irene has seen her business
definitely ‘walks the walk’ when it comes to her
in real estate after a lengthy, demanding career
double each year as she sets more ambitious
passion for downtown, even hosting clients on
in another field. Specifically, after spending a
goals for herself and for her clients. She notes
downtown culinary tours – Taste de Tours – as
decade as a trauma counsellor Irene sensed
that the current real estate market is one this
appreciation events.) And of course Irene digs
that she was reaching the end of one phase of
city has never seen before. ‘Prices will continue
downtown cafes. Indeed, she’s been known to
her life’s journey and ready to embark on a new
to go up,’ she says, ‘with pressures from cities like
keep regular hours at Planet Bean on Carden
beginning. It was during a workshop where she
Toronto and Milton as well as a lack of inventory.’
and the recently-opened Robusta (located
was asked to think about when in her life she had been the most successful that Irene knew a career in real estate was where she ought to be. As she notes: ‘When I looked back over my life, I realized I felt a great accomplishment when I bought my first home for $186,000 and sold it two years later for $230,000. Helping others do the same,’ she adds, ‘would be – and has been – so fulfilling.’ She definitely made the right choice. Over the #theknow – inaugural issue
When asked about the rewards of doing real estate in Guelph, Irene cracks a smile and asks, ‘How long have I got?’ Irene lists our community’s festivals, its coffee shops and restaurants, its progressive mindset and environmental bent, its university and college, as some of Guelph’s
on the ground floor of the first Tricar tower). She’s keen to have anyone pay her a visit at Planet Bean most Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30am, and at Robusta every second Thursday of the month for ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ (thirstythursdays.ca).
greatest assets. She’s particularly keen to chat
Visit ireneszabo.com, or catch Irene Szabo in
about our city’s downtown, which she’s declared
her natural habitat – downtown Guelph. >>
her niche – its shops and historic landmarks and neighbourhoods and all the rest. (Irene >> 61
SPOTLIGHT: OUR COMMUNITY
‘BUILDING A RAFT’: HOW 10 CARDEN – 10C – IS CREATING SPACE FOR CHANGE IN A NEW (OLD) HOME
10C founder Julia Grady in the organization’s new site (still under construction) at 42 Carden Street
BY CHRIS TIESSEN
C
HANGE IS SOMBER, YES. AND INEVITABLE. AND, IN THE CASE OF THE HISTORIC ACKER’S BUILDING ON CARDEN STREET ACROSS FROM CITY HALL, CHANGE IS GOOD. INDEED, THIS VENERABLE LANDMARK
HAS BEEN GIVEN A NEW LEASE ON LIFE AS A SPACE FOR CHANGE, AS 10C – FORMERLY KNOWN AS (AND LOCATED AT) 10 CARDEN – IS COMMITTED TO REDEVELOPING THIS
EXPANSIVE SPACE AS ITS NEW HOME. AND IT’S DOING IT IN A MANNER BEFITTING SUCH A PROGRESSIVE, FORWARD-THINKING COMMUNITY BENEFIT ORGANIZATION – THROUGH A UNIQUE AND INSPIRING COMMUNITY BOND CAMPAIGN. BUT WE’LL GET TO THAT.
Julia taking a (short) break from the breakneck restoration / renovation project
As we speak, that impressive dual-façade
Neighbourhood Support Coalition, Out on
Of the project’s $1 million social financing goal,
building at 42 Carden is being changed and
the Shelf, Taylor Newberry Consulting, Guelph
it has (as of late October) raised $686,000. The
transformed into something that respects the old
Dance, Wellington Water Watchers, and
project’s ‘Series E’ bonds, designed to appeal to
while inviting the new. The best of what remains
Transformative Arts Guelph. The list goes on.
individual investors, offer a 3% interest rate and a
of Acker’s is being saved, repurposed, renovated, restored – from the stone and brick walls to the decorative tin ceiling; from the warehouse-style wooden floors and the original staircase to the iconic outdoor signs; from the building’s original safe (a massive thing) to its expansive windows with direct sightlines to Market Square down below. And inside this historic building: something uniquely new. An ambitious, creative enterprise, 10C will be a multi-purpose facility that will make available 15,000 square feet for community collaboration and co-working, social innovation and entrepreneurship, connection and creativity.
The full top floor will be reserved for a large-scale event space, and will see the creation of the ‘Community Classroom’, a unique partnership with the University of Guelph’s College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, its
minimum investment of $1,000. These mortgagebacked bonds provide the opportunity for the citizens of Guelph to support and promote fresh ideas and community projects, and to respond to the community’s initiatives and needs.
Community Engaged Scholarship Institute,
‘We are sad to see [Acker’s] go,’ says Downtown
and the Student Life department. The space will
Guelph Business Association Executive Director
also host a number of other activities.
Marty Williams. ‘But this is a project that’s going
10C identifies itself as ‘creating space for change.’ As such, the project includes a unique community
bond
campaign
which
offers
investors an opportunity to invest in community development in Guelph. As 10C founder and
to fill the building with life, with lots of people working and attracting people to the building. And that’s good for the shops and restaurants all over downtown.’ And, we might add, the entire project is good – really good – for all of Guelph.
visionary leader Julia Grady notes: ‘What we’re
Change can be a good news story, and ‘creating
This shared office/meeting space/event space/
doing here is building a raft. And working
space for change’ might very well be worth
downtown landmark will become a place to
collaboratively with community to ensure it
investing in.
gather, work and exchange ideas. It also addresses
floats.’ Former University CSAHS Dean and 10C
a key need for local environmental, arts, cultural
Founders Series Investor Kerry Daly is one of
and community service organizations that
many who are already on board, adding that
will call 10C home. Organizations including
‘10C’s leadership inspires and I am happy to
co-purchaser Chalmers Community Services
support the initiative and carry a little piece of
Centre, Guelph-Wellington Local Immigration
that risk as an expression of my support.’
Partnership, Guelph Arts Council, Guelph >> 64
For more information on the 10C Community Bonds,
Room
Naming
or
Sponsorship
opportunities, please contact Julia Grady at Julia@10Carden.ca or 519-780-5030. >>
SPOTLIGHT: OUR LIFESTYLE
THE MERCEDES SPRINTER 4X4: BUILD YOUR OWN ADVENTURE BY CHRIS TIESSEN
‘What is that feeling when you’re driving away from people and they recede on the plain till you see their specks dispersing? It’s the too-huge world vaulting us, and it’s good-bye. But we lean forward to the next crazy venture beneath the skies.’ -Jack Kerouac, On the Road
Tearing down camp somewhere along the mighty Grand River
OVERLANDING.
IT’S
BEEN
DESCRIBED
AS
‘SELF-RELIANT OVERLAND TRAVEL TO REMOTE DESTINATIONS WHERE THE JOURNEY IS THE PRIMARY GOAL.’ AND IT’S BECOME QUITE THE PASTIME FOR THOSE FOLKS WANTING TO FLEE THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF CITY LIFE FOR THE OPEN ROAD (OR, IN THE CASE OF OVERLANDING, THE OPEN OFF-ROAD). It’s huge in California right now, with popular YouTube shows like ‘Dirt Everyday’ extolling the virtues of getting into a capable rig that can off-road like a Jeep, set up camp like a motorhome, and cover massive distances on the highway like a luxury grand tourer. And now it’s here – thanks to Victoria Star Motors’ brand new Mercedes Benz Sprinter 4x4. With a body that’s lifted 10cm at the front and 7.5cm in the rear over a standard Sprinter van for increased ground clearance and Mercedes’ 4ETS electronic traction system for stability, control and power when you need it most, the Sprinter 4x4 means business. And with optional on-demand low-gear differential to increase control and tackle tougher terrain, its business can be just about anywhere – from the gnarliest roads in Ontario’s wilderness to the steepest snow-covered routes at Blue Mountain ski resort; from cottage country in Muskoka to setting up camp on the banks of our province’s kayak-friendly rivers. A weekend warrior this is! (And a weekday warrior, too, for those business owners who want a 4x4 company truck that won’t give up.) Mercedes’ Vans (and AMG) Specialist Sean
What adventure looks like
Thijssen sees the Sprinter 4x4 as that ultimate go-anywhere
vehicle
for
those
who
are
passionate about seeking adventure – in style and comfort. He recalls taking one out for a few days of testing: ‘The beauty of the Sprinter 4x4,’ Sean remarks, ‘is that there’s room to bring everything from a handful of mountain bikes
the Sprinter 4x4 Passenger Van can carry up
4x4 is worth taking for a spin. Just be warned –
to 12 people! And of course there’s always the
overlanding can be an expensive adventure. But
possibility of getting your Sprinter 4x4 fitted
you knew that already!
with a bed, fridge, and all the other ‘overlanding’ luxuries you can think of.
to stand-up paddleboards to full-sized kayaks –
So if you’ve been craving that perfect adventure
inside the van!’ Indeed, the Sprinter 4x4 Cargo
vehicle that can go off-roading and carry all your
Van has a cargo volume of 530 cubic feet while
adventure equipment, and your family, and your friends, and their equipment too, the Sprinter
>> 68
Give Sean a call at 519-716-8676 and he’ll tell you all about it! >>
wayfinding.
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In August 1827, John Lynch built Guelph’s second log house on this site. The first Catholic mass and the first marriage took place in the dwelling. In 1845, businessman and cattle breeder F.W. Stone built Guelph’s first major stone building where the log house had stood and opened a general store. The store was closed early in the twentieth century but remained with the Stone family’s heirs for another fifty years. It was occupied by the Pentecostal Church AVE E for about 10 yearsCOLLEGE before it was purchased in 1960 by the Guelph
Imperials and Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans, Unit 344. These days, the ANAF hosts a variety of events – including comedy shows, cask festivals and the always-popular karaoke night.
VICTORIA RD S
STONE RD E
RE-THINK LED LIGHTING 10 YEAR REGISTERED WARRANTY
AFTER BEFORE
DEAN AVE
THINK™ proudly offers 5 and 10 year registered warranties on our products. THINK™ is a member of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce and the Canada Green Building Council.
Call: 1 (647) 381-3733 1 (647) 381-3733 thinkgreensolutions.com
SPOTLIGHT: ENERGY CONSERVATION
THINK GREEN SOLUTIONS: A ‘SILVER BULLET’ FOR BUSINESS BY CHRIS TIESSEN
A
‘SILVER BULLET’. THAT SINGLE ACTION WHICH CAN CUT THROUGH LAYERS OF COMPLEXITIES TO PROVIDE IMMEDIATE SOLUTIONS. AS CHILDREN,
WE LEARNED THAT SILVER BULLETS WERE THE ONLY WAY TO VANQUISH WEREWOLVES, GHOSTS, OTHER MONSTERS. MOST OF US CONTINUE TO BELIEVE THAT ‘SILVER BULLETS’ BELONG IN THE WORLD OF FANTASY – THAT NO SINGLE ACTION CAN SOLVE ALL OUR PROBLEMS. BUSINESS OWNERS CAN BE ESPECIALLY WARY OF ‘SILVER BULLETS’ PITCHED TO THEM EVERY DAY BY PEOPLE
Think Green VP Dennis Devey at his Guelph office in the South End
KNOCKING AT THE DOOR OR RINGING ON THE PHONE.
But what if I told you that silver bullets are real – and that there’s a company who deliberately set up shop in Guelph eight years ago and has been dispatching veritable silver bullets to businesses, large and small, ever since!? Increased employee morale and productivity. Decreased
employee
sick
days.
Increased
profitability. Positive environmental impact. Immediate, lasting results. THINK™ Green Solutions may just be that silver bullet. A division of Reonac Energy Systems, THINK™ Green has a single mandate: to bring the
most
cost-effective,
high-performance
lighting solutions directly to its clients. As VP Dennis Devey states: ‘We’re much more than a company that sells lighting. We sell better results for business – happier employees who literally
The Think Green team getting down to work
take fewer sick days; brighter, more welcoming offices and factory floors; energy costs so low that the savings our clients achieve each month pay
perspective, but my employee efficiency is going
for the new system; and real 10 year warranties. If
up. I never expected that!’
the light goes out, we replace it. Simple.’
Michael Balnar, President of Balnar Management
The cost savings can be astounding. Take the
Ltd, is another extremely satisfied client. As he
675,000 sq ft Tenneco Inc., plant in Cambridge,
succinctly states: ‘We are very pleased that we
for instance, which in 2014 had a THINK™
put our trust in THINK™ Green Solutions. With
Green energy audit completed that resulted in
their leadership, a major LED retrofit programme
a verified $800,000 saving in lighting costs each
at 14 multi-residential and commercial properties
year. It’s no wonder THINK™ Green’s list of local
was completed. All projected results have been
clients alone reads like a who’s who of Guelph
achieved – improved lighting, significant savings
businesses and organizations. Balnar. LifeLearn.
in hydro and in maintenance, and improved
Saultos. Exhibition Park Arena. Cutten Fields.
property valuations.’
Royal City Tennis Club. Viqua. The Elliott.
‘If you’re going to consider LED lighting, you need to consider THINK™ Green Solutions.’ costs changes the dynamic from spending on energy and lighting maintenance to profiting
With over 200,000 lights installed, THINK™
from significant energy savings and virtually no
Green Solutions has received numerous awards
maintenance. This is the paradigm shift from
Health Centre. The list goes on!
and recognition for highest customer satisfaction
break-and-fix into designing smart Lighting
ratings, incredible energy reduction, product
Systems.
James Carroll, VP of LifeLearn, a leading edge
longevity with 5-10 year warranties, and superior
technology company that works in the animal
light quality. THINK™ Green Solutions also offers
health space, recently had a new lighting system
free energy audits, engineered lighting design,
installed by THINK™ Green and could not be
building control systems, energy conservation
happier with the results. Specifically, not only has
project management, installation, disposal/
LifeLearn cut costs by 72%, reduced its carbon
If you’re a business in the Kitchener, Waterloo
recycling of removed lights, and even project
footprint, and vastly decreased maintenance
or Guelph areas call the THINK™ Green team
financing solutions for industrial and commercial
on its lighting system but, as Carroll remarks,
directly at 647-381-3733.
customers in Guelph and across Canada.
it’s helped create a happier, more productive
A complete Green Solution for every business.
Unisync. St. George’s Park Tennis. Woodhaven Furniture. Two Wheel Motorsport. StayFit
workforce too. He notes: ‘We have employees … who were out for sick days due to migraines and other headaches who have been reduced down to no headaches now. So not only is it financially beneficial to us from a capital investment >> 71
What kind of impact does saving so much energy have on a business’s bottom line? A tremendous one. Installing a THINK™ Lighting System is equal to bringing in new business. The offset in
Isn’t it time your business invested in a ‘silver bullet’? Your bottom line – and employees – will definitely respect you for it!
>>
SPOTLIGHT: OUR REALTORS
ANGELA CRAWFORD: THERE’S FAMILY IN REAL ESTATE BY LAUREN KHALIL
A
NGELA CRAWFORD IS DRAWN TO
opportunities for a child to play a sport or go
has such an incredibly diverse range of real estate
MAKING THE MOST OF FAMILY
to post-secondary school through the various
on offer, which caters to Guelph’s equally diverse
– WHETHER HER OWN LITTLE
grants and scholarship programs.’
demographics.’
Angela’s engagement with family extends to
Angela always knew she would be working in a
her profession; her brokerage, Coldwell Banker
profession related to housing, though she took a
Neumann, began as a small family business
while to settle into the role. She graduated as an
in Guelph over 40 years ago, and still invokes
Architectural Technologist in the 1990’s, but the
notions of family in its core values.
recession led her down another path away from
TRIBE OR THE FAMILIES OF THE COMMUNITY SHE HAS ALWAYS CALLED HOME. THE MOTHER OF THREE KIDS (RANGING FROM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO THIRD-YEAR UNIVERSITY), ANGELA HAS ALWAYS BEEN ACTIVELY ENGAGED WITH – AND IN – OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY.
It was an interest in families and children that drew her to volunteer with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, where she currently serves as gala chair. ‘The reason I do everything I do with the Children’s Foundation is because of the impact the Foundation has on many children in Guelph and Wellington County,’ she says, ‘from assuring that every child in the community has breakfast and nutritious snacks to providing
>> 72
Angela Crawford is always making sure her clients are happy – come rain (above) or shine (next page)
Angela’s main focus among her colleagues in her own ‘family’ of professionals is residential real estate. A mid-range family home, she observes, comes with about a half million-dollar price tag
the housing industry. She worked at nurturing other sorts of ‘families’ for a time, in fundraising roles at the University of Guelph and at Victorian Order of Nurses (VON).
these days, in Guelph’s ‘aggressive hot market.’
In 2007 Angela made a career change to real
And she doesn’t see that changing any time
estate and didn’t look back. She positively glows
soon. After all, as she notes, ‘Guelph is sought
as she mentions her love for helping people find
after as a place to live. From century homes
their new home or sell their existing one. ‘It’s so
to new-build communities; from gorgeous
much fun to work with home buyers and sellers,’
downtown condos to retirement living – Guelph
she remarks with delight. ‘It’s a fine balance to
My favourite words...
Community Build Family
Friends Home
GiveReal Estate Let’s chat.
‘Angela’s loved just about every second of her career in real estate..’ find a home that meets the clients expectations and needs within the offerings of the market. It’s a challenge that I love.’ Angela’s capacity to merge her interests in real estate and family recently found expression when she paired up with her brother and flipped her first home, noting that it was a great opportunity for the two to spend some time together while utilizing both of their skillsets. Angela says she’s loved (just about) every second of her career in real estate; the profession suits her. After all, as she puts it: ‘it’s not just a sales job. I see it as helping people and developing relationships.’
angela@cbn.on.ca angelacrawfordhomes.com "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." - Helen Keller
SPOTLIGHT: OUR COMMUNITY
WELCOME HOME: BUSINESS AT GUELPH FINDS A NEW (OLD) HOME AT MACDONALD HALL BY CHRIS TIESSEN
T
HE UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH’S COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS, WHICH, ON OCTOBER 28, CELEBRATED ITS NEW/OLD HOME ON CAMPUS – THE SPECTACULAR, NEWLY RENOVATED MACDONALD HALL – AIMS TO GENERATE A NEW TYPE OF BUSINESS
LEADER WITH AN ENTREPRENEURIAL AND SOCIALLY-CONSCIOUS MINDSET. IT’S MORE THAN APPROPRIATE, THEN, THAT THE COLLEGE – A SCHOOL THAT TIRELESSLY PROMOTES BUSINESS
AS A FORCE FOR GOOD – HAS SETTLED IN MACDONALD HALL, UNTIL RECENTLY THE OLDEST RESIDENCE ON CAMPUS, AND A BUILDING WITH A HISTORY THAT ITSELF MIGHT VERY WELL INSPIRE ANY OR ALL OF THE 3,000 UNDERGRADUATE AND SEVERAL HUNDRED GRADUATE STUDENTS THAT STUDY AT THE COLLEGE EVERY YEAR.
Ready for business: the restored and renovated Macdonald Hall in all its (shiny) glory
Blast from the past: Macdonald Hall during its heyday as an all-girls residence
This story is about the University’s College of
Adelaide’s public life began following the death
environmental sensibility and a commitment to
Business and Economics, to be sure. But the
of her fourth child, who died when he was only
their communities’ should walk in the footsteps
narrative might begin elsewhere, less than an
14 months old, after drinking tainted milk.
of so visionary and effective a social activist as
hour south of Guelph, in Brant County, near
Adelaide began a campaign to raise the level
Adelaide Hunter Hoodless.
the village of St. George. There you can find an
of education for girls and women, so that other
Historic Site, a homestead reflecting the time
families might be spared similar devastation. As
period of c. 1875-1880 and celebrating one of the
she asked: ‘Is it of greater importance that a farmer
most famous – yet relatively unknown – women
should know more about the scientific care of his
in Canadian history: Adelaide Hunter Hoodless
sheep and cattle, than a farmer’s wife should know
(1857-1910).
how to care for her family?’
It was Adelaide, along with non-smoking
So she persuaded entrepreneurs like Macdonald
many of the unique facets of Business at Guelph
Montreal tobacco magnate and educational
and leaders in government to support her vision
– including the Dean’s Office, Department of
philanthropist Sir William Macdonald, who,
for a better world. And eventually her legacy
Management, BComm Counselling Office, the
in
Guelph’s
extended far beyond Macdonald Institute and
Business Career Development Centre, and
Macdonald Institute – a place for young women
Macdonald Hall. She is credited, among other
CBaSE. As College dean Dr. Julia Christensen
to study home economics, including skills like
things, as the inspiration behind the Women’s
Hughes has noted of the move to Macdonald
nutrition, hygiene and home management.
Institute
internationally
Hall: ‘We are thrilled that this historic building
The Macdonald Institute, by the mid 50’s, had
organized through the Associated Country
will become the gateway to business at Guelph.
become the premier home economics school in
Women of the World, has a membership of over
Currently, our college is physically distributed
North America. The fabulous Macdonald Hall
9 million member societies in over 70 countries),
across campus. We’re looking to bring our
was built initially to house women enrolled in the
as a founder of the Young Women’s Christian
students, faculty and staff into close proximity,
Macdonald Institute.
Association (YWCA), and of the Victorian Order
in an environment conducive to collaboration.
of Nurses (VON).
Macdonald Hall, with its rich history and future
1903,
collaborated
to
found
So how was it that a woman like Adelaide Hunter
movement
(which,
The College of Business and Economics has found a wonderful, history-laden, brilliantly redesigned new home on campus. A home with gathering spaces. Team collaboration rooms. State-of-the-art classrooms. Movable furniture. A home with that brings together for the first time
Hoodless should be instrumental in founding
Given the history of their new home on campus,
an institute at the University, and ultimately in
it’s appropriate that Guelph’s College of
inspiring the building of Macdonald Hall?
Business and Economics, which is ‘committed to
potential, is the perfect spot.’ Welcome home. >>
developing leaders with a social conscience, an #theknow – inaugural issue
>> 75
wayfinding.
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THE PETRIE BUILDING 15 WYNDHAM ST N STEVENSON ST N
Y RD
Designed by Guelph architect John Day, this building was
GRANGE RD
completed in 1882 for Alexander Bain Petrie, a local pharmacist (hence the mortar and pestle ornamentation at the top of the façade) and manufacturer and one of the City’s most successful
EL
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and influential businessmen. Four storeys high and constructed
H
ST
of stone and timber, it is one of a very few buildings remaining in
ATER ST
Canada incorporating a stamped galvanized iron façade. It was manufactured for Petrie by the Ohio firm of Bakewell and Mullins, specialists in architectural sheet metal working. Recently, the Petrie Building was saved from ‘demolition by neglect’ by local boutique developer Tyrcathlen Partners, which is restoring Petrie to its former glory. Anchor tenant Brothers Brewing can’t wait to move into the ground COLLEGE AVE Efloor – and Guelph can’t wait to welcome this micro-brew pub with a cold pint.
VICTORIA RD S STONE RD E
HASSLE FREE IT
HLB
DEAN AVE
System Solutions
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HLB System Solutions 50 Malcolm Road, Unit 1 Guelph, ON N1K 1A9
>> 76
www.hlbsolutions.com
Phone: (519) 822-3450 Fax: (519) 822-8861 sales@hlbsolutions.com
SPOTLIGHT: OUR REALTORS
‘Eve’s design style is about taking a concept and building the home around it.’
EVE CLAXTON REALTY: SELLING HIGH-END LUXURY REAL ESTATE BY LAUREN KHALIL Eve Claxton at her glorious office in the new Hanlon Business Park
I
NSPIRED BY DISTINCT DÉCOR PIECES
style is about taking a concept and building
Eve Claxton Realty and Timberworx are two
INFUSED WITH EUROPEAN FLARE, EVE
the home around it. For her, it’s important to
different businesses, but they work together and
CLAXTON HAS A REAL GIFT FOR DESIGN
get to know the buyers and design the house
very much ‘feed into each other.’ Eve says that
– WHETHER IT’S ENVISIONING, CONSULTING
with them. She works on every step with every
working with Shawn gives her the ability ‘to be
AND IMPLEMENTING INTERIOR DESIGN AT
client, overseeing all designs from start to finish.
as creative as I can’ as she’s come to understand
TIMBERWORX LUXURY HOMES (OF WHICH
And with no devoted selections centre or list of
the ‘intimate building process’ and has gained
HER HUSBAND SHAWN MARSH IS THE OWNER)
finishes, the sky really is the limit. ‘I don’t want to
important insight into the value of land,
OR TRANSFORMING HOMES FOR RE-SALE
do the same thing as everyone else,’ she says. ‘I
construction technologies and design. And, to be
THROUGH HER OWN BOUTIQUE BROKERAGE,
want to do something completely different.’
sure, Eve gives Shawn an advantage by making
‘It’s not about picking finishes, but about
the inside out. As he notes: ‘I’m forever amazed
EVE CLAXTON REALTY. YOU COULD SAY DESIGN IS A PASSION OF EVE’S – INDEED, HER UP TO 100 HOURS A WEEK IS (NOT SO SUBTLE) EVIDENCE THAT IT IS! As Eve states: ‘Usually I devote my days to real estate, and my nights to design. But really the two build upon one
engineering the home to take high end materials,’ she adds. ‘I like to find out how people live in their homes,’ she observes, ‘and use materials with the look they want but taking care to advise on
every Timberworx house positively sing – from by Eve’s design insights – indeed, she’s constantly looking for new ways to present timeless and classic design. And she’s almost always right!’
selections that not only stand the test of time
The pair like to keep things ‘in-house,’ making
but suit the homeowners’ lifestyle.’ Take, for
them the perfect combo to take on the most
Eve has worked in real estate since 2007, and
example, the beautiful marble backsplash in the
elaborate and custom projects. The model is
takes time to dedicate herself to a small selection
current Timberworx model home at Heritage
simple, and it works. Timberworx builds, and
of clients at a time. With no formal training, Eve
Lake which not only looks amazing but also has
Eve Claxton Realty designs and sells. And
found her eye for design staging a home that had
a sealed finish for protection and durability. Or
judging by the wait list for their joint projects, I’d
been on the market for three years. Eve worked
the gorgeous wood floors in Timberworx builds
say it’s a winning formula. >>
her magic and the house was sold in 17 days.
– drool-inducing and robust. Or the spotless
When you’re good, you’re good. Eve’s design
painting. And finishes. And more and more.
another.’
>> 78
275 Hanlon Creek Blvd. Unit 5, Guelph Text eveclaxton to 85377 to Connect with Me!
519.766.7650 eveclaxton.ca
Eve Claxton
Lezlie OReilly
Meghan Barber
BROKER OF RECORD
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
Direct: 519.831.7653
Direct: 519.546.4095
Direct: 519.546.0883
eve@eveclaxton.ca
lezlie@eveclaxton.ca
meghan@eveclaxton.ca
163 SUFFOLK STREET W #2C GUELPH, ON $8.50 Sq. Ft. Net Four separate units available in the building; 1 unit is on the street level, great for a retail shop, and 3 units on the second floor. Units start at 885 sq. ft. and go up to 2,958 sq. ft. Additional space is available by combining units together. Reasonable lease rates at $8.50 a sq. ft. net for the second floor units and $10.50 on the main floor, PLUS an estimated TMI of $5.50 a sq. ft. There is ample parking and comfortable work spaces with an abundance of natural light from the large windows. The building is located on two bus routes, right outside the office, close proximity to the Hanlon and steps to downtown Guelph. Call for more information on renovations to make your dream office reality. Suitable for professional small businesses.
84 NORFOLK STREET #80 GUELPH, ON $12.00 Net Lease Have you ever wanted to be in a trendy office with exposed stone walls downtown Guelph? Today is your lucky day!! This beautiful space is ready for you to custimize and make it your own! With an abundance of natural light and great exposure for your business being right on Norfolk st. this is a perfect location. 80 Norfolk is suitable for retail, medical office, coffee shop or professional office space. Parking is available at the back of the unit. ALL UTILITIES ARE INCLUDED.
438 SOUTH RIVER ROAD Elora, ON $325,000 Greenbelt/Conservation, Quiet Area, Ravine, River/Stream, Waterfront, Wooded/Treed A perfect residential lot nestled among the beauty and charm of quaint Elora. With large lushes’ green trees around the ½ acres property creating privacy and a perfect place to build a dream home. The lot backs onto the beautiful Grand River, which attracts a lot of wildlife. This property is a sevenminute drive to downtown Elora and an eight-minute drive to the Elora Gorge conservation area, perfect for the active enthusiasts. Opportunities like this do not come up often! Lot size: large frontage at 128.76 X 191.33 in depth Approved Site development and grading plan inquire for details, HST not applicable.
15 WESTRA DRIVE GUELPH, ON $998,650 Quality, Function and Elegantly Spacious! Close to schools, shopping, transit, community centre. Quick access to the Hanlon or Hwy 7 for commuters into KW or 401. 50 x 180 Lot backing onto conservation and walking trails provides privacy and tranquility with this treed backdrop. Separate Family room and Living room, formal dinning room and eat in kitchen has new quartz countertops. Optional bedroom or Office on the main floor with upgraded wood stairs to 2nd floor and hardwood throughout all principal rooms. 4 Great sized Bedrooms with additional 2nd floor den or optional bedroom with balcony. Wonderful sized master with WIC, Luxury Ensuite and additional main bath with dual purpose layout. This exceptional home features a huge entertaining sized deck, salt water pool, professionally finished basement with bar, large rec room with oversized windows, theatre room and bath adding an additional 1200 sq ft for a total of 4240 sq ft of living space. Add the Venmar system, tankless water heater, surround sound and security. This home is move in ready and shows like a dream, a perfect opportunity to own a top quality home in Guelph
9 LOCHSIDE DRIVE STONEY CREEK, ON $3,299,000 Unheard of 1 Acre Waterfront with beach and riparian rights. This outstanding rare offering is located in a very quiet and sought after cul de sac location on a full Acre. The home features nearly 9000 ft of living space w/ indoor pool. Completely redesigned and renovated main floor is without question one of the best you’ve seen. Open Concept main floor captures breathtaking views over the lake that can be enjoyed from all principal rooms. Picture 16’ high floor to ceiling wall of window for high impact and soaring ceiling heights, plank wood floors, heated limestone baths/Laundry floors, Kitchen with walk through pantry/servery, Thermador appliance package and 15’ island with seating, 3 or 4 bedroom Main, smart wire rough in and 8’ solid doors. Core slab floor provides sound proofing to the Fully finished basement with 2 bedrooms each with ensuite’s / 2nd Kitchen/Laun. Fantastic opportunity to own a landmark piece of property within minutes to QEW/Hamilton/Burlington
INCOME PRODUCING COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT PROPERTY GUELPH, ON $3,999,000 Opportunity to own 8.6 acres with 250’ of frontage on Gordon Street within Guelph’s secondary plan. With the Plan approval now in place this property is located in one of Guelph’s most desirable locations. It offers Investment potential with income currently being generated and operating as a 12 bed Seniors Living accommodation / 5 additional apartments and a Daycare Centre. 14000 sq ft building / Current zoning I-1 / No Wetlands / No Heritage Restrictions / No Environment Restrictions / Good Configuration / Highway 401 Access across from Springfield Golf Club between Clair Rd. and Malby Rd. This valuable piece of property has unlimited potential for future development. Income producing investment property makes this a rare opportunity.
Your Audi Dealer 2350 Shirley Dr, Kitchener 519-514-0100 or audikw.com