Condo Living June 2014

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14 Focus On 12 | Priority seating Accent chair takes sit-down parties to a new level of style Condo Profiles 20 | History in the making The Armory in historic Currie Barracks offers unique inner-city charm 26 | Mission accomplished Mission 34 heralds Mission Road renovation 32 | Emerald dream Trico’s Viridian offers as ‘green’ a lifestyle as its name implies 37 | Now and ZEN Avalon Master Builders brings ZEN to Okotoks 41 | A sequel in Sherwood Huge demand prompts Avi Urban to launch Willow at Sherwood Community profile 46 | Loving Copperfield living Hopewell’s Copperfield brings stylish affordability to suburban living 50 | Marching to the future Currie Barracks outlines plans for a bigger, better inner-city community

Cover Feature 14 | Fulfilling the vision Welcome home to The Gates of Quarry Park CO N D O L I V I N G

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COntents Lifestyle 55 | The big move Londoners find new home in Victoria Cross Style 60 | Open up and say “wow!”

Let your design style shine through in an open concept floor plan shopping 65 | Best seats in the house Comfy, classy couches define your living space Features 72 | Here comes the sun Calgary’s patio restaurants are the best place to eat, drink and people watch 77 | Women builders Women take a key role in shaping Calgary’s home building industry Condo Tales 102 | No cats allowed Columns 85 | ACOA Owners’ Corner

by Bernice M. Winter 87 | Condoscapes

by Richard White 89 | Ask Maria

by Maria Bartolotti 91 | Hope at Large

by Marty Hope 93 | Around Town

by Pepper Rodriguez

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ITEMS 10 | Editor’s Message 96 | Maps 100 | Ad Index

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE |

Living room romance

The living room, now often termed ‘the great room’ by builders, has traditionally been the place where the family gathers and where they entertain. Its traditional, formal function as a common area where adults can be in the company of their friends has given way to a more informal gathering place that can be enjoyed by all members of the household. And that concept took an even tighter hold with the advent of the open concept floor plan.

Our Style writer, David Crosson, focuses on this predominant floor plan that is used in both multifamily and single-family settings. He tells us in his inimitable style how we can arrange furniture in this situation to make the full use of the space an open concept floor plans offers. Our Shopping writer, Kathy McCormick, gives us an overview on picking your sofas (design, fabric, size) to fit your living room, while our Focus On photo feature by Aaliya Essa presents accent chairs that you can use to complete the look of your room. This concentrated approach is just another way we at Condo Living try to keep our features on point and give our readers a complete picture of what they can do in their home.

Speaking of complete, Remington Developments’ Quarry Park community is nearing completion, each day coming closer and closer to its vision of becoming a total live-workplay neighbourhood. The developer is putting the finishing touches on where you can live in this modern, forward-thinking community with the upcoming launch of The Gates, their second multi-family offering in Quarry Park that promises a boutique lifestyle in the comforts of this singular riverside neighbourhood.

We feature five more distinctive condo developments in these pages — including a slew of brand new developments: Mission 34 by Assured Developments, Viridian by Trico Homes, Willow at Sherwood by Avi Urban, ZEN in Okotoks by Avalon, and Cove Properties’ The Armory in Currie Barracks (which we also spotlight as one of our community features). This is probably the Next month: most concerted number of condo-specific editorials you will see in We turn our any of Calgary’s real estate magazines, as we continue to bring our attention to the readers the latest and best information in their search of their own Children’s Room. apartment-style suite or townhome.

This issue (one of the biggest we’ve published this year) also shines a light on the outstanding women in Calgary’s home building industry, and our Elizabeth Booth talks to some of the best in Part One of her Women in the Industry feature.

With the sun out, we also thought it appropriate to talk about the best restaurant patios in the inner-city, because who knows how long we get to enjoy the sunshine.

With the sun shining or not, you can trust us to bring you the latest on what’s happening in the condo market and how this can affect your lives — from buying one, decorating your home, and enjoying the lifestyle.

@CondoLivingYYC

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CondoLivingCalgary

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca

PUBLISHER |

Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER |

Editor | Pepper Rodriguez pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca ART director | Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca graphic designers

Lama Azhari lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca Megan Sereda megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR |

EDITORIAL

Elizabeth Chorney Booth, David Crosson, Karen Durrie, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick, Richard White, Janine Workman, Portia Yip, Jim Zang Photography

Aaliya Essa, Don Molyneaux, Pepper Rodriguez, Janine Workman ADVERTISING SALES | Heather Dougall heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca accounting | Donna Roberts accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY

Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group Issue 174 • ISSN 1918-4409 © 2014 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion.

Condo Living® is published 12 times per annum with copies available for distribution at more than 1,500 locations every month.

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seating Accent chair takes sit-down parties to a new level of style

By Aaliya Essa

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The sofa would likely be the biggest piece of furniture in your living room, and it used to dictate the look of the entire room. The accent chair — like an ottoman, love seat or old school armchair — is a great way to break the monotony of this set-up by adding a different colour, style and feel to the proceedings. It also works in any nook of the home that you can turn into an instant reading corner. CL

[ 1 ] Matt Rocker, Leather, $799, at EQ3. [ 2 ] Cedric Arm Chair, $599, at Urban Barn. [ 3 ] Hipster Stationary Occasional Chair - Mink, $699, at La-Z-Boy. [ 4 ] Aubrey Accent Chair, $549, at Urban Barn. [ 5 ] Salema Chair – Fabric, $699, at EQ3 [ 6 ] Rothe Accent Chair - Saffron, $399, at Urban Barn. [ 7 ] Jazz Stationary Occasional Chair - Juniper, starting at $1,299, at La-Z-Boy. [ 8 ] James Rocker – Fabric, $499, at EQ3.

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FULFILLING THE VISION t

he grand vision for Quarry Park was always to create a modern lifestyle where residents can live, work and play all within the confines of their neighbourhood. That vision is rapidly being realized as more retail, commercial and recreational projects sprout around this new mini-city in the southeast.

Bringing this growth into focus is the launch of The Gates, Remington Development’s latest boutique apartment condo in the heart of Quarry Park. A grand opening is planned for June 12, and already half of its 32 apartment style condos have been reserved. “There is already lots of interest and we are excited to sign contracts within the next few weeks,” says Glen Deibert, Residential Director for Remington Developments Corporation.

Construction is well underway for this three-storey condo, with the parkade already completed. “People are excited to see the rapid progress of construction as the building begins to rise from the ground,” Deibert says.

The Gates’ progress in many ways mirrors the rapid pace of development for this unique riverside community in the vicinity of Glenmore and Deerfoot Trails. A new 100,000-square-foot recreational facility has begun and

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Welcome home to The Gates of Quarry Park.

will have aquatic pools, library, fitness centre, running track, gymnasium, daycare and multi-purpose rooms.

A major 200-room hotel is also planned to go up in the community in the near future.

Quarry Park also has two million square-feet of commercial and office space — a good portion of it is already in use with scores of corporate headquarters already settled in, and more in the works. There is a further 100,000 square-feet of retail space with The Market already becoming the vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment centre of the community.

But even with all this bustle going on in this 385-acre neighbourhood, Quarry Park has not lost its idyllic calm with over 80-acres of parkland and miles of pathways that connect to Calgary’s regional pathway system.

“Having the Bow River at our backyard gives us an unmatched quality that enriches the lives of all residents,” Deibert adds.

“We are creating a community suited to buyers who value a healthy balance

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Complementing the open space plan is the high quality of the interior design and finishes. between sustainability and convenience. It is a self-sufficient community that promotes walkability, where you can live near where you work and enjoy a healthy modern lifestyle without leaving the confines of the community,” he says.

And you can live affordably in cool, comfortable style, too.

The Gates offers several floor plans priced from the $290,000s to low-$400,000s. These include the 770-square-foot one-bedroom plus den, the 1,000 to 1,100-square-foot two-bedroom and the spacious 1,315-square-foot three-bedroom.

No matter the size, what they all have in common is an abundance of space and efficient storage. “Even the one-bedroom plus

den can comfortably fit a king sized bed,” Deibert says.

In addition to the ample storage in each suite, every purchase includes an extra storage unit and titled underground parking stall. Second stalls can be purchased on a limited basis.

Complementing the open floor plan is the high quality of the interior design and finishes. Five-piece doors and drawers harmonize with the classic architecture of the home. The well-appointed kitchens feature standard options such as granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, an oversized pantry and island. In addition to

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Quarry Park’s unique appeal is that it may seem a world away but it is still only 15 minutes to downtown. the traditional rooms, all units also include a multi-purpose area where homeowners can set up a computer or select a custom built-in.

All units feature oversized windows and nine-foot ceilings to provide plenty of natural light and take advantage of the beautiful views of The Gates’ immaculate landscaping and Quarry Park greenbelt. The copper mansard roofing over the entrance foyer creates an exciting architectural element that blends well with the close-to-nature character of Quarry Park.

The Gates is really attractive to first time homebuyers who work in Quarry Park, as well as people who want to free up equity in their estate homes and not compromise style but have plenty of space.

“About 30 per cent of buyers in Quarry Park work here as well,” Deibert says, as buyers embrace the unique vision of the community.

He adds that The Gates has been very popular with newly-singles too, “as it is designed to accommodate a varied range of lifestyles.”

The Gates is the second multi-family offering from Remington in Quarry Park, following Champagne, their ultra-successful luxury condos that will begin selling its fifth and final phase this June.

Quarry Park’s unique appeal is that it may seem a world away but it is still only 15 minutes to downtown. It has a European feel where you can choose to walk or bike to work or to the grocery or to the neighbourhood pub for a pint. “It’s a place where you can live life in relaxed comfort,” Deibert says.

You also get a local developer who has been in business since 1994 and has a proven track record of excellent customer service. The beautiful homes are backed by a comprehensive 2-, 5- and 10-year

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warranty, the most comprehensive in Alberta.

To receive an invite to the upcoming June open house, please register online at www.remingtoncorp.com/residential or visit the Presentation Gallery for further info. ■

FA S T FA C T S Community: Quarry Park Project:

The Gates

Developer: Remington Development Corporation Style:

Apartment condos

Size:

From 770 sq. ft. one-bedroom plus den to 1,315 sq. ft. three-bedrooms

Price:

From the $290,000s to $400,000s

Address:

350 Quarry Park Boulevard S.E.

Directions:

From north, take Glenmore Trail S.W. to 18 St. East exit, and turn right onto Quarry Park Blvd S.E. From south, take Deerfoot Trail north until exit 241. Turn onto 24 St S.E. and turn left onto 18 St. S.E. Turn left onto Quarry Park Blvd S.E.

Website:

www.remingtoncorp.com

condo ProFile |

HIstORY In tHe MaKInG the armory in historic currie Barracks offers unique inner-city charm

By AALIyA eSSA

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ith so many new multi-family homes popping up around town, condo buyers can pretty much choose to live wherever they want.

In fact, location is what sets many condos apart these days and, for some buyers, having a short commute to downtown is the determining factor that makes all the difference.

For these people, The Armory, by Cove Properties, is perfect. Set to open mid to late June, the project is in the ideal location in what is shaping up to be one of Calgary’s most ambitious inner-city redevelopments yet.

“One of the things that attracted us to Currie Barracks is its location and its proximity to downtown,” says Doug Mazurek, President of Cove Properties, “as it is one of the few areas where there is still significant infill development happening.”

Residents here are a mere 10 minutes from downtown, and are surrounded by numerous shopping, dining and service amenities, both within the community itself and in surrounding areas.

Marda Loop is just down the road, where there are already a ton of unique shops and pubs and diners. But future plans for Currie Barracks itself call for a more vibrant retail and commercial experience that will transform the former military base into Calgary’s west side urban village.

Armory’s site at Flanders Point will be walking distance to many amenities for residents — with markets and shops essentially at your doorstep — making it very pedestrian friendly, and there will be outdoor activities depending on the season.

Access to the rest of the city is easy, as major roads like Sarcee Trail, Crowchild Trail, Glenmore Trail, are literally minutes from home, yet out of sight and out of mind.

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The Armory will be home to 58 units; with one-bedroom layouts that are 650 squarefeet, one-bedroom plus den options at 750 square-feet, and two-bedroom layouts ranging from 1,050 to 1,233 square-feet. There is also a three-bedroom option, located on the top floor of this four-storey building, which is a luxurious 1,700 square-feet in size, with only two of these suites available.

The first three floors will enjoy the extra space offered by nine-foot ceilings, while buyers on the top floor are absolutely spoiled with 10 and 12-foot ceilings. The use of space is quite evident in these layouts, especially the large bedrooms and windows, making the layouts feel that much more spacious and filled with natural light. When the sun’s

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LEFT: The armory wil go up in Currie Barracks’ Flanders Point. Image courtesy of Canada Lands Company.

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FA S t FAC tS COMMunIty: currie Barracks PrOJeCt: the armory DeVeLOPer: cove Properties StyLe: apartment-style condos SIze: available units start at 650 sq. ft.

PrICe: available units start from the $290,000s plus gst ADDreSS: to be announced hOurS: to be announced WeBSIte: www.curriearmory.ca

“this is really going to give us a chance to sPread our Wings and do things that We haven’t done BeFore.” not shining, another great feature is that each unit comes with its own underground heated parking stall — always a bonus when you live in Calgary, especially during the winter months.

Each home comes standard with full-size stainless steel appliances, full-size washer-dryer, quartz countertops, undermount sinks, a combination of both large ceramic tiles and mosaic backsplash tiles, hardwood options will also be available, says Mazurek.

“The exterior itself will be a combination of materials,” says Mazurek.

“True to its name, it’s going to be constructed of brick. That will run up the main, as well as the second and third floor, combined with acrylic stucco. We will be using some real timber elements in the design, as well.

So, even though this building will have a really contemporary look, we wanted to soften it up a little bit with the timber elements. There is also going to be an extensive amount of glazing throughout the building, with oversized windows,” he adds.

And, as if the location wasn’t already perfect, the building backs onto the Currie Barracks historic gardens. “We are actually going to have two entrances, not only through the front of the building, but there is actually going to a breeze-way connecting the project to those historic gardens,” says Marurek.

With so many layout options to choose from, and prices starting from the $290,000s plus GST, an incredible value for the area, The Armory is sure to be a hit with a wide variety of buyers. For young professionals, especially, looking for homes that are located in an established community, and having plenty of options for entertainment nearby, will find all that and more here.

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Homes here are also sure to be popular with retired couples; empty nesters wanting to enjoy that maintenance-free lifestyle, where they don’t have to worry about shoveling the snow or mowing the lawn, and they can just enjoy that lock and leave lifestyle that many of them crave.

Conscientious buyers will also appreciate that The Armory is built to Built Green™ specifications. “We are recycling as much of our construction waste as possible,” says Mazurek. “We have energy efficient appliances, we have water fi xtures that use less water, and of course using environmentally safe building products as well.”

It’s a process that Cove Properties has perfected over more than two decades of experience building condominiums, with 3,500 plus units to date in Alberta and British Columbia combined. “Our company has a long standing history in Alberta and in Calgary,” he says. “We have a diversity in the products that we build, ranging from townhomes right up to 34 storey towers.

“We are elated to be part of Currie Barracks project,” he adds, “because this is really going to give us a chance to spread our wings and do things that we haven’t done before, in regards to building design and material usage.”

Buyers can look forward to a special advance VIP opportunity to pick suites prior to the public opening, so stay tuned for more details to be announced soon.

For details on the opening of the sales centre visit www.curriearmory.ca. CL

CONDO PROFILE |

Mission 34 heralds Mission Road renovation

Mission accomplished

By Aaliya Essa

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f the busy sales launch for Mission 34 during a bitterly cold winter day was any indication, it was pretty much assured that the flagship project for the rejuvenation of Mission Road is going to be a sure-fire hit.

“The Mission 34 project launched sales in November and despite blizzard conditions, the Christmas season and more bitter cold weather since, it has been very well received,” says Jonathan Allen, president of Calgary Urban Equities, which teamed up with Assured Communities for this 47-unit mixed use project. “The market is clearly recognizing the unique opportunity this project represents.”

Mission 34 is the latest multi-family option available in the inner-city community of Parkhill. The innovative condominium development is just the beginning of the expansive face-lift being undertaken for historic Mission Road S.W. The inclement weather was just the latest of a range of hurdles the developers had to surmount before the project even got off the ground. But the resulting project plan now seems worth it.

“This project is the first developer initiative arising from the City of Calgary’s Mission Road Innovation Project, so it’s kind of like a flagship project,” says Assured Communities’ executive vice-president Adrian Fabro. “What we have envisioned is an enhanced pedestrian experience with some localized commercial retail, for more than just the single-family density; rather a community that meets the needs of both current and future residents alike.”

The developers worked hard to engage residents from surrounding communities including Erlton, Parkhill Stanley Park, Rideau Park and Roxboro, and make them part of the collaboration that made this condo a reality.

“This project celebrates the diversity and eclectic mix that is typically found in urban neighbourhoods,” says Fabro. “One of the draws of a project like this though, is avoiding the urban ‘crush’. Mission 34 is all about blending the best of both urban and suburban community characteristics.”

Mission 34 features 47 homes, with a nice mix of street lofts, apartment-style condos, and

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courtyard lofts. The units range from 650 to 1,000 square-feet, with prices starting from the mid $300,000s.

Offered are one-bedroom one-bath options, as well as a one-bedroom with one-and-a-half-bath layout. There are a couple of two-bedroom two-bath options, as well. Underground parking is provided for all residents, and dedicated bike storage and storage lockers will also be available.

Mission 34 is designed by award-winning NORR Architects, its exterior is asymmetrical and slope adaptive, resulting in the private courtyard on the third floor.

“The contemporized tower element celebrates Mission 34’s iconic status on Mission Road,” says Fabro. “And it really makes a statement on behalf of the commercial space located right at its base on the southwest corner.”

Many suites have a dual access feature, says Fabro.

“These include the traditional access from the hallway or street, and they also have access that leads right onto the courtyard or parkade levels.” The bi-level street loft homes have their own front door access off Mission Road, and are highlighted by 16-foot ceilings with 14-foot windows facing south. Many of Mission 34’s residences have their own address on either Mission Road or 34th Avenue.

The interior design palette allows for five different options across three different trim levels including the Professional Series which has been designed specifically for those desiring a “work / live” residence. Each option is unique: from light cabinetry to dark, and a two-toned option too, with variations in the backsplash, flooring, lighting and plumbing fixtures so buyers can find the tones that fit into their own personal style.

“The standard specs have been very well received — all units feature full size appliances, with quartz countertops, a full size stacking washer-dryer and countless other items,” says Fabro.

But it is its location that may be the biggest attraction for buyers.

Mission 34 is mere blocks from the ridge of the river valley and Stanley Park to the west, and half a block to Roxboro Park, so there is a great deal of

“Mission 34 is all about blending an urban setting within a suburban community.”

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‘accessible nature’ for residents and their pets.

“The 39th Avenue LRT station is just 600 metres away, there is access right onto Macleod Trail which is just around the corner, and of course easy access into Mission District and Downtown beyond,” says Fabro. “We are also close to the river here, but about 70-feet above the river so flooding will never be an issue” he adds.

It’s an ambitious plan, but one that the family-owned and operated Assured Communities is more than up to — they have been building homes in Calgary for over 25 years. Assured is committed to consistently delivering total customer satisfaction — which is why they have the rare distinction of being the recipient of the Platinum Service Award from the Alberta New Home Warranty Program. CL

FA S T FAC TS Community: Parkhill Project: Mission 34 Developer: Assured Communities in partnership with Calgary Urban Equities Style: Apartment condos Size: From 650 to 1,000 square-feet Price: From the mid $300,000s plus GST Address: 98 Mission Rd. S.W. Directions: South on Macleod Trail, turn right onto Mission Road Website: www.mission34.ca

condo ProFile |

emerald dream V trico’s viridian offers as ‘green’ a lifestyle as its name implies

By POrtIA yIP

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iridian — a shade of spring green as bold and versatile as the condo project it’s named after. Nestled within the stunning northwestern community of Sage Hill, and beside a breathtaking natural ravine, Trico Homes has a shiny new edition to add to their collection of apartment-style condos.

Viridian is Trico Homes’ newest multi-family complex featuring six separate, three-storey buildings with a total of 359 condo units. Those who want an unmatched suburban living experience paired with an innovative and urban style will find all that and more at Viridian.

Warren Martz, Area Sales Manager for Trico Homes, says the first building is already 60 per cent sold and possessions are slated for fall of 2015. “The units are priced from the low $200,000s to just under $300,000,” he says. There are 15 floor plans to choose from between 629 to 966 square-feet. All are open-concept with either one or two bedrooms and come with or without a den.

“One of the nice things about the suites is that we have radiant in-slab heating, which we use to heat the units,” says Martz. “So the real advantage is that you can use the full living space and push furniture right up against the wall.”

All the suites come with sparkling stainless steel appliances, granite countertops in the kitchen and bathroom, a stackable washer and dryer, lofty nine-foot high ceilings and wood-grain textured cabinets. Buyers can choose from three contemporary

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colour schemes and for those who want to take their interior design a step further, three wow-inspiring upgrade packages are also available.

And the perks don’t end there. For each of Viridian’s six buildings, there’s heated underground and surface parking areas with bike storage. Each unit gets at least one designated parking stall, and surface parking is provided for visitors.

There are a variety of buyers right now according to Martz. “We have people who are downsizing or buying for their family members, to investors looking for a rental property.

There are primarily entry level buyers looking to purchase their first home,” he says.

And as Viridian progresses, the young and rapidly growing community of Sage Hill will continue to as well. From the rolling hills, mountain backdrop and bountiful green space, Sage Hill itself has its own awe-inspiring charm. Viridian is located at the northwest corner of Symons Valley Road and Sage Hill Drive, and residents can take full advantage of their surroundings.

The environmental ravine spans a little over nine acres and will feature extensive pathways, ponds, and an abundance of natural wildlife. The community makes it easy for nature lovers, four-legged friends and families of any size to thrive in a comfortable yet vibrant lifestyle.

“The Symons Valley Farmer’s Market is right up the street, which is a huge amenity for a lot of people,” says Martz.

all the suites come with sparkling stainless steel appliances and granite countertops in the kitchen and bathroom.

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“It’s really a hidden gem for finding fresh local produce, specialty foods, and even a great cup of coffee.”

Three other major commercial hubs — Creekside, Beacon Hill and CrossIron Mills—are nearby to meet even more shopping necessities. Plus, future amenities to the area are to be expected and will include a Sage Hill Crossing retail centre and a new Calgary Transit hub. To travel conveniently to other parts of the city or out of town, it’s a snap-of-the-fingers to access Stoney Trail, Beddington Trail or Shaganappi Trail.

For over 22 years, Trico Homes has built a huge repertoire of single and multi-family homes, with an established reputation for strong customer and community support. Martz adds that a referral program is open to any Trico Home owner whose referral results in the purchase of a new home.

“If a Trico homeowner refers somebody who purchases a new home from Trico, we’ll give them a $1,500 referral reward,” says Martz. “And we do get a lot of referrals, which is great because it tells us that people who have bought a Trico home are happy with Trico and our process and are willing to recommend us to their friends and family.”

And the Trico team has without a doubt made a statement with Viridian through its versatility, vibrancy and value along with helping to make Sage Hill one of the most desirable communities in Calgary’s northwest. CL

“We do get a lot of referrals, which is great because it tells us that people who have bought a Trico home are happy.”

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FA S T FAC TS Community: Sage Hill Project: Viridian Developer: Trico Homes Style: Apartment-style condominiums Size: From 629 to 966 sq. ft.

Price: Starting from the low $200,000’s Sales Centre: 3505 Sage Hill Drive N.W. Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 to 8 p.m.; weekends and holidays, noon to 5 p.m.

Website: www.viridiancondos.ca

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Now and zen Avalon Master Builders brings ZEN to Okotoks

By Pepper Rodriguez

P

eople just can’t seem to get enough ZEN, and Avalon Master Builders is happy enough to oblige, as the renowned developer brings their distinguished line of energy-efficient and sustainable townhomes to Okotoks.

The 37-unit townhome complex is in the pre-construction stage but will be located in Okotok’s Westridge community. According to Avalon’s Dean Clark, this is the last multi-family site currently approved for the town.

“The opportunity presented itself, and we jumped on it,” Clark tells Condo Living. “We feel our building practices and core values align with the community values in Okotoks. We are very concerned about building efficient sustainable homes.”

‘Green’ home building has, in fact, been a focus at Avalon Master Built, and all their homes meet high, externally-established standards in energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable building practices. Each home is tested and audited by an independent third party to ensure those standards are met or exceeded. Their homes are, in fact, guaranteed to lower utility costs by 36 per cent.

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Interior photos are from ZEN Auburn Bay show home.

“We feel our building practices and core values align with the community values in Okotoks.”

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“The key to our zen townhomes has been their locations, and we believe our site here in okotoks is one of the best.”

Net-Zero homes — homes that produce as much energy as they use on an annual basis.

“Our vision going forward is to build 100 per cent of our homes as Net-Zero homes for no additional cost to the consumer while creating homes people love to live in.”

All these vital factors come into play in ZEN Okotoks, which is seen as the result of everything Avalon has learned in the past 30 years — and then some. “The key to our ZEN townhomes has been their locations, and we believe our site here in Okotoks is one of the best,” Clark says. usage low and save you money,” he says.

Avalon is part of the Holmes Approved Homes program by celebrity The homes range in size from 1,017 to 1,270 home renovator, Mike Holmes. They have also built 164 LEED-certi- square-feet and are projected to start from fied (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) homes, and the $260,000 range, Clark says. explores the latest smart green home technology alternative through “We’ve chosen our popular floor plans from their Discovery House series, that look to bring a new generation of ZEN in Auburn Bay. There will be a mix of

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“Our homes’ energy efficiency is what we’re known for,” Clark says. “We build our homes very tight, to keep the warm air in — very important with our winters. Then we add a high efficiency furnace, HRV system, low flow faucets, energy star rated appliances — our fridge uses less energy than a 40-watt light bulb. This all helps to keep your utility

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our single level garden homes, two storey townhomes and our split-level lane homes. As with all our communities all our homes feature a private outdoor space, low maintenance exteriors featuring Hardie board siding, as well as our energy efficiency all our homeowners love.”

ZEN in Okotoks will feature Prairie elevations. This means a lower roofline with a broader overhang, more horizontal lines and windows grouped together in horizontal bands. “The lines in this style are thought to emulate the prairie landscape,” Clark says.

Their location in the town of Okotoks itself is an outstanding part of their appeal. “The community is conveniently located within walking distance of pretty much everything you need — grocery, restaurants, coffee shops and parks. It’s also only a short drive, less than 20 minutes to the South Health Campus and SETON.” Clark believes Westridge is perfect for families as well as first time homebuyers.

“We feel that a lot of families are well established in the community and most first time homebuyers appreciate having an affordable option keeping them close to their family in their preferred community.”

First possession for ZEN Okotoks is anticipated for the spring of 2015.

Visit their website www.zeninbalance.com to register. CL

FA S T FAC TS Community: Westridge, Okotoks Project: ZEN Okotoks Developer: Avalon Master Builder Style: Bungalow garden homes, split-level lane homes, and two-storey townhomes Size: From 1,017 sq. ft. to 1,270 sq. ft.

Price: Starts in the $260,000s Address: Westridge Okotoks Website: Please go to www.zeninbalance.com to register and for more information.

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CHBA - Calgary Region

2013

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A sequel in Sherwood Huge demand prompts Avi Urban to launch Willow at Sherwood

by Pepper Rodriguez

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he booming northwest area of Calgary welcomes it’s newest multi-family development — Willow at Sherwood, Avi Urban’s latest offering in this extremely popular and fast-growing part of town.

Willow at Sherwood is the stunning — and much bigger — sequel to Avi Urban’s ultra-successful The Post at Nolan Hill just down the road. Willow at Sherwood will have 83 three-storey townhomes compared to The Post’s 59.

“Willow at Sherwood is based on the success of The Post,” says Chris Pollen, sales and marketing manager at Avi Urban — the multi-family arm of Homes by Avi. Like The Post, Willow will feature Colonial elevations with brick and James Hardie siding to blend with the look of the neighbourhood.

Willow at Sherwood will offer two- and three-bedroom options ranging from 1,100 to 1,400 square-feet. Six floor plans are available, each unit comes with a two-car attached garage, and many have full driveways to accommodate a third vehicle.

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Prices start from the $300,000s similar to the pre-construction pricing at The Post, which is all but sold out. That previous development had already sold more than half of its homes even before it was launched. Pollen is confident that Willow will sell just as fast.

As any Avi Urban product, interiors are as superbly designed with open concept floor plans that use every inch of available space, nine-foot ceilings that contribute to the spacious feeling of the home, and oversized balconies allows buyers to enjoy every benefit of outdoor living.

Speaking of outdoor living, Willow will have three gathering areas, including a centralized courtyard, where neighbours can get to know one another. The courtyard features picnic benches, walkways, and seating.

Willow will also have a centralized pathway system that is lit with low bollard lights and goes from homes to the amenity space, flowing from the edges of the development into the courtyard.

The development will be landscaped using a mixture of stately evergreen trees and small flowering trees with the aim of creating a dense forest with a canopy of trees.

Homes come with extended height shaker cabinetry, modern Moen fixtures and vessel sinks. Avi also offers a mix-and-match option to personalize the buyers’ interior selections, further options include built-in cabinetry and choosing the colour of your front door.

Strategically located in the popular community of Sherwood, Willow sits just steps away from incredible local amenities, including the new Symons Valley Farmers Market. Sher-

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F as t F ac t s Community: Sherwood Project: Willow at Sherwood Developer: Avi Urban Style: Townhomes Size: Starts from 1,100 sq. ft.

Price: Starting from the $300,000s sales centre: 64 Nolan Hill Gate N.W. Hours: Please check website for hours Website: www.aviurban.com

extraordinary design, will translate what was once a dream into one of Calgary’s premier townhome developments.”

Pre-construction sales should begin in the late spring. The sales centre is scheduled to open late this spring and is located at 64 Nolan Hill Gate N.W. CL

wood, developed by Melcor Developments, is easily accessed from Shaganappi Trail just north of Stoney Trail N.W. so getting around town is never a problem.

“Sherwood is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Calgary’s northwest,” says Pollen, “and the bringing Willow here means plenty more homeowners will have the opportunity to experience the benefits of calling this part of our city home.”

Residents will enjoy immediate access to shopping and transit in a secure and well planned master community. This, combined with Avi Urban’s continued commitment to CO N D O L I V I N G

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Loving Copperfield Hopewell’s Copperfield brings stylish affordability to suburban living

By Pepper Rodriguez

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dyllic, family-friendly and as suburban as they come, Copperfield is the embodiment of today’s white-picket-fence lifestyle with its open spaces, green fields and a youthful charm. With tons of amenities and infrastructure improvements that long-established communities can only envy, Copperfield is a vision fulfilled for Hopewell Residential.

Copperfield was launched back in 2002 and this year marks its 12th year of development. “It is hard to believe, but Copperfield is selling into its final phase now,” marvels Erin McGregor, marketing manager, development at Hopewell.

“The community is approximately 90 per cent sold out! The last phase of lots is a large one, so we anticipate sales occurring for the next 18 months on the single-family side and likely the next two to three years on the multi-family front.”

When complete, Copperfield will have 4,978 homes (including condos and townhomes) and an estimated population of 15,000 residents.

It is one of the biggest communities in the southeast, but its inherent small-town charm has not been lost; nor its friendly demeanor that is enhanced by its three scenic ponds, 12 neighbourhood parks and playgrounds and miles of interconnected green spaces and pathways.

McGregor says these features give residents plenty of opportunity

| COMMUNITY PROFILE

Living to interact and get to know their neighbours. Even during the cold days, it is not uncommon to see people taking advantage of the pathways to walk their dogs or go for a quick jog. There is also a skating rink, sports courts, toboggan hill and tennis courts.

“Having all of these amenities available to you the day you move means that you get to move into a new home in an already established community,” she adds.

Copperfield homeowners also enjoy all the benefits of a thriving community association with no annual fee. “We do encourage residents to become members of the Marquis De Lorne Community Association, which is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to creating a vibrant and healthy community. They host a number of great events and programs each year at Copperfield’s centrally located community centre.”

These features are nice to have but they wouldn’t have the same effect if Copperfield didn’t have the accessibility and infrastructure support that all communities need to thrive. And with the opening of the southeast extension of Stoney Trail and the new Saint Isabella K-9 Catholic school in the community itself, Copperfield is wonderfully close to being complete.

“The opening of Stoney Trail has improved accessibility almost overnight, getting to the airport and all points north is so much easier,” says Edmund Alcaide, who has lived in Copperfield for the last seven years. His wife, Linda, says having the school right in the community is a welcome bonus. “We decided to live here because it was affordable and had no community fees, but to have a school where my kids can just walk or bike to is a tremendous benefit,” she says.

McGregor adds that a public school is slated for completion in 2016 also within the community. “According to the Public School Board it will accommodate kindergarten to grade 4 students and will have capacity for 600,” she says.

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It is one of the biggest communities in the southeast, but its inherent small-town charm has not been lost.

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There is also the added ease of living afforded by its proximity to the 130th Avenue shopping complex with all its big box stores and unique shops and restaurants. The opening of the 130th Avenue extension east of 52nd Street has further improved accessibility giving Copperfield residents another option in going in and out of the community.

The wide variety of homes makes it a perfect setting for everyone from first-time homebuyers, families looking for move-up homes, and even empty nesters and retirees.

No less than four multi-family projects are in various stages of development in this southeast neighbourhood, and include both townhomes (from the $240,000s) and apartment style condos (from the $130,000s) that will appeal to various tastes, lifestyles and budgets.

These projects include Chalet No. 5 townhomes by Sabal Homes; Copperfield Park II by Brad Remington Homes; Stonecroft at Copperfield by Stonecroft; and Aura townhomes by Aldebaran Homes.

Laned single-family homes are offered by Excel Homes and Sabal Homes on lots that range from 28- to 30-feet wide. These start from $370,000s.

While attached garage move-up homes from Sabal Homes and Stepper Homes sit on 24- to 38-foot wide lots and start from the $460,000s.

Affordable, innovatively designed, and distinctly eye-catching architecture has always been the promise of Copperfield, and it is a promise that Hopewell has kept. But more than that, it is a community people can easily fall in love with. CL

F as t F ac t s Community: Copperfield Developer: Hopewell Residential Communities Builders: Multi-family – Chalet No 5 townhomes

by Sabal Homes; Aura townhomes by Aldebaran Group; Stonecroft at Copperfield apartment-style condos and townhomes by Stonecroft; Copperfield Park II apartment-style condos by Brad Remington Homes.

Single-family (with show homes) – Excel Homes, Sabal Homes, Stepper Homes Price: Apartment-style start at the $140,000s; townhomes at $240,000s Directions: From Stoney Trail east head north on 52nd street and follow the signs Hours: Check with individual builders to see particular show home hours WEB: www.copperfield.ca

No less than four multi-family projects are in various stages of development in this southeast neighbourhood, and include both townhomes and apartment style condos.

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Marching to the future L Currie Barracks outlines plans for a bigger, better inner-city community

By Pepper Rodriguez

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iving in a park-like community that offers spectacular views of the Rockies yet remains less than 10 minutes away from downtown has been a big part of the appeal of Currie Barracks. Now more people can get the chance to live this idyllic urban lifestyle, as Canada Lands Company (CLC) unveils plans to increase density in this popular inner-city neighbourhood.

The new plans call for increasing the number of residential units in this former military base from 3,200 to 5,600, and the number of residents from 7,000 as originally planned to 11,000 when complete.

“There’s a lot of people interested in living in Currie Barracks.

These new plans are totally in line with the City of Calgary’s calls for the better utilization of the inner-city location, and allow for a more effective use of both servicing and transportation infrastructure,” says Doug Cassidy, vice-president of Canada Lands responsible for Western Canada.

Curie Barracks will have a more pronounced mixed-use character

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than a purely residential one as the former CLC developments of Garrison Green and Garrison Woods. The new plans for Currie Barracks call for some 230,000 square-feet of retail space and 600,000 square-feet of office space.

The new developments will include creating an economic hub in Parade Square and Crowchild Frontage that creates more opportunities to work where you live; developing Currie Market, which will take the place of the late (and much-missed) Farmers’ Market; and Flanders Point, which will be the retail heart. There will be residential components in Currie Mews (multi-family) and in the Northern neighbourhoods (single-family).

The earlier plan also had a 12-storey cap on building height. The new application will seek a cap of 30-storeys. Most of the taller buildings will be concentrated near Flanders Point and Currie Mews.

The overall design is aimed to maintain the urban village vibe of Currie Barracks, Cassidy says. “Everything will be integrated to create a vibrant fabric of life for the community.”

Key to this new development is the partnership between CLC and B.C.based developer, Embassy BOSA, to develop the mixed-use town centre at Currie Barracks off of Crowchild Trail S.W. near Mount Royal University.

The project will bring in 200,000 square-feet of retail space along with 2,500 multi-family units. “There’s nothing in Calgary that comes close to what we’re proposing here,” says Embassy BOSA’s Robert Marchand.

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Cassidy tells Condo Living the proximity to the growing Mount Royal University will give Currie Barracks a youthful, college-town vibrancy. While the numerous parks (some already existing) and the community’s unique historical nature combine to create “an amazing, walkable community.”

That proposed next phase of Currie Barracks is still a ways off in the future with more consultations and approval process ahead, and a Community Advisory Group has been created to guide progress. Construction is expected to begin in 2016 and is contingent to the improvement of traffic flow in the community, including upgrading the Flanders Avenue interchange off Crowchild Trail S.W. “Traffic congestion has been one of the main concerns in the series of open houses that we’ve conducted about the new development,” Cassidy says. “Canada Lands Company and its development partners are committed to an inclusive public consultation process to define the next phase of Currie Barracks. We have hosted a number of public open houses and working with an Advisory Council to keep the public informed.”

The community’s evolution continues to progress quite rapidly. A newly renovated sales centre will be opening in July to showcase new multi-family developments from Slokker Canada West, Avi Urban, Jayman Modus and Cove Properties.

Currie Barracks is the only new inner-city development in Calgary that offers the widest choices of homes. Single-family homes from move-ups to luxury estate homes are already available, as are semi-detached homes and townhomes from some of Calgary’s most reputable builders.

New is Overture from Jayman Modus (the multi-family arm of the Jayman Group), which offer signature, upscale condominium residences from the $470,000s. The Armory by Cove Properties will also be launching soon.

“We will have apartment condos from the mid $200,000s available in the next phase,” Cassidy says.

Single-family builders include Calbridge Homes, and Crystal Creek Homes. Designs reflect the heritage architecture of Currie Barracks with prices ranging from $1.3 million to over $2 million.

“People want to live here because they don’t want to spend a lot of time on the commute to work, but still enjoy a relaxed lifestyle filled with already-existing amenities and many more still to come,” Cassidy says.

Currie Barracks has a long colourful history — much of it enshrined in the beautifully landscaped Valour Park and Victoria Cross Park that pays tribute to Canada’s servicemen and women. The new phases are committed to honouring this heritage while creating a viable, walkable modern community. CL

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F as t F ac t s Community: Currie Barracks Developer: Canada Lands Company Builders: Single-family — Calbridge Homes, Crystal Creek Homes Multi-family — Avi Urban, Jayman Modus, Cove Properties, Slokker Canada West, Empire Custom Homes Price: Multi-family starts at $470,000 and single-family from $1.2 million Sales Centre: J5, 2953 Battleford Ave. S.W. Directions: South on Crowchild Tr. and exit on Flanders Ave. S.W. and follow the signs.

Hours: Watch for grand re-opening in July WEB: www.currieurban.ca

Currie Barracks is the only new inner-city development in Calgary that offers the widest choices of homes.

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| LIFESTYLE

The big move Londoners find new home in Victoria Cross

Story by Karen Durrie Photos by Don Molyneaux

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t took more than 7,000 miles and a mere 24 hours for Bill Baird and his wife, Valerie McIntyre-Baird, to sign the papers to purchase a place that both reminded them of home, and made them part of an exciting new community.

Valerie and Bill moved into their new condo in the Currie Barracks area in March, after selling their home near London, England.

Packing favourite belongings, plus two Scottie-Westie-cross dogs, Poppy and Kismet, and a faithful Doberman named Zak, the couple embarked on a long journey that would in the end shorten both their daily commutes and allow them the time for the lifestyle they’d dreamed of having.

“We were commuting two hours each way in the UK, and we needed a change,” Valerie says.

She had lived in Calgary growing up, and the pair decided it would make an ideal place for the kind of life they wanted — a place with access to lots of natural areas, and a close-knit sense of community with a vibrant arts scene.

They originally intended to find a property to renovate in an older community such as Killarney, with the intent of remaining close to the city’s urban core.

But Valerie’s sister had purchased one of Avi Urban’s Victoria Cross townhomes in Currie Barracks, and upon visiting the community, Valerie and Bill fell in love with it, too.

Bill also loved the plans for the further development of the former military base that calls for more high-density developments, new shops and restaurants as well as for more walkable green spaces.

“It’s the most progressive community in Calgary, and probably all of Alberta. It reminds us of the mews houses in the UK, which Bill Baird with wife, makes us less homesick. And we are close to Valerie McIntyre-Baird our friends and family. Everybody we care about is within a five-minute drive from us,” Valerie says.

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As luck would have it, the pair was also able to stay with the same companies where they were employed at the UK. Valerie works in oil and gas, and Bill with an engineering firm. Neither company wanted to lose them, so offered them roles in Calgary division offices.

Though they love their jobs, it is apparent that Valerie and Bill are not “all work and no play” sorts of people.

Bill is also a musician and composer who writes for film and TV, and in the finished basement of the luxury condo, he is in the process of putting together a studio that will include a custom-made acoustic wall.

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Valerie has her own creative space in the three-storey, 2,984-square-foot, $1.2 million space, where she can work on her photography, painting, drawing and writing. She plans to paint her studio, already lit up with bright furnishings and tchotchkes, a vibrant turquoise — a good choice for an aspiring children’s book author.

The main floor is an open-concept space featuring a luxe kitchen with a large quartz island. The pair had the dark wood base of it custom made by Avi to look like “something out of a Victorian train station.”

Banks of off-white cabinetry on both sides of the kitchen walls give tons of storage space.

A custom cabinet was added at the end of the island to store board games and bar bottles.

The “Yale” model home the pair bought is an end unit that includes an income-generating detached garage suite with a 794 sq. foot single-level apartment overtop the double garage.

The main home’s second floor features a large gathering space created by altering the design for a bedroom and walk-in closet in favour of a large open space. Bill’s baby

| LIFESTYLE

grand piano, a massive sectional sofa, and several original art pieces, including whimsical, realistic dog portraits by renowned international artist Sara Abbot, feature in the room, which is still awaiting ottomans and other touches to finish it off.

The master bedroom and ensuite takes up the entire third floor. It’s a spa-like getaway, with massive fireplace, pitched roof with dormer windows, a luxurious soaker tub, shower, double vanity and walk-in closet that is, Valerie says, the same size as the spare bedroom in their UK home.

“Bill’s mum walked into the closet and she was just giggling at the size.”

Plans for the master bedroom include a custom headboard and grey velvet damask wallpaper.

“We wanted it to feel like a hotel room in the 1920s,” Valerie says.

Throughout the home, the couple’s love for original art and unique pieces is apparent. Stacks of vintage suitcases, colourful glassware, large canvases, and an eye-popping, custom-made wood mosaic coffee table made from old skateboards feature in the home.

“Two young men from Calgary — Adrian and Martinus Pool — made the coffee table. It took them eight months,” Valerie says.

The space in the condo is something they very much appreciate, Bill says, coming from the UK, where rooms are small and storage is at a premium.

“But just because we have a bigger house, doesn’t mean we have to fill it up with stuff,” he laughs.

Even with the short time they’ve lived in the community, Bill and Valerie have taken a big bite out of what the city has to offer — visiting Marda Loop, engaging in the arts and culture scene by attending theatre and live music events, and finding favourite spots to enjoy the outdoors, such as the Glenmore Reservoir pathways.

One of the best parts about living in the Victoria Cross development is the sense of kinship residents have already developed, Valerie says. Neighbours routinely conspire to meet at the nearby Wild Rose Brewery Pub. “It’s fantastic! Everyone e-mails everyone on the street and there are always people willing to come have a pint,” she says.

“And Bill thinks Canada is like Disneyland in terms of how open people are, that the people are so kind, and the service is so good.” CL

Stacks of vintage suitcases, coulourful glassware, large canvases, and an eye-popping, custommade wood mosaic coffee table made from old skateboards feature in the home.

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The Guardian

Open up and say “wow!”

Let your design style shine through in an open concept floor plan

By David Crosson

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ver the past decade or so, much has been said about the death of the living room. With almost all multiand single-family homes embracing open concept floor plans, it is true that dedicated parlour space (to use an old-fashioned term) is becoming as rare as good behavior from Justin Bieber.

Still, in fielding client questions I get the distinct impression that many homeowners feel so-called great rooms really aren’t all that great. This isn’t the case, of course, but if you don’t know what to do with a space then having a lot of it can feel like a burden.

A huge part of the problem — one that I see all the time in enclosed rooms — is that most people push all their furniture up against the walls like nervous teenagers at a junior high dance.

All this does is make a space appear even larger and, in turn, more sparsely furnished — neither of which is a benefit in a room meant for socializing, whether it’s you and a partner or a holiday houseful.

In terms of interior design, there are several classic furniture layouts that work beautifully no matter what style your furniture.

Modern, traditional, transitional — it doesn’t matter so much how your pieces look as how they function. If you’re going to spend money on furniture (and you should, by the way), then it must earn its keep rather than merely serving as space-filler. (That’s what oversized vases of dusty sticks in awkwardly placed niches are for…)

Here are three examples of classic furniture plots that can be scaled up or down — or even duplicated back-to-back in a very large space — to serve your needs as both homeowner and host(ess) in any situation. They’re fairly self-explanatory so rather than wasting precious words stating the obvious, I will use the rest of this column to share a few nuggets (notice I didn’t say “rules”) that will really help any one of them to sing.

Sofas and sectionals are great but if you already have a family room for lounging and TV viewing, they may not be the answer for your great room. Consider surrounding a coffee table with four comfortable arm chairs (much like a hotel lobby) to create an intimate conversation zone. Remember, the maximum distance for comfortable conversation is eight feet and this set-up will address that issue beautifully.

Don’t forget to embrace geometry — most rooms are comprised of rectilinear shapes (walls, windows, millwork, furniture) so be sure to balance all those right angles with softer items.

Below are three examples of classic furniture plots that can be scaled up or down — or even duplicated back-to-back in a very large space.

1

2 Image from Lee Industries. Courtesy Country Furniture/The Other Room

Don’t worry about the back(s) of furniture pieces being visible from the kitchen in an open space. Generally speaking, two medium-sized chairs look more inviting but a sofa will work if you keep it low (under 32 inches high) when the ceiling is a standard eight feet. In spaces with taller ceilings, higher profile pieces like wingback or tuxedo-style sofas will help keep things in proportion.

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style | Avenue West

area rugs should be large enough so that all furniture can sit on top of them.

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Although the basic rule of thumb is that coffee tables should be one-third to one-half the length of your sofa, don’t be afraid to anchor your space with something oversized. This can also include a generous upholstered ottoman/ tray combo or a cluster of smaller tables — anything can work provided it serves as a nucleus for conversation. Add smaller, more portable accent tables near chairs or sofas to maximize function, then make sure all your (adult) guests have a cocktail in hand so they can test them out…

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Ideally, area rugs should be large enough so that all furniture can sit on top of them. I know you love your hardwoods but there should only be a border of about one to four feet visible around the perimeter of the rug/seating area. Remember, the rug is the “art” and the floor is the “frame,” not the other way ‘round.

Don’t forget to embrace geometry — most rooms are comprised of rectilinear shapes (walls, windows, millwork, furniture) so be sure to balance all those right angles with softer items. When in doubt, opt for round or rectangular furnishings to complement your stricter shapes and don’t forget how much softness drapery, throws and accent cushions can bring to a room.

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Given that you will likely be choosing a wall colour for two — or more — adjacent spaces in an open concept plan, try using full spectrum paint for maximum impact. Unlike many others on the market, this product uses complex, saturated formulas to achieve exceptional depth of colour, which changes with the light over the course of the day but always looks beautiful. C2 is a pioneer and leader in the field and is available through Walls Alive on 17th Avenue. With the number of windows great rooms generally have, and the amount of sun as we get here in Calgary, I urge you to embrace a richer colour than you might generally choose in order to amp-up the drama. After all, life is too short to live in beige boxes. CL

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Crosson is the owner of Barbarian Interior Decoration Ltd., which woks with both residential and commercial clients in Calgary and beyond.

He is also the author of the blog Hausfrau: Better Living Through Better Living and is frequently called upon to provide commentary in matters of life and style in the local media. For more information visit www.barbariandesign.ca

| SHOPPING

Best seats in the house Comfy, classy couches define your living space

By Kathy McCormick

Photo courtesy Crate and Barrel.

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ust as beauty is more than skin deep, sofas are more than just something that is nice to look at: you need to be comfortable sitting on them, too.

“A sofa is an investment that most of us will keep for many years,” says Sebastien Fauteux, creative director with Urban Barn. “The reality is that at month-end, most of us don’t have unlimited budgets to furnish our homes. Knowing where to focus your funds is quite simple if you think practically. Equally as important to a quality mattress in the bedroom is a quality sofa in the living room. Furniture purchases such as a coffee table or bookshelf can always wait: you won’t be sitting on these everyday so you’re less likely to mind if they’re less than perfect. A sofa will define your living space and ground all other furniture.”

So while looks are important, “how you want it to function is more important,” says Cathy Miller, public relations for Crate and Barrel Canada.

Kiln-dried hardwood or high-equality engineered wood frames ensure the frame won’t warp or sag, she says. “Good quality springs and cushions are essential — foam cores wrapped in fiber or feathers is the most stable.”

The most basic sofas will be a fiber seat with down wrapping and the most durable fabric is usually a polyester or microfiber with cotton blend, says Jordan Bondar of Bondars Furniture.

“I would definitely invest my money into the bigger pieces — couches, bedroom suites or dining room sets — and save on the extras, accessories or bookshelves. It’s amazing what you can do with a few Ikea pieces mixed into the right spaces.”

Look for warranties, says Fauteux. “This is usually a very good indication of the quality of a piece of furniture. If a manufacturer

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Above: The is willing to offer a 10-year warranty on a sofa frame, you should be Durango Soga able to rest easy knowing that the frame of that sofa is well constructed.”

Chaise, 107 inches, And it doesn’t matter the size of the space, the experts say. one of Urban Barns’ more pupular Today, sofas come in three basic sizes: models. Starts at $1,699.

Apartment sofas – from 72 to 76 inches “Much more comfortable seating for two than the traditional 66-inch loveseat size,” says Miller.

These are used ideally in condos along with perhaps a chair or two — or a versatile ottoman that can double as a table, a footrest or extra seating when needed. These can start from about $1,700.

“Especially putting the ottoman in a fun print or a hair-on-hide makes the room pop,” says Bondar. “And it gives it some visual interest.”

People are also replacing the traditional seating arrangements of old in larger spaces, Miller says. “It used to be that you would see a sofa, its identical loveseat and identical chair — ­ all matchy-matchy in a room.

Those days are over. People definitely like to mix things up. Even a sofa with two matching chairs isn’t as common now.”

Another great way to plan: Two small sofas facing each other with a table between. “The biggest mistake people make is buying a sofa too overwhelming for the space. A sofa should not fill up the entire wall.”

Below: “People typically want to buy a basic sofa — and then what they put on it and around it is what is used to give the room character.

Photo courtesy Crate and Barrel.

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Standard sofas of 84 inches to 88 inches “People typically want to buy a basic sofa — and then what they put on it and around it is what is used to give the room character,” Bondar says. “For example, they will use a basic sofa with patterned chairs and some fun toss pillows.”

Large sofas of 90 inches and up “We find our customers often fall in love with the larger sofas they see in store,” says Fauteux. Urban Barn has one popular model, the Duran-

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go Sofa Chaise, that’s 107 inches. “There’s something so nice about being able to stretch out on a sofa — but not all spaces are built equally and your square footage will dictate the size of sofa that fits your space.”

For that reason, some of the most popular models today are sectionals. “There was once a time where it was thought that sectionals were best suited for casual rooms strictly for TV watching,” Fauteux says. “Over time, sectionals have evolved and now include more configurations that will work in literally any sized room.”

Miller agrees — she once lived in a tiny NYC apartment with a four-piece sectional to maximize seating.

Determine the traffic flow in your space first before planning the type of furniture and the configuration, says Fauteux. “Avoid obstructing a main walking path or view whenever possible.”

He says colour choices and even lighting will affect how well your home flows, “so keep this in mind when deciding which furniture pieces will look right and fit seamlessly into your space.”

So what are people buying today?

“Lately, tufted sofas have become really popular,” says Bondar. “This is a low-profile tufted back with usually a rolled arm.”

At Urban Barn, “our most popular styles seem to be those that have a contemporary vibe — a solid, straight arm wide enough to rest a drink on, a back low enough to not obstruct any views (but not too low), clean tailoring, and solid legs to ground it to the floor,” Fauteux says.

Contemporary style works well with any style of décor, he says, so your look can evolve over time while still keeping the same sofa.

Not “ultra-modern,” but contemporary is favoured at Crate and Barrel Canada as well,

| SHOPPING

Photo courtesy Bondars.

Photo courtesy Crate and Barrel.

says Miller. “For a while the shabby chic look was in but there is much less of that now. It’s used more for cottages, summer homes, sunrooms, and bedrooms.”

Look for straight arms, wooden legs or plinth-type visible wood and metal platform bases.

Neutrals are the biggest choice for colour with grey a leader, and the beige and cream family not far behind. For the more adventurous, there’s even been some demand for red and velvet to liven up a room, but for the most part, the bright colours are used as accents on accessories, pillows and the like.

The same is true for patterns. Most people opt for solid colours for sofas and choose patterns for the chairs or pillows — with geometric a popular choice today.

As for material, leather is still popular because of its durability — especially for people with children or pets, says Bondar — but choose carefully, says Bondar. “The really soft leathers scratch the easiest. Picking a harder leather will eliminate any problems you might have down the road.”

And “like a lead Hollywood actor, it usually looks better with time,” says Fauteux, adding that research is needed before that purchase.

“Remember that there is no standard grading system for leathers, but here are leather types.”

The best leather is full-grain, aniline-dyed leather, says Miller. “The cheaper leathers may have surface colour and texture painted on and will be from a hide split two or three times — much less durable.”

Her advice: “If you can’t afford good leather, go with fabric instead.”

And there are plenty of choices today, the experts say — many very durable with interesting textures.

It’s all about choice and creating the look you want that adds character and warmth to your home. CL

Neutrals are the biggest choice for colour with grey a leader, and the beige and cream family not far behind.

Photo courtesy Bondars.

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A R R I V E H O M E .C A

FEATURE |

Here comes the sun Calgary’s patio restaurants are the best place to eat, drink and people watch

By Janine Workman

A

bsence makes the heart grow fonder, and this truism is very much how Calgarians feel about the sun. We’ve missed its golden rays so much, especially after such a hard winter.

Now that the sun is out, everyone wants to take advantage of every minute of it, and there’s nowhere better in the city to just enjoy this (rare) phenomenon than along one of the inner-city’s best patio restaurants.

You can sip a cool beverage, nosh on some mouth-watering delicacy, and just people-watch — after all the inner-city is vaunted for its walkability and you can see the faces of the city blur by in the shaded comfort these fine establishments offer.

River Café

In no particular order, here’s a rundown of some of the best outdoor seating you can get in the inner-city’s vibrant foodie scene.

River Café 25 Prince’s Island Park Situated alongside the Bow River, surrounded by the lush greenery of Prince’s Island Park, River Café is a tranquil get-away in one of Calgary’s most-loved locations for an afternoon wander.

“Because we are located on an island you have to walk to the restaurant, there is a bit of an emotional transformation that takes place,” explains Kristi Peters Snider, communications manager at River Café. “You leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind.”

With stone accents, wooden railings and cream umbrella awnings, this patio embraces the nature that surrounds it.

“The city is there, you glimpse it across the lagoon and through the trees, but you are removed and that’s part of the magic of that patio,” says Peters Snider.

River Café’s menu takes inspiration from the river and land around it, offering regional Canadian cuisine from locally sourced farmers and producers.

River Café

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| FEATURE

Michelle MacDonald and Lana Selbee enjoying a beer on the Ship and Anchor patio.

Photo by Janine Workman.

Ship and Anchor 534 17th Avenue S.W. Well-known for its busy, 17th Avenue location and ultra laid-back atmosphere, you can count on the Ship and Anchor’s patio to be packed the moment the sun peeks out.

“The Ship is just for everyone,” says Michelle MacDonald, a local artist who frequents the Ship and Anchor. “It’s the kind of place where you feel comfortable sharing a table with strangers. The people that come here are very relaxed.”

With a street-side location the patio is perfect for people watching.

Well-worn benches line the outside and picnic tables are pushed together to offer casual, beer hall style seating.

A great selection of beers, coupled with some seriously solid pub fare, make this an easy place to stop in for a pint and let the afternoon slip away.

Bonterra Trattoria 1016 8th Street S.W. Encased in vine covered terracotta walls, one step onto this patio and you’ll think you’ve hopped on a plane and stepped off in Tuscany (in central Italy, not the community in the northwest – ed.). Wrought-iron tables and chairs, trickling fountains and copious amounts of flowers and plants make this patio a coveted place to have lunch or dinner.

“Really what makes it impressive is the feeling you get when you’re on it, you escape from the core of Calgary into an outdoor paradise,” says John Robarts, operations manager at Bonterra Trattoria.

Delicious cuisine from local producers highlights traditional fare from the many regions of Italy, with an emphasis on simple and fresh ingredients.

Dual fireplaces keep the space cosy long after the sun sets, with only the lights of nearby highrises to remind you that you are, in fact, still in downtown Calgary.

Now that the sun is out, everyone wants to take advantage of every minute of it, and there’s nowhere better in the city to just enjoy this (rare) phenomenon than along one of the the innercity’s best patio restaurants.

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Bonterra Trattoria

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FEATURE | Paul Donahoe at Local on 8th. Photo

by Janine Workman

Local on 8th 310 8th Avenue S.W. With its fantastic sidewalk location in the heart of the down town core, Local on 8th’s patio appeals as a lively place to kick back and enjoy a little freedom after a long day of work.

“I think the fact that we are on a pedestrian street really helps with the atmosphere of the patio,” explains Paul Donahoe, bar manager at Local on 8th. “When we are busy, the patio is full and you get that feeling of the party spilling out on to the street.”

With long wood tables, rustic metal chairs and strings of lights, the patio connects to the main bar by wide garage doors.

Boasting casual pub fare, the bar prides itself in serving simple pub fare, exceptionally well.

“We are a pub with restaurant DNA,” explains Donahoe.

1410 World Bier Hous 1410 17th Avenue S.W. High above 17th Avenue and sitting in direct sunlight, the rooftop patio of 1410 World Bier Hous is an excellent spot to sip on something cold, while enjoying the happenings of the busy street below and Lower Mount Royal beyond.

“When people get a spot on this patio, they stay for hours,” says Shira Hutton, a communications student who enjoys the patio. “Once you get a table you are sticking to it.”

With its own bar, the rooftop patio offers a selection of drinks specific, and fitting, to the atmosphere, with summer-inspired beers and slushy cocktails.

A tasty menu features a wide range of dishes and an afternoon DJ will set the mood this summer, offering a soulful place to spend a Saturday. CL

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1410 World Bier Hous

1410 World Bier Hous

| FEATURE

Women builders Women take a key role in shaping Calgary’s home building industry

by Elizabeth Chorney-Booth

I

f we were to judge solely by the number of home building reality shows on TV, we’d probably come away with the impression that it’s an industry dominated by men. The Mike Holmes, Brian Baeumlers and Paul LaFrances of the TV home building world are, after all, household names. But if we look closely in Calgary’s home building industry itself, we quickly find that this assumption is far from the truth.

Stereotypes of home building (think burly guys in overalls) may lead one to believe that the business is an old boys club of sorts. But, in reality, many of the industry’s key players are very accomplished businesswomen. The Calgary home building corporate landscape does benefit from the feminine touch, many women

play a key part in the business, ranging from jobs in the trades right up to presidents and CEOs of major companies.

Condo Living talked to some of the top women in the local industry about their experiences and what led them to choose a career in home building or development. While the stories they tell are drastically different there is one commonality among all of these women — all of them said that their professional determination, work ethic, and willingness to learn played a much larger part in their successes than anything having to do with gender.

This will be a two-part feature introducing readers to some of the renowned women corporate leaders in the Calgary home building industry, arranged in alphabetical order. Part 2 will be come out in the July issue.

Lesley Conway

President, Hopewell Residential Communities

Lesley Conway’s tenure as President at Hopewell Residential has seen the developer grow from its humble beginnings into one of Alberta’s largest and most acclaimed residential developers, winning several Developer of the Year and Community of the Year awards along the way.

Conway herself has been recognized as a YWCA Calgary “Woman of Vision,” was also given the MAXX Award — the Haskayne School of Business’ highest honour for Management Alumni Excellence and is Hall of Fame as a four time recipient of the Women’s Executive Network’s Canada’s Most Powerful Women Top 100.

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“I believe that the softer skills, such as being a good listener, focusing on problem solving and relying on intuition or emotional intelligence have been a big part of my success.

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FEATURE |

Her journey towards a career in community development began after she decided to combine her undergraduate degree in urban planning with her MBA. After a stint working in the oil and gas industry, Conway’s love of urban planning led her to the home building industry, and eventually to Hopewell Residential Communities as their Vice President.

The mentorship of then-President Jim DeWald prepared her to take over the position of President a few years later.

In the 14 years since, Conway believes that perseverance, determination, and a trusted team of amazing professionals she works with have added to her personal and professional successes. “I am fortunate to be working with some very smart and talented people.”

“I am very grateful for the opportunity that our company owner gave me to lead the company. He took a chance, he believed in me and trusted that I could do the job. For well over a decade, I have led my team the same way through trust, respect and empowerment. The success of this collaborative approach to doing business can be seen in the communities we create and the homes that we build.” says Conway.

“I believe that the softer skills, such as being a good listener, focusing on problem solving and relying on intuition or emotional intelligence have been a big part of my success.

This is how I was mentored by my trusted advisors and this is how I mentor those around me. Having fun at work is also really important too!”

Elaine McKee-Doel

Co-Owner and President, McKee Homes

Elaine McKee-Doel also learned the ropes from a mentor, but hers was someone very close to her: her late father, Martin McKee, who founded McKee Homes in Airdrie in 1987. Even though Doel grew up watching her dad work in construction, she completed a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Calgary, thinking that she may try for a job at a newspaper. Eventually, though, she couldn’t resist the lure of working with her tight-knit family. Doel now runs the company with her husband Rob Doel and her sister, Grace McKee.

“What has kept me really engaged and passionate about the industry, in one regard has been the opportunity to work with my family, who are really amazing,” Doel says. “When my dad was alive it was pretty great to wake up every day and work with a man I not only loved but really respected.

But the other part of it is that it’s an amazing opportunity to make a real impact on people’s lives.”

Doel has worn many hats at McKee Homes (she started when the company was just a few years old and ran on a tiny staff), but felt like she needed to complete her Master Builders Certification in order to understand the ins-andouts and be able to take on a management role. Today she not only encourages young women to explore the business side of the industry, but to also look into the trades and develop a true understanding of construction.

Her company is very much involved in the community, as they launched the Building Futures project that teaches high school students the basics of the home building trade.

In partnership with George McDougall High School, and the Rockyview School District, the Building Futures project brings the students to a teaching environment away from the classroom, and it is a project that’s near and dear to Doel’s heart. Two of the schools they assisted in building will be complete by the end of the school year.

“When my dad was alive it was pretty great to wake up every day and work with a man I not only loved but really respected. But the other part of it is that it’s an amazing opportunity to make a real impact on people’s lives.”

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| FEATURE

“Marketing can be cross-applied in different disciplines, but the differentiator in the residential building community is the people.”

“We have 32 Grade 10 students learning all required Grade 10 curriculum and building two homes all at a location in Reunion,” says McKee Homes President Elaine McKee-Doel.

“We built a double detached garage classroom behind one of the homes they are building with our trades and supervisors.”

Lisa Feist

Vice President, Streetside Developments

Lisa Feist also didn’t start her career with an eye on the housing industry. When Feist moved to Calgary after living in the United States for a number of years, she started her own marketing firm, but soon realized that working independently wasn’t as rewarding as she had hoped. After taking a job in the housing sector, Feist quickly fell in love with the variety of challenges that the job had to offer, but more importantly, she was drawn to the passion and breadth of experience that she found in her co-workers.

“Marketing can be cross-applied in different disciplines, but the differentiator in the residential building community is the people,” Feist says. “For the most part in this industry we find very career-minded, committed passionate people.

They’re delivering homes and that’s a big purchase for most people — it’s usually the largest acquisition that they’re ever going to make. So we have to take it seriously and we have to care about it.”

That zeal of the job is what has kept Feist in the industry and allowed her to eventually become Vice President at Streetside Developments. She advises newcomers to the industry to give themselves time to study different facets within the business until they find something that they truly love and can build a career on. Under her leadership, Streetside won their first SAM Multi-Family Builder of the Year award in 2013.

Karin Finley

Vice President Community Development (Southern Alberta), Qualico Communities

Karin Finley also knew that she needed a career that she could really feel passionate about. Before she started her first job at Qualico Communities (then as a Project Engineer), Finley asked her potential boss to describe a typical day on the job. When he responded “I can’t” because no two days would ever be the same, Finley knew that the industry was the perfect fit for both her personality and background in engineering.

Since joining Qualico 17 years ago, Finley has thrived on the challenges and responsibility that comes with shaping new communities within the city. Not one to shy away from taking on even bigger challenges, Finley also sits as the Chair of Calgary’s Urban Development Institute so that she could get involved with the bigger picture questions that come with community development.

“It’s both a learning opportunity for me as well as a growth opportunity to understand something bigger,” Finley says of that role. “As I’ve moved up in my company I’ve begun to understand that some of the decisions about development come from outside of this company and I found it was absolutely essential to get involved to be part of that dialogue and to help actually build and grow this city the way that it should be.”

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Wendy Jabusch

Vice President, Calgary Homes at Brookfield Residential

Of all the women we spoke to, Wendy Jabusch has perhaps the most experience in the home building business, having worked in the industry for over 30 years. Once upon a time, Jabusch started her career on the drafting and design end, but her own quest for learning has taken her through several positions in the industry. Much like her other colleagues profiled here, Jabusch counts the number of challenges and highly motivated colleagues as reasons why she continues to enjoy her job after so many years. But, most of all, she loves the satisfaction that comes with making an impact on homeowners’ lives.

“We create homes and we create communities where people live their lives, raise their families, and forge friendships,” Jabusch says. “I’ve always been interested in the idea of contributing something not only for the here and now but also for the future.”

Jabusch says that being a woman has not presented any particular challenges in her career but that she has seen a number of women participating in aspects of the business that have traditionally been more male-dominated. “We now have some women on site as carpenters and we have a construction manager who is a woman,” Jabusch says.

I think what’s changed in recent years, and it’s not just in this industry, is that women are picking any kind of jobs that they find interesting.”

She continues to advocate for gender equality in the industry, however, as Brookfield has participated in Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build initiative. Women Build is an international movement that helps bring women together for a common purpose: to change the lives of families in their own communities. It promotes the involvement of women in the construction of Habitat homes, allowing participants to learn new skills and trades so they can contribute to providing families safe homes.

“We are very proud to be supporting Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta,” says Jabusch. “As a home builder, we know how important a home is to a family. We wanted to take part in the Women Build initiative not only to lend our expertise in home building, but to also promote and advocate for women who are working in the industry.” CL

“As a home builder, we know how important a home is to a family. We wanted to take part in the Women Build initiative not only to lend our expertise in home building, but to also promote and advocate for women who are working in the industry.”

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ACOA OWNERS’ CORNER ALBERTA CONDOMINIUM OWNERS ASSOCIATION (ACOA)

importance of condominium bylaws Abiding by a set of rules is vital in living in a multi-family environment

T

he Canadian federal Municipal Government Act authorizes cities and towns to create and enforce bylaws to maintain the health, safety and wellness of the community. For a city, bylaws are written to protect the environment, private and public property, ensure high standards of public health and safety and maintain an orderly appearance.

Similarly, in a condominium, bylaws are established in compliance with Municipal Bylaws, but customized to protect the condominium owners and the property they have an investment in. The condominium bylaws allow a group of people who share a financial investment in property, that is governed as a distinct community, to agree to a set of rules intended to support a safe and pleasant living environment for everyone.

Properly drafted condominium bylaws empower the Board of Directors and the Owners to enforce their bylaws, provided the wording in the bylaws complies with the condominium property legislation and current case law. The powers provided by the condominium legislation enable the process of enforcement to take place within the condominium community.

This process breaks down when owners challenge the power of the bylaws, when boards abuse the powers or are not reasonable when enforcing the bylaws.

When this happens bylaws are enforced through legal process as bylaws are a contract between the owners and the condominium corporation. Each party agrees to live by or operate by the registered bylaws of the condominium corporation.

Anywhere you choose to live, you have to live by rules. It really is that simple. A condominium has the powers to enforce the “rules” as the value of the property or the enjoyment of the BYLAWS home can be negatively impacted when disorder BYLAWS is the norm.

Consider that all seems fine when you are the one breaking the rules but when it is your neighbour and it is making your life uncomfortable, you want this attended to immediately! By establishing acceptable practices that we all agree to live by, we create a structure that makes sense to the reasonable person.

When the rules seem unrealistic or not fair, respectfully send your comments to the management contact person or the board of directors.

The average bylaws have rules for a reason, once you hear the thinking behind the bylaw you realize that it often really does make sense.

There are always exceptions to the rule however Bylaws have to be written for the general rule not the exception.

Take the time to read the sections that apply to occupying and owning a unit so you are not blindsided by the rules.

Bylaws allow owners to customize the lifestyle of the majority. People often resist the concept of bylaws as opposed to seeing them as a tool that is there to protect them

from those who have no common sense when living in a shared community. This is why bylaws govern all levels of living from single-family homes, to acreages, to condominiums. Know your bylaws, live according to the bylaws and support changing the bylaws when needed. CL

This month’s article by Lorraine Williamson, ACOA member

The Alberta Condominium Owners Association (ACOA) is a non-profit

association intended to represent ALL Alberta condominium owners and give them a concerted voice in issues that affect living in a multi-family environment. Co-Founders are Bernice M. Winter and Dr. June A. Donaldson, Calgary based business women who have diverse and extensive condo, business, entrepreneurial and academic experience to bring to this most necessary initiative.

Visit www.Albertacoa.com for more information and how to become a member.

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CONDOSCAPES By richard White

hIp tO Be squAre

union square is the face of change in the Beltline

T

he addition of new high-rise condos, new retail and the expansion of Hotel Arts retail and office space have resulted in a significant change over the past few years to First Street S.W. south of 12th Avenue.

For example, Union Square, the sleek monochromatic industrial grey 25-story condo sits on the southwest corner of First Street and 13th Avenue. Living on a park, specifically Haultain Park, has its advantages. One key is that Union Square offers — and will always offer — unobstructed views of the mountains, river valley and downtown in an ever increasingly crowded Beltline skyline.

The story of this condo is intriguing on many levels. From a design perspective, it is classic, podium point tower, i.e. the first two floors cover the entire site while the upper 23 floors of condos are narrower, to create the thin tower that reaches up to the sky. The tower design changes subtly from bottom to the penthouse; this is not a flashy “look at me” building with walls intersecting at weird angles and bright colours. Rather, it is a timeless — some might say conservative — design that fits well in scale with the two other new highrise condos on First Street S.W. — Chocolate and Colours.

The project proceeded only after intense discussions and collaboration between the architects (BKDI), the developers (Apex and Western Securities), the City of Calgary (Planning and Parks) and the community. The result is a façade on the First Street side, which is red brick at street level to integrate with

the historic brick Underwood Block into the street level retail. However, on the west side facing Haultain Park there are sandstone townhomes which mirror the character of the historic Haultain School built in 1894. The goal was to ensure that the building didn’t turn its back on the park with a large blank wall. The townhomes, with their patios looking directly into the park, make for a very attractive transition from small scale to high-rise in a short space.

The backstory of Union Square gets even more complex. The original plan called for two towers, which required more parking than could be built under the buildings. So, a deal was stuck to extend the parkade under the park. To do so, the developer made a one-time payment of $250,000 to the City for park improvements. In addition, the condo association also pays an annual rental free to the city for the parkade under the park. Union Square really puts the park in parkade. As a result, there is a well-used playing field and children’s playground (you would be surprise how busy the playground is) in Haultain Park.

The first Union Square tower was completed in 2009. However the second tower was put on hold after the market crash. Now that demand for Beltline condos continues to be strong, rumour has it that plans are being finalized to add the second tower which would add to the vitality of First Street south of the tracks, an area evolving into an attractive, active pedestrian zone.

Unlike many new condos Union Square

name: union Square Architects: BKDI

doesn’t have on-site amenities like a fitness room, pool, lounge or library. It was determined that urban living is not about hibernating in one’s condo, but rather getting out and using the abundant amenities that already exist in the community — like the cafes, restaurants, yoga and workout studios, as well as the Memorial Park Library — that surround it.

An enlightened philosophy that will enhance community vitality for decades to come. CL

richard White is the urban strategist at Ground3 Landscape Architects. he has written about urban living, urban development and urban design for 25 years. he can be followed @ everydaytourist or you can view more of his blogs, rants and essays at www.everydaytourist.ca CO N D O L I V I N G J u N e 2014

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Editor’s note: Readers are encouraged to ask their most confounding condo questions to our resident condo specialist: Maria Bartolotti.

ASK MARIA By maria Bartolotti

sAfety fIrst

here’s some tips to keep you and your neighbours safe in a condo

Q:

Can you provide us with some security tips for our condominium?

A:

Living in a condo is very different from living in a single-family home and although some safety tips are the same, there are a few different considerations that should be taken when living in a multi-family setting. Please keep in mind that these are simply suggestion. hAVe yOu Met the neIghBOurS • I get it, were all busy, but getting acquainted with your neighbours will give you a better sense of whose coming and going in the building. Also, taking the time to create a sense of community in your building can go a long way towards increasing security.

Residents are also more likely to report any incidentals or strange behavior that they see to the condominium management company. exterIOr OF the BuILDIng • As a condo manager, I always review the exterior of the building with my boards to tackle any areas that might pose a concern. Are hedges and trees trimmed back as to not cause a safety concern or a hiding place for strangers.

• Is the exterior of the building well lit?

What type of lights do you have at your entrances? White or light-coloured exteriors can also go a long way to enhancing visual levels.

• Check the area around the overhead garage door. Is there places thieves can

hide and wait for vehicles to enter and exit the parkade. Are you able to add more light in this area? Put up mirrors or some sort of chain link fence to keep strangers out of this area.

• Are there broken windows that need to be repaired around the building. Believe it or not, broken windows attract crime. Ensure the exterior and interior of the building is well maintained.

grAFFItI PreVentIOn • A common occurrence on condominium exterior surface walls and I’ve been told, it is a sign to criminals that your building may be easy to break into. Never leave graffiti too long, clear it off at the first possible chance.

PArKADe AnD unDergrOunD LOtS • The most common problem in buildings is parkade break-ins. We’ve all seen the signs “Wait for the overhead door to close securely behind you” and yet, the one that get’s ignored the most. Always a good reminder to ensure that you wait for the overhead door to shut completely before proceeding to your destination. You never know who can be lurking behind you.

• Always a good idea to never leave valuables in plain sight in your car. Secure your vehicle from thieves by using “The Club” or similar devices. Visit the Alberta Motor Associations website www.ama. ab.ca for more safety tips.

InterCOMS • Do you know whom you are letting into your building? If not, why are you buzzing them in? This is one of the biggest complaints we get: people being let into the building without residents knowing who they are.

Remember, you could be letting a criminal enter your home.

EXIT

exItS AnD StAIrWeLLS • Know the location of all fire exits and stairwells in your building; this includes indoor parking and storage areas.

If your buildings garage is equipped with panic buttons knowing the locations of those buttons can help you respond quickly in an emergency.

I hope the above will give you a few helpful tips, and remember using common sense will go along way in keeping you and your condominium community safe. Until next time… CL

Maria Bartolotti, ACCI: Managing Director and owner of New Concept Management Inc. she has developed a strong reputation for rendering timely and efficient services to the condominium industry. Maria believes that her company’s success hinges on her hands-on approach to condominium management as well as maintaining open lines of communications with her clientele. Maria is actively involved in her industry. for more information, visit www.newconceptmanagement.com CO N D O L I V I N G J u N e 2014

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HOPE AT LARGE By marty hope

ChANGING wIth the tIMes morrison homes adapts to the changes in calgary’s housing market

I

n the immortal words of Bob Dylan “The times they are a-changin’ …’”

Dylan, in this 1964 hit, warned that the world was changing rapidly and that people had to either adapt or get out of the way.

That sense of change has hit home in Calgary’s housing industry — and builders have had to make adjustments to their business plan that reflect changes in land use regulations, limits being put on development, the marketplace, and affordability.

Fresh from reclaiming Builder of the Year status after a two-year hiatus, Morrison Homes’ president Dave Gladney says the 53-year-old company is making further inroads into the multi-family sector to ensure its ability to offer consumers what they are looking for.

“With changes by the city to land use, we are seeing a larger percentage of our business going to multi-family. I can’t see land availability for single-family improving for the foreseeable future, and even when that improvement does come I don’t see our multi-family slowing down,” says Gladney, who has been president of Morrison since 2008.

The townhouse market has always had a spot in the Morrison housing lineup. It’s just that with the regulatory changes, consumer concerns about affordability and value, and the fact that land is not as easily accessible or is more costly now, a change of product focus is required.

“We’ve been able to bring on some pretty unique multi-family sites over the past couple of years,” says Gladney.

Sonoma at Sage Hill, a townhouse project

by Morrison, is a great example of the

company’s ability to adjust to changes in the marketplace. Pre-construction sales for the 173 residences in the northwest community of Sage Hill being developed by United Communities, started in 2012, but really didn’t catch fire until the following year when 108 were sold. “We’ve just got a handful left now,” adds Gladney.

On the west side of the city Morrison snagged a chunk of dirt on the popular 85th Street S.W. corridor to bring to the market a “very unique” mixed use project called eighty5nine — a blend of condominium townhouses and apartments atop more than 5,000 square-feet of commercial and retail space. Although still under construction, just four of the 83 units are left to be sold.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to find some unique sites for our multi-family developments, and have been able to create designs that have appealed to buyers and at the same time respond to affordability issues,” says Gladney.

Yet another site, this one in Nolan Hill in the city’s northwest, is being submitted to the city for a development permit. Gladney hopes to break ground for this 109-unit project this fall.

“Multi-family is now a growing side of our company and a big part of our business plan on a go-forward basis,” says Gladney.

“With the way the market and the industry

the Boulevard at sonoma at sage hill

environment are changing multi-family is, more and more, the way to go.”

For this year, Morrison expects multi-family sales to total about 200 units, along with tallying up 400 single-detached sales.

“I think, if you want to be around selling homes, you have to get more involved in multi-family,” Gladney says. CL

Marty hope. for more than two decades Marty hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry.

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AROUND TOWN

By Pepper rodriguez

attainaBle homes launches First inner-city develoPment

C

algary Mayor Naheed Nenshi was on hand to officially launch Attainable Homes Calgary’s first inner-city development.

“It is important for us to address the housing crisis, we are seeing in a number of ways and Attainable Homes Calgary is one important part of that,” Mayor Naheed Nenshi said at the official launch Tuesday. “Our vacancy rates are too low and prices are taking housing out of reach for too many Calgarians.”

Construction for the new Mount Pleasant 1740 is well underway and is being built by Lexington Development Management based on a design by Sturgess Architecture.

Located on 1740 9th Street N.W., it will have 25 attainable apartment condominiums and live/work townhomes between 338 abd 847 square-feet. Price ranges fron $193,350 to $324,990.

When you include the five per cent equity loan that eligible households receive through the Attainable Home Ownership Program, the mortgage amounts start from mayor nenshi with city officials and mount $182.

Pleasant 1740 developers.

www.attainyourhome.com

sales soar as the guardian rises

T

here was no doubt that The Guardian would be a hit for Hon Developments, and it has not disappointed in the least.

“The sales response to our launch in March has been quite phenomenal, we’ve had a lot of people visit the presentation Center and the number of units we’ve sold demonstrates the robustness of the market and the attractiveness of Victoria Park as an up-and-coming neighbourhood,” says Ernest Hon, Director of Sales and Marketing.

The Guardian, by Hon Developments, currently under construction in the vibrant neighbourhood of Victoria Park. It promises the very best in modern urban living with carefully designed floor plans, a bustling community, and — as the tallest residential towers in the city at 44 storeys each — spectacular views.

“The Guardian north is now more than halfway up — we’re pouring the 25th floor this week — and we anticipate starting construction of the Guardian South early this summer,” he adds. For more information, visit their show centre at 456-12th Avenue S.E.

T

victoria cross FulFilled

he very last homeowners are now moving into the final phase in Avi Urban’s popular Victoria Cross townhomes in Currie Barracks.

Homeowners robert and amy Webster getting Robert and Amy keys to their victoria cross home.

Webster are among the last four homeowners to be taking possession in the award winning community, and are eager to start making the townhome their own.

“We are so happy with our new Victoria Cross townhome,” shares Robert Webster. “We are impressed with all of the fine details and workmanship that went into our new home, and we look forward to spending lots of time entertaining our family and friends in this amazing space.”

As homeowner Amy Webster describes, “Currie Barracks is developing into a vibrant community, and we are enjoying spending time outside looking at all of the unique characteristics of this community.”

The three storey luxury townhomes at Victoria Cross are Built Green Gold certified and offer over 2,000 square-feet of living space in the award-winning community of Currie Barracks. Designed to line the main boulevard in Currie Barracks, the townhomes at Victoria Cross have been nominated for and won multiple home builder awards, including the National SAM Award for community of the year, and Calgary SAM Award for best new multi-family community.

Avi Urban will soon be launching more townhomes in Currie Barracks this spring/summer. For more information and to register for this upcoming development.

»

www.aviurban.com CO N D O L I V I N G J u N e 2014

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AROUND TOWN |

Riverhouse partners with Shaun Ford & Co.

O

ne unique development deserves a design just as singular and noteworthy; that’s why the partnership between FRAM + Slokker and Shaun Ford & Co. to design Riverhouse’s kitchens and bathrooms is as momentous an event as any in Calgary’s condo industry.

Riverhouse is the Ontario-based developer’s latest multi-family development in East Village and it promises to be a truly exclusive ultra-luxury apartment condo development with only 12 homes.

The Calgary-based design company will be providing the kitchen and bathroom cabinetry for these million-dollar-plus homes.

“We’ve been looking for a long time for a design partner who can match our vision for this luxury development, and I think we found this in Shaun Ford,” says Fred

Seraferro, FRAM + Slokker Vice-President, Development & Construction.

“We’re excited to be partnering with such a design-focused company, we know they bring a lot to the table,” he tells Around Town during the VIP event launching their partnership.

“We will be supplying our Poliform and Varenna cabinetry for the Riverhouse,” Shaun Ford says. “The European design of these cabinets fits well with the boutique style of Riverhouse that adds to the townhomes sleek and polished interiors.”

“These 12 homes are meant for people who put a high value on style, design and details, and that is what our company is known for,” Ford adds.

The six-storey Riverhouse will feature a terracotta and steel-clad profile and will be just steps away from the Bow River. It

John H. Martin appointed to Alberta New Home Warranty Program

T

he Alberta New Home Warranty Program announces the appointment of John H. Martin as VP, Business Development, and he will oversee the Business Development and Marketing & Communications teams.

Martin brings over 15 years of experience in the John H. Martin insurance and new home warranty industries to the position, having held senior roles with National Home Warranty Program Ltd. and Aviva Canada/National Home Warranty Group Inc. Most recently John was the VP, Developer Surety & Home Warranty with Aviva Canada/National Home Warranty Group Inc. John has been an active volunteer with the Canadian Home Builders Association – Calgary region.

John Kozole, President & CEO says this is a step in the right direction for the program. “This is an entirely new position to our organization and we are excited to have someone of John’s experience lead the way on this initiative.”

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CO N D O L I V I N G J U N E 2014

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FRAM + Slokker’s Fred Seraferro and Shaun Ford. will be FRAM + Slokker’s third multi-family development in East Village following FIRST and Verve. You can check out the Varenna and Poliform designs in Shaun Ford’s new 6,000-square-foot show room on 715 11th Avenue S.W.

A new Concept for blinds

linds can be seen in a new light, as Concept Coverings opens their new show room in southeast Calgary.

The company unveiled their new 1,000-square-foot show room in the Shepard Regional Centre in the southeast to give customers a better idea of the products and services they offer.

Concept Coverings is an authorized distributor of the full range of Hunter Douglas products in Calgary, but it is their specialization in motorized blinds that sets them apart from competition.

Connie and Barry Drake started the company five years ago, when they saw that there was a need for experts in the specialized field of motorized blinds. “It’s an easy, elegant way to simplify life,” Connie Drake tells Around Town.”

She says they offer free design consultations and can help clients with all window treatment choices. Their sister company, Total Concept Wiring can also help with all home automation needs. Visit the Concept Coverings show room at #109, 5126 126th Avenue S.E.

Concept Coverings’ team with their family.

calgary map | North West, North East and Inner City MAP LEGEND

10

High Volume Roads Main Roads

12

24

Parks

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7 18

See Advertiser Index for Project Page Reference

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North West | North East Projects 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Evanston Square Red Haus Galleries Renfrew Highland Park Panorama West Kincora Summit Viridian Prospect Rise 43 Park The Post Village at West Springs Sage.Stone Estates of Valley Ridge Brownstones Sage Place Swan Landing

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Inner City Projects

17 University City 18 Willow at Sherwood

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19 Bridgeland Crossings

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20 Villas at Watermark

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21 Groves of Varsity

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22 Albert Park Station

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23 Emerald Sky 24 Sonoma at Sage Hill 25 Eighty5Nine 26 Landings at Cougar Ridge 27 Arrive @ SkyView Ranch 28 Kintalla at Redstone

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29 Viridian

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30 IndigoSky 31 Mosaic Bridgeland

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32 Aspen Highlands

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15 17 18 19

Vogue MARK Avenue West End VEN Smith Drake The Park LIDO Riverfront Pointe Alura Keynote Mission 34 The Guardian South Verve District PIXEL by Battistella Evolution 6th and Tenth Waterfront

3 19

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increase your advertising visibility take advantage of premium positions contact:

Heather Dougall 403.532.3101 heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca

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calgary map | South West, South East and Calgary Area 2

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CHESTERMERE

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South West, South East and Calgary Area | calgary 1 ZEN Auburn Bay 2 Ebony 3 The Gates

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19 Cranston Place 20 Bristol Townhomes

6 The Gala 7 Stonecroft Auburn Bay

22 Boulevard Townes

Airdrie

Cochrane

14 Mint 15 Hunter House

1 The Edge

1 Riviera Riversong

2 The Trails at

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23 Mosaic Lakeside

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12 Victoria Cross 13 Aura in Copperfield

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Auburn Bay 24 Prestwick Place 25 Mosaic Mirage in McKenzie Towne 26 Origins at Cranston 27 Copperfield Park II 28 Side by Side Auburn Bay

10 Sonik 11 Champagne

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4 Einstein 5 Harvest Mosaic

8 The Armory 9 ZEN McKenzie Towne

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17 Chalet No 4 & No 5 18 Stonecroft at

Williamstown Creekside Village Waterscape at Cooper’s Crossing Stone Keep at King’s Heights Ravenswood Townhomes Windsong

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Townhomes Stonecreek Landing The Concept The Village Sunset Ridge Heartland RiverReach The Range Trading Post

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29 Riverside Townhouse 30 Chaparral Valley 31 Edison at Walden 32 Cranston Ridge 33 The Alexander

34 Mission34 35 Valmont at Aspen Stone 36 THERIVER

37 The Block 38 UNO Mt. Royl

39 TEN Mt. Royal

40 Sobow 41 Ovation 42 tela

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ADVERTISERS INDEX | ARRIVE at Redstone Partners Development page 71

Evolution Embassy/Bosa page 11

Mosaic Riverstone Brookfield Residential page 58

The Alexander Assured Communities page 29

Aura Aldebaran Enterprises page 49

Einstein 2 The Providence Group page 69

Muskoka Auburn Bay Brookfield Residential page 58

The Armory Cove Properties page 23

Avid Ratings page 17

Glas Avalon Master Builder page 19

Outlook at Waterfront Anthem Properties page 3

The Edge Streetside Developments page 92

Guardian Hon Developments page 53

RiverReach Jayman MasterBUILT page 64

Homes by Avi page 44

Saddletowne Ravens Ridge, page 68

The Gates Remington Development Corp.

Cover, pages 14-16 & 63

Hunter House Streetside Developments pages 2

Smith Grosvenor, page 45

Cardel Lifestyles page 9 Carlisle Group pages 30-31 Chalet No 5 Sabal, page 101 Champagne Remington Development Corp., page 81 CHBA – Calgary Region page 100 Copperfield Park II Brad Remington Homes pages 99 & 104 District Boulevard Investments page 54 Edison at Walden Avi Urban, page 6

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Kincora Summit Cove Properties, page 23 Kintalla Streetside Developments page 76 Kore Real Estate page 82 Lido Battistella, page 83 Liftt Vericon, page 5

SoBow M2i, page 95 Steps at Bridgeland Guistini Development page 59 Stonecroft pages 24-25 Stonekeep at King’s Heights Merge Developments page 40

The Landings at Cougar Ridge Statesman, page 88 The Landing at Rocky Ridge Swan Group, page 35 The River page 103 Valmont Riverbend Developments page 90 VEN Bucci, page 4

Verve Fram/Slokker Developments Insert & page 18 Villas at Watermark MacDonald Development Corp., page 40 Viridian Trico, page 35 Vogue LaCaille Group, page 75 Willow Avi Urban page 84 Zen, Auburn Bay Avalon Master Builder page 36 Zen, Okotoks Avalon Master Builder page 86

CONDO TALES | Tales from the condo zone

No cats allowed Story by Jim Zang

Illustration by Lama Azhari

W

hen I first got read the story about the new downtown Calgary high-rise condo that wasn’t going to allow cats I was mildly curious. “Why discriminate against cats?”, I thought, myself an admitted life-long cat person. “No mention in the press release about dogs, birds, fish or, God forbid, snakes.”

It’s Calgary, so they probably allow horses, but not cats.

The group developing the project says their target is the ‘sort of young homeowner, an urban explorer, who may covet a downtown suite without room for a cat.’ They don’t own a cat and they don’t mind paying less for a suite because of it. It’s estimated the cost of having a single cat can add from $10,000-$20,000 to the price of a condominium.

Many of today’s youth, though, say the developers, have learned how to live without cats. They’ve relied on friends with cats. They want to live active big city social lives like the gang on Friends or Seinfeld and Big Bang Theory. Plus, it’s an affordable way to have a downtown address.

A similar project in Toronto sold 80 per cent of its units in its

first week of sales, with 318 units and designated spots for only nine cats. A play on the old ‘nine lives’ thing, perhaps? Most of the buyers were young professional singles and couples. Many with jobs nearby downtown and little need of a cat on a daily basis.

People seem to want this kind of cat-free option, and it saves them money.

Nearby residents in semi-suburban areas bordering downtown are worried about condo owners leaving their cats in their neighbourhoods, with friends presumably, and then coming out on the weekend to get them. They don’t like having too many cats in their neighbourhoods.

So there’s arguments to and for literally constructing buildings to be cat free. Really, though, if a group of like-minded, cat-free adults want to live in a cat-free building, who am I to judge?

After all, I’d live in a dog-free building in a second.

What? Oh. I’m told it was a typo. It’s supposed to say car.

Everywhere I said ‘cat’ is supposed to say ‘car’.

A car-free condominium? Now THAT makes more sense! I mean, who doesn’t like cats? CL