Condo Living October - 2016 by Source Media Group

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2016 | VOLUME 12 ISSUE 202

FOCUS ON 12 | Luminous style The right table lamp can bring personality to the home CONDO PROFILES 19 | Home on the range Avi Urban introduces Buffalo at Silverado 24 | The ZEN zone Peaceful balance is what you’ll find in ZEN Ravenswood 29 | A Village lifestyle! Westman Village breaks ground for new community lifestyle concept in Lake Mahogany 35 | A downsizers’ dream The Gates has more to offer to enjoy an active, fun lifestyle 40 | A testament of faith Avenue’s success rewards developers’ confidence in Calgary 46 | Get in The Loop StreetSide launches highlyanticipated townhome development in the northwest COMMUNITY PROFILE 50 | A pioneer spirit Brookfield Residential’s Livingston is the newest master planned community in the north

COVER FEATURE 14 | Copperfield Park approaches finish line Love It, Live It, Afford It for the last time in Copperfield Park III CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

CONTENTS 50 LIFESTYLE 56 | The sweet spot Hunter House provides the respite needed from busy urban living A DAY IN… THE RED MILE 61 | Red, hot mile With a promising season about to start, it’s time to revisit The Red Mile STYLE 66 | Lights out … in the open Creating drama in an open-concept home with lighting

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE |

AUTUMN AIR

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca

PUBLISHER |

Fall has always been my favourite season. I think especially more so this year after our scorching spring and soggy summer, I’m ready for the crisp coolness of autumn. Oh, and a new hockey season! To prepare us for what looks like a promising season for our beloved Calgary Flames, we shine a spotlight on the Red Mile. I was new to the country and wasn’t quite into ice hockey when the glorious spring of 2003-04 season happened and made me a fan for life, not just of the Flames but of the city itself. The last time I saw that many people spilling onto the streets was during the People Power revolt in the Philippines in 1986, but this one was a lot more fun. But fun in this stretch of 17th Avenue S.W. isn’t limited for just Flames fans, as Shelley Boettcher finds out in her A Day In community feature this issue. This part of the Beltline remains to be its beating entertainment heart, no wonder it’s been a favourite spot for new condos. Speaking of new condos, there’s plenty coming online right now — we get to feature a couple of them in this issue and it will probably be the first time you’ll hear of them, too. These include The Loop by StreetSide Developments in the northwest community of Evanston, and Avi Urban’s Buffalo at Silverado in the southwest. University District also just unveiled their new multi-family developments from Truman and Brookfield Residential (and you can find out more about the latter in my Around Town column). Copperfield Park III is also launching the last building in this hit condo complex from Brad Remington Homes, which we feature in the cover. I can still remember when I first wrote about their first Copperfield Park complex way back in 2011, and the end of that trilogy makes me a little wistful. But not for long, as Brad Remington Homes is still doing what it does best with the My Legacy Park development in the southeast community of Legacy (new show suites for that are opening soon, too). We also have Jayman BUILT’s revolutionary new development, Westman Village in Mahogany, that just broke ground and promises to bring a new lifestyle component in multi-family community living. Avenue West End by Grosvenor just off the Core is also going strong as it topped off the first of two towers. And The Gates, which is down to its final units, is a blessing to its residents as its location in the heart of booming Quarry Park just continues NEXT MONTH: to pay off with the opening of a new state-of-the-art The kitchen issue recreation centre, and of course its quiet riverside lifestyle. ZEN Ravenswood brings us to Airdrie where Avalon Master Builder’s expertise in townhome development is very much in display. You can also find out all about lighting style in our twin stories from David Crosson, who talks about how to style your lighting needs, and Kathy McCormick who tells us what kinds of pendant lighting are available and where you can get them. These are just a small sample of what’s available in the city, and if you check out the Livingston community feature, Brookfield Residential’s new master planned community in the north central area, makes it just a wonderful fall.

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

Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca Vivian Zhang vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR |

EDITORIAL

Maria Bartolotti, Shelley Boettcher, Darlene Casten, David Crosson, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick, Richard White, Bernice Winter, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY

Don Molyneaux ADVERTISING SALES | Heather Dougall heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING | Norma Robertson accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY

Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSUE 202 • ISSN 1918-4409 © 2016 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission from 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., 6109 — 6th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9; Tel 403.532.3101 Toll free 1.888.932.3101; www.sourcemediagroup.ca

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CondoLivingCalgary

FOCUS ON |

Luminous style 10 The right table lamp can bring personality to the home BY AALIYA ESSA

CREATING A NEW look for any room in your home can be as easy as simply adding in a decorative lamp, where you have another source of light, and also a new either colourful, eye-catching element to your space. With so many options to choose from, that suit and compliment your personality, table lamps are perfect for creating a brighter new look. CL

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9 7 [ 1 ] Bohemian Crystal Table Lamp, $199 at Pier1 Imports. [ 2 ] Orda Table Lamp, $199 at Crate and Barrel. [ 3 ] Ella Golden Yellow Table Lamp, $149 at Crate and Barrel. [ 4 ] Lampan Table Lamp – Pink, $6.99 at IKEA. [ 5 ] Fillsta Table Lamp – White, $18.99 at IKEA. [ 6 ] Teal Honeycomb Table Lamp, $75 at Pier1 Imports. [ 7 ] Jolie Table Lamp, $369 at Crate and Barrel. [ 8 ] Swirls and Drops Table Lamp, $129 at Pier1 Imports. [ 9 ] Etched Birches Table Lamp, $199 at Pier1 Imports. [ 10 ] SÅNGEN Table Lamp – Dark Red, $29.99 at IKEA.

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COPPERFIELD APPROACHES

s Copperfield Park launches the final building in its trilogy, buyers can be confident in the fact that this amazing series of apartment-style condos and townhomes by Brad Remington Homes had created the blueprint by which today’s multifamily developments are being built and marketed in Calgary. Copperfield Parks I, II and III were all trail blazers in the field. They established the mantra “Love It, Live It, Afford It” as a call for anyone needing a home that there is a place where they can not only own a home they can afford, but where they can also enjoy a lifestyle that they never thought possible. “Our Copperfield Park series changed the landscape of condo development in Calgary,” says Bryan Logel, Brad Remington Homes vice president of sales and marketing. “There are more or less a thousand people living in our Copperfield Park series who are loving life as homeowners.” Now, as they release their final building of their hit Copperfield Park III condos, Logel says they saved the best for

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last with “super affordable” suites with terrific mountain views and backing onto landscaped green space. And with starting prices from the low $150,000s, he believes it is an unbeatable combination of value and style. Copperfield Park III is already 75 per cent sold out of its total 360 suites, and the final building with 76 suites will be the final opportunity to own a new condo in this trend setting development, perhaps in the whole of Copperfield. The popular southeast community by Hopewell Residential is itself also fast approaching build out, which is a good thing for those just thinking of moving here, as they will find an already established, familyfriendly, easily-accessible community.

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PARK FINISH LINE

Love It, Live It, Afford It for the last time in Copperfield Park III

“Everything is already there, from in-community convenience stores, schools, parks, tot lots and pathways. Everything that our buyers find important to their lives is already found in Copperfield,” he points out. It was this recognition of the promise that Copperfield held at the onset, as well as Brad Remington’s own acumen in building stylishly affordable condos gained through his 30-plus years in the industry that paved the way for their success here. “Copperfield Park I was the initial offering of Brad Remington Homes and it just raced out of the gate,” Logel remembers. “Our theme of ‘love it, live it, afford it’ has really resounded with our buyers, who look at us as the best, most affordable way to get out of the rental trap and create equity in their own home.” A big part of their success is their flexibility in accommodating their buyers’ needs. “Listening to buyer feedback and having the ability to put those changes in place has been crucial for us,” Logel points out. “This is where Brad’s lifetime of experience in building multi-family homes comes in, and we’re able to improve our homes, make the many enhancements, and maintain our fantastic low prices.”

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“THERE ARE MORE OR LESS A THOUSAND PEOPLE LIVING IN OUR COPPERFIELD PARK SERIES WHO ARE LOVING LIFE AS HOMEOWNERS.”

And that lifetime of listening to customer needs has culminated in some of the best floor plans in Copperfield Park III’s final building. “We have everything from our amazing one-bedroom plans to our amazingly functional three-bedroom, two-bath end units, the largest we have and perfect for downsizing couples or young families with little kids,” he says. “We have always attracted downsizers who want to stay in this well-established neighbourhood, and young couples and singles wanting to make homeownership a reality, or newly singles who find a good home here after changes in their lives.” What Copperfield Park III offers is quite enticing for all demographics. One-bedroom models are from 565 square-feet and start from the mid$100,000s, while new and improved two and three-bedroom suites are from 858 to 973 square-feet that start from the low to mid-$200,000s. The final building (Building 3000) will back onto a park and have some of the most spectacular views of the Rockies. “This building will have the best views in the entire community, and I anticipate we will be sold out by year end,” Logel says. Of course, buyers can still expect standards like large kitchens that have enough space for elements like an island that doubles as a dining area and space to prepare food. Logel says the Copperfield Park III kitchens have ample counter space and compares it to what can be found in single-family homes. Other luxuries like stainless steel appliances, granite or quartz counters, walk-through closets, extra storage space and titled parking are some of the creature comforts that come standard. Copperfield Park III has six show suites where buyers can get an idea of the kind of lifestyle that awaits them here.

“Buyers have to act now if they want the chance to live in Copperfield Park III, with interest rates still at historic lows, you can’t pass on this opportunity for homeownership,” Logel says. n

FA S T FACTS COMMUNITY: Copperfield PROJECT: Copperfield Park III DEVELOPER: Brad Remington Homes STYLE: Apartment-style condos SIZE: From 565 sq. ft. one-bedroom, to 973 sq. ft. two-bedrooms, 945 sq. ft. three-bedrooms PRICE: From the mid-$100,000s to mid-$200,000s SALES OFFICE: 755 Copperpond Blvd. S.E. DIRECTIONS: East on 130 Ave. S.E. to Copperpond Blvd S.E. WEBSITE: www.copperfieldpark.com

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HOME ON THE RANGE

Avi Urban introduces Buffalo at Silverado BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

t may be easy to imagine deer and antelope playing along the rolling prairie grasslands surrounding Silverado, and soon it will also be a home where Buffalo roams — Buffalo at Silverado, that is. This latest multi-family townhome development from Avi Urban, the multi-family division of Homes by Avi, is launching this fall, and is designed to give its residents the full advantage of the mountain views, an active lifestyle and easy-living convenience that Silverado is famous for. Silverado is tucked in Calgary’s southernmost corner at the edge of the venerable Spruce Meadows equestrian grounds, and its peaceful countryside setting belies the tremendous big city amenities readily found at hand. Buffalo at Silverado will actually be the second time that Avi Urban is developing here; their sold out Sawyer at Silverado was first. The difference is that where Sawyer is comprised of one- and two-bedroom apartment condos, Buffalo will be devoted entirely for townhomes. But it will be unlike any townhome complex Silverado has seen. For one thing, Avi Urban will be bringing their vaunted inner-city urban design sensibilities to fore.

“Buffalo incorporates the latest in home design with a contemporary interpretation of a craftsman inspired exterior. We combine that with modern and highly livable interiors complemented with a specification that is durable, functional and highly attractive,” Avi Urban President Charron Ungar says. “We recognized in our development process that South Calgary needed a new development that catered to a sophisticated, yet price conscious buyer. That is why we have targeted a price bracket that will appeal to buyers interested in their first home, or looking to take advantage of more space available through a full basement, private back yard and plenty of storage areas,” he adds.

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SILVERADO HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER TODAY’S SAVVY TOWNHOME BUYER Buffalo at Silverado takes on a colonial built form combined with craftsman detailing, which compliments the existing architecture within the community and captivates the mountainous atmosphere of the southwest. It will be a low-density development of 88 two-storey townhomes. Two- and three-bedroom townhomes are offered in three floor plans ranging in size from 1,280 to 1,392 square-feet. Prices will be in the $290,000s Ungar says Silverado has so much to offer today’s savvy townhome buyer. “In Silverado, people can expect to find a unique balance of rural and urban living. Amenities, such as the Silverado Marketplace and Shawnessy, are easily accessible. Residents will be able to take advantage of ample green space, parks and pathways, which encourage connectivity among residents and create a laidback atmosphere to unwind at the end of a long day.” The master planned community by United Communities provides sets a high standard of living within the city. The environmentally conscious community is inspired by the mountainous and prairie landscape surrounding it. An abundance of green space and pathways, combined with commercial amenities, and ease of accessibility make this a well-balanced and sustainable place to call home.

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Another thing going for Silverado is that it is that the community is approaching completion. “All the community amenities are in place. Parks are blossoming, local shops and schools are already built and open, and all the construction typically found in developing communities has long since passed. There is something special about having a community already built all around you the day you move into your new home,” Ungar says. All of which is why he remains confident for Buffalo’s success. “There is most definitely a market for new homes in Calgary, if they are designed for today’s buyer, lo-

cated in a great community and priced right,” Ungar says. “With Buffalo we have really driven our fundamental principles for the development on these three pillars. I believe that the response will be a good one, and judging by the interest we have received from our landing page on AviUrban.com/buffalo, we can expect that more people will register for information as we get closer to launch next month.” Registrations are now open and sales will begin October 1, 2016. The on-site sales centre will highlight a kitchen and bathroom reflecting the interior design concept for the project. First possessions are estimated for late 2017. CL

FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Silverado PROJECT: Buffalo at Silverado DEVELOPER: Avi Urban STYLE: Two- and three-bedroom townhomes SIZE: From 1,280 to 1,392 sq. ft. PRICE: In the $290,000s ADDRESS: 180 Silverado Blvd S.W, SALES CENTRE HOURS: Monday to Thursday – 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. DIRECTIONS: From westbound Highway 22X, turn left on Sheriff King St. S.W. and right on Silverado Blvd. and follow the signs. WEBSITE: www.aviurban.com/buffalo CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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ZEN ZONE The

Peaceful balance is what you’ll find in ZEN Ravenswood BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

valon Master Builder has truly mastered the townhome concept with their line of ZEN townhomes, and their latest location in Airdrie’s Ravenswood proves further their ability in bringing an environment of equanimity to the townhome lifestyle. Less than two years since it was launched, ZEN Ravenswood is already 65 percent sold (75 of 119 homes). “We only have three buildings left to start and this community will be done for the middle of 2017,” says Terra Davidson, Avalon’s sales and marketing manager. ZEN Ravenswood is a kind of homecoming for Avalon, as the very first project under the ZEN brand was built in Airdrie. There have been several ZEN projects since, but ZEN in Ravenswood will be the first time that the multi-awarded developer will offer three home designs in this popular series of Townhomes and Garden homes. ZEN in Ravenswood offers a nice mix of two-storey townhomes with individual fenced backyards, single-level garden homes with private courtyard patios, and a new version of townhomes with single-car attached garage. Priced from the $240,000s, all three floor plan styles are still available, and all three seem to be a hit with buyers. “Why? Because there is something for everyone,” Davidson says. “Someone just starting out might love the price point of the two storey stacked homes. Starting a family or having a roommate — our townhomes with basements leave you with more space develop so everyone has room. “If you are downsizing and love a bungalow — you will love the Garden homes. And if you have owned a smaller condo and ready to move in to something larger, our garage townhomes are perfect,” she says. “We already have homeowners living in all of our three product types — traditional townhomes with basements for optional development, stacked townhomes and townhomes with garages. Homeowners live in nine of the 15 buildings on site,” she adds. Davidson says buyers have responded very well to what Avalon has always included in a ZEN community, including fenced backyards so everyone has

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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Ravenswood, Airdrie PROJECT: ZEN Ravenswood DEVELOPER: Avalon Master Builder STYLE: Single-level garden homes, singlegarage two-storey townhomes, and double-

their own piece of outdoor space. “And as a result many of our homeowners have dogs. SIZE: From 1,026 to 1,363 square-feet AND we NEVER put size restrictions on dogs in our communities (like so many townhome PRICE: Starts in the $240,000s communities do) and they can have two dogs!” ADDRESS: 2400 Ravenswood View, And of course people love the quality of Airdrie an Avalon home. “Part of that quality is the DIRECTIONS: North on Deerfoot Tr., energy efficiency we build in to every home saving 30 per cent of the utility costs,” Davidturn right on Yankee Valley Blvd., turn son says. “And these homes are built to last right on Kings Heights Gt. and left onto with products like Hardie Board exteriors,” Ravenswood Dr. and follow the signs. she points out. WEBSITE: www.zeninbalance.com Buyers also responded well to the standards a ZEN townhome offers. Laminate floors, quartz countertops in the kitchen, pot lights throughout the main floor, “everything that’s included in every home and that people LOVE!!! And you work with our new home planner to make the home truly yours,” Davidson says. Their location in Airdrie’s southeast neighbourhood of Ravenswood also works well. “If you work in Calgary, we’re just off Highway 2 with less lights to negotiate,” she adds. “And the kinds of amenities that you readily have is off the charts,” she says, pointing out the retail shops, restaurants and groceries in Kings’ Heights commercial area is just a few minutes away. When we built ZEN in Kings Height we knew there would be retail, restaugarage two-storey townhomes

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Laminate floors, quartz countertops in the kitchen, pot lights throughout the main floor, “everything that’s included in every home and that people LOVE!!! And you work with our new home planner to make the home truly yours.” rants and shops in the area but we had no idea how many amenities it would include. You are steps away from anything and everything,” she adds. ZEN specifically offers a low maintenance lifestyle with a home that is so modern and affordable that you can still have a life. “Monthly payments are way less than rent. All from a 30-year builder with a proven customer service record. We really care about our customers… we don’t just say that. We want our your new home to be all you wanted it to be.” It’s easier to own a ZEN Ravenswood townhome now more than ever with their special limited promotion. Avalon will pay your mortgage for six months when you purchase a quick possession townhome at ZEN Ravenswood. “That leaves you thousands of dollars to spend on what you want!” Davidson says. CL

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A VILLAGE LIFESTYLE!

Westman Village breaks ground for new community lifestyle concept in Lake Mahogany BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

or 36 years, Jayman BUILT has informed the way Calgarians want to live with their award-winning array of homes from starter products all the way up to million-dollar estate homes. Now, the renowned legacy home builder is bringing all their insight and expertise in creating lifestyle-centric living in their most ambitious project yet — Westman Village in Mahogany. Westman Village, in fact, takes the concept much further, as it sculpts a lifestyle for an entire community, and across generational lines. It is a visionary project that will be made up of some 887 multi-family homes on complete build out and will include condos, adult living, choice rental, and estate bungalow components. “Seriously, this is ground-breaking in more than just the literal sense! In fact, Westman Village not only breaks ground on their 13.5 acre site, they have also started construction on their amenity centre, the Village Centre so that it will be open before anyone moves in,” says Lisa Feist, Vice President for Marketing of Jayman BUILT’s planned communities. CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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“We are building Village Centre first because we want the homeowners to enjoy that amenity as soon as possible. Living at Westman Village gets twice — no three times — the amenity. The Mahogany Beach Club offers 22,000 square-feet in amenity space (think gym, flex space, studio space, skating!) and Westman Village offers 35,000 square-feet to add to that amenity! “That’s 57,000 square-feet of fun, relaxing, good living, friendship and you haven’t even stepped outside yet!” says Feist. “We almost accomplished eradicating winter, connectivity is crazy on this site — three plus 15’s, two underground tunnels that get you connected to the entire site! And, yet, you still haven’t stepped outside! Don’t pack a gym bag, just saunter over to your own fitness centre for some cardio or play pickle ball with your neighbor! Got the munchies? Grab and go from the bistro before heading over to the theatre for movie night. Stop by at the concierge desk and check on those hockey tickets you ordered for the weekend! At any given time, there could be over 20 different activities to choose from! All up to you and all right out your door.” A little bit farther out your door is two high quality restaurants — HeadQuarters for healthy, exquisite cuisine and Chairman’s Steakhouse over looking the lake or the

“The opportunity to experience more things, make more memories, choose how you spend your time is all there for the taking at Westman Village.”

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water fountain display. Walk just across the street, around the corner to Hopewell’s retail center for a convenient services such as banking, groceries, more dining choice and the future LRT station — over 30 different retailers to choose from! Or stay closer to home and shop at your 25,000 square-feet of Westman Village retailers that are hand-selected to enhance your urban living experience in the comforts of a suburban community. “This offers Westman Village residents a tangible connection between our home environment and our wellbeing. The opportunity to experience more things, make more memories, choose how you spend your time is all there for the taking at Westman Village. Since our opening in June, we are thrilled to say our homeowners agree — this is a one of a kind experience and they are all in!” Inside the home, Jayman BUILT has left nothing on the field, your home selection can be from the Calligraphy apartment condos, the Lyric choice rental apartments; the Journey Club adult only residences; and the upscale Reflection executive bungalows. Westman Village offers every built form on one site with the exception of single family. Of course, because Mahogany already has that valuable offering for those in the mind of single family homes! All of this from Jayman BUILT, integrated together with the expertise of two architectural firms, Integra & NORR and our operating partner Christenson Developments for Journey Club. These skilled artists wove a beautiful tapestry of architectural design both inside & out with an extensive landscaping theme (with Kim Perry & Associates) — wetlands in Journey Club and beautifully cultivated water features in Calligraphy and Lyric. Feist says, “you wouldn’t believe the detail and the perseverance these design teams went through. Evaluating, considering, re-drawing and re-thinking how we live, how we interact and how we can best connect. We talked about plate colors in

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Wine, crafts, wood working, hot yoga, spin cycle, movie night, grab to go food, a cardio work out, a game of pickle ball or just a relaxing read in the library or out on the terrace! A wonderful, one of a kind lifestyle opportunity! the restaurants, the color of stones in the water features in summer & in winter, the exposure to the elements, the reflection on the windows, the heat in your home, the entry feature when you arrive, the programming of amenities, the operational details, the longevity of the exteriors and so much more. It’s fascinating and truly something from the heart of all the design team.” “This design team has brought the right ecodensity to Calgary — the commitment to environmental sustainability, the right density, the right suite mix, the right functionality and, most important, the right price. At all times, we did an affordability gut check for all that was being offered. If it was not reasonable or value-add, it didn’t make it. If we missed it, we added it in! Like solar on every building!” This is a must see first-hand in the 8,000 square-feet of sales centres here in Calgary. One located at onsite sales centre in Mahogany and one centre located at Jayman BUILT offices. Both centres have two show suites featuring the fit & finish in our Calligraphy, Lyric and Journey Club suites. Visit our Overture project in Currie Barracks to see what will be Reflection product in Westman Village. Come visit us and hear about the planning, the

vision and how you can become a part of the Westman Village — we would love to share these moments with you. We have a full 10 foot scale model of the site, fly-thru animation and interactive touch screen for your home selection. So, both locations are very important to visit as each centre offers insight into Westman Village and the vision for what’s to come — more out your door! See the replica’s of elements within the project, the connectivity, the community that can fully support your daily activities and express and nurture your best thoughts, memories, and experiences. You will discover wine cellar, crafts, wood working, hot yoga, spin cycle, movie night, learn to make perogies night, a cardio work out, basketball or just a relaxing read in the library or out on the terrace! A wonderful, one of a kind lifestyle opportunity!

“It’s a beautiful vision that AC Westman had always believed in. And now, after 36 years of building award-winning homes, it all comes down to bringing his vision to life by creating a community like no other at Westman Village,” Feist says. CL

FA S T FAC TS DEVELOPMENT: Westman Village COMMUNITY: Mahogany STYLE: Apartment-style condos, rental suites, active living residences and executive bungalow estate homes PRICES: To be announced SALES CENTRES: Calligraphy and Lyric apartment suites – 1955 Mahogany Blvd. S.E. Journey active living suites and Reflection bungalows – JaymanBUILT Centre, 100 3132 – 118th Ave. S.E. HOURS: Calligraphy and Lyric – Monday to Friday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m. Journey and Reflection – Monday to Friday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.westmanvillage.com

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DOWNSIZERS’

DREAM The Gates has more to offer in enjoying an active, fun lifestyle BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

ownsizing never held the same amount of dread for Kathy Baehr and Charles Kalas that it has on others. Living 25 years in Riverbend in a 2,700-square-foot bungalow, they knew it was time to scale down as their children have moved out and yard work has become more cumbersome than ever. “We were excited about downsizing, especially after we found The Gates,” Kathy tells Condo Living. “We just knew this was the one for us,” she adds. “We were quite looking forward to becoming empty-nesters, and finally we’ve done it,” Charles adds. It was by no means a decision they came to arbitrarily — there was a fair amount of fact gathering and comparing that went into it. They knew they wanted to remain in the Riverbend area so they did their homework and looked at other developments. In the end, they knew that only The Gates would suffice.

Kathy Baehr and Charles Kalas

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“We found everything we were looking for in a condo here.”

“We found everything we were looking for in a condo here,” Kathy says. Their 1,070-square-foot two-bedroom, two-bath suite answers all their storage needs and was a seamless fit for their lifestyle. “The one thing I was worried about in downsizing was finding adequate storage in a condo, thankfully our unit here has more than enough for our needs,” Kathy says. The open-concept design even accommodated most of their furniture from the

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old place and the neutral colours of the spec unit they bought worked better than they expected. “Everything blended well and it couldn’t have worked out better for us,” says Kathy. They didn’t even feel the need to upgrade any of the standard specs that their unit came with. “We have contemporary tastes, and we like the suite’s modern look,” Kathy says. But what really cinched the deal for them was its location. The Gates is in the heart of Quarry Park — the new multi-use, riverside community along 18th Street S.E. developed by Remington Development Corporation — who also built The Gates and the Champagne luxury condos just down the street. Both Kathy and Charles lead very active lifestyles and The Gates’ location in Quarry Park is crisscrossed by plenty of bike paths and walking lanes by the Bow River just behind them. But the absolute kicker is having the new Quarry Park (Remington YMCA) Recreation Facility right in the neighbourhood. “We used to have our own basement gym in the old house, but that’s nothing compared to what we have now at this recreation centre, which is so accessible to us,” Charles says.

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“We couldn’t be happier with our decision to buy our condo unit in The Gates, everything just worked out perfectly for us.” square-feet with 11-foot ceilings on the top floor for $315,000. There’s one similar to Kathy and Charles’ unit at 1,060 square-feet, two-bed and two-bath on the ground floor at $369,000. Remington’s Champagne luxury condo is likewise down to its final units. “We are currently selling the final phase of Champagne, Building 5, with homes available for immediate possession. The project is over 90 per cent sold but we do have some one-bed, two-bed plus den and custom penthouse suites still available,” McGarvey says. Show suites for The Gates are available to view on appointment. Kathy and Charles did also look at Champagne, but they say the more modern look of The Gates was more attuned to their style. “We couldn’t be happier with our decision to buy our condo unit in The Gates, everything just worked out perfectly for us,” Kathy says. CL

The Quarry Park recreation facility, opening this September, has approximately 94,000 square–feet of leisure, recreational and community amenities, including a 25-metre, six-lane pool, a small leisure pool, hot tubs and steam room, a fitness centre with cardio and strength training equipment, and running/walking track. Not to mention a full service Calgary Public Library (relocation of the Glenmore Square Library) and childcare and child-minding services. “We’ve been looking forward to this since plans were announced several years ago, and having this so near our home at The Gates is certainly wonderful,” Kathy says. It’s not just Charles and Kathy that have found this true about The Gates, as the boutique, low-rise condo development is already 70 per cent sold. Adrienne McGarvey of the Remington Development residential sales team says their location is a big part of their success. “You can literally walk out of your front door and be on the river pathway systems within a minute. There are restaurants, and pubs already at the nearby Quarry Market — which is turning into the cultural and social hub it was designed to be — and the latest addition of the YMCA just adds to our cache as a live-work-play community,” she adds. “The Gates also offers class leading quality, spacious floor plans and outstanding value which really sets it apart from other condo projects.” Still available is a one-bed-plus-den unit at 770

FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Quarry Park PROJECT: The Gates DEVELOPER: Remington Development Corporation STYLE: Apartment condos SIZE: From 770 sq. ft. one-bedroom plus den to 1,100 sq. ft. two-bedrooms PRICE: From the $315,000s ADDRESS: 39 Quarry Gate S.E. PRESENTATION GALLERY: 350 Quarry Park Boulevard S.E. DIRECTIONS: From north, take Glenmore Trail S.W. to 18 St. East exit, and turn right onto Quarry Park Blvd S.E. From south, take Deerfoot Trail north until exit 241. Turn onto 24 St S.E. and turn left onto 18 St. S.E. Turn left onto Quarry Park Blvd S.E. WEBSITE: www.quarrypark.ca

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A TESTAMENT Avenue’s success rewards developers’ confidence in Calgary

BY PORTIA YIP

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he established, serene and central downtown West End welcomes the newest condominium development, Avenue, to the neighbourhood. This modern two-tower residential development offers an effortless urban lifestyle one can expect when living riverside in the heart of Calgary. “The West End is already an established residential node and Avenue is the first building to be introduced to this side of downtown in the past 10 years,” says Robert Duteau, Senior Vice-President of Development at Grosvenor. Avenue brings a luxurious presence to the corner of 5th Avenue and 10th Street S.W. as construction of the first phase, a 24 storey tower, is well underway with anticipated completion in Spring 2017. Avenue is brought to you by two trusted developers — Grosvenor Americas and Cressey Developments, both known for design excellence across Canada and around the world.

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OF FAITH

Avenue and Smith, Grosvenor’s other residential condo development located in the Beltline district, are a true testament to the developer’s confidence and commitment in Calgary. “We think the Alberta advantage is still alive and well because you can still move here and gain employment at a level that allows you to own real estate,” Duteau says. “We have a great deal of confidence in Calgary and we’re actively getting ready for the next round of projects.” This confidence is paying off. Avenue is over 78 per cent sold, with a great selection of one and two bedroom homes available. Sizes range from 572 to 2,315 square-feet and prices start at $374,900. Avenue’s spacious 2,315 square-foot two-level penthouse suite is truly one of a kind; it has world-class finishings and appliances along with a breathtaking 2,000 square foot private terrace that spans the entire rooftop. A lot of its popularity stems from the well-designed living spaces that exude an air of luxurious comfort with flexible and seamless features found nowhere else in the city. CresseyKitchenTM, an integrated and revolutionary kitchen space, debuts at Avenue and is the first of its kind in Calgary. “Cressey Developments is one of the most prolific and successful developers in Vancouver, and Avenue is the first development to bring the Cressey trademarked kitchen to Calgary,” says Duteau. “It’s a kitchen design that essentially creates a larger space by offering high-efficient workspaces, an abundance

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“There’s a trendiness, yet it also has a distinctly residential feel with immediate access to the Bow River pathway system or Prince’s Island Park.”

of storage space and an aesthetically pleasing look and feel.” There are other thoughtful and well-crafted details including air-conditioning in all homes, wide plank engineered hardwood flooring in the main areas, heated porcelain tiles in the elegant bathrooms and expansive oversized terraces. The residents of Avenue will have exclusive access to the on-site concierge, a state-ofthe-art fitness facility, an owner’s lounge, dedicated bike workshop and a shared dog wash station. As Duteau describes, the building itself is a statement piece with a dramatic and rich façade of granite and glass. “James Cheng, the architect, is really well known for his contemporary design,” he says. “The goal is to bring in more luxury and high-end finishings in addition to an efficient design both inside and out.” With so much to look forward to at Avenue, the biggest draw Duteau highlights is the location, which has been key to the building’s success. “The location offers the utmost in convenience,” he says. “There’s a trendiness, yet it also has a distinctly residential feel with immediate access to the Bow River pathway system or Prince’s Island Park.” Avenue is only steps away from the downtown core, two blocks away from the nearest C-Train station, which is within the downtown free fare zone, and is down the street from major arteries such as Crowchild Trail, Bow Trail and 14th Street. “There’s an unmistakable urban feel to the area and right around the corner there’s nightlife; Calgary’s best restaurants and the trendy boutiques in Kensington,” says Duteau. From young and professional lifestyle buyers interested in living in a central and urban location, to downsizers looking for a luxurious yet maintenance-free home, Grosvenor’s latest project has attracted Calgarians from all walks of life. Even in today’s economy, Grosvenor is committed to investing in the future of Calgary. As a world renowned organization, Grosvenor has been building a leg-

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acy internationally for 345 years and locally in Calgary for over 30 years. They know a good investment when they see one. “We have two large projects coming up (in Calgary’s Beltline) that will be mixeduse and incorporate a commercial aspect to them, a live-work-play type of ethos, and a little different than what we’re doing today,” says Duteau. “But the residential component is still very similar, and it will appeal to those seeking a convenient lifestyle choice of living urban and central.” For more information on Avenue or enquiries about the show suites, contact the sales centre or visit the website at www. avenuewestend.com. CL

FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: West End PROJECT: Avenue DEVELOPER: Grosvenor in partnership with Cressey Development Group STYLE: Luxury apartment-style condos and townhomes SIZE: From 572 to 1,734 sq. ft. PRICE: Starting from $374,900 SALES CENTRE: 1037 5th Ave S.W. HOURS: Monday to Wednesday noon to 6 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m., closed Thursday and Friday WEBSITE: www.avenuewestend.com

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GET IN

StreetSide launches highlyanticipated townhome development in the northwest

THE LOOP BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

“IT’S NOT A VERY DENSE PROJECT AND, LIKE ALL OTHER STREETSIDE DEVELOPMENTS, IT IS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO BLEND WITH THE NATURAL LANDSCAPE OF THE AREA.” 46 |

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ristine views of the natural landscape of the northwest, coupled with the easy living amenities of an established community has made it easy for StreetSide Developments to decide where they will launch their latest development. The Loop is StreetSides ‘newest project located in the popular community of Evanston. The Loop also marks StreetSide’s return to this Qualico Communities’ neighbourhood after the sell-out success of Evanston Square back in 2013. But where Evanston Square offered townhomes and condo units, The Loop will be dedicated solely to townhomes. They will be offering three types of two-storey townhomes with seven different floor plans. Two- or three-bedroom units will be available, all with single or tandem garages in the back. The Loop will consist of four phases that wrap around a circular natural preserve. “It’s not a very dense project and, like all other StreetSide developments, it is designed specifically to blend with the natural landscape of the area,” says Kimberley Orr, StreetSide’s senior marketing coordinator.

Artists’ concept. Subject to change. E & OE.

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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Evanston PROJECT: The Loop DEVELOPER: StreetSide Development Corporation STYLE: Row townhomes with single and tandem garages “For one thing, each home will not look directly into their neighbours’ backyards and will instead have views of the individual landscape themes in the centre of each phase.” Adding to the overall character of the development are the individual landscape theming that has been incorporated into every phase which will showcase the variety of landscapes from Southern Alberta: The first phase, which will have 36 townhomes, will feature a Rocky Mountain theme. The second phase with 63 townhomes will have the Parkland motif. Phases 3 and 4 will have Foothills and Grasslands themes, respectively. The Hardie Board and vinyl siding blend of the exteriors complement the Salt Box design of the townhomes. Saltbox design is known mostly for its pitched roof and relatively simple, flat front and crescent shaped buildings. As well, the use of a monochromatic background (shades of grey and earth tones) coupled with a pop of colour at mirror points of each building and the front door help to add a strong thematic scheme in each phase. This is the first time we’ve done a development in this style, and it just goes to show how StreetSide is always innovating our designs to fit each location — it’s never one-sizefits-all with us,” Orr says. Standards include nine-foot ceilings and even bigger windows made possible by the Salt Box design. The seven floor plans range from 1,104 to 1,311 square-feet, all with luxury vinyl plank flooring, tile and stainless steel kitchen appliances. Prices start from the $270,000s (plus GST). Functional design is at heart in the interiors with lots of storage spaces, including a kitchen with eating bar, full-size pantry and plenty of cupboard space, which Orr says is hard to find in other developments. The master bedroom also has a full ensuite and walk-in closet. The amenity-rich community of Evanston and the active lifestyle it promotes with its multitude of recreational opportunities has made putting The Loop here the inevitable choice. “It’s perfect for young families, couples and singles and downsizers who want to lead an active lifestyle in an affordable community,” Orr says.

SIZE: 1,104 to 1,311 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $270,000s ADDRESS: 11 Evanscrest Mews N.W. HOURS: Opening Oct. 15, 2016 Mon to Thurs 2 – 8 p.m. Noon to 5 p.m. weekends and holidays WEBSITE: www.liveintheloop.ca This is why StreetSide is giving away a pair of kona commuter bikes during their Block Party launch event for The Loop on Saturday, October 15. “We want to impress on buyers the kind of lifestyle that Evanston offers, there’s so many walkways and bike lines in the neighbourhood you’ll never be at a loss to find something to do in the community.” People also love that Evanston is an established community where they can walk to the local grocery store and shops and there are already acres of developed parks and pathways. There is plenty to experience within the community of Evanston, with the nearby Evanston Towne Centre a short walk down the street, which includes Sobeys, Shopper’s Drug Mart, Royal Bank along with other essential services. With easy access to Stoney Trail other amenities like Cross Iron Mills, Costco, T&T Supermarket and the airport are all within a 10 to15-minute drive time. Getting around in Evanston is easy, she adds, thanks to the opening of 14th Street and the extension of Shaganappi Trail. “You can go in any direction in the city within five minutes from our location,” she says. An onsite presentation centre will be opening on Saturday, October 15 at 12 pm kicking off a Block Party with a food truck, give-aways and exclusive pricing for attendees. Interested parties can register at liveintheloop.ca. CL

THE AMENITY-RICH COMMUNITY OF EVANSTON AND THE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE IT PROMOTES WITH ITS MULTITUDE OF RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES HAS MADE PUTTING THE LOOP HERE THE INEVITABLE CHOICE.

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A PIONEER

“[Livingston is] the next generation community built with extensive input from Calgarians. From concept and design, there are mindful touches that will create greater connections among residents, whether it’s the streetscape, home entrance design, green spaces or gathering places…” 50 |

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SPIRIT

Brookfield Residential’s Livingston is the newest master planned community in the north BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

ommunities shape lives. One of Calgary’s best known pioneers, Sam Livingston, certainly was aware of this fact even back in 1876 when he founded one of the first farms in what was then a small but booming town. Today, his pioneering spirit and sense of brining people together lives on in Brookfield Residential’s newest master planned community: Livingston. Brookfield Residential’s vision for Livingston will in fact be all about togetherness; creating the connections that binds the community, offering an environment for the growth of shared values, and upholding the sense of collaboration and connection that Sam Livingston stood for. And in doing so, create a new image of north Calgary. “Livingston is Calgary’s new north,” says Trent Edwards, Chief Operating Officer, Brookfield Residential Alberta. “It’s the next generation community built with extensive input from Calgarians. From concept and design, there are mindful touches that will create greater connections among residents, whether it’s the streetscape, home entrance design, green spaces or gathering places like the resident association. Construction for Livingston has already begun in earnest after groundbreaking ceremonies last June and a grand opening is planned for early spring next year. “There is so much excitement for Livingston. We are seeing that many Calgarians have been waiting patiently for a new community to come to North Central Calgary,” says Jessie Seymour, Brookfield Residential Senior Manager, Strategic Marketing. Livingston, located off Centre Street N.W. and Stoney Trail, is 25 minutes from the downtown core. When fully developed, it will be home to 30,000 Calgarians and become one of the most significant residential, employment and commercial hubs in the city, anticipated

to provide some 7,000 full-time jobs. The community is over 1,200 acres in size, and will have 11,000 housing units (6,500 single family homes and 4,500 multi-family units). This will include apartment-style condos, townhomes, street towns, laned duplexes, laned homes, and front drive garage homes. The first few initial phases of the community will have apartments by Avi Urban; street towns by Homes by Avi; townhomes, duplexes and laned homes from Brookfield; laned homes from Morrison Homes and front drive garage homes by Jayman BUILT, Morrison Homes, and Cedarglen Homes. The first phase of Livingston will include almost 400 homes, and its home builder group will be launching pre-sales this fall. “Lots have yet to be released, however, we anticipate that homes will range starting from $200,000s to the low $500,000s. We also believe that approximately 70 per cent of the homes in Livingston will be below $450,000,” Seymour tells Condo Living. But, like in any Brookfield Residential community, the type of housing available isn’t as important as the kind of lifestyle residents can expect. And in Livingston, they can expect a lot. “We wanted a community that raised the bar and set a new standard for community. Livingston is a large community, but it is connected by green space, parks and pathways, schools, an energetic urban corridor and town centre,” Seymour says. At the heart of the community will be the community homeowners’ association, a 30,000-square-foot facility (completion

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“We are passionate about this city. We have seen Alberta go through a difficult time recently, but that being said we know that Alberta is resilient.” by 2020) on a seven-acre park that is expected to be the social and cultural heart of the community. “This will be a place where residents come to gather, play games, host birthday parties, family reunions, attend a cooking class or learn a new language. This will be where kids meet their best friends and maybe moms do, too,” Seymour says. Livingston will be replete in amenities within and outside the community. There will be six schools (two Public Elementary schools, one public middle school, one public high school, a K-9 Catholic school, and a Catholic middle school). It will also have 20 acres of environmental reserve, over 200 acres of open space and parks, a future transit green line terminus. The vision for Livingston also includes 1,000,000 square-feet of office and commercial space, a proposed health care centre, local neighbourhood retail, and — although approval is still pending — the enticing possibility of a North Health Campus hospital complex. “There are also many other amenities in the vicinity to Livingston. There is quick access to the airport, and CrossIron Mills is just around the corner. Beacon Heights, Creekside Market, and Country Hills commercial areas are all close by,” Seymour says.

FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Livingston DEVELOPER: Brookfield Residential BUILDERS: Avi Urban – apartment-style condos Homes by Avi – Street Towns Brookfield Residential – townhomes and duplexes Brookfield Residential and Morrison Homes - laned homes Jayman BUILT, Morrison Homes and Cedarglen Homes – front drive garage homes PRICES: Ranging from $200,000s to low $500,000s, but majority will be below the $450,000 range DIRECTIONS: North on Stoney Tr., take exit at Centre St. N.W. and follow the signs. HOURS: To be announced WEBSITE: www.brookfieldresidential.com Brookfield Residential has been building homes and communities in Calgary for nearly 60 years. “We are passionate about this city. We have seen Alberta go through a difficult time recently, but that being said we know that Alberta is resilient,” Seymour says. “We have been working on bringing Livingston to market for nearly 10 years. We believe that this is an area of the city that is seeking a new community, and the north hasn’t seen a new master planned community here in many years. Brookfield believes that we have created a community with a unique lifestyle offering, with a mix of homes that offer exceptional value to homebuyers.” CL

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THE SWEET SPOT STORY BY DARLENE CASTEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DON MOLYNEAUX

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Leslie

Hunter House provides the respite needed from busy urban living

eslie’s life is geographically diverse and it shows in her home. She spends most of her day downtown at work and then heads south, as close to the rolling green foothills at the edge of the city as she can get. Her move to Hunter House, a 92 unit building, with 54 townhomes and 38 attached bungalows, in Silverado was literally only blocks away from her old townhouse condominium, but that few meters apart makes a world of a difference. Leslie says her former Silverado condo was right in the middle of the action, too near the commercial area, in fact; and as the community continued to grow, it became busier and busier. StreetSide Development’s Hunter House, on the other hand, borders the picturesque foothills that define the western prairies, and is right in her sweet spot. Leslie says she loves going for a walk on the nearby trails or just enjoying the view from her balcony. “Its so peaceful because it is far away from downtown,” she says. “Out here you don’t even feel like you are in the city.”

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Leslie has made her spacious patio a cozy spot for four to relax and has created a beautiful garden space with flowers, tropical plants, herbs and even jalapenos. “I love that when I look out I see that green, rolling hills,” she says. Hunter House is also only a quick drive from Bragg Creek, Leslie’s favourite weekend getaway spot. You can find distressed wood pieces from her favourite Bragg Creek furniture store Durango Trail Rustic Furniture throughout her three-story townhome. With half her life in the bustling modern downtown and the other half in the countryside, it is bound to reflect in her personal style. “I’d say it is eclectic rustic,” she says of the décor. The kitchen with a transparent glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances including a side-by-side Samsung stainless steel refrigerator and modern flat top stove are the downtown side of Leslie. She also chose a matte laminate floor in an ashy shade of brown and matching kitchen cabinets. A rustic dining room table from Durango, with wrought iron and barn board chairs, dominate the dining room along with an industrial wood and black metal side table in the open concept main floor. “I held all the bits together and hoped for the best,” she says of tying together her varied style.

Working with Streetside Developments to come up with the look for her Hunter House townhome was amazing, she adds, because she was able to mix and match from all the high-end finishings they offer. Most builders have design boards that have flooring, paint colours, countertops and backsplashes grouped together, but she was able to choose from all the palettes to create her own signature style. Leslie says she loves the final product so much, the only thing that may be changing in the near future are some splashes of colour on the walls. Another option Leslie took advantage of was the ability to create two masters

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“Now I have 1,505 square-feet and this is a way nicer place. Its way more private.”

bedrooms on the third floor. Her spare room serves as an office, craft space for her weaving, soap making and spinning wheel. A flex room on the main floor also doubles as storage and more craft space for her messier pastimes, like making her own silver jewelry. “It is unfinished so it is perfect,” she said. “I can drop things and its no problem.” The first landing serves as a quiet place to relax that is away from any dishes in the kitchen sink. Her new condo, which she moved into in March, is slightly larger than her last townhouse, she says. “I was so cramped before,” Leslie says. “Now I have 1,505 square-feet and this is a way nicer place. Its way more private.” Leslie says even though she has had a hip replacement, she welcomes the three flights of stairs, saying she has a physical job working as a frame operator for Telus and doesn’t mind getting a bit of a workout at home as well. “I never had any trouble with stairs,” she says. “You are definitely more active than you are in a bungalow.” Getting from Silverado to work is also not difficult, with the Somerset C-train park-and-ride nearby. Getting around the city in her car is also a simple task with Stoney Trail on the north side of the community. Her family hails from B.C. so Hwy 22X also serves as her shortcut out of town.

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She says it only took a couple looks at the show home with friends and she was sold, putting down a deposit on a $425,000 end unit. “It was pretty spur of the moment, but I knew what I wanted,” she says. It’s a home she can love inside and out, she explains. “I was out there the other day for a walk and I couldn’t even see the city,” Leslie says. “I took a picture and put it on Facebook and said you wouldn’t even know you are in the city.” CL

RED, HOT MILE

With a promising NHL season about to start, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to revisit The Red Mile BY SHELLEY BOETTCHER

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t’s Ground Zero for Calgary Flames fans, but the Red Mile is much more than a place for nostalgia about the amazing 2004 Stanley Cup run that turned this stretch of 17th Avenue into a virtual sea of red. Even before then, the Red Mile has always been one of the city’s best places to eat, drink and have fun. It still is! It’s the veritable heart of the nightlife of the Beltline. But where is it exactly, you ask? It’s the stretch of 17th Avenue, from Macleod Trail S.E. to, well, wherever you get tired of walking. (For the sake of space and deadlines, we’ll stop our exploration around Eighth Street S.W. — but there’s plenty to do beyond that, too.) The Red Mile got its name during that famous (or infamous) playoff run. The Flames lost in seven games, but the way the city came together for that time — filling this roadway with red jersey-clad fans — is forever etched in the memory of those who were here when it happened. The Red Mile celebrates its 12th anniversary this year, and the changes along the avenue are myriad. New restaurants. New developments. New places to eat, drink and live. But one thing remains the same: The Red Mile is still a great place to celebrate our city. And with that in mind, here are a few of our favourite places. Cilantro Pigeonhole

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GET CAFFEINATED Philosafy Coffee (632 17th Avenue S.W.) may have an oddly spelled name, but the coffee is reliably tasty. Try a nut butter ball from Little Tucker, too. As of press time, Rosso Coffee Roasters is opening a new shop at 103 17th Avenue S.E.; it’s sure to be as cool as the local company’s other locations. And Analog Coffee (740 17th Avenue S.W.) is always busy. On a nice day, score a table outside in the sun. On a cold day, sit in the front window and watch the world go by. FIND DINING When the Red Mile began, Melrose Pub was the place to drink and watch the post-game action. Melrose, however, is long gone and in its place is Royale Brasserie Francaise (730 17th Avenue S.W.), a classy eatery offering French-inspired dishes such as cassoulet and lobster bisque.

Analog Coffee

Bar C Bar C

The Red Mile got its name during that famous (or infamous) playoff run. The Flames lost in seven games, but the way the city came together for that time — filling this roadway with red jersey-clad fans — is forever etched in the memory of those who were here when it happened.

Cilantro

Pigeonhole (306 17th Avenue S.W.) has an all-natural, organic and biodynamic wine list, as well as an inspirational, creative menu. The ricotta dumplings and the charred cabbage are musts. Pigeonhole’s sister restaurant Model Milk (308 17th Avenue S.W.) is also outstanding. Those creative cocktails — we dare you to stop at just one! The food is great every day, but on Sundays, you get a cool set menu and a family-style threecourse dinner for $40 per person. Bar C (340 17th Avenue S.W.) has buck-a-shuck oysters every Tuesday, locally sourced food and a fun wine and cocktail list. The Snickers cocktail, for example, features bourbon, Frangelico, caramel and Aztec chocolate bitters. One of the city’s oldest restaurants, Cilantro (338 17th Avenue S.W.) is still one of the finest. I always order the mussels in black bean sauce, while the pear and Gorgonzola pizza is so popular, it has been on the menu since the restaurant opened almost 30 years ago. Not far away, Ox and Angela (528 17th Avenue

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S.W.) is your stop for Spanish tapas and a lively bar. And Una Pizza and Wine (618 17th Avenue S.W.) offers thin-crust pizzas and a wine list focusing on small producers. Don’t have time to stop? Go next door to Una Takeaway (616 17th Avenue S.W.) to get pizza by the slice and more for home. And in the back of Una Takeaway is Frenchie Wine Bar, a cozy place for drinks with friends. Grab a custom-made burger at Clive Burger (736 17th Avenue S.W.) Then there’s Anju (344 17th Avenue S.W.), with its fresh take on Korean tapas. I never get tired of the crispy tofu.

Rubaiyat Ox and Angela

GET IN SHAPE AND SHOP Rumble Boxing Studio (720 17th Avenue S.W.) is your place to get fierce and fit. Then get your sugar buzz at Freak Lunchbox (614A 17th Avenue S.W.), a store jam-packed with candy from around the world. And load up on vinyl and CDs at Sloth Records (736 17th Avenue S.W.), where all the cool people go to buy their indie music. Looking for something more upscale? Rubaiyat (722 17th Avenue S.W.) has a gorgeous selection of jewelry, art, garden furniture, home accessories and more. Much of it is made in Canada by local artisans.

DRINK BEER Long before the Red Mile was the Red Mile, the Ship and Anchor Pub (534 17th Avenue S.W.) was the spot to drink beer and watch hockey. Or European soccer. Or indie bands. Or simply soak up the sun on the patio.

Una Takeaway

The new Trolley 5 Restaurant and Brewery (728 17th Avenue S.W.) offers two storeys of beer and fun. And as of press time, Mill Street is set to open its first Calgary location, with the Mill Street Brewpub in the former Republik nightclub location (219 17th Avenue S.W.). CL

Freak Lunchbox

Cilantro

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P H OTO CO U RT E S Y P RO G R E S S L I G H T I N G

Lights out… in the open

Task lighting, like these undercabinet fixtures, are an integral part of a layered scheme— one which also sets off other elements such as cabinets and countertops.

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Creating drama in an open-concept home with lighting BY DAVID CROSSON

n the past I have written about some of the challenges inherent to open-concept living, specifically furniture placement in a room without boundaries. This can also be true when it comes to lighting, as some of the tried-and-true options may not necessarily work in what are largely wall-less spaces. Of course, there are almost always the ubiquitous pot-lights, which can be great for general illumination but lacking in both subtlety at one end of the scale and drama at the other. One of the main problems is that overhead lighting can sometimes be aesthetically problematic, creating an effect that I like to call “Frankenstein face” when the resulting shadows do little to flatter. This can be mitigated somewhat by dimmer or distance, as high ceilings soften the effect and create more general ambient light. However, that’s not something you can always count on. Getting light down closer to faces is really the only way to enhance the beauty of those who dwell within.

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In any residence layered lighting is always the way to go, which means a blend of general, task and accent fixtures. For those who need a refresher (or Lighting Terms 101), the primary components of a layered scheme are as follows. General or ambient lighting describes overall illumination in a space, usually by way of ceiling fixtures such as pot-lights, flush mounts/semi-flush mounts, track fixtures, and larger pendants. Task lighting is pretty much as it says: illumination of a specific area or activity, such as a desk lamp or under-cabinet fixtures for food prep. Accent lighting is, more often than not, the ‘fun’ stuff, offering the opportunity to inject a bit of style but with little demand for illumination, unless it’s a fixture highlighting a painting or emphasizing texture on a wall. Sconces and more decorative lamps often fall in this category, although there are times when each of the three can cross boundaries or perform multiple roles. There is nothing about an open-plan dwelling that makes this difficult other than the fact that these fixtures can “see” one another — or, more specifically, you can see most of them at the same time. This raises the issue of the dreaded matchy-matchy, which more often than not whimpers “builder basic” rather than making an actual design statement. Now, I’m not saying coordination is bad but if it looks like your fixtures were bought in bulk and are as common in your development as bills on ducks, you’ll want to switch things up a bit. Oftentimes lighting manufacturers will offer a whole series of fixture types designed in the same

TOP In spaces with high ceilings, creating human scale is vitally important. Here, multiple pendants were used to bring light sources closer to the room’s occupants.

INSET Pot-lights offer great support to single, more decorative fixtures, supplying the ambient light needed to make these focal pieces ‘shine’.

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style but with variations based on their function. This can be as straightforward as a five- or seven-armed chandelier for those who have the ability to play with scale or something as comprehensive as sconces, pendants, flush mounts, semi-flush mounts and lamps all created from a single design. While these can be quite useful, they can quickly constitute “too much of a good thing” so try to add variation wherever possible. If you do mix different styles of fixture, it sometimes helps to source them from the same manufacturer, as standardized finishes (e.g. oil-rubbed bronze) can vary greatly from company to company.

P H O TO C O U R T E S Y DAV I D C R O S S O N D E S I G N C O L L E C T I V E ; P H O TO B Y J O H N B I L O D E A U

The key to successful blending is proportion, as far too many oneoffs will make it look like your lighting scheme was designed by committee.

ABOVE Believe it or not, these decorative sconces actually function as task lighting, being perfectly positioned to assist the homeowner in putting on her makeup.

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TOP Using pieces from a single design series can bring unity to a smaller space, especially when all fixtures can be seen at once.

Just to clarify, I am a believer when it comes to keeping most (if not all) of your lights in the same finish family. That’s not to say everything has to be done in stainless or oil-rubbed bronze, it just means that you’ll get a more cohesive look if you put warm metals with warm metals and cool with cool. Within these parameters you can play a bit: for example, there’s nothing wrong with having brushed steel with polished chrome as they are both ‘cool’ metals but try to avoid mixing brushed chrome with, say, brushed nickel as the characteristic undertone in each will make it look like you made a mistake. Or went shopping without your glasses. The one notable exception for me is lamps, as they are stand-alone items that can be rationalized in any finish as long as they work with their immediate surroundings. They key to successful blending is proportion, as far too many one-offs will make it look like your lighting scheme was designed by committee. Instead, select your “superstar” pieces first then look for “secondary characters” to support them. When all is said and done, the fixtures you really want to showcase should stand out and the rest

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should be noticeable only for the fact that they are providing light. (Think: a grid of nondescript pot-lights paying homage to a single, stunning chandelier.) Although tackling an illuminated open-concept space may sound daunting, it really is just the sum of its parts. With a little planning and eye for detail you can have your “let there be light” moment without needing any god-like powers. Shine on! CL

ABOVE Don’t be afraid to make a grand gesture with chandeliers in double-height rooms, as they add both drama and illumination to a space.

TOP Accent lamps can be done in contrasting finishes in order to create a more interesting space, especially since they function as the “jewellery” of a room.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Crosson is a freelance design writer and principal of the David Crosson Design Collective. He is a frequent media commentator on matters of life and style as well as a regular guest on CTV Morning Live.

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Enlightened choices

There’s more to choose from in hanging light fixtures BY KATHY MCCORMICK

t’s time to light up! Choices have never been better — or more exciting. The advent of the new types of energy-efficient lightbulbs has brightened the home in every way. “The introduction of LED lighting has given the industry the opportunity to create innovative and exciting designs in residential lighting fixtures,” says Todd Sopka, who has more than 25 years’ experience in lighting and is lighting consultant and new product buyer for The Lighting Centre. The LED bulbs are not only energy-efficient, but long lasting and cool to the touch, says Natalia David, trend and design manager for The Home Depot Canada. “And today you can get all the advantages of LED in on-trend, designer styles.” The bulbs themselves can even make a statement, she says, noting one of her favourites is the Edison style LED bulb from Philips. Of course, the type of lighting fixture will depend on the area you want to brighten — and the type of lighting effect you need, whether it’s setting a mood, lighting up a task area or simply creating a ‘wow’ to set off your room. “At Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre it’s our belief that lighting is the cornerstone to harmony in a home,” says Mary Jane Holberton,

Akimbo Linear Suspension by Tech Lighting, $1,433 at Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre. CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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TOP: Edison Pendant by Artcraft, $433 at Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre.

TOP RIGHT: Dazed 12-light Pendant by ET2/ Maxim, $1,133 at Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre.

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“A custom lighting plan is a critical element to brining aesthetic and practical appeal into your living space.”

branch manager of the Calgary branch of Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre. “A custom lighting plan is a critical element to bringing aesthetic and practical appeal into your living space.” Some special lighting fixtures are making waves today. Chandeliers and pendant lighting are two of the most popular, most dramatic and most effective ways to give your home a unique statement. And the styles range anywhere from classic traditional, to minimalist modern, to industrial metallic — and everything in-between, with prices ranging anywhere from $100 to well over $1,000. And the fixtures are showing up everywhere. While the chandelier used to be the centrepiece

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of the dining room table, it’s now dramatically hanging in the foyer, over the stand-alone tub in the master ensuite, or in the kitchen. And pendant lights are everywhere, says Sopka. Known as the ‘jewelry’ of the home, they are still very popular, “and not just over islands. They are also used over bath vanities and dining room tables.” And they come in all sizes, shapes and materials. “While the chandelier is often regarded as the statement piece in home décor, 2016 is projected to be the year in which the spotlight shifts towards the pendant,” says Holberton. “Pendants can be suspended gracefully from any ceiling and are a versatile way to add flair of style and charm to your house without sacrificing space.” Don’t be afraid to go big, says Sopka. “Note that pendants do not need to be small; large pendants can be used over islands as these areas, too, can be very large.” In fact, over-sized pendants are popular everywhere right now, says David. “Pendant lights continue to be popular and now come in a range of fresh styles. Oversized pendants are on-trend, as are clear glass pendants in a variety of shapes. Smaller pendants are being used in new spaces such as on either side of a bed (in place of table lamps).” Another unique way to make the most of the pendant craze is to cluster them, says Holberton. “Nothing gives character to the home quite like a statement piece and with the versatility of the pendant, making your home décor memorable is simple. For a wow-factor, consider applying the ‘two-heads-are-better-than-one’ principle to your lighting aesthetic by clustering one, two, or even five pendants together. “While this also serves the functional purpose of creating more light in a space, it adds a dramatic addition to any room, creating a suspended piece of artwork to behold.”

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HERE ARE SOME OTHER LIGHTING STYLES THAT ARE POPULAR AT THE HOME DEPOT: Large Crystals · Chandeliers with large crystals are very popular. They’re an updated take on the traditional crystal chandelier. Mixed Materials · Look for products that incorporate wood, rope or metal. · The Pearce Collection 4 Light Chandelier In Matte Black is a great example. Industrial Lighting · Industrial lighting continues to be popular, and is now also available in softer styles that incorporate a little bit of wood or a finish on the metal. Gold · Fixtures with a matte gold finish are becoming popular. Gold adds a warm feeling to your space and a touch of luxury. Mid-Century Styles · Mid-century styles are back in fashion in a big way. People are scooping up sputnik-style chandeliers, like the Delphine 12 Light Chandelier in Oil Rubbed Bronze.

WHEN HANGING PENDANT LIGHTS, KEEP THESE TIPS IN MIND: • Pay the most attention to the common areas of the home or condo, says Sopka, especially if money is tight after your home purchase. These are the areas that most people will see most often. The other areas can be upgraded as circumstances (and paycheques) change. • “Your condo’s kitchen island is an ideal spot to make an im pact with lighting,” says David. “If you don’t have a dining table, hang a large pendant or a linear chandelier over your kitchen island instead. • If you are living in a smaller space, whether a condo or a first-time buyer house, “this is where repetition and a consistent style will create uniformity as these spaces are usually designed as open-concept living,” Sopka says. “In small spaces, it is best to use a dining room or an island light as a focal point to create an impact.” • Ideally, pendant lights should hang five ft., six inches off the floor, says Melanie Marshall, owner and principal of MSquared Design Group, in an article entitled Pendant Inspiration With MSquared Design Group, on the Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre website. For more tips and ideas, check the website at www.robinsonlightingandbath.com. CL

PHOTOS : Clock Wise Surge Linear Suspension by Tech Lighting, $1,1910 Brummel Grande Pendant by Tech Lighting, $755 Jersey Chandelier by Artcraft, $563 Tigris Oval Mirror by Tech Lighting, $1,652 (All at Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre)

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The best in Alberta

CHBA – Alberta announces 2016 Housing Award Winners

he Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta (CHBA – Alberta) is proud to announce the winners of the 2016 Awards of Excellence in Housing. The awards were presented September 16 at BUILD, CHBA – Alberta’s annual conference, held at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Builder of the Year Awards were presented in four categories for the best overall score in the competition based on design, safety, volunteerism and customer satisfaction. Housing awards were also presented in 27 categories to Alberta’s top home builders, renovators and community developers. CHBA – Edmonton Region companies won 14 category awards, Calgary companies claimed 11 awards while Lethbridge had two winners. Factors in

the judging include curb appeal, layout, functionality, finishes, special features and value. “Congratulations to the winners on being chosen as Alberta’s best from more than 380 entries. The winners excelled at providing a wide range of housing choices that appeal to all market segments, from affordable multi-family units to the ultimate dream home. Albertans looking for outstanding craftsmanship, inspiring designs and beautiful materials should start by visiting websites and show homes of the winners. Our thanks to all our sponsors and more than 140 judges for supporting the awards,” said Jim Rivait, CEO, CHBA – Alberta. CL

MULTI-FAMILY HOMES MULTI-FAMILY APARTMENT — UNDER $350,000 Sponsored by Bluebird Contracting Services

Qualex-Landmark, Mark on 10th | Unit 3101 — Calgary MULTI-FAMILY APARTMENT — $350,000 – $500,000 Sponsored by HomeFlash

Christenson Group of Companies, Reflections Sterling 1 — Edmonton MULTI-FAMILY DUPLEX — UNDER $350,000 Sponsored by Grant Thornton

NuVista Homes, Sage — Calgary MULTI-FAMILY DUPLEX — $350,000 – $500,000 Sponsored by Kaycan

NuVista Homes, Glencove — Calgary MULTI-FAMILY TOWNHOME — UNDER $350,000 Sponsored by Lennox

Pacesetter Homes, Affirmed | Dansereau Meadows — Edmonton

Multi-family apartment under $350,000 and Multi-Family Project – Qualex-Landmark, Mark on 10th

MULTI-FAMILY TOWNHOME — $350,000 – $500,000 Sponsored by Superior Cabinets

StreetSide Developments, Alpine — Edmonton MULTI-FAMILY INFILL — OVER $500,000 Sponsored by The Weiss-Johnson Family

Lupi Luxury Homes, Verona — Calgary MULTI-FAMILY LUXURY — OVER $500,000 Sponsored by Contractor First by Rona

Empire Custom Homes, Valour Park | Unit 7 — Calgary MULTI-FAMILY PROJECT

Sponsored by Built Green Canada

Greener Homes, Country Living — Lethbridge

ESTATE HOMES ESTATE HOME $600,000 – $800,000 Sponsored by Allstar Trenching & Excavating

Ashton Luxury Living, Rosetree — Calgary ESTATE HOME $800,000 – $1,000,000 Sponsored by Lenbeth Weeping Tile

Vicky’s Homes, Vittorio — Edmonton ESTATE HOME $1,000,000 – $1,500,000 Sponsored by YP NextHome

Blok Home Development & Design, Prism — Calgary ESTATE HOME OVER $1,500,000 Sponsored by Weiser Pfister

Habitat Studio, Willow View — Edmonton

Estate home $1,000,000 – $1,500,000 Blok Home Development & Design, Prism

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Editor’s note: Maria Bartolotti is a board member of the Canadian Condominium Institute – Southern Alberta chapter (CCI-SA). CCI represents all participants in the condominium community.

ASK MARIA By Maria Bartolotti

EEEK FACTOR

With winter approaching here are some tips to keep pesky mice from the condo

Dear Maria; I’ve heard some horror stories about mice infestations in condos. What’s the best way to head off such a problem?

Don’t be fooled by those adorable eyes and that cute button nose. Mice are anything but cute and cuddly, and they can make you jump, scream and send shudders up and down your spine. Just thinking about them gives me the creeps. Mice can very quickly take up residence in your condo and start nesting. Multi-residential communities are one of the hardest places to get rid of mice, mainly because they can hide in various different locations in the building such as; common hallways, utility closets, carports, garages, garbage enclosures and your unit just to list a few areas. With the cold weather approaching, mice are looking for a warm place to call home and if they find a food source, guess who just became your new roommate. Lets review some basic and helpful tips that may keep mice out of your condo. If you see evidence of mice inside the common property of your condo you should notify the condo manager of the building immdeidately. Your condo manager can work with your board to take the necessary steps to help deal with the problem.

In most if not all cases, a pest control company will be hired to investigate and help maintain the common areas for mice activity. But a pest control company can only do so much. They may have full control of the common areas but only you can control what happens inside your unit. Take action quickly: If you find evidence of mice inside your unit, make sure to address the issue as quickly as possible. Mice carry disease and bacteria, which, if not treated properly can and will make you ill. If you do not act quickly it could also cause a large infestation to occupy the building not just your unit. Remove their food supply: No one wants to be eating dinner with a mouse. Keep lids shut on your garbage can and recycling bin, and ensure your garbage is being emptied regularly. DO NOT leave garbage or recycling on your deck, balcony or on the floor inside your unit. Bring the garbage and recycling directly to the common enclosure. Use metal or glass containers whenever possible. If you do use plastic — look for thick containers with very tight fitting lids. Keep your home clean: If there is nothing to eat, they will be less likely to stay for dinner. In other words; keep all food stored properly in airtight containers. Don’t forget to clean up after your pets and children. Seal possible entry points: Mice can get through small tiny holes. It is best to

seal around pipes and holes inside your Condo. A mouse only needs ¼ inch to crawl through. Stick steel wool in mouse holes: Steel wool pads will prevent mice from using the same hole to get back into your home before caulking or plastering. Try a humane trap: These are traps that catch mice in a box. The mouse can get in but not out. Once you catch the mouse; you will need to release them at least one mile from your home. Water source: Fix leaky taps, sweating pipes and open drains . Bird and squirrel feeders: They’re pretty but be aware that bird food is attractive to mice too. Pest control expert: If you want more information or help, a pest control company can give you the guidance you need, help you locate potential week spots around your condo and help you take preventative measurers in controlling or removing mice from your home. Being proactive and taking the necessary steps to help protect your home from these little critters, will save you money and time in the end. Until next time... CL

Maria Bartolotti

ACCI, FCCI 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 O C TO B ER 2016

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CONDOSCAPES By Richard White

21ST CENTURY TRANSFORMATION Historic Britannia revamped for new millennium

algary’s urban transformation is not exclusive to the city centre. It is happening in in many established communities as well. In fact, one of the more interesting projects is along Elbow Drive on the boundary between Britannia and Windsor Park at 50th Avenue. (Did you know… 50th Avenue S.W. was Calgary’s southern boundary from1910 to 1956?) There is speculation within the urban planning community that older wealthy communities are anti-development. Yet Britannia residents, with a median age of 46 years (the City’s is 36 years) and median household income of $227,000/year (the City’s is $81,000) have accepted three major new developments in recent years — Maison Senior Living, Britannia Crossing and The Windsor Block NORR CORNER / POON PLACE Given all three projects have been designed by Calgary’s NORR Architects Engineers Planners, this corner could be nicknamed NORR Corner or perhaps Poon Place (Ron Poon served as the lead architect for all three). Completed in fall 2013, the Maison Senior Living complex (70 units for individuals wanting assisted living or help with memory loss) is located on the northeast corner of Elbow Drive and 49th Avenue S.W. Bordered by a school to the east and residential to the south, Poon decided to utilize a flat roof and traditional materials to minimize shadowing and create an articulated façade to look like several different buildings, making it compatible with the school and homes.

Next came Britannia Crossing for Opus (completed in summer of 2014) a mixed-use building that includes medical, office, retail and restaurant space. This project required significant community engagement as it backed onto estate homes. The solution was to terrace the building from five storeys at Elbow Drive to just two storeys next to the homes. The block is anchored by the popular Brown’s Social House restaurant. The third development Windsor Block, is currently under construction (completion in Fall of 2017). It is also five-storeys with retail at street level, offices on the upper floors and three townhomes on the southeast edge where the building intersects with other homes. This project, the most contemporary and colourful of the three, will include two public art features, giving the street it a more urban appearance. BRITANNIA PLAZA The popular Britannia neighbourhood-shopping plaza, which opened in the summer of 1953, was the first, purpose-built shopping centre in Calgary and literally adjacent to NORR Corner. In the 1950s, new suburbs at the edge of the City accelerated

the transition from the traditional downtown shopping experience to suburban plazas. Michael Kehoe, Broker at Fairfield Commercial Real Estate cites “the charm of the Britannia Plaza is not only its simplicity, but that it is easily accessible by car, as well as by pedestrians. This retail gem enjoys high levels of occupancy and above-industry average sales. The key to Britannia Plaza’s enduring success is the adjacent affluent neighbourhoods that are amongst the highest income residential districts in Canada.” LAST WORD The integration of old and new developments along Elbow Drive between 49th and 51st Avenues to create a mini urban village could easily serve as a model for redevelopment of several old commercial corners in established communities across Calgary. The traditional linear Main Street with shops on both sides of the street will not always be the best solution or even practical for established community revitalization. CL

Richard White has been writing about Calgary urban living for over 20 years. Follow him on twitter @everydaytourist, read his blogs at everydaytourist.ca or contact him at richardlw@shaw.ca CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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CONDO CONVERSATIONS By Bernie Winter

TO PARK OR NOT TO PARK Some answers to the parking conundrum in condos

arking in a condominium can be daunting to both occupants and visitors. There are either too many signs or not enough yet people get ticketed, towed and fined. Let’s begin by looking at the parking choices for visitors. First, look for signs that identify which spots are for visitors and then look to see if there are limitations on the use of the stall, such as parking pass required, or no parking after 10 p.m. or a combination of both. Not all condominiums have parking available for visitors. Some rely on street parking and others limit your visitors to the driveway in front of your townhome garage. It is best to check with the person you are visiting before you arrive, as that person could end up fined for your choice of parking spots. Now, how about parking for owners and occupants. This can come with challenges and restrictions as some condominiums have enough parking for owners to have more than one parking space while other condos may have limited parking available meaning not all owners have parking stalls. This becomes important when it comes time to sell the unit as buyers want to know the status of the parking before they make an offer.

There are basically three types of parking. Titled, Owned or leased. Titled parking means the parking stall has a title and the space is therefore owned by the party named on the title. Property taxes are paid for this ownership of property just as it is for the residential or commercial space. Parking stalls that are titled can be sold with the sale of the unit without obtaining permission from the Board. Restrictive covenants on the title will determine the rights and restrictions that come with this ownership. Assigned parking requires permission to use the parking space, based on the con-

do board’s ability to assign the stall. The location of the stall assigned could change during your ownership, as needs of fellow owner’s change, such as needing a wider stall for someone using a wheelchair accessible vehicle. The Board does not require permission from an owner to change the assigned location of the parking stall at any time. When selling or buying a condo with an assigned parking stall it is important to verify which stall the new owner will be assigned. Leased or licensed parking comes with a written agreement defining the location of the parking stall. This document is required to be passed on to the buyer by the seller of the unit. When a leased parking stall is also drawn on the condo plan, typically with dashed lines and an identity such as P - #, this means this stall can be sold with the sale of the unit. If there is a lease agreement but the condo plan does not show the location and identity of the stall the stall is actually an assigned stall and permission of the board will be required when sold. Bottom line is that parking in a condominium comes with rules and restrictions. Check the bylaws and read the signs before you or your visitor’s park. CL

Bernice M. Winter, ACCI, FCCI President/Owner Condo Check Providing buyers with the condo document review service since 1994. www.condo-check.com CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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HOPE AT LARGE By Marty Hope

MILLENNIALS BOOST THE BELTLINE Youth movement keeps the Beltline a popular condo destination

o, what is it that makes the Beltline such a popular spot for new high-rise construction and strong resale apartment activity? Well, Mohammed Esfahani, president of Qualex-Landmark, a Vancouver-based developer with a long and successful track record in Calgary, sees it this way. “The urban lifestyle is becoming increasingly attractive, with walkability and the convenience of access to amenities. We are achieving success by tapping into the growing trend of New Urbanism as an increasing number of Albertans opt for downtown living,” he says. Rob Duteau, senior vice-president of development for Grosvenor Americas, which is also racking up successes with its properties on and near the trendy and busy 17th Avenue corridor, says pretty much the same. “Young people are being drawn to the condo lifestyle,” he says. “They want to be part of the fabric of the city — and they really want to live there.” While the older set also has an interest in living close in, there is little doubt the younger buyers is the marketing focus of developers. Duteau says the average age of people buying in the Grosvenor properties is about 33, but has also captured the appeal of downsizes and empty-nesters looking for a change in lifestyle. “For the most part, you don’t have to convince people to live in the Beltline,” he says. There is a specific flavour to the Beltline, from the people who live there, the look and feel of the condos being built and bought, to the businesses that make this part of the city their home.

Charron Ungar, president of Avi Urban, has been a Beltline resident for 25 years or so and has been actively adding Avi’s unique flavour to the community. He says that as a residential developer, Avi Urban has a “support locals” initiative that promotes neighbourhood businesses. “By doing this, we want to ensure prospective home buyers recognize why we chose to develop in a particular community and why they should consider calling it their new home,” Ungar adds. Whatever the reason for its popularity, Beltline construction seems immune to the economic downturn for the first six months of this year compared with the same period in 2015. For the January-June period, the Beltline tallied the highest number of condo possessions in the city as counted by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation — 421 of them. Next on the list was the northwest quadrant with 417 and then came the downtown core with 353. “It’s likely due to the units that were available this year compared to last year,”

Richard Cho, CMHC’s Calgary-based principal of market analysis, says in a news release. “For the first half of this year we have had a lot more apartment completions compared with the previous year.” That being said, Cho also reports that the number of units under construction was lower for the first half of this year. To the end of June this year work was ongoing on 1,022 condo units from almost 1,300 in 2015 in the Beltline. But Cho also sees the continuing popularity of the Beltline because of nearby shops and services, and its next-door neighbour location to the downtown core of the city. “I think there are a lot of buyers who are definitely interested in living in the Beltline, and the downtown, as well,” he says. CL

Marty Hope. For more than two decades Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry. CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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AROUND TOWN By Pepper Rodriguez

LIDO OPENS SHOW SUITES

he corner of 10th Street and 2nd Avenue N.W. has long been a centre of life in Kensington, the very nexus of the neighbourhood’s social and commercial scene. And with the advent of LIDO, Battistella Development’s latest mixed-use multi-family project, this spot will remain so for a long time. LIDO has just opened its exquisite new show suites that deftly show the lifestyle buyers can expect here.

“We invited Calgary-based artist Sheila Kernan to design the space,” says Battistella’s Erin Fahey. “She’s well known for her brightly colored and highly textured paintings.” Kernan creates magical cityscapes and landscapes that engage the viewer’s imagination, and her youthful, imaginative style makes her one of Calgary’s most sought after artists. LIDO has only three units remaining: a one bedroom at $259,000; a one-bedroomplus-den at $479,000; and a three bedroom at $935,000. All of the units are staged and set up as show homes. Show suite viewings are by appointment only. Interested in touring the suites, please email info@battistella.ca

IVY DEBUTS IN UNIVERSITY DISTRICT

rookfield Residential’s new 131-townhome development at the University District, Ivy, promises to be a game-changer with architecturally-progressive homes within a development that will be Alberta’s only LEED® Neighbourhood Development (ND) Platinum Certified community. The Ivy will feature townhomes ranging from 1,343 to 1,857 square-feet designed with open concept layouts to create a vibrant atmosphere for residents to live, interact and fully

connect with their surroundings. There will be one- and two-garage options, and two- and three-bedroom options. Its location in this northwest community by the University of Calgary campus is its most appealing feature. “University District is a very dynamic, unique community that was designed with the lifestyles of residents and their neighbours front of mind,” says Ryan Moon, Director of Business Development with Brookfield Residential, noting the master plan for the 200-acre development is only the third in Canada to receive LEED®-ND certification — the highest level of sustainability excellence in energy and water consumption, recycling, connectivity and walkability. The other two are in Victoria and Vancouver where the 2010 Olympic athlete village was certified. “We put customers first and what we’re bringing to the University District is inspired through their lens,” he says. “These homes interact with the public in such a way that it encourages residents to interact with their community. It’s really about bringing people together.” CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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LEGACY TO UNVEIL JANE SEYMOUR PUBLIC ART

n October 1, Calgary’s Community of the Year, Legacy, will be hosting the grand unveiling of Calgary’s only large-scale, suburban public art sculpture — an art piece by none other than “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” star, Jane Seymour. Legacy — which won the 2015 SAM Awards Community of the Year — will feature Seymour’s unique 2.3-metre-tall bronze patina sculpture, entitled ‘Open Hearts’, in one of the many parks of the popular southeast community. Kalida Goldade, marketing manager for the community’s developer, WestCreek Developments, says having such a unique piece of art is an important piece of their vision of what community should be about. “Building a community is more than just building houses, it’s about bringing together people,” she tells Around Town, noting that beautification efforts for the community had always been a priority since Legacy started. “We’ve always wanted to make it clear to our residents that Legacy is more than just

Jane Seymour

a collection of houses, but a place where they can bond with neighbours — and one of the ways of doing this is having some unique centerpieces around the community — like the ruins and the watchtower,” she says. “And now this original Jane Seymour ‘Open Hearts’ sculpture, which is not only fantastic and a terrific addition to Legacy, but holds a deeper meaning into what we

think is important in a community.” The unveiling will be part of a bigger family-friendly festival that Legacy is hosting on that day, which will also feature a silent art auction on behalf of RESOLVE. “We just joined this worthwhile home industry-initiative that seeks to end homelessness in Calgary,” Goldade says. Proceeds of the silent auction will be donated to RESOLVE.

NEW RESOLVE DEVELOPMENT BREAKS GROUND

ccessible Housing and the RESOLVE Campaign broke ground in what will be a new affordable and accessible home for 45 of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged Calgarians. This new accessible development is going up on 1129 23 Avenue

N.W. and will be a home for 45 Calgarians with limited mobility, answering a deepening need for safe, affordable, permanent and barrier-free housing in the city. This was made possible in part by generous donations from the Government of Alberta, R. Cahrlie Guille and Family, Bill Kujat and Family, the Centron Group of Companies, BMO Financial Group, Trico Homes and other generous community members. It represents a significant step in RESOLVE’s goal of providing a home for 3,000 vulnerable Calgarians through this first-of-its-kind collaboration between nine partner agencies of mostly home builders and land developers aiming to raise $120 million to end homelessness in Calgary. This Accessible Housing project is especially significant as an estimated 200,000 Calgarians over the age of 15 are estimated to be living with a disability by 2019. Individuals with disabilities, the agency says, are four times more likely to require homeless shelters compared to those without disabilities.

From left (back row), Allan Klassen of ALBI Homes Ltd., Cole Haggins from Cedarglen Living Inc., Richard Daley from StreetSide Developments: A Qualico Company, Al Morrison of Morrison Homes, Paul Taylor from Hopewell Residential, Avi Amir from Homes by Avi, Jim Smith of Calbridge Homes, Cal Wenzel of Shane Homes Ltd. (From left front row) Tim Logel of Cardel Lifestyles, Brookfield Residential Properties Inc.’ s Alan Norris and Jay Westman of Jayman BUILT Group of Companies.

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NEW ON-DEMAND SELF-STORAGE COMPANY PROVIDES DOWNSIZING SOLUTION

elf-storage is made easy with the launch of YYC Storage, a Calgary company that provides a modern alternative to traditional self-storage. Making storage effortless and convenient, YYC Storage provides same day on demand pick-up and drop-off to its storage facility in Calgary for as low as $4.99 per month. YYC Storage handles everything except packing. With just a few clicks, storage bins are ordered online and dropped off at a customer’s home or business for free. YYC Storage then collects the bins and larger unboxed items, and brings them to a local storage facility where they are properly labeled and kept safely and securely. “We noticed how condo sizes were drastically shrinking in Calgary and wanted to provide an affordable storage solution to those that needed to downsize,” states Torey Celinskis, Co-Founder of YYC Storage. “Some of the newer condos are averaging 400 square-feet, and for a city that takes full advantage of the outdoors, people need a place to store their possessions” In order to retrieve a storage bin or other items, the customer merely has to login into their personal “online closet” and click on the bins or items they want to retrieve. Within less than 24 hours, the bins are personally delivered right to your door. A YYC Storage box can hold up to 50 pounds of items and costs $4.99 per box per month to store. Unboxed items ranging from ski equipment and golf clubs to Christmas trees and bikes are $9.99 per item per month. “YYC Storage can be compared to online storage providers like ICloud or Dropbox, but instead of digital items we’re storing physical items for you,” states Co-Founder Trevor Loose. “Since launching, we’ve stored all kinds of items; anything from business files and papers, seasonal wardrobes, Christmas, canoes and snowboards — we’ve seen it all.” CL CO N D O L I V I N G O C TO B ER 2016

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CALGARY MAP | North West, North East and Inner City MAP LEGEND

High Volume Roads Main Roads

Parks

Bodies of Water

27 10

See Advertiser Index for Project Page Reference

NOSE CREEK PARKWAY

NOSE HILL PARK

CANADA OLYMPIC PARK

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY

19 18 20

25 PRINCE'S ISLAND

22 STAMPEDE PARK

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@Condolivingyyc

North West, North East and Inner City | CALGARY

MAP

1 2

26 9 4

8 10 27

11 12 13 14

CALGARY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

16 17

19 24 21

INNER CITY

INNER CITY PROJECTS Kensington VEN 3 LIDO 4 Avenue West End 5 Vogue 6 The Concord 7 Waterfront 8 FIRST 9 Evolution 10 Verve 1

11 6th and Tenth

21 The XII

12 The Guardian South

22 Park Point

14 The Park 15 The Block

24 Scollen House 25 Duke at Mission

13 The Orchard

16 Drake 17 Smith

18 The District 19 Tela

20 THERIVER

23 The Royal

26 Riverfront Pointe 27 N3

28 EZRA on Riley Park 29 INK

NORTH WEST | NORTH EAST PROJECTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ZOO

8 9 10 11 12

Villas at Watermark Sonoma at Nolan Hill Nolan Park Mark 101 ARRIS Willow at Sherwood Sage Place Viridian Avira Kincora Summit Emerald Sky Panorama West

13 ARRIVE at Redstone

14 ARRIVE at Skyview

Ranch Arbours

15 Groves of Varsity 16 University City 17 Landings at Cougar Ridge 18 STEPS Bridgeland 19 LiFTT

24 ARRIVE at Evanston 25 Bridgeland Hill

26 Ezra on Riley Park 27 Urbana Street Towns 28 Vivace at West 85th

29 Ashbury at Saddlestone

30 The Link at Evanston 31 RADIUS

20 43 Park

32 Diseño 33 Cityscape Townhomes

22 Bridgeland Crossings

34 The Henry

23 Killarney Townes

35 The Loop

21 Victory and Venture

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CALGARY MAP | South West, South East and Calgary Area

11 7 41

8 11 7

4 6

AIRDRIE

50 5

10 51

MAP LEGEND High Volume Roads Main Roads

Parks

9 7 4

Bodies of Water

10 11

See Advertiser Index for Project Page Reference

3 2

1 13

COCHRANE 2

2 3

14 19 1

CHESTERMERE

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OKOTOKS/DE WINTON

South West, South East and Calgary Area | CALGARY

MAP

SOUTH WEST | SOUTH EAST PROJECTS 1 Valmont at Aspen

18 MidCity

35 Stonecroft at Copperfield

19 Hunter House 20 Origins at Cranston

36 Copperfield Park III

3 4 5 6

7 8

34 26

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Stone Morena West Overture Axess Armory Juno at Currie The Alex GLAS Brooklyn Condominiums Altadore 36 Avli on Atlantic Mission34 SoBow Buffalo at Silverado Champagne The Gates Killarney Townes

37 Mahogany Street Towns

21 Legacy Gate 22 Harvest Mosaic

38 Legacy Street Towns

23 Villas of Riverstone 24 Cranston Ridge

40 Elements

25 Mosaic Riverstone 26 Side by Side

Auburn Bay 27 Niche One 28 Auburn Walk 29 Canoe at Auburn Bay 30 Stonecroft Auburn Bay 31 Regatta 32 Ebony 33 Chalet No 5 & No 6 34 Albert Park Station

39 Livingstone Townes 41 MAX 42 My Legacy Park 43 Jackson at Walden

44 Sandgate

45 The Morello 46 Sanderson Ridge

47 Side by Side Front Drive

Auburn Bay

48 Axis

49 Legend of Legacy

50 Avenue 33

51 The Ashford

52 Westman Village

CALGARY AREA PROJECTS AIRDRIE

1 Riviera Riversong

2 Windsong 3 Creekside Village 4 Waterscape at

2 Jumping Pound

5 6 7

9 10 11

40 18

COCHRANE

1 The Edge

Cooper’s Crossing Stone Keep at King’s Heights Ravenswood Townhomes Brookside at Baysprings ZEN Ravenswood Newport at Canals Landing Hillcrest Townhomes Midtown

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Townhomes Stonecreek Landing Vantage Fireside The Village Townhomes in Sunset Ridge Heartland RiverReach Brand Townhomes Sunset Ridge Street Towns Duplexes in Sunset Ridge Clearbrook Villas Fireside

CHESTERMERE 1 The Courtyards in

Chestermere

2 Townhomes of

Chestermere Station

3 Lakes of Muirfield

OKOTOKS/ DE WINTON 1 ZEN Okotoks

2 Villas of Artesia

36 32 26

28 47 31 29 30

44 52

48 21 38 49 39 42

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ADVERTISERS INDEXâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A; Homes by Avi page 53

Arrive Partners page 45 Avenue West End Grosvenor page 43 Brand Townhomes Birchwood Properties page 65 Buffalo Avi Urban page 18 Carlisle Group page 78 Copperfield Park Brad Remington Homes FC, pages 14-16 Cove Properties page 6 Emerald Sky Carlisle Group page 95 Ezra Birchwood Properties page 89 Glas Avalon Master Builder page 44

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Hunter House Streetside Developments page 82 InHouse Society page 74 Ink Batistella page 69 Jayman BUILT page 84 Kensington Bucci page 5 Legacy Jayman BUILT page 17 Legacy Park Brad Remington Homes page 93, back cover Legend of Legacy Aldebaran Homes page 94 Medical Travel Show page 65

Origins Streetside Developments page 39

The Guardian Hon Developments page 86

Walden Place Cardel Lifestyles page 3

Park Point Qualex-Landmark page 60

The Loop Streetside Developments page 4

Westman Village JaymanBUILT page 28

Radius Bucci page 9

The Mark 101 Shane Homes page 38

Zen Cranston Avalon Master Builder page 59

Remington Developments page 34

The Orchard Lamb Development page 49

Zen Ravenwood Avalon Master Builder page 27

Rise Townhomes Jayman Modus page 33

Verona Trico Communities page 80

SoBow M2i Developments page 70

Verve Fram/Slokker Developments page 22

Stonecroft pages 54-55 Symons Gate Brookfield Residential page 32 Synergy ReidBuilt Homes page 23 The Ashford Brookfield Residential page 11

Victory and Venture Providence page 2 Viridian Trico Communities page 80 Vivace Streetside Developments page 75