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Focus On 12 | Patio stars Outdoor lanterns can also be a perfect indoor design accent Condo Profiles 20 | Achieving LiFTT Latest Vericon project raises inner-city living standards 26 | Snowbirds’ roost Maintenance-free lifestyle is key at Streetside’s Hunter House 31 | A Step up STEPS Bridgeland is the future of modern urban living 37 | Condo freedom Innovations by Jayman offers condo living without condo fees in Cochrane 43 | Single and fabulous Brookfield Residential introduces single-level luxury townhomes Community profile 50 | Calgary’s retro community See what makes Ramsay a pleasant throwback compared to newer communities
Cover Feature 14 | Uniquely Calgary Battistella Developments’ LIDO is a Calgary original CO N D O L I V I N G J u ly 2 0 1 4
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COntents Lifestyle 55 | Mirage magic Relaxed Mosaic Mirage lifestyle fits busy schedule Style 60 | All kidding aside Tips for a tricked out kid’s room shopping 65 | Lullaby land Safety, sustainability paramount in latest nursery items Features 70 | A woman’s touch Calgary benefits from the influx of women in its home building industry (Part II) Condo Tales 94 | Whack! #%&*! Columns 79 | Condoscapes by Richard White 81 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 83 | Hope at Large by Marty Hope 85 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez
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EDITOR’S MESSAGE |
It’s a kids’ world
Have you noticed how much the design of kids’ bedrooms has changed these days? It used to be a kingdom ruled by Barbie, Hello Kitty or the gaudily clad superheroes. Not anymore, says STYLE writer, David Crosson, who notices they are more like mini-bachelor (or bachelorette) pads tricked out with their own TVs, audio and game systems — especially for kids in their tweens or older. So the old punishment of “go to your room!” doesn’t necessarily hold as much weight as it used to. He cautions though that parents should allow their kids some input in the design of their room. Kathy McCormick looks at another aspect of the children’s bedroom, and tells us how young families in their condos can turn a spare bedroom into a nursery with the latest trends in baby items in her Shopping story. This youth trend theme of the magazine does apply to the city of Calgary itself. After all, we are still a young city — although one that’s going through a strong growth spurt. This growth is mirrored in our cover feature on Battistella’s LIDO development in Kensington, which displays a more grown-up taste with its modern and stylish design. LiFTT by Vericon and STEPS Bridgeland reflect the rapid development of Calgary’s older inner-city communities that are now decidedly gaining a more youthful luster. Hunter House by Streetside and Brookfield Residential’s Mosaic Riverstone show the suburban side of this growth with townhomes on the luxurious side of things. While Innovations by Jayman’s Townhomes in Sunset Ridge capture the movement to communities outside the city, as Calgary homes become less affordable and countryside living becomes more attractive. Whether they be developments in the inner-city or suburban or even out-of-the-city, we want to tell our readers that there is a wide array of condo choices available to them. This issue also shines a light on the outstanding women in Calgary’s home building industry in Part Two Next month: of Elizabeth Booth’s Women Builders’ series. Speaking We take a look at the of light, Aaliya Essa picks out a selection of new patio best children’s lanterns for her Focus On photo feature, as the backyard playgrounds in the city. parties go into full swing this spring. The community of Ramsay is also focused — not for the new condo developments there (there are none) but for the unique attractions it offers inner-city dwellers looking for a nearby spot to spend a fun weekend afternoon. Calgary is filled with unique spots like this, and it is part of Condo Living’s responsibility to let our readers know not just where they can find a condo to live, but give them an idea of the lifestyle available in the community they choose.
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, Jim Zang Photography
Don Molyneaux, Pepper Rodriguez 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 175 • 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. Condo Living® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: cleditor@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. Condo Living® is a registered Trademark the property of Source Media Group Corp. Reg. USPTO 3,584,683 & 3,584,583. Contact: Source Media Group Corp., 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9; Tel 403.532.3101 Toll free 1.888.932.3101; www.sourcemediagroup.ca
@CondoLivingYYC
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patio stars
Outdoor lanterns can also be a perfect indoor design accent “Those patio lanterns they were the stars in the sky…” Kim Mitchell’s song is a tribute not just to young love but also to suburban living, and its romantic spirit is captured by the selection of — you guessed it — patio lanterns we have here. But who says they can only work in patios? Indoors or out they’re perfect mood setters. CL
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By Aaliya Essa
Sunburst lanterns - green, $10 to 15 at Pier1 Imports.
2 Wisteria lanterns, $34.95 to 54.95 at Crate and Barrel. 3 Rope Lantern, $20 at Pier1 Imports. 4 Carmel small lantern, $66.19 at Crate and Barrel. 5 Medium jeweled lantern - yellow, $20 at Pier1 Imports. 6 MÖRKT - blue-gray, $6.99 at Ikea. 7
Cambria lanterns, $13.59 to $54.56 at Crate and Barrel
8 ROTERA - blue, $3.99 at Ikea. 9 Crosby small lantern, $77.23 at Crate and Barrel. 10 GOTTGÖRA - light pink, $14.99 at Ikea. 11 Colourful glass hanging lantern, $89.95 at Pier1 Imports.
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Uniquely Calgary S
o-Mo-Lo is the newest Silicon Valley buzzword; it describes the latest high-tech devices or apps that feature social-mobilelocal capabilities. This phrase also very aptly depicts the new Battistella multi-family development of LIDO, here’s why. The social features of LIDO cannot be overstated — its location in the heart of Calgary’s hip and vibrant Kensington area creates an instant community for its residents who can readily enjoy the numerous restaurants, cafes and boutique shops that abound nearby. Its mobile function is defined by its ease of accessibility to the downtown core — you can walk to work or hop on a train at the nearby Sunnyside/Hillhurst LRT station. As for its local attributes, how much more local can you be when the developer is one of Calgary’s own. This mixed-use, transit-oriented-development is going up on the corner of 10th Street and 2nd Avenue N.W., it is an all-concrete, eight-storey building that will have 60 residential units. There will be unique commercial opportunities at the street level, as well as a hotel component that makes it one of the most innovatively designed developments in the city. But Battistella sales and marketing manager, Traci Wilson, says it is the relaxed urban lifestyle that LIDO offers that is its biggest
Battistella Developments’ LIDO is a Calgary original
appeal. “We have already sold 50 per cent of the units, and people are really excited to live here,” she says. It is a follow-up to Battistella’s sold-out PIXEL condo, an enormously successful development that’s on the same block facing 9A Street. “People who missed out on PIXEL couldn’t wait for LIDO to begin, and the bigger suites we have in this new development are certainly attracting a lot of buyers,” she says. One-, two- and three-bedroom units are available, most range from 780 to 1,500 square-feet and come with one parking stall. “These are the biggest suites that Battistella has ever designed,” Wilson says. Smaller one-bedroom units are also offered from 430 to 500 square-feet with no parking. Regardless the size, all the suites reinforce the theme of comfortable living for the building. After all, “lido” in Europe can mean beach or shore, but has a broader meaning as “a place for relaxation,” Wilson says. “It’s also a way of honouring the Italian heritage of the Battistella family.”
The social features of LIDO cannot be overstated... As for its local attributes, how much more local can you be when the developer is one of Calgary’s own. 14 |
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“Our BuILDIng praCTICes are anOTher ThIng ThaT seTs us aparT frOm The COmpeTITIOn.” Battistella Developments is indeed a rarity, as it is one of the few Calgary-based builders actively engaged in the booming condo market. “That is definitely something that is important to our clients and sets us apart from the competition,” Wilson says. As a local developer, Wilson says Battistella is more attuned to the wants and needs of Calgary’s condo buying public. But more than that is the solid reputation they have built. “Battistella has been building for over 30 years in the inner-city. We only build one project at a time, and have never had to stop or cancel a building because of the economy. Our building practices are another thing that sets us apart from the competition.” A telling indicator of their workmanship and repute is that the owners of the mechanical contracting company and the envelope engineering firm, both of whom have worked with Battistella in several past projects, have personally bought at PIXEL as their primary residence. “Because they are firm believers of Battistella
Developments,” Wilson says. LIDO adds to their reputation as a high-quality developer with the top-notch design packages they offer. They have three mid-century modern interior designs to choose from Glam, Bauhaus, and Classic — all sporting a polished, sophisticated look where Don Draper of Mad Men fame wouldn’t look out of place. “Each one is designed around the LIDO lifestyle, including nine-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and a new hybrid vinyl plank flooring, which we’re introducing in North America for the first time,” Wilson says. The flooring fits well with LIDO’s pet-friendly design. Interested parties can get a feel of LIDO’s richly sophisticated palette in Battistella’s recently opened, newly renovated show suite on Kensington Road.
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Battistella is partnering with the renowned Calgary-based Dobbin Group to build LIDO. LIDO’s one-bedrooms start in the $280,000s; two-bedrooms start in the $520,000s; while three-bedroom are from the $900,000s. Battistella is partnering with the renowned Calgary-based Dobbin Group to build LIDO. The Dobbin Group has been instrumental in the revitalization of Kensington and their involvement with LIDO ensures that the design will fit with the overall look of the neighbourhood, Wilson says. The 20-suite hotel component on the second floor will be run by a different managing company. They will cater to more long-term clients like visiting business executives, but can be handy for residents to put up their guests as well. The retailers on the ground level will be more specialty boutique shops rather than chain stores, according to Wilson, and there will be a public parkade level, adding more public parking options to the area. The hotel and public parkade will have a separate entrance from the residential units. The rooftop patio is the only shared amenity at LIDO to keep condo fees down. “It’s a great feature to have and helps build camaraderie among neighbours, and it is the only common amenity you will need here, as everything else can be easily found in and around Kensington,” she adds. n
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F a s t F a ct s Community: Hillhurst/Sunnyside Project: LIDO Developer: Battistella Developments Style: Apartment-style condos, mixed-use building with public parking, retail and boutique hotel Size: From 430 to 500 sq. ft (no parking), and 780 to 1,500 sq. ft (with parking) Price:
One-bedrooms from $280,000s, two-bedrooms from $520,000s, and three-bedrooms from the $900,000s
Sales Centre: 1120 Kensington Road N.W. Website:
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CONDO PROFILE |
Achieving LiFTT Latest Vericon development raises inner-city living standards By pepper rodriguez
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he communities of Renfrew and Bridgeland along the northern edge of downtown are enjoying a renewal, with several new multi-family developments going up in these inner-city neighbourhoods. Vericon Developments is taking a big part in this revitalization with a second condo project in Renfrew: LiFTT. Standing for Living for Tomorrow Today, LiFTT raises the standards for modern inner-city living with its distinctly contemporary design that combines the rich heritage of its location in Renfrew with leading edge building technology. “LiFTT reflects Vericon’s commitment to SMART DESIGN. We combine smart design elements with an outstanding park side location and a commitment to eco-friendly building specifications,” says Vericon’s President, Joseph Fras. LiFTT is going up on the corner of 5th Street and 7th Avenue N.E. and is a follow up to Vericon’s nearly sold-out 43 Park project that’s located right next door. “There’s so much appeal in living in this neigh-
“There’s so much appeal in living in this neighbourhood, it’s already established and there’s a lot of amenities.”
bourhood, it’s already established, there’s a lot of amenities — from unique diners, and shops to schools and places of worship — not to mention that it’s still walking distance to downtown through the 1st Avenue N.E. corridor,” says Tim Taylor of SQFT Realty, which handles the sales and marketing for LiFTT. “Besides, LiFTT offers the most affordable two-bedroom option anywhere near the downtown,” he adds. “And the amount of value you get for the price is just tremendous.” LiFTT boasts a maintenance-free building, highlighted by elegantly modern steel and Hardie board exterior elements that will stand the test of time. Underground heated and secure parking is provided to all suites except the two studios, and out-of-suite storage lockers are included. Each suite has elegant LVT wide plank flooring throughout — a highly durable material in line with its pet-friendly character. Extra large porcelain tile floor is also used for the bathrooms. Sophisticated kitchen cabinet design includes premium laminates with soft close drawers and door system. Top-notch stainless steel appliances and quality Caesarstone quartz countertops bring it all together into a sleek, stylish package.
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But LiFTT isn’t just sexy; it’s smart, too. “We designed LiFTT to be both ecologically and economically smart — so you save money and the planet,” Fras says. It isn’t just appliances that are Energy Star-rated, but also the glazed Low-E windows that keep heat in and cold out. High efficiency heating, cooling and air circulating system in common areas, as well as in-floor heating throughout keep energy consumption down in the building. “In-floor heating also frees up the space of the suite so you get a much better flow in the floor plans,” Taylor says. LiFTT will also have a central recycling room to make it easier for its residents to be part of the recycling solution for Calgary. There are several one, two and three-bedroom plans available, including street-access suites and park views. All homes on the top floor of the four-storey building will have vaulted ceilings and skylights. Suites range from 527 to 979 square-feet and start from as low as $299,900 (excluding GST) for suites with parking, and $239,900 for a suite with no parking. LiFTT will be ready for move-in by the fall of 2015, or about a year after residents at its sister development, 43 Park, take possession. “There are still a few excellent opportunities left at 43 Park, with 35 of 43 homes already F as t F ac t s sold,” Taylor says. Commmunity: Renfrew LiFTT is mirroring this success with 11 of its total 39 homes already Project: LiFTT snapped up since sales began on May DEVELOPER: Vericon Developments 24. “People just love the plans and our STYLE: Apartment style condos location,” says Taylor. “The commuPRICE: From $239,900 plus GST nities of Bridgeland and Renfrew are what Kensington and Marda Loop were address: 730 5th St. N.E. 20 years ago. They are just beginning Hours: Monday to Thursday noon to 6 p.m., to fully blossom and LiFTT is a great closed Fridays, weekends noon to 5 p.m. opportunity to build equity and enjoy Website: www.liveliftt.com this unique lifestyle,” he adds. CL
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Snowbirds’ roo S treetside Developments knew their stacked bungalow homes in their Hunter House development in Silverado would be a big hit, but they were still taken aback by just how popular they’ve become. “There’s a huge amount of interest in them, we’ve sold about 20 per cent of the 38 stacked bungalow homes considering we only launched in March,” says Kevin Baragon, Streetside lead sales consultant at Hunter House. “Right-sizers living in and around Silverado are the ones who have been purchasing the stacked bungalows, they just love the area too much to move far from it,” he says. “The snowbird market is also making a comeback, and the maintenance-free lifestyle and luxurious appointments we offer make Hunter House ideal for them.” One of the most popular features of the stacked bunga-
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lows is the two large outdoor living spaces that each of the upper homes have. “They give you a total of 400 square-feet of extra private outdoor entertaining space, one at the front and one at the back of the upper stacked bungalows, so you have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the spectacular natural views available in Silverado, they’re perfect for summer entertaining,” Baragon tells Condo Living. Streetside has a couple of show suites for their stacked bungalows that capture the luxurious freedom of living they bring. But that’s not all they offer, as there are also 54 three-storey row townhomes in this development. Kimberley Orr, Streetside senior marketing coordinator, says it took the 2012 SAM multi-family builder of the year two years of intense design development to
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maintenance-free lifestyle is key at streetside’s hunter house
come up with Hunter House’s floor plans. What they delivered not only ensures an enjoyable lock-and-leave lifestyle, but an invite-and-entertain one, too. “We poured over all aspects of its design to come up with something we knew would instantly appeal to the market. An open floor plan that not only maximizes all available space but is also loaded with all the luxurious finishing and features that aren’t necessarily always available in condos,” she says. Baragon says the more mature market are attracted to the stacked bungalows. “It’s a villa-like home that’s certainly at a more affordable price.” While he says the row townhomes are perfect for first-time homebuyers, either young families or singles. But what Hunter House is all about is spaciousness. “We listened to the buyers, and Hunter House gives you the benefits of living in a single-family home where you can entertain at leisure, without the hassle of lawn care or snow shoveling,” Orr says. Their stacked bungalows present single-level living at its very best and range in size from 1,400 to 1,670 square-feet. “They’re bigger than some two-storey
By pEppEr rOdrIguEz
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large mansion from the outside adding to the upscale feel of the community.”
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homes, and the 10-foot ceilings and tall windows further accentuate the spaciousness of the home,” she says. “These homes start from the $480,000s. Their three-level row townhomes are from 1,486 to over 1,500 square-feet, with an option to add a 100-square-foot den in the main floor to make it an even more ideal living space. These homes start from the $380,000s. All homes come with attached double car garages, side-by-sides, too, not the tandems you see in many townhomes today. “We have a number of upgrades you can do to your garage, too, including epoxy flooring and storage systems to turn it into your ultimate home for your cars,” Orr says. “It’s a very low-density multi-family community, and we did this so we can fit right in with the single-family nature of Silverado. The bungalows present an image of a large mansion from the outside adding to the upscale feel of the community. It presents itself as a quiet cul-de-sac of high-end homes.” Hunter House is in the prestigious southwest community of Silverado, a quiet, secluded location that’s still very accessible. “We’re just off Sheriff King Street, Stoney Trail, Macleod Trail and Deerfoot Trail are all easily accessed from the neighbourhood so a quick trip to work or to the mountains is always easy,” she says. It’s just down the road from the new Silverado retail centre, and the Shawnessy commercial centre and the Somerset-Bridlewood C-Train Station are just minutes away. Hunter House itself is just off 194 Avenue S.W., so getting in and out of the community is never a problem. CL
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FA S T FAC TS Community: Silverado Project: Hunter House Developer: Streetside Development Corporation Style: Three-storey row townhomes and single-level stacked bungalows Size: Row townhomes range from 1,486 to over 1,500 sq. ft., and stacked bungalows are from 1,400 to 1,670 sq. ft. Price: Row townhomes are from the $380,000s and stacked bungalows are from the $480,000s Address: 220 Silverado Plains Park S.W. Directions: West on Hwy 22X (Stoney Tr.) and exit on to Sheriff King St. and follow the signs Hours: Monday to Thursday 1 to 7 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Website: www.hunterhouseliving.com
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A step up
STEPS Bridgeland is the future of modern urban living By Pepper Rodriguez
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ith its bohemian vibe, social and cultural diversity and rich history, Bridgeland is quickly gaining a reputation as Calgary’s Brooklyn, and one of the finest inner-city places to live in. That reputation is reinforced with STEPS Bridgeland, the newest and one of the most innovatively designed multi-family developments anywhere in the city. It certainly is one with the most diverse living options available, as the 122-unit, six-storey complex has townhomes, studios, two-bedroom apartment suites and penthouses. The first two floors are of two-level townhomes, floors three to five are apartment suites and the top floor will have 14 penthouses. Designed by renowned local architect, Jeremy Sturgess, STEPS Bridgeland presents a completely new vision for modern urban living with a central focus on the courtyard. “Courtyard living is better than a block, it replaces corridors and hallways and provides an attractive expanse of living space,” Sturgess says. The courtyard concept provides a unique opportunity for suites to have dual exposure allowing light and air to move through two ways. Each home will have a balcony or outdoor space facing either toward the courtyard, the exterior, or both. Boldly coloured expanses of tall narrow glass decorate the interior courtyard on all six levels serving to add privacy and a dynamic tapestry of light.
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Its location in the historic community of Bridgeland is key to its appeal. It is just steps from the shops, services and restaurants that define this hip and trendy community.
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This arrangement also promotes a tighter sense of neighbourliness among residents, giving them common ground where they can socialize. It is a truly distinctive development, and people are already excited about it. So excited, in fact, that 50 per cent of units were already sold by the time they broke ground on May 28 this year. “A project like this has never been seen in Calgary before,” says Tim Taylor of SQFT Real Estate, whose company is responsible for sales and marketing. “For all those involved in STEPS, it is truly a legacy project. In 10 years time this will still be ahead of its time.” The façade of the building is modern and distinct, presenting what Sturgess describes as a “better physical expression to the public, more dynamic and interesting in the context of the streetscape.” Each homeowner’s choice of one of four interior accent colours, provided they purchase in time, will be mirrored to their exterior balcony, creating an individual identity for the homeowner and a freeform expression of colour. “I am excited about the randomness,” adds Sturgess. Cultured stone begins at street level then transitions to black steel punctuated with a profusion of floor to ceiling windows and box styled balconies. The entire building is constructed of concrete, including polished concrete floors with in slab heating in the homes. The interiors are carefully designed utilizing every modern convenience, including the option of a hydraulic kitchen counter lowering to
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table height and then back up. A modern Italian style kitchen with European appliances, integrated fridge and dishwasher and flat modern cabinetry bring the cutting edge exterior from outside in. “Every home you buy isn’t just a box,” says Taylor, “it is a piece of architecture.” The STEPS sales centre at 921 1st Street N.E. shows the kind of sophisticated elegance buyers can expect in their home. Its location in the historic community of Bridgeland is key to its appeal. It is just steps from the shops, services and restaurants that define this hip and trendy community. “As Brooklyn is to Manhattan, Bridgeland is to Calgary’s downtown,” Taylor says. “Bridgeland is already a destination, and STEPS will add economic clout to the neighborhood spurring on businesses and amenities further bringing a focus to this area,” says Taylor. Well known as a community where old meets new and trendy meets traditional, the exciting fusion of this area is undeniable. Drawn by vibrant street life ranging from the landmark eateries of La Dolce Vita and La Brezza to the quick and healthy meals found at The Main to the funky Blue Star Diner, residents and fans from across the city come to experience great food and inner-city living. There are 26 floor plans available, including a 468-square-foot one-bedroom at $277,900, to a 784-square-foot two-bedroom starting at $425,900, and penthouses starting from 934 square-feet at $539,900. All prices exclude GST. First possessions are expected in the fall of 2016. CL
L to R: Jordan Giustini of Giustini Brigdes Inc., Adrian Fabro of Assured Communities, Jeremy Sturgess architect, and Michael McCreadie of Scott Construction.
FA S T FAC TS Community: Bridgeland Project: STEPS Bridgeland Developers: Giustini Development Corporation, Assure Development and Rose Corporation Style: Modern six story condominium featuring townhomes, penthouses and apartment-style suites Size: From 335 sq. ft. studio to 1,297 sq. ft. penthouse Price: One-bedroom starts from $227,900 Address: 8th Street between McPherson Road and McDougall Road sales suite: 921 1st Avenue N.E. Hours: Monday to Friday noon to 6 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m. Website: www.stepsbridgeland.com
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Condo freedom Innovations by Jayman offers condo living without condo fees in Cochrane By Pepper Rodriguez
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nder Cochrane’s cloudless blue skies, the future seems so endless, and in Innovations by Jayman’s Townhomes in Sunset Ridge, that future is imminently possible. Better yet, this future is possible without the limitation of condo fees. The Big Sky beauty of Sunset Ridge is apparent as soon as you enter the community in Cochrane’s northwest. It is the highest vantage point in town and offers some of the most splendid views of the surrounding foothills and grasslands — a calming, soothing sight that residents can wake up to every morning. Townhomes in Sunset Ridge makes this enviable country lifestyle available at such an affordable price, no wonder it has been snapped up so quickly. “People just can’t seem to get enough of it,” says Innovations by Jayman area sales manager at Sunset Ridge Townhomes, Ashley Hebert. “We released 45 townhomes in the first phase last year, and currently have only two remaining,” she tells Condo Living. “We’ll begin construction on the next phase of townhomes in the fall and will be looking at a presale campaign by the end of the summer.” That’s not all, as Innovations by Jayman will also be launching similar freehold townhome models in the neighbouring community of Riversong. “We are just getting started with construction in Riversong now and are looking forward to a Grand Opening in late October,” Hebert adds. But wherever in Cochrane they are, these townhomes by Innovations by Jayman make it easy to enjoy the outdoor adventures the quaint foothills town, just 20 minutes outside Calgary, has to offer. And you get to enjoy them without the yoke of condo fees.
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In Sunset Ridge, they have two-bedroom models ranging from 1,250 to 1,265 square-feet, and three-bedroom townhomes from 1,276 to 1,293 square-feet. The one two-bedroom model currently available is being sold at $314,900 including GST, lot, landscaping, fence and deck. They also have a fully-upgraded three-bedroom model at $315,900. More models will be available in the next phase with a starting price in the $300,000 range. “Each home has its own personality and comes complete with a private yard, deck/patio, fence, sod, and landscaping ready to enjoy when you move in,” Hebert says. “Built with a specification that focuses on quality and value, these townhomes have been thoughtfully designed with exceptional livability and each home beautifully completed with professionally selected interior finishings.” Homes all come with two-and-a-half baths, open concept main floors and ample storage throughout. Architecturally enhanced exteriors contribute to the pride in ownership you’ll feel living in Sunset Ridge, she adds. Hebert notes that Townhomes in Sunset Ridge were popular through a broad spectrum of buyers: everyone from first-time home buyers,
“Each home has its own personality and comes complete with a private yard, deck/patio, fence, sod and landscaping ready to enjoy…”
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young couples, families with young children to empty-nesters and downsizers have been attracted to the lifestyle they offer. “Most of our clientele appreciate the freedom of never having to pay condo fees and the flexibility of life without a condo board. This is a practical and affordable option to single-family living,” she says. Their location in one of the fastest growing communities in Cochrane is the cherry on top of this delicious package. Residents can already enjoy the natural ravines, winding trails and stunning mountain views that this community has to offer. Sunset Ridge has always prided itself for the comfort and easy-living convenience it offers, and this family-friendly aspect was enhanced further with the announcement that it is getting a new public school in 2016. “We are the only community in Cochrane that received this great news so we are obviously very excited about what this means for current and future residents of Sunset Ridge,” says Catharina Mendonça, Regional
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FA S T FAC TS Community: Sunset Ridge Project: Townhomes in Sunset Ridge Developer: Innovations by Jayman Style: Freehold townhomes Size: Starts from 1,250 sq. ft. Price: From the $300,000s in the coming phases Address: 9 Sunset Common Directions: North on Highway 22 and right on Sunset Boulevard and follow the signs Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Website: www.liveinsunsetridge.ca
Marketing Co-ordinator, Melcor Developments Ltd, Sunset Ridge’s developer. This will be the second school in the community and it will be going in Phase 13, just east of the pond feature. “The prospect of walking your kids to school is very encouraging for families. And overall, it will mean the value of homes in Sunset Ridge will ultimately go up as well,” Mendonça adds. “The townhome segment hasn’t been a traditional offering in Cochrane,” Hebert says. “It turned out to be a niche market that was in high demand. The models provided fit the lifestyle and budget requirements of this buying demographic so well. There have been a number of downsizers/empty nesters choosing the townhomes in Sunset Ridge. The architecture and location seems to really resonate with this group.” The neighbourhood’s convenience is another draw. Located off Highway 22, just north of the Cochrane Ranche, Sunset Ridge is an easy 15-minute commute to northwest Calgary and a 45 minute drive to the mountains. The community is also just minutes away from the amenities in downtown Cochrane. CL
…Sunset Ridge is an easy 15-minute commute to northwest Calgary and a 45-minute drive to the mountains.
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| CONDO PROFILE
Single and fabulous F Brookfield Residential introduces single-level luxury townhomes By Aaliya Essa
inding a new home in a location that comes complete with all the bells and whistles isn’t easy now-a-days. Residents of many new communities have to wait several years to be able to take advantage of go-to amenities like schools, health centres and other shops and services. Not so at Mosaic Riverstone. Here, buyers looking for the total package will find it located in the upscale community estate area, Riverstone of Cranston. Residents will enjoy the comforts of a new home, all the while living in a mature community, that has just about every amenity and more within either walking distance or a short drive away. Cranston itself has a wide variety of shops and services right in the community, not to mention a great community centre. Additionally, residents here are just down the street from a mix of shops and big box stores, restaurants, grocery stores just up Deerfoot on 130th Avenue. For some buyers, proximity to the South Campus Hospital is a great box to have checked off. “The commercial area in Seton is just a five minute drive away, and has been a really big topic on the sales floor, as it basically encompasses it all,” says Kelly Halliday, Sales and Marketing Manager with Brookfield Residential.
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The Slate II
“We took our customers feedback into consideration and we developed our Mosaic Riverstone development with homes ranging from 1,400plus and 1,600-plus squarefootage range.” 44 |
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Mosaic Riverstone will include 64 new homes, which are all ultra-convenient single-level estate-townhomes. Each home comes with its own double-attached garage, which is included for all three-layout options. “Mosaic Riverstone offers homebuyers the convenience of single-level living,” she says. “Over the past couple of years we have had a lot of customers coming in to our sales centres looking for that single-level living, with more than 1,000 square-feet. We took our customers feedback into consideration and we developed our Mosaic Riverstone development with homes ranging from 1,400-plus and 1,600-plus-square-footage range,” she adds. Floor plan options include the Hunter layout, starting at 1,426 squarefeet in size, which could accommodate either two or three-bedrooms. Next is the Slate II home, also starting at 1,426 square-feet, which is available in a two-bedroom layout. Saving the best for last is the Olive II, which is the largest of the three selections at 1,661 square-feet. This option can be developed into either a two-bedroom or three-bedroom layout depending on your needs and lifestyle. Each option includes twofull-bathrooms. Prices start in the high $400,000s, making Mosaic Riverstone one of the best real estate investments in the entire neighbourhood in terms of value per square-foot. These luxury townhomes have been popular especially with buyers that are looking to move-down, says Halliday. “We have been receiving buyers that are selling their single-family homes and looking for that lock and leave lifestyle,” she adds.
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The Olive II
Brookfield Residential has set the quality bar high with Mosaic Riverstone. “Tile and hardwood floors, a tiled shower, the higher-end Kitchen-Aid appliance package, granite countertops, ceramic tiled kitchen backsplashes, are all standards in our townhomes,” says Halliday. Each layout is also dressed-up with subtle details such as full height cabinets and high-end lighting packages. The exterior design style is a French Country motif, with a stucco finish that is displayed in a colour pallet comprised of earth tones, which enhance and blend in well with the surrounding natural landscape. Living so close to both Fish Creek Park and the Bow River is a luxury all on its own. Take a leisurely stroll down to the park, have a family picnic, or maybe even wade out and cast a few flies in one of the best trout fishing spots in North America — if you have your fishing license that is. “The natural topography is just incomparable,” says Halliday. “All the homes have an incredible view. To build homes close to one of the largest parks in North America is an exclusive opportunity. Residents here are going to be surrounded by Fish Creek and they are just steps away from the Bow River pathway.” Another big bonus is having two major roadways close by; both Deerfoot Trail and Stoney Trail are just around the corner making it easy to get to where you need to go, whether its downtown to work or out of the city in any direction. “The Riverstone community itself is conveniently located near major arteries and major shopping centres,” says Halliday. “Once you’re in Riverstone, you do feel like you are in a secluded oasis, but you’re still only two minutes away from everything you could possibly need.” At present, Brookfield Residential has sold about 25 per cent of the homes, says Halliday. “Buyers can look forward to moving in as early as July 2014, we are selling out until late fall of 2014 at this point, so we really have possessions straight through.” A fabulous single-level luxury townhome, in a great neighbourhood, with ready-to-use amenities and infrastructure, at a very good value and, best of all, you can move in NOW! It’s no wonder so many homebuyers have already found Mosaic Riverstone to be an incomparable option, and why it’s one you The Slate II should definitely see for yourself. CL
FA S T FAC TS Community: Riverstone of Cranston Project: Mosaic Riverstone Developer: Brookfield Residential Style: Single-level townhomes Size: 1,426 to 1,661 sq. ft. Price: High $400,000s Address: 98 Cranbrook Drive S.E. Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Friday to Sunday and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Directions: South on Deerfoot Trail and exit on Cranston Avenue and follow the signs. Website: www.livebrookfield.com
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community ProFile |
CALGAry’s retrO see what makes ramsay a pleasant throwback compared to newer communities StOry By ElIzABEth ChOrNEy-BOOth phOtOS By pEppEr rOdrIguEz
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s recently as a decade ago, the inner-city community of Ramsay didn’t have a reputation for being a particularly desirable neighbourhood. Bordered by train tracks and the Alyth-Bonny Brook industrial zone, Ramsay’s lower property values and industrial atmosphere had traditionally attracted a less than savory population. But, as with most inner-city neighbourhoods, as the downtown has continued to grow, Ramsay’s stock has risen and it has transformed into a family-friendly community with an appealing grass-roots feel. Much of Ramsay’s pull has to do with its location, situated just south of Inglewood and east of the Stampede Grounds. The restaurants, shops, and art galleries of Inglewood’s 9th Avenue are within walking distance for most Ramsay residents and it’s easy to walk the stairs down from Scotsman’s Hill to the Stampede Grounds (one of the Ramsay School’s annual fundraisers is offering paid parking in their school lot during Stampede Week) or other downtown amenities. But while the ease of accessing both downtown and Deerfoot Trail is a selling point for Ramsay residents,
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community there’s also a lot for visitors to see and do in the neighbourhood itself. Filled with interesting historic character homes, a well-stocked corner grocery/convenience store (which is an increasingly rare sight in Calgary), kids running around and people walking their dogs, even if you don’t live there, it’s fun just to walk around the residential streets of Ramsay and drink in the atmosphere. Many artists and creative types live in the neighbourhood (partially in thanks to the Ramsay Design Centre, which sits on the east side of Ramsay and is home to several creative businesses) and that sense of imaginativeness and ingenuity is palpable as you walk around. “In the past few years I’ve noticed that people have taken more pride in the neighbourhood,” says Solita Work, a Ramsay resident and the owner of ReWorks Upcycle Shop in nearby Inglewood. “Homes have been refurbished, some new houses have gone in, people take care of their yards and everyone kind of knows each other.” One of Ramsay’s best physical features is Scotsman’s Hill, which provides an unrivaled view of the Saddledome and the Stampede Grounds, with the rest of the downtown sparkling in the background. If you’re lucky enough to get a spot on the hill to catch the Stampede fireworks, the view is arguably even better than if you were sitting in the Grandstand itself. (The area is closed to vehicular traffic during Stampede.) The view is worth the climb up the hill’s stairs any time
of the year, just to get a panoramic view of the city from a different angle than you’d see from the north side of downtown in a neighbourhood like Crescent Heights. If you’re looking to support some local businesses, Ramsay doesn’t boast the same kind of large commercial district like you’d see in neighbouring Inglewood, but the businesses that are peppered through the neighbourhood largely fall into the “hidden gem” category. One of the first thing you’ll see as you enter Ramsay from 12th Avenue S.E. via MacDonald Bridge is Pop’s Dairy bar (1024 Bellevue Avenue S.E.), a refurbished ice cream and hamburger joint that has a history that dates back to 1939 (the kitschy “Dairy Bar” sign has been there since 1959). Following that theme of gussied-up old-fashioned food, just around the corner from Pop’s is a new Red’s Diner location (1101 8th Steet S.E.), situated on a residential street among Ramsay’s signature character homes. In contrast to the more urban Red’s on 4th Street S.W. in the Beltline, this location really feels like an authentic neighbourhood diner, with both locals and patrons from other inner-city areas congregating while Ramsay residents milling about on the street outside, going about their daily business.
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Much of ramsay’s pull has to do with its location, situated just south of inglewood and east of the stampede grounds.
L to R: MacDonald Bridge, Crossroads Farmers Market, Dairy Bar and Double Elle Bakery. CO N D O L I V I N G J u ly 2 0 1 4
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COMMUNITY PROFILE | Ramsay’s most down-to-earth meeting place, however, has to be the Dominion Bridge location of Rosso Coffee Roasters (803 24th Avenue S.E.), a casual coffee house favoured by locals. Grab your coffee to go and drop by another Ramsay favourite, the Double Elle Bakery (703 23th Avenue S.E.) for a homemade treat. The Crossroads Market (1235 26th Avenue S.E.) sits on the southern end of Ramsay, and as Calgary’s largest year-round market, it draws many people to the area, even if they don’t all venture further in to explore the rest of the neighbourhood. In addition to the 150 vendors selling produce, prepared food, crafts, antiques, and boutique items at the Market, the building also is now the home of Calgary’s beloved
Loose Moose Theatre, which stages productions for both adults and kids. Ramsay is worth a visit because with its tucked away, yet central location, it has managed to hold onto its distinct personality and flair. While there are still some remnants of Ramsay’s more bawdy past (the newly re-opened Shamrock Hotel at 2101, 11th Street S.E. is always worth a visit if you’re looking for an unpretentious bar environment and some live music), this is a neighbourhood with history soul, and an enviable community spirit only seems to be getting stronger. CL
View of the Stampede Grounds from Scotsman’s Hill.
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| LIFESTYLE
Mirage magic
Relaxed Mosaic Mirage lifestyle fits busy schedule
Story by Karen Durrie Photos by Don Molyneaux
W
hen you’ve got four children and a horse taking up your time, you want to find a place that fits your busy-guy needs. A place that needs little maintenance, that has the lawn taken care of for you, and that you can move into without having to change a thing. For Andy Griffiths (yes, you read that right, more on that later), that place was the Mosaic Mirage in McKenzie Towne. Life circumstances necessitated a move when Andy and his wife separated and he moved out of their home in nearby Inverness area of McKenzie Towne (Mosaic Mirage is in Elgin). The ideal place would be close enough for his kids to pop in, and Andy, who requested not to be photographed, looked at a number of developments in the area before lucking into a townhome at Mosaic Mirage. Built by Brookfield Residential, the 286-unit development includes terrace bungalows, two-storey townhouses, and apartments. The townhome Griffiths chose is a spacious, trendy two-storey model with walnut laminate flooring, neutral gray paint, white railings and mouldings, and comfortable beige shag carpet. “I like the area. It’s close to the pond and the amenities,” Griffiths says. The neighbourhood is also a quick escape out of town toward Okotoks, where Griffiths, an avid equestrian, keeps his Canadian Warmblood jumper, Andalay, whom he’s ridden in amateur competitions at Spruce Meadows.
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“It was ideal. The layout worked really well, and being an end unit, it has a lot more windows and light.”
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After viewing condos by competing developers in the area, Griffiths viewed the “Cayenne” model at Mosaic Mirage. “It was ideal. The layout worked really well, and being an end unit, it has a lot more windows and light,” Griffiths says. “And the layout also worked well as I am very English, and we don’t like the entrance coming right into the house, which many have. In England, you have a hallway that is separate from everything else.” Griffiths came to Canada from England in 1994, first renting a home and then purchasing one in Inverness. Regarding his famous moniker (TV icon Andy Griffith only lacked the S at the end), Griffiths has grown to see it as both a blessing and a curse — but when he first moved to Calgary, he had absolutely no idea what all the fuss was about. “I’d never even heard of the Andy Griffith Show. Every time my boss saw me, he would whistle the same tune, and I had no idea why. He finally said “isn’t this bothering you? I have been doing it for weeks, and you have no reaction whatsoever,” Griffiths laughs. One thing is for sure, he says, people usually remember him because of the name. A software developer, he spends some time working from home, and has set up an office in the open space between the cozy livingroom area and kitchen, in a room filled with plenty of light from all sides. Andy came in late as a buyer, he says, as his unit is on one of the few blocks that burned down when a fire broke out in the then-under-construction compound in September 2012. Only 22 units were affected in the fire, and Brookfield Residential credits the material and design they used in the construction of Mosaic Mirage, which prevented the blaze from spreading to more units.
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“With this unit, it was first come, first served… I just happened to come in when this came on. I liked everything about it, even the colours.” In the time it took Brookfield Residential to rebuild, many of the original buyers who were affected had moved on. This opened up new opportunities for new buyers and Andy says he was lucky enough to be around when his unit became available. “With this unit, it was first come, first served, and they had offers on four on the block. I just happened to come in when this one came on. I liked everything about it, even the colours,” he says. He moved in last August. The kitchen features contemporary dark cabinetry with brushed nickel pulls and stainless appliances. The white granite island in the kitchen affords plenty of space for cooking — but Griffiths laughs that he doesn’t do much beyond microwave meals since so much of his spare time is spent out at the stables. The 1,200-square-foot, $345,000 townhome has dual master bedrooms, each with its own ensuite, on the top floor, along with a linen closet and laundry room with stacked washer and dryer. The second bedroom is ajumble with Griffiths’ daughter’s belongings as she recently returned from university, parked her stuff, and promptly went off to Malaysia, Griffiths laughs. The master bedroom is roomy even with a large bed, nightstands, a dresser with a flatscreen TV atop, and a comfortable leather armchair decorating it. Units have double-attached garages accessed from the back, and traditional Craftsman elements on the exteriors, with stacked stone accents. Mosaic Mirage is handy to McKenzie Towne’s popular High Street with its restaurants, pubs and shops all within walking distance. There are still about 60 units available starting from the mid $200,000s. Cl CO N D O L I V I N G J u Ly 2 0 1 4
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Style |
All kidding
ABOVE: Clei systems (which also come sized-up for adult spaces) twist, turn and transform for maximum versatility. Images courtesy of Resource Furnitures, Calgary.
O
nce upon a time, “Go to your room” was a dreaded phrase for kids. Not only did it conjure thoughts of bleak hours staring at a wall, it also bore the threat of being sentenced to cleaning said room while sequestered there. Despite being chock-full of books and art supplies, my room was without a television — as many were back in the day — and the separation anxiety was unbearable. My how things have changed. Fast forward to 2014, where all manner of electronica resides in every room of the house and kids’ spaces have become defined more by what they have than what they haven’t in terms of interesting distractions. These days the choices are endless — and I’m not talking which Disney/ Pixar/LEGO characters grace the sheets. Today’s toddlers, tweens and teens are viewed in some ways as an extension of their parents’ aesthetic, although thankfully there is still some room for self-expression.
(Omit the factor of choice at your peril, mum and dad.) Truly, what was once a mere bedroom has morphed into something closer akin to a mini bachelor suite, the only thing missing being a damage deposit. I enjoy working on kids’ spaces as there is so much more latitude when it comes to the use of colour, bold gestures and an overall sense of joie generally not found in a neutral-on-neutral living rooms for grown-ups. Lovely and elegant as such spaces can be, they hardly have the capacity to ‘jazz’ a young mind. Anyone who has dealt with the whims of an “insertage-here-year-old” knows that keeping options open is a key factor when it comes to kitting out kidspace. Clei, represented in Calgary by Resource Furniture, has mastered the art of adaptability with their series of ingenious convertible pieces with more tricks up their sleeve than Inspector Gadget. In their world nothing is what it seems — or, more accurately, everything is more than it seems.
Truly, what was once a mere bedroom has morphed into something closer akin to a mini bachelor suite, the only thing missing being a damage deposit. 60 |
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| Style
aside
Desks flip around and convert to beds; portions of wardrobe faces do double-duty as tables; shelves miraculously become feet for sofas — and all of it slick, stylish and space-conscious. Better still, the pared-down design of the
Tips for a tricked out kid’s room
By David Crosson
system allows for it to remain style-neutral within the space and to grow and adapt as kids’ needs and tastes change. Although Clei does offer a dizzying array of delightful, candy-like colours in their palette, their wares remain stunning even when realized in classic white. When neutrals are a non-negotiable factor in your child’s room then the easiest way to add colour is with paint. Or chalk. Or paint and chalk. As recently as 2012, Benjamin Moore developed chalkboard paint that can be tinted to any one of their more than 2,500 fabulous hues. This is a great way to add a dash of drama as well as provide a mum-and-dad-approved forum for self-expression. Consider “curating” the colour combos for maximum impact — say, lavender with pink chalk or an apple green with that chic cocoa-coloured chalk that everyone avoided when I was a youngster.
...Benjamin Moore developed chalkboard paint that can be tinted to any one of their more than 2,500 fabulous hues.
Apple green is the new black! Benjamin Moore’s tintable chalkboard paint is available in more than 2500 great colours. Image courtesy of Benjamin Moore.
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no matter the age of your children, designing spaces that help reflect their emerging personalities is a wonderful opportunity for bonding. ABOVE: urbane blight: norwegian artist tom haga’s concretewall vinyl is a witty take on bringing the outdoors in. image courtesy of resource Furnitures, calgary.
BElOW: eero saarinen’s womb chair is as comfortable as it sounds for kids of any age. image courtesy of knoll.
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If your kids are older, why not bring the outdoors in Kit Interior Obthrough unexpected means: photorealistic wall cover- jects. ing depicting rough-hewn urban surfaces like concrete If you have and brick (some even include graffiti). The brainchild of room and are Cove series furniture from g. romano Norwegian designer Tom Haga, this vinyl product is hip, looking for somehardwearing and arrestingly authentic. ConcreteWall, also thing even more substantial, the Cove series from available through Resource, will satisfy the tastes of even furniture manufacturer G. Romano could be just the the most discerning junior Gothamist — not to mention ticket. Blocky and almost cartoonlike in its simplicity, significantly increasing his or her parents’ cool factor. this line offers several chair, sofa and loveseat combinaIs your little one more about urtions in a variety of fabrics. And while you may not ban sophistication than urban grit? be able to stop your kids from slouching, you can at least help them to do so in style. G. Romano is Then why not equip their space with scaled-down pieces found in the available in Calgary through Country Furniture/ homes of full-grown tastemakThe Other Room. ers. Thanks to companies such No matter the age of your children, designing as Vitra and Knoll, your wee ones spaces that help reflect their emerging personalEames Elephant chairs are as ities is a wonderful opportunity for bonding. Get it can drop their derrieres onto the charming today as when they right and you have a friend for life — or at least until works of such mid-century masters were created in 1945. they change their minds. Good luck! Cl as Verner Panton, Harry Bertoia or Image courtesy of Vitra. Charles and Ray Eames. The Eameses adorable pint-sized ABoUT THE AUTHor: david Crosson is pachyderm, initially conthe owner of Barbarian interior decoration ceived in 1945, is about Ltd., which woks with both residential and as charming — and chic commercial clients in Calgary and beyond. — as kids’ gear can get. He is also the author of the blog Hausfrau: And who wouldn’t want Better Living Through Better Living to take a “time-out” and is frequently called upon to provide when the seat of honour commentary in matters of life and style in is one of Eero Saarinen’s the local media. For more information visit Womb chairs. Both Vitra www.barbariandesign.ca and Knoll are available at
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| SHOPPING
Lullaby land
Safety, sustainability paramount in latest nursery items By Kathy McCormick
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f you are like many young couples today and expecting your first child, you’re in luck. Over the years, the government has taken much of the worry out of buying cribs. Long gone are the cribs that had bars too widely spaced apart to catch a foot, an arm or even a head. Long gone are the paints that were lead based, poisoning the toddlers who gnawed on the wood when their sharp little teeth were coming in. Long gone are the cribs that could break easily when the energetic toddler shook them hard. But while the standards have improved and are strictly enforced, they are minimums, says the owner of Cherry Four Junior Home. “Parents should look to which manufacturer is exceeding these standards in some key areas such as construction and finishing product,” says Fev Hunter. And there are still other things to consider, says Andrew Mackie of Riva’s Eco Store, which specializes in environmentally-friendly products. “There are a great deal of regulations these days that address safety issues, as far as design goes — things like bar spacing, the ability to climb out, the general sturdiness, but unfortunately, there
are still very few regulations out there for safety from a health standpoint. This is where concerned parents should be directing their research and questions — and it’s not always easy to get true, honest answers because, realistically, not that many people know this stuff.” Some of his recommendations for cribs? Solid wood construction free of MDF, plywood, composite materials that have chemicals that will off-gas.
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SHOPPING |
Photo courtesy Riva’s Eco Store
Finishes, too, need to be free not only of lead, but of off-gassing chemicals and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). “The industry is improving, but has a ways to go,” says Mackie. An option is to buy the crib unfinished and either leave it that way or finish is with a product that is clean, he says. At Kacz’ Kids, all cribs they carry are from high-quality manufacturers, says its marketing vice-president. “We were tired of product that was manufactured in Southeast Asia, a very humid climate, arriving in Canada, a much drier climate, cracked and damaged,” says Bren-
non Kaczmarek. “There is nothing worse than an expectant mother who is ready to set up her nursery and has either damaged — or no — furniture.” Mattresses are another concern, Mackie says. “These are very important, considering the baby will have its face just millimetres away.” Ask hard questions, he says. He recommends natural organic upholstery and padding — such things as unbleached, undyed organic cotton, wool and coils or natural, rubber foam that doesn’t have additives. Even the chemicals used in flame-retardant products are now being questioned for health safety, he says. Once the safety standards are met, it’s really a whole new world out there for the kids, ranging from the traditional cribs, to round ones, modern-looking ones, to vintage looks. And then there are the versatile converter cribs, where the crib converts to become first a toddler bed, then a double-sized bed as the kids grow. “The idea is that with the initial investment, you have essentially purchased a bed that will take a child right through teen years,” says Hunter. “A hardwood, convertible crib generally starts at approximately $800 — a comparable double bed, should it be purchased on its own down the road, would cost approximately $1,100.
Once the safety standards are met, it’s really a whole new world out there for kids, ranging from traditional cribs, to round ones, modern-looking ones to vintage looks. 66 |
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| SHOPPING
“If it fits your space and long-term aesthetic, you can see real ultimate savings here.” At Kacz’ Kids, all the cribs sold there are “Convertible Cribs,” says Kaczmarek. “The head board and foot board of the crib can be used to make a double bed down the road with the purchase of the extension kit. The benefit is that the furniture will last upwards of 25 years, rather than you having a crib that is useless after only a few years. We are not interested in providing disposable furniture.” If there is not a plan or space to convert a crib down the road, and if the crib isn’t going to be used, potentially, for future kids, look to a simpler model that may cost less, Hunter says. “You can also sometimes hit upon a good deal with quality floor models that have been reduced in price.” As for the rest of the furniture in the baby’s room, again, it’s a matter of choice and there are many, many options. But Kaczmarek has this to say about the nursery: “Honestly, furniture is where you can save. “We highly recommend people invest their dollars into the functional gear that they (and their baby) will use every day, such as your car seat and your stroller. If you don’t love those items, you’re bringing unnecessary stress into your life and you will most likely replace down the road anyway. Get it right the first time. It should fit your lifestyle. People don’t need $2,000+ nursery furniture.” As for the look today, modern, clean lines seem to be the favourite, following the
Photo courtesy College Woodworks
The Stella Collection. Courtesy Cherry Four
contemporary themes so prevalent in homes today. “Neutral finishes (often white) will lay a strong foundation for a modern look,” says Cherry Four’s Hunter. “Achieve impact through pops of colour in bedding and art work. Less is definitely more in a contemporary space (even for kids).” At Riva’s Eco Store, modern, contemporary design works well with the environmental bent of the store, says Mackie. “The bedding, blankets, décor, and accents are a big part of this. We have always tried to offer stuff that allows people to live clean and healthy without sacrificing their urban, modern lifestyle.” And, from a personal standpoint, Kaczmarek says, “I really love it when parents paint their own murals in a nursery. It’s sometimes a connection to their own childhood and it’s a fun project to do as a couple. There are plenty of DIY guides online.” And of course, once the kids have outgrown the cribs, there are so many exciting options available, if the crib isn’t a convertible. Beds, bunk beds come in shapes of cars, castles, forts … and you’re only limited by yours or your child’s imagination. CL
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Feature |
EdiTor’S noTE: This is the second of a two-part series on Calgary’s top women in the home building industry. Part 1 ran in the June 2014 issue of Condo Living.
a woman’s touch Calgary benefits from the influx of women in its home building industry By ElIzABEth ChOrNEy-BOOth
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ast month we introduced readers to some prominent women who hold high level positions in the local home building and property development business — in Part Two of our series about women executives in the housing industry, we have another group of leading women who all come from markedly different backgrounds. As with the women we profiled last month, all of these professionals share a love of the industry and are proud of the part they’ve played in building a thriving community of homebuilders here in Calgary. Of course, there are many women in a number of roles in home building and development, ranging from trades people and sales representatives to Presidents of major companies. These are just a few more of the women who have made their mark in the local industry:
“I think the piece that I love the most is that whether the industry is on an upswing or a downturn there’s always a challenge.”
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| FEATURE
Alice Mateyko
President, Homes By Avi Alberta (Single Family Division) Alice Mateyko says that she has grown her career by being a good manager and surrounding herself with excellent people, but she also believes that her strong interest in the technical aspects of building have given her an edge in the business. Despite having a background in engineering, after moving to Calgary from Singapore in the late ‘80s, Mateyko started working in real estate. After meeting Avi Amir at a real estate conference she began working at Homes by Avi and realized that it was the perfect place for her to combine her love of real estate with her engineering know-how. “Initially, I was attracted to real estate because I wanted the opportunity to engage with people who were making the biggest financial investment of their lives,” Mateyko says. “I felt like I could relate to those people, and I enjoyed great success
in sales. But because of my background in mechanical and production engineering, I also wanted to know everything that went into building a home, the technology involved, and the materials being used.” Mateyko says that even though her interest in the physical building of homes is invaluable, the most essential part of her job is working with the people on her team. “The legacy I want to leave behind is to show the team, how we appreciate, develop and retain the people,” she says. “People are all you have to run a successful business.”
“The legacy I want to leave behind is to show the team, how we appreciate, develop and retain the people.”
Donna Moore
CEO, Canadian Home Builders Association – Calgary Region As the CEO of Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region, Donna Moore also focuses directly on people, but in a way that’s quite different than many of her peers. Moore’s own background is in the not-for-profit sector, and when she first moved to Calgary in 1984 she took a position at the CHBA believing it would be temporary until she found something that better suited her interests. She was surprised to find out how much she loved the industry and has been with
the organization ever since. “Not-for-profits are different in that we don’t have customers in the true sense, we have members,” Moore says. “It’s really up to us as the industry staff and leaders to listen to the members and execute and implement their ideas. And making sure that we are keeping the strategic plan and the ideals at the association in mind at all times to make the industry better.” Moore appreciates that the CHBA has let her work in her comfort zone, but has also
introduced her to the home building world, which she has grown to love. “I think the piece that I love the most is that whether the industry is on an upswing or a downturn there’s always a challenge, something that we as an organization can look toward to help improve or change to try to keep the industry successful and viable for our members,” Moore says. “That, I think, for any person in any kind of business, is rewarding.”
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Carol Oxtoby
President and CEO, Heritage Pointe Properties Inc.
For Carol Oxtoby, being a part of the local housing industry has been rewarding from both a business point of view and also because she has had the chance to create an idyllic lifestyle for the homeowners that move to the country residential communities developed by Heritage Pointe Properties Inc. Oxtoby has been with the land division of Upper Lake Groups for 23 years, and was responsible for amassing land for what would become the Heritage Pointe development in 1989. “I believe everyone deserves the right to have a place to call home, whether it be rental or ownership,” Oxtoby says. “We as an industry have the privilege of creating that safe haven
and our constant challenge is to be able to offer affordable product for all income levels.” As for business advice, Oxtoby thinks it’s particularly important for younger women to find a strong mentor and develop relationships in an industry that historically has been dominated by men, a trend which is changing as more women enter the industry. “Become involved and engaged by volunteering your time to not only build relationships, but nurture them,” she says. “And above all, be cognizant that, male or female, we all have the ability to build great homes and communities.”
“Become involved and engaged by volunteering your time to not only build relationships, but nurture them.”
Wanda Palmer
Vice President, Marketing, Trico Group Compared to some of the other women on our list, Wanda Palmer is a relative newcomer to the industry, but that doesn’t mean that she doesn’t come to her job with many years of experience. After working with various marketing agencies (including her own firm), frequently with home builder clients, Palmer stepped across the aisle, so to speak, in 2010 to work in Trico Homes’ marketing department.
“You’re trying to understand what customers want so that you develop the right product, so you get to assist with product development.” 72 |
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Palmer says that her role has required her to learn about just about every aspect of the industry, which is a challenge she’s quite relished. “Being in marketing really allows you to become fully entrenched and fully immersed in the organization because you’re helping to develop the brand,” Palmer says. “You’re trying to understand what customers want so that you develop the right product, so you get to assist with product development. You get to assist with merchandising in the show homes. It’s such a great career.” And that is really what has drawn all of these accomplished women in this business: the variety of challenges that are presented on a daily basis, coupled with the opportunity to interact with other enthusiastic professionals. All of the women we talked to come from different backgrounds and
hold different roles, but the satisfaction that comes with building communities and helping people make the most significant purchase they’re ever likely to make has kept them thriving in the industry. CL
| Advertising Feature |
The value of a REALTOR® when buying a new condo ( Part I )
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here are so many reasons to use a Realtor when buying a new condo that it would be impossible to list them all. Fundamentally, having a real estate agent represent you when purchasing a new home not only makes the process more pleasant. A Realtor will help you get the best value for your money, resulting in a home that retains its value and is everything you expected it to be after construction is complete.
Market Analysis
Price
Search, Filter and Compare Developments
It’s common knowledge that Realtors get paid commissions on the homes they help their clients to buy and sell. However, as a buyer, there is no cost to you. Your Realtor will help you select upgrades and ensure the unit stays within the pricing for the neighbourhood and you stay within your budget. An experienced Realtor will also know what upgrades give their client the best value for the money.
Representation If you plan on buying a condo on your own, you run the risk of not having a Realtor to protect your interests. While the developer’s salespeople are not necessarily trying to take advantage of you, they work for the benefit of the developer. Your agent’s job is to help you choose a home that aligns with your needs and meets your expectations after it’s built and for years to come. If the unfortunate situation arises where there is a major problem or issue with the unit, your Realtor will be able to step in and work as your advocate.
Services Having a Realtor to work with you gives you the benefits of many services, which include finding developments that may interest you, negotiation of terms and clauses and the final contract review.
Realtors can, and should, perform a market analysis to help you determine the right time to buy. A Realtor will be able to explain the benefits of purchasing in a low season or high season and should be able to tell you whether it’s a hot or slow real estate market, and what that means to you.
Editor’s note: This will be the first of a two-part special advertorial feature from KORE Realty Group on the benefits of hiring a realtor when buying condos.
You can simply tell your Realtor what you’re looking for, in terms of price, location, and any other details that may be important to you, and your agent will manually filter out projects and present only those that will be of interest to you, streamlining the process and saving you a lot valuable time.
Development Analysis It is extremely important to work with developers who are reputable and have a history of building good quality developments. Realtors are able to provide you with insider information and the track records of developers and developments to ensure you make the right choice. During development analysis, your Realtor will examine the following aspects of the new development and the development team behind it: • Reputation in the industry; • Credibility; • History of construction quality and condo fee increases in previous developments; • Financial standing of the development company; • Presales status; • Construction financing status; • Construction progress and schedule; • Future development sites that may obstruct your views or affect the value of your purchase. Your Realtor can also help you decide whether you want to take the risk of purchasing a unit from a newer developer who doesn’t have a previous track record to look into. n
by Peter Ng, KORE Realty Group CO N D O L I V I N G J u ly 2 0 1 4
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| Advertising Feature |
Teen spirit AARC provides a new direction for adolescents struggling with addiction
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t’s not easy being a teenager these days. The teen years are filled with a variety of ups and downs, pressures and expectations, not to mention changing hormones. For teens that succumb to the lure of drug addiction, things are even more difficult, with insurmountable compounding problems, each stemming from and building on the other. It’s a story that’s told all too often; of how simply trying a drink with friends progresses into trying drugs, and just turns into a domino effect that, even for many adults, is hard to control. Carly is one of many young people who have graduated from the Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC). Her story starts off just like any other kid. When her mother had her she thought she was perfect, and she was. She grew into a child that was into sports and participated in activities at school, like choir. She even had good grades. “My childhood was normal and quite lovely actually, unlike others who have been through here (AARC), neither of my parents struggled with addiction,” says Carly. “I played soccer and sang competitively, did well in school, and I had lots of friends at school too.” Carly, though, like so many other kids, fell under the intoxicating spell of trying substances at a young age. She took her first drink when she was 12 years old. “Which, looking back on it, was really young,” she says. She was able to access the liquor her parents had in their home. “It didn’t progress really fast right away for me, it was mainly on weekends partying, it was very much centered around my friends.”
In high school, things started to go downhill. “I started smoking weed, mostly just because I was rebellious and bored. Nothing was going wrong in my life, but that progressed much quicker with the marijuana,” says Carly. She started to fall behind in many of the activities she use to be part of and, despite the drugs, was depressed. By the time Carly was 16, she had started experimenting with other drugs. “I loved how drugs made me feel, so every drug I tried I loved,” she says. “I did ecstasy, mushrooms, and then I started doing cocaine and that was my drug of choice.” After a variety of incidents, she was enrolled at AARC, where she was placed into an environment and treatment program that offered the kind of personal help that she needed. At AARC, Carly says, she received emotional support, was able to isolate her issues, and really begin to tackle them one by one. “I felt understood here. I felt heard. A big thing is that a lots of the people that work here have experienced addiction and gotten through it themselves,” she says. Carly’s mother, Donna, appreciates that AARC is a support system for the entire family, who are also affected by the person’s addiction. “It was awful and terrifying at first, she was not the daughter that I knew,” she says. “She was a girl that excelled at many things, and slowly over a year she lost interest in everything.” “I didn’t have a lot of understanding or knowledge about addiction, I didn’t know what was wrong,” she adds. “I think what the program has done for her is given her the tools to have a successful life,” says Donna. n
“I felt understood here. I felt heard.”
16th Annual Tournament of Miracles AARC is holding their annual Tournament of Miracles, at Silvertip Gold Resort in Canmore on August 18. Funds raised go to support the great services that AARC offers, and to ensure that no family is ever turned away from the assistance and help that they need. To register, or for information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact the events department at (403) 253-5250 or events@aarc.ab.ca
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CONDOSCAPES By richard white
LOfty AmBItION
Battistella’s orange lofts was an idea ahead of its time
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ith the renaissance of urban living, which began in the late 20th century, the popularity of loft living soared. Lofts are often associated with converted warehouse space with high ceilings (12-plus feet), exposed mechanical and electrical services and bare brick and/or cement walls. Because Calgary lacked the inventory of warehouse buildings, Battisella Developments pioneered a “Made-in Calgary” loft living building design that included two-storey open floor plans, extensive use of steel, exposed beams and stairs inside, as well as a colourful, industrial exterior with lots of large windows. Chartreuce, built in 2001, served as the prototype for Battisella’s stellar evolution into becoming Calgary’s most creative urban condo builder. Designed by Peter Jungen of Habitat Design and enhanced by Graham Edmunds Architecture, this 12 unit, townhouse loft condo project is located on the corner of 17th Avenue S.E. and 13th Street S.E. literally, a stone’s throw away from the CPR rail yards next to Inglewood. Though a huge risk to build a contemporary loft in this less than ideal location, Battisella pulled it off. The company then took on an even riskier project — Orange Lofts (est. 2003) in East Village. Back then; East Village was still in its early formative stages, still just a bunch of surface parking lots, crumbling sidewalks, homeless shelters and seniors’ apartments. Most were questioning if the City’s vision of a new urban village would ever even get off the ground.
Orange Lofts, a six-story, 106-unit loft building is in many ways a bigger and bolder version of Chartreuce. Designed by Vancouver’s Kasian Kennedy architects, it has the same modern industrial-looking façade with slate blue stucco at street level and steel/aluminum above. The distinctive, red ladder-like decoration recalls the black exterior emergency fire ladder staircases on early 20th century iconic New York walk-up apartments. The exterior’s colourful, playful box grid pattern is visually stimulating and satisfying. No Calgary beige or boring minimalism contemporary architecture here! The ground floor units were designed with flexibility in mind, i.e. they could be commercial or residential spaces. The thinking was that retail spaces might not sell in 2003 but by 2023, that might be the best use for them with East Village’s evolution. In keeping with its name, the lobby featured neon orange elevator doors and with glass and steel walls and railings. The interiors of the units have 16-foot ceilings with huge floor-to-ceiling windows. The floors are polished concrete, all of the mechanical piping is exposed and kitchen shelves and stair railings are steel, enhancing the loft’s industrial or warehouse look. Battisella also took a risk in building only 93 parking stalls for the106-unit Orange Lofts, building, probably the first and only condo with fewer parking stalls than units. (Note: Most condos have at least 1.5 stalls per units, as most Calgary
Name: Orange lofts Architects: peter Jungen of habitat design and graham Edmunds Architecture
condo buyers want at least one and some two stalls). However, given an underground parking stall at the time cost about $40,000/stall ($60,000 today) by reducing or in some cases eliminating parking stalls, Orange Lofts became very affordable. I believe some units were only $99,000 (without parking) when Orange Lofts came to market in 2003. What a bargain for attractive, modern concrete building just minutes from everything! 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 Ly 2 0 1 4
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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
tHe BuLLy AND tHe BOArD how to deal with pushy members of your condo board
Q:
I know you’ve talked about this topic a couple of years ago, but, we have a board member who continues to disregard the President’s opinions, and intimidate other members of the board, interrupts others and is extremely rude. Do you have any tips on handling this situation?
A:
Being a member of a condo board can sometimes be a thankless task, and its only reward is the thought of doing good while in good company. But even that can turn into a burden, when one of the board members turns out to be someone with control issues, and consequently bullies everyone else to get his or her way. The bully turns a nonprofit board into a corporation of one, and can deprive the directors and the management company the benefit of using the expertise and skills of other board members and residents that contribute to running the Condominium Corporation. If not handled appropriately the “bully on the board” will have a far reaching effect on your board’s productivity and can be an added hurdle to getting directives completed for your condo. Here are some tips to help you deal with this type of situation. • Stay calm: most individuals who feel they are being attacked, automatically get their defences up and want to attack back. When addressing the situation, it’s always best to keep your cool, believe it or not, it does act as a diffuser between you and the bully. As a condo manager, I’ll admit, it’s not easy and I have lost my temper a time or two but it sure does make a
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difference if you can be the rational one in the situation. Most times, the “bully on the board” is dealing with an issue at work or home, try not to take it personally. Confront the situation in a diplomatic manner and hopefully the individual will acknowledge and apologize for their behaviour. If you feel comfortable, you may want to have a face-to-face with the bully outside the board meeting to discuss their behaviour. Address the issue immediately in a non-confrontational manner. Ignoring the situation does not make it go away, it may make it worse. Be willing to accommodate, if possible. Agree to disagree. If you cannot establish some common ground, move on, no need to argue about it endlessly. Boards can establish codes of conducts for their board meetings which could curtail bullying behaviour: limit the length of time for each speaker, this will give board members an opportunity to voice their opinions. No abusive language or insulting remarks against anyone. No personal attacks. No yelling or interruptions when someone is speaking or during the meeting. It is important to put the code of conduct in writing and circulate a copy to each board member. Focus on facts. Facts divert the discussion from opinions and feelings, making it easier to stay on track. Don’t let poor behaviour divert your intentions for the good of the corporation. Stay focused. If necessary engage a third party such as a mediator or lawyer to help resolve the issue. People aren’t always aware that they are being difficult and sometimes,
having a neutral party might help in your efforts. If not, don’t be afraid to take the necessary steps to remove them from the board. It’s important for board members to realize that personal differences and proving a point are secondary to the board’s objectives. A good leader puts their energy towards a solution that will move the board forward not backwards. Until next time... Cl
Maria Bartolotti
A.C.C.I, is the ownermanager 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 Ly 2 0 1 4
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HOPE AT LARGE By marty hope
KINGs Of tHe BeLtLINe
Qualex-landmark stakes out new ground in Beltline fiefdom
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he high-rise kings of the Beltline are at it again. Walking into the Mark on 10th presentation centre, the massive model of the 35-storey high-rise condominium is surrounded by floor plans with SOLD signs plastered over them Broadway style — yet another smash hit for Qualex-Landmark. Not one of the 274 units is available. All sold out. “This is a first for us,” says Roger Navabi, president of the 12-year-old Vancouver-based company that specializes in the creation of high-rise concrete construction. “Usually sellout occurs about the same time as construction is complete, but Mark was sold out about 18 months before that. So for some, they’ll have been waiting 27 months to take possession.” Those possessions, he adds, will begin towards the end of next year. Navabi and managing director Mohammed Esfahani, the principals behind Qualex-Landmark, continue to change the face of Calgary’s Beltline with their thoroughly modern take on steel-glassconcrete condominium buildings up and down the area’s people-friendly avenues and streets. Since joining forces in 2001, the Vancouver businessmen have been spending as much time on this side of the Rockies as they do in their home marketplace creating stylish apartments for Calgarians looking to get into the housing market via the condo tower route. “We like Calgary, (we) like the Beltline,” says Navabi. “When we arrived here, I think it was 2002, Calgary was just beginning to see concrete high-rises.
We’ve delivered quality buildings, priced to reflect our costs, and those pricepoints have been part of our success.” As for the Calgary buyer profile, it hasn’t changed all that much in the dozen years. Mostly, young singles and couples working downtown, mixed in with some empty-nesters changing their lifestyles. And with city officials urging a stronger focus on housing in urban areas, Qualex-Landmark is situated very well. “The inner-city densification of Calgary is creating a very attractive and popular urban lifestyle,” says Navabi. With Mark on 10th sold out to rave reviews, Navabi and Esfahani have turned their attention to what will no doubt be their next hit — a double bill of towers called Park Point that will come out of the ground — you guessed it, in the Beltline — across the street from Central Memorial Park on 12th Avenue S.W. at 2nd Street. “We’ve submitted for a development permit for Park Point and would like to be in the ground with the first tower in 2015,” says Navabi, relaxing over coffee. While no date was given for the second tower, timing would be dependent on sales in the first one. With another 500 units in the pair of towers, that will bring to Qualex-Landmark total to 1,500 residences in Calgary. “We’re the most active developer in the Beltline,” says Navabi. But there’s more. The company is considering another piece of Beltline property for what would be its eighth project in Calgary. For the record, though, Qualex-Landmark has four completed projects in Calgary —
roger navabi
Stella, Luna, Nova, and Calla, Mark on 10th is under construction, and the twin towers of Park Point are on the horizon. “The response to our communities has been very positive. We are pleased to be in a position to provide more first-class residential offerings to Calgary’s urbanites. Park Point will continue what has become our tradition within the Beltline,” says Navabi. Registration for Park Point is now open at www.qualex.ca/parkpoint. For more information on the company and all its projects, visit www.qualex.ca. 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. CO N D O L I V I N G J u Ly 2 0 1 4
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AROUND TOWN By Pepper rodriguez
Jayman modus introduces new tech in home Buying
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n this fast digital world we live in, Jayman Modus realizes that they have to adapt with today’s technology-driven lifestyle, particularly of homebuyers. Jayman Modus — the multi-family arm of Jayman Group of Companies — is introducing Modus Matrix Augmented Reality and Next Generation Touchscreen — two new digital technologies that will change the way customers interact with their product and engage with them. The Modus Matrix is an app users can download to their smartphone, which offers the unique ability to visually explore interior and exterior architectural details, as well as community features like walkways and landscaping from a 3D augmented realty perspective. “Our new townhome project, Avira in EvansRidge will be the first to feature this technology that allows interested parties instant mobile access to all information about the development in 3D virtual space,” Jayman Modus’ Sandi Serr tells Around Town. This app is already available for download at www.modusmatrix.com. While the Next Gen Touchscreen’s featured in the Modus sales centres include comprehensive live to the second product, home availability, company, and social media information with an unparalleled ease of use. “Buyers can go to our sales centre, learn everything there is to learn about a particular home through these interactive touchscreens and have all these info sent to their mobile devices,” she says. “ We’re excited to offer this innovative technology as part of the customer’s sales experience. The buyers of today are more tech savvy and the Modus Matrix and Next Gen Touchscreen is Jayman Modus’ way of providing groundbreaking communication options driven by our customers own creativity and initiative,” she adds.
www.jayman.com
the concord takes oFF
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he third most beautiful spot for a multi-family project in North America and the UK is in Eau Claire and it will soon be the home for The Concord, a luxury condo development that will soon rise on the banks of the Bow River. According to Concord Pacific Senior Vice-President for Development Peter Webb this Eau Claire location just off the Peace Bridge is a trophy site he considers the third best among all the sites they’ve developed, next to The Erickson along Vancouver’s seawall and Principal Place in London. Concord Pacific is Canada’s largest urban community developer and The Concord will be their first venture in Calgary. “The Concord will be the first uncompromised answer to luxury single-family living in Calgary,” Webb says. He notes the two-tower development with about 100-units each will have a private water feature for the summer that can turn into a skating rink in the winter. “We have our own zamboni,” he says. It will also have five-star in-house amenities including gyms and a pool, and luxurious finishes for each suite that will feature Porsche kitchens designed by Poggenpohl. “The high level of detail that has gone into every area of this project is unparalleled in any development in Calgary’s history,” he adds. “Even the flood mitigation features we’ve put in place are the most advanced in the city.” Prices effectively start at $1 to $2 million with the top Estate Penthouse close to $13 million. There will be a limited selection of two-bedroom premium suties starting from the $700,000s. The Concord sales centre is located on site at 708 1st Avenue S.W. and is open only for appointments. Visit the website to schedule one.
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» www.theconcord.ca CO N D O L I V I N G J u Ly 2 0 1 4
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Rotary/Mattamy Greenway opens Phase 2
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hat will be the world’s largest urban system of pathways and parks marked another milestone in its development, as the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway project opened Phase 2. “This is truly a remarkable example of the collaborative community spirit of Calgary,” says Mayor Naheed Nenshi, who spoke at the event held in Cranston, near the Phase 2 access for this 138-kilometre pathway system Opening of Rotary/Mattamy Greenway Phase 2 that will eventually ring the entire city and connect 55 of its communities. bouring community of Mahogany also in the “Calgarians are exactly the kind of people southeast. who can bring together all levels of governBrookfield Residential is one of the major ment, corporations, charitable organizations sponsors of the pathway project with Phase 2 and individual citizens to create an amazing, passing through their three communities of unparalleled space to be enjoyed by everyAuburn Bay, Seton and Cranston. “At Brookone,” he tells spectators. field, we know Calgarians believe that providMayor Nenshi (centre) with public and private The second phase of Greenway goes from ing paths and public spaces for all to enjoy is the Western Irrigation District (WID) on the sector supporters of the Greenway project essential to building community,” says David eastern border of Calgary to Highway 22X, crosses over the Allen, president Calgary Communities for Brookfield Residential. highway at 52nd Street S.E. and traverses the communities of “This is a great way for Calgarians to connect, it encourages an Auburn Bay, Seton and Cranston before entering the Fish Creek active lifestyle and allows us to enjoy the natural beauty of the city Provincial Park. Phase 2 also includes a major spur into neighwe live in,” he tells Around Town.
FRAM + Slokker announces winners for Shania Twain show
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hania Twain’s 2014 tour, “Still the One,” is making a stop in Calgary in July, her only Canadian tour location. And two lucky buyers of FRAM + Slokker’s East Village condo development, FIRST, were lucky enough to win tickets. The Toronto-based developer held a month long contest for two tickets to the concert in celebration of their 2nd Anniversary in East Village. The team received over 300 submissions and the developer’s Sales Centre ballot box was overflowing with hopeful participants’ names. The two winners are Jeff Binks and Jeanette Szkabar. Jeff and Jeanette were one of the first buyers of FRAM + Slokker’s project FIRST condo, in East Village in 2012. The winners happily accepted their tickets at the Verve Sales Centre and posed for pictures with Deb Pedersen, FRAM’s Director of Sales.
(from left ) Jeanette Szkabar and Jeff Binks accepting their tickets from Deb Pedersen of FRAM + Slokker.
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Bill Jager remembered
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he local home building industry mourns the loss of another one of its pioneers this month in Bill Jager, who passed away May 25 at the age of 94. Like many Calgary entrepreneurs, Bill was born in Saskatchewan where he learned his work ethic early in life. He also learned the value of a good home, as for a time the family literally lived in a house with mud plastered to the walls to keep out the winter chill. He built his first home in Calgary in 1947, with a pick and shovel and a horse-drawn cart to haul away the dirt. From such humble beginnings Jager Homes and later Jager industries were born. Today, the company boasts more than 14,000 homes built in more than 42 Calgary communities over the years. A true visionary, Bill was one of the very first to sense the synergies to be had by combining different elements of the home building industry under one umbrella corporation. Back in the 1950s and ‘60s, when the City of Calgary had a virtual monopoly on residential lot sales, he joined forces with other industry leaders to form Calgary’s first private land development company, changing the way land was developed in the city forever. Later, recognizing a need in the industry, he also launched his own innovative truss/joist manufacturing systems. Bill’s larger than life personality will be missed by his wife of 37 years, Donna, his eight children, many grandchildren, industry associates and his beloved dogs Rudy, Amy and Mr. Higley. CL Bill Jager
calgary map | North West, North East and Inner City MAP LEGEND
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Parks Bodies of Water
6 10
See Advertiser Index for Project Page Reference
3 2
1
8
COCHRANE
16
2
1
15
21
1
CHESTERMERE
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OKOTOKS
31
South West, South East and Calgary Area | calgary 1 ZEN Auburn Bay 2 Ebony 3 The Gates
40
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
2 Jumping Pound
3 4 5 6
3
7
Williamstown Creekside Village Waterscape at Cooper’s Crossing Stone Keep at King’s Heights Ravenswood Townhomes Windsong
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11
24
Townhomes Stonecreek Landing The Concept The Village Townhomes in Sunset Ridge Heartland RiverReach The Range Trading Post
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
43 The District
CHESTERMERE 1 The Courtyards in
Chestermere
2 Townhomes of
Chestermere Station
Okotoks 1 ZEN Okotoks
13 14
25
of Quarry Park
23 Mosaic Lakeside
16 Highbury 2
12 Victoria Cross 13 Aura in Copperfield
20
21 Sawyer Silverado
Auburn Bay 24 Prestwick Place 25 Mosaic Mirage in McKenzie Towne 26 Mosaic Riverstone 27 Copperfield Park II 28 Side by Side Auburn Bay
10 Sonik 11 Champagne
22
Copperfield
4 Einstein 5 Harvest Mosaic
8 The Armory 9 ZEN McKenzie Towne
6
17 Chalet No 4 & No 5 18 Stonecroft at
map
17
18 27
9 2
5 29
30
19
26
28
23
1
7 10
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ADVERTISERS INDEX | ARRIVE at Redstone Partners Development page 24
District Boulevard Investments page 76
Lido Battistella Cover & pages 14-17
Aura Aldebaran Enterprises page 69
Einstein 2 The Providence Group page 87
Liftt Vericon, page 23
Avid Ratings page 78
Evolution Embassy/Bosa page 73
Cardel Lifestyles page 9 Carlisle Group pages 34-35 Chalet No 5 Sabal, page 25 Champagne Remington Development Corp., page 53 CHBA – Calgary Region page 84 Copperfield Park II Brad Remington Homes pages 91 & 96 Courtyards Chestermere page 82
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Glas Avalon Master Builder page 95 Guardian Hon Developments page 80 Harvest Mosaic Brookfield Residential page 42 Hunter House Streetside Developments pages 2 & 29 Kincora Summit Cove Properties, page 5 Kore Real Estate page 74-75
Morena West Rockford, page 59 Mosaic Riverstone Brookfield Residential page 42 Outlook at Waterfront Anthem Properties page 3
Stonekeep at King’s Heights Merge Developments page 92 The Alexander Assured Communities page 63 The Armory Cove Properties page 5 The Edge Streetside Developments page 48
RiverReach Jayman MasterBUILT page 36
The Gates Remington Development Corp. page 41
Smith Grosvenor, page 47
The Groves of Varsity Statesman, page 68
SoBow M2i, page 93
The Landing at Rocky Ridge Swan Group, page 84
Steps at Bridgeland Guistini Development page 30 Stonecroft pages 18-19
The Orchard Lamb Development Corp., page 58 The River Oversize Insert
University Eye Foundation page 40 Valmont Riverbend Developments page 64 VEN Bucci, page 46 Verve Fram/Slokker Developments page 11 Viridian Trico, page 76 Vogue LaCaille Group, page 54 Willow Avi Urban page 4 Zen, Auburn Bay Avalon Master Builder page 6 Zen, Okotoks Avalon Master Builder page 49
FEATURE | Tales from the condo zone
Whack! #%&*! Story by Jim Zang Illustration by Lama Azhari
W
hack! #%&*! It’s a sound immediately recognizable to any golfer. The mating call of the male duffer. But it’s not something you’d expect to hear when you’re on the thirty-second floor of the 42-storey high-rise Swissotel in downtown Chicago. So imagine my surprise when, while in town on business many years ago, I awaken, at 6 a.m. not to my alarm, but to the sounds of someone clearly getting in an early morning round. To the east, there is a nine hole executive golf course right below the building, between it and Lake Michigan. Literally right across the street to the north is the Chicago River and the North Pier, where I was introduced to Dick’s Last Resort. But that’s another story altogether. The building is built in the shape of a tall, skinny triangle, and I can see both east and west from the angle of my room. I go to my window, part the curtains, and look down at the course. There’s nobody on it. Nobody. I’m not sure they’re even open yet. But, gosh, the sunrise sure does look nice over the lake, I think, as I climb back into bed. Whack! #%&*! There it goes again. Eyes wide open now, and probably unable to get back to sleep anyways, I fling off the covers, revealing my Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle boxer shorts, and tromp to the window again. Hmm. This time there’s a ball on one of the greens. And, sure, isn’t that a couple in the bunker? I look up and down the fairway from tee box to green and there still isn’t a person in sight, although I can hear the sound of a lawnmower starting up. Whack! Louder this time. And no #%&*! And, as I’m watching, another ball lands on the green. As if out of nowhere. Again I look for golfers. Again I see no one. Whack! Another one hits the green. Closer to the pin this time. Again, no #%&*! This time, though, I saw the ball hit the green, watched which way it rolled and was able to trace its trajectory backwards to its origin. Just like they would do with a shooting on CSI: Miami. Who says watching TV isn’t educational? Turns out, the balls are actually coming from somewhere above me. From one of the private condos on the top floors. One with a balcony would be a safe guess. Talk about your elevated tee boxes! CL
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