Condo Living - April 2017 by Source Media Group

CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

CONTENTS APRIL 2017 | VOLUME 13 ISSUE 208

FOCUS ON 12 | Sounds of spring Welcome harmonious sounds and birdsong to your backyard CONDO PROFILES 18 | Northern colours ZEN Redstone brings more townhome options to the north 23 | Seeing is believing Cardel Lifestyles opens new show suites in Walden Place 26 | Small town treasure ARRIVE at The Landing, a rare townhome opportunity in Okotoks 30 | The heart of Airdrie The Gates at Hillcrest embraces Airdrie’s family-friendly nature COMMUNITY PROFILES 36 | Campus life University District brings fresh lifestyle approach to inner-city living 40 | Familial surroundings Evanston shines with family-friendly allure, and wide variety of home choices DESIGNER SERIES 45 | The glamourous life Glam is just part of the stylishly functional design in Avi Urban’s Jackson

COVER FEATURE 14 | Life in style Vivace brings ultimate urban lifestyle to southwest CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

CONTENTS 55

LIFESTYLE 49 | Meeting the challenges of change Lido helps downsizing couple find the perfect fit for their lifestyle

FEATURES 53 | Arf in the park See Spot run and run and run in Calgary’s best dog parks 68 | Medical Travel Show Expert advice on out-of-country treatment A DAY IN KIDDIE FUN 55 | Fun city Kids of all ages can participate in loads of indoor and outdoor fun in the city

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SHOPPING 64 | Retro time What was once old is new again in antique fashion

COLUMNS 75 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 77 | Condoscapes by Richard White 79 | Hope at Large by Marty Hope 81 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez

INDUSTRY NEWS 71 | Best of the best 2016 Finalists for 2016 SAM Awards announced

ITEMS 10 | Editor’s Message 82 | Maps 86 | Ad Index

STYLE 60 | A clean style Stylish living is the reward of a few hours of spring cleaning

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE |

SPRING LAUNCH

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca

PUBLISHER |

Spring is looking to be especially busy in the new multi-family market – we’ve been inundated with requests for coverage of new condo developments and communities. After the cold winter when everyone just seemed to hunker down, it’s good to be back on the road and attending all these launches and openings. We get to tell a lot of those to you in these pages. First off is the opening of Vivace at West 85th’s dynamic new show suites, which we really can’t stop talking about. It’s just remarkable what StreetSide and Bri-Mor have done in this partnership that offers cool, trendy homes in a community designed to give the most enviable lifestyle to residents. It’s the best multi-family opportunity in this most coveted west side of Calgary. Then we have the brand new condo developments of ZEN Redstone in the northeast community of the same name by Avalon Master Builders, and ARRIVE at the Landings by Partners Development Group, the newest — and as far as we can tell, the only new townhome development in Okotoks. Both have just started sales and both seem to enjoy a measure of success so far. It helps that they are both in locations that fit the first-time homeowner, and downsizer buyers. Walden Place by Cardel Lifestyles is generating plenty of excitement and they are getting ready to open new in-building show suites soon, but even without that sales aid they’ve been able to sell more than 90 of their units already. Gates at HillCrest by Mattamy Homes is opening their show suite on March 18 to mark the latest townhome development in Airdrie. Whew, I told you it’s been a busy month. University District, the much-anticipated new inner-city community springing up in the University of Calgary campus, has also launched with the new Discovery Centre that houses show suites from their two developers — Brookfield Residential and Truman Homes. Andrea Cox tells us what kind of lifestyle buyers can expect here in her community profile inside. Evanston, meanwhile, is one of the newest established communities in the northwest, even as Qualico’s much-loved development is set to open a new show home parade this spring. “All the amenities are already available in the community — like schools and shopping, you don’t have to wait years to be able to enjoy those,” Qualico’s Cheryl Heilman pointed out to us. It’s also worth noting that the new communities of Livingston by Brookfield Residential and Carrington by Genstar have also opened and are transforming northern Calgary into a premier residential area. Spring is also the time when we celebrate the SAM Awards and we have a partial list of the condo and community awards here. While were on the subject of spring, David Crosson offers NEXT MONTH: his take on spring cleaning tips in his STYLE feature that we Sustainable gardens can all benefit from. Kathy McCormick gives us the rundown on where to head for our antique shopping; while Aaliya Essa gives us the lowdown on wind chimes and birdfeeders for our backyard beautification projects that should be going along shortly as soon as the snow melts. Spring is indeed something to look forward to. The warm weather will most certainly be welcome, but I’m not necessarily ever thrilled with the whole spring-ahead daylight saving time thing. But sleep-deprived or not, Condo Living is here to update you with the latest in the Calgary multi-family industry.

@CondoLivingYYC

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CondoLivingCalgary

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 SOCIAL MEDIA & CONTENT CO-ORDINATOR

Shylo Thompson shylo.thompson@sourcemediagroup.ca

Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR |

EDITORIAL

Maria Bartolotti, Shelley Boettcher, Darlene Casten, Andrea Cox, David Crosson, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick, Shyly Thompson, Richard White PHOTOGRAPHY

Don Molyneaux, Jean Faye Rodriguez, Shylo Thompson 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 208 • ISSN 1918-4409 © 2017 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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SOUNDS OF SPRING

Welcome harmonious sounds and birdsong to your backyard BY AALIYA ESSA

DID YOU KNOW you could hear spring come to life in your backyard? The whimsy of wind chimes certainly brings a tuneful sound to the season, but even more telling is the music of birdsong. Bird feeders and birdhouses bring this kind of cheery chirping to your private outdoor spaces, and you’d likely see the first robin of spring ahead of everyone else. CL

9 [ 1 ] Squirrel Be Gone Bird Feeder, $35.98 at Home Depot. [ 2 ] Chandelier Wind Chimes, $64.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 3 ] Holly Berry Gilded Chalet Wild Bird Feeder, $14.99 at Home Depot. [ 4 ] Hummingbird Wind Chimes, $49.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 5 ] Hometrends Butterfly Bird Bath with Stand, $59.94 Walmart. [ 6 ] Terracotta Frog bird feeder, $129.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 7 ] Black Pipe Wind Chimes, $99.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 8 ] No/No Designer Sunflower Single Tier Bird Feeder with Perk-Pet, $19.99 at Home Depot. [ 9 ] Hometrends Green Bird Bath with Stand, $59.94 at Walmart. [ 10 ] Ceramic Mother with Babies Bird Feeder, $39.95 at Pier1 Imports.

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LIFE IN STYLE Vivace brings ultimate urban lifestyle to southwest

he perfect blend of life and style comes to Calgary’s southwest, as Vivace at West 85th opens new show suites that perfectly capture the essence of the vibrant, urban lifestyle offered here. Vivace at West 85th has always promised the best in stylish urban living in this much-coveted, amenity-rich location just off Bow Trail, and now buyers can see and touch and feel the actual suites. Vivace (pronounced: vi-VA-che) is Italian for “lively” and “vivid,” both of which perfectly describe the captivating design of this multi-family project. And the new show suites – coupled with the trendy and vibrant commercial scene that surrounds it – bring to fore the luxurious, liberating and stylish lifestyle the developers have promised. There are two apartment-style show suites that are opening at the end of March, to add to the staged townhome that had been unveiled earlier. They include a two-bedroom, two-bath suite that shows the double master concept. “It’s great for a roommate arrangement, or for siblings, or if you just want the flexibility an extra bedroom gives,” says area manager Donna McQueen. “It also includes two outdoor patios that allow residents to enjoy their private outdoor space.” There is also a two-storey, two-bedroom and two bathroom luxury condo/ townhome with an oversized main floor terrace and upper floor balcony. McQueen, who has been heavily involved in the interior design of the suites, says visitors will not be disappointed with the timelessness and functionality of the design. “The top-of-the-line standard specs provided at Vivace makes it easy to style the home, and the floor plan itself lends itself to envisioning the easy, relaxed lifestyle people can expect here,” she says. “Residents will find our stylish colour palettes inclusive of timeless quartz countertops throughout, chic tile and flooring details, top of the line appliances, oversized kitchens with an abundance of storage (including a walk-in pantry), along with so much more.” Minimal upgrades were needed in the show suites to create the striking final results, she adds. Vivace has been selling extremely well and they are over 50 per cent sold in the first phase. “Our remaining suites in this first phase of Vivace range in size from

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one bedrooms from 654– to 695 square-feet; two bedrooms from 856– to 926 square-feet; and two- and three-storey townhomes from 1,250 – to 1,468 square-feet,” she says, adding that townhomes include two parking stalls. Still, Vivace at West 85th is just one aspect of the entire West 85th Street development, a 10-acre parcel of land developed by Bri-Mor that contains retail, residential, medical, and office components, and even a municipal reserve park. Vivace is a joint project between StreetSide Developments and Bri-Mor, who owns the land. “West 85th brings all of life’s essentials together to create one of the most unique and sought after lifestyle choices that Calgary has to offer,” says Aleem Dhanani, managing director at the family-run Bri-Mor. Vivace’s residents will get to enjoy first-hand the unmatched level of amenities and services available at their very doorstep. West 85th offers boutique shopping and is a foodie destination for surrounding communities. With popular venues such as the Vin Room tapas bar, Ohh La La Patisserie, Waves coffeehouse, the Blue Door Oil and Vinegar Shop, Towa Sushi and various other exclusive specialty stores and services, West 85th has it all. Vivace at West 85th is designed to match the energetic and vibrant character of the whole development. Imagine living in a home where all these life-affirming amenities are just outside your door. That’s exactly what Vivace at West 85th has to offer: bringing the urban to suburban living. “Our homeowners are a blend of young professionals and empty nesters who like the convenience of a walkable community with an abundance of amenities, along with close proximity to downtown and the mountains,” McQueen says. “Vivace at West 85th has it all.” It’s easy to see why Vivace is so popular and how the synergy between Streetside and Bri-Mor are part of its success.

Vivace’s residents will get to enjoy first-hand the unmatched level of amenities and services available at their very doorstep.

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The partnership brings together over 80 years of experience in creating communities and those amenities that celebrate choice and purposeful living — Live. Work. Play. “It is a true lifestyle choice we are able to bring Calgary’s market through the partnership of Bri-Mor and StreetSide,” Dhanani says. “It’s a key partnership between two companies that share a passion for providing the best homes in the most accessible and amenity-rich locations, in this case, Bri-Mor has already provided us with a well-established community location loaded with restaurants, services and boutique shops,” agrees Richard Daley, Vice-President, Multi-Family Development at StreetSide. Vivace offers a variety of floorplans ranging from the executive three- storey townhomes to single-level and twostorey luxury condominiums. Vivace’s pricing for one-bedroom suites start from the $290,000s and two level condos and townhomes from the $480,000s (plus GST). n

FA ST FACTS COMMUNITY: West Springs PROJECT: Vivace at West 85th BUILDER: StreetSide Developments DEVELOPER: Bri-Mor Developments STYLE: Contemporary apartment-style condos, two-level condos and luxury townhomes SIZE: Condos from 654 sq. ft, and townhomes from 1,465 sq. ft. PRICE: From $290,000s plus GST ADDRESS: 201, 8531 – 8 A Avenue S.W. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Closed Friday Sat, Sun and holidays 12 to 5 p.m. DIRECTIONS: West on Bow Tr. right on 85th St. and follow the signs WEBSITE: www.livevivace.ca

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Northern colours ZEN Redstone brings more townhome options to the north BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

he endearing equanimity of ZEN comes to Redstone, as Avalon Master Builder brings their hit line of townhomes to this popular and ever-growing northeast community. “We’re building the latest ZEN community — an exciting new development of 56 two-storey townhomes — close to highways, the Calgary airport and dozens of other employment hubs,” Avalon’s Dean Clark tells Condo Living. “Buyers will love what ZEN Redstone has to offer; affordable, stylishly designed homes with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and washer and dryer.” ZEN Redstone opened on February 11, and the response has been fantastic.

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One of its best features is that these are all townhomes with full basements that can be developed to add to the total livable space. “This allows us to offer townhomes with up to five bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms,” Clark says. All ZEN Redstone townhomes also get a fenced, private backyard. “Our buyers are, largely, young families and it helps that we can offer them townhomes that offer as much living space as possible, including private outdoor spaces,” he adds. ZEN Redstone has five floor plans to choose from, ranging in size from 1,149 to more than

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ZEN Ravenswood show home

1,800 square-feet, each available in two-, three-, four- or even five-bedroom options. One of their most popular plans in Redstone is the Roma, which is available from 1,156 to 1,267 square-feet and can have from The Roma floor plan was designed to accommodate any family with up to three to five bedrooms, and two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half bathrooms. The kitchen, located at the rear of the home, boasts a spacious dining area with enough room for an optional island. Families are sure to enjoy this open concept living plan to plant roots and spread their wings. “We’ve designed ZEN Redstone for families. So whether yours is small, large or extended, you’ll find a perfect floor plan for how you live your life,” Clark says. Prices start at $299,900, including GST. ZEN Redstone is also a departure from the traditional look of previous ZEN townhomes, preferring a more contemporary design with brighter colours that suit the feel of the forward-looking community. Two show suites are expected to open in the summer and both will have full basement developments to give

“Our buyers are, largely, young families and it helps that we can offer them townhomes that offer as much living space as possible, including private outdoor spaces.”

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FA S T FA C T S COMMUNITY: Redstone PROJECT: ZEN Redstone DEVELOPER: Avalon Master Builder STYLE: Two-storey townhomes with private fenced backyards SIZE: From 1,149 sq. ft. to more than 1,800 sq. ft. PRICE: Starts in the $299,900 SALES CENTRE: corner of Redstone Dr and Red Embers Gate N.E. HOURS: Mondays to Wednesdays, 2 to 8 p.m.; weekends and holidays: noon to 5 p.m.

buyers the chance to see its full potential. Clark says Avalon offers buyers the option of building the basement DIRECTIONS: North on Deerfoot Tr., east on too. “For a limited time, we can build Country Hills Blvd., north on Metis Tr., and right on your ZEN Redstone basement for only Redstone Gate N.E. and follow the signs. $19,900.” But the real attraction in owning WEBSITE: www.zeninbalance.com a ZEN Redstone townhome is its location in this premier, family-friendly neighbourhood that is well on its way to becoming one of Calgary’s newest established communities. Redstone, developed by Qualico Communities, is a vibrant community in Calgary’s northeast. It is situated near popular amenities such as the Genesis Centre for Wellness, several schools and shopping centres including CrossIron Mills, and the future Deerfoot City (what used to be Deerfoot Mall). It may come as a surprise to many, but this community that only began ADDRESS: 2400 Ravenswood View, Airdrie

P H O T O S O N T H I S PA G E A R E O F Z E N R AV E N S W O O D S H O W H O M E

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construction in 2012 is already 75 per cent complete, and is expected to be built out in three to four years. “Redstone has the feel of an established community — with the opportunity to build a new home, and yet not live in an active construction zone for years on end,” Clark says. Redstone is conveniently located close to Stoney Trail, Deerfoot Trail, Metis Trail and Country Hills Boulevard, which allows for an easy commute in and out of the community. It is close to a diverse set of employment hubs, including the airport, Peter Lougheed Hospital, and the various northeast industrial parks. Downtown is only 15 minutes away and having LRT stations nearby also helps. There are actually plans to extend the LRT tracks right up to the community. “It will add another convenience to our residents.” The community itself promotes active living with its parks, pathways and outdoor recreation, including their unique “participarks,” which are outdoors fitness stations located along the pathways that promotes a healthy lifestyle and allows for neighbours to get to know each other. Redstone will be the latest addition to Avalon’s mega successful line of ZEN townhomes. By centering on floor plans that cater to a diverse set of lifestyle needs, ZEN has become one of the most recognizable townhome products in the city. There are still ZEN townhomes available in Cranston in the southeast and Ravenswood in Airdrie. CL

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SEEING IS

BELIEVING BY AALIYA ESSA

Cardel Lifestyles opens new show suites in Walden Place

rad Logel has been in the industry for close to 17 years, and it’s not often that he gets this excited for a new development. But Cardel Lifestyles’ latest — Walden Place in the southeast — is definitely something to be thrilled for. “We launched in Walden a year ago with the opening of a new show suite and sales centre,” says Logel, the area manager for the multi-awarded condominium developer, “and we’re already approaching 90 sales.” What’s really got Logel stoked, though, is the upcoming opening of several new show suites at the almost 10-acre development featuring both apartment condos and large townhomes. The first townhome show suite will open on March 18. “The first condo building is well under construction,” he says, “with possessions starting in May. We also have seven new condo show suites and a brand new sales centre opening and a brand new double-garage townhome show home opening on March 18.” When all is said and done, the ‘community-within-a-community’ will be home to six separate condo buildings and 40 two-storey, double-garage townhomes. Sales for the second condo building have just been released. “We run the gamut for condo choices,” says Logel, “we have at least two or three exceptional home plans for each type of buyer. So there really is something for every lifestyle — and budget.” Many condo builders make that claim, but Walden Place takes this to another level. “We have 11 different sizes and plans of condos: everything from a one

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bedroom, one bath; to a two bedroom, one bath; to a two bedroom, two bath; and even a three bedroom, two bath suite.” Availability changes as specific units are sold, but right now the one bedroom/one bath units are priced to sell starting from an incredible $154,900, plus GST. The largest plan is a very affordable $284,900, plus GST. These “bookends”, as Logel refers to them, range from 544 squarefeet right up to a 1,021-square-foot corner unit. Both the 950 and 1,021-square-foot corner options have a number of unique features, says Logel, but what really stands out are the huge wrap-around decks. “When people come to see us, one of the things that hits them really quickly is the size of the patio decks. Compared to some small downtown condos, these decks are more than half the size of the entire condo. The largest is 237 square-feet.” Size matters, of course, but it’s not just the size that sets Cardel Lifestyles apart, says Logel, it’s the value and design. “People recognize the size, but also the great value, especially with our high standard specifications and industry leading designs.” Is there one model that’s most popular? Sure, says Logel, it’s easy to just look at building one and see what sold quickest. For example, the two-bedroom, one-bathroom, 624-squarefoot suites have been a big hit at a price point of just $174,900. “It has a really cool kitchen with a lot of storage space,” says Logel. “You really have to see it to understand. No one is building suburban condos with better standard specifications. Our standard specs are typically higher than standards in any single-family starter home.”

“So not only do we have two or three plans for everybody, we also have things that will stop you in your tracks and make you say ‘Wow!’

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Indeed, one glance around the show suite, with its huge island, luxury vinyl plank flooring, large size washer dryer and fridge, standard quartz, and estate style specs for kitchens which include a walk-in pantry and a flush mounted stainless steel fridge, and it’s obvious this is the kind of quality usually found only in larger single family and estate-style homes. “We offer the standard specs that everyone wants in a condo or townhome, but that only we offer. We have literally five times the number of choices for customization, combo of standards and upgrades. Most builders have a few choices, we have 19 pages worth. As we like to put it: our homeowners have the ability to live out their HGTV dream.” Logel describes the upgrade options as “a la carte”, meaning select, one, a couple or all to suit your tastes. “We offer the opportunity for complete customization,” he says. “We can manipulate the kitchen layout in some of our larger condos, adjusting things like pantries and islands, maybe even extending entire kitchen area. We even have a wall oven option that is basically unheard of in suburban condos. It’s not just the upgrade choices though, they offer unique standard features as well.

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dining area — plus super-sized bedroom windows, eight-foot sliding glass patio doors and yet another window on the other COMMUNITY: Walden outside wall. All the others come complete with stacked washer/ dryer sets. PROJECT: Walden Place “So not only do we have two or three plans for everybody,” DEVELOPER: Cardel Lifestyles says Logel, “we also have things that will stop you in your STYLE: Apartment-style condos and townhomes tracks and make you say ‘Wow!’ SIZE: Condos start from 544 sq. ft., townhomes In building number two, he says, you can actually choose one of the 624-square-footers that faces either east or west, from 1,550 sq. ft. depending on whether you’re a morning or afternoon person. PRICE: Condos from $154,900, townhomes Sunrise or sunset? It’s your choice, with some suites even havfrom the $339,900s ing a mountain view. SALES CENTRE: 23 Walgrove Cove SE Something that’s also completely unique to Cardel Lifestyles, says Logel, is the fact that all suites have their own fresh air HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 2 to 8 p.m. intake, a feature typically found only in downtown high rises. Weekends & Holidays: noon to 5 p.m. What this means is you don’t draw air from hallways, bringing SHOW HOMES: Townhome show home opening in other people’s cooking smells, smoke, etc. March 18, existing condo showsuite open now. “It’s fresh air 24/7,” says Logel, “and you can only get it from us.” Another issue Cardel Lifestyles has nipped in the bud is noise. WEBSITE: www.cardellifestyles.com Sound attenuation is a big deal in condos, and that’s been taken “For example, each corner units plan is care of by the construction technique of pouring a light-weight concrete already unique,” he says, with the biggest mix on top of subfloors. There’s even a display at the show suite to demonboasting a huge kitchen island, ensuite strate how this is achieved. bathroom with window — something rarely Location also presents a huge upside, says Logel. There’s a massive seen in condos — and a giant walk-in closet. green space to the north with park, ponds, playground, pathways, sport A different corner unit features the biggest fields and more about a 30-second walk from your front door, while on brightest open space — kitchen, living room, the south side is new commercial shopping centre which is coming soon. “So buyers will achieve a lot of ‘natural equity’ as these things come on stream,” says Logel. All two bedroom plans are available with a titled, heated underground stall and all condos come a storage locker. Parking is easy for townhome owners too, who get a private double-garage with each home. “And it’s a real double,” says Logel. “Typical townhome garages might be 18- or 18.5-foot wide, ours are based on a 20-foot townhome floorplate.” Townhomes also include three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a covered deck and a developed den/flex area. Their townhome plan, along with a number their condo plans have been well received in the local industry as they are finalists in the upcoming Calgary Region Builder SAM Awards. And, when it comes to quality, there’s no better measuring stick than customer satisfaction. “Alberta New Home Warranty has all builders do independent surveys of their customers,” says Logel, “we just won the customer satisfaction award again — and there is nothing that is more exciting for a potential homeowner than that! CL

FA S T FA C T S

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SMALL TOWN ARRIVE at The Landing, a rare townhome opportunity in Okotoks

he Town of Okotoks just south of Calgary seems to cater to young families, downsizers and first-time homebuyers. With its small town charm and attractive home prices it’s the perfect choice to set down roots or to spend the sunset years in. However, townhome opportunities that are favoured by these demographics seem to be few and far between here. That’s why the announcement that Partners Development Group is coming in with their ARRIVE brand of townhomes in Drake Landing is causing a lot of excitement. ARRIVE at The Landing is in Drake Landing on the eastern part of Okotoks at the end of Milligan Drive. It will offer two- and three-bedroom townhomes with single- or double-attached garages. “It is a small development with only 30 townhomes — two-storey with full basements and three storeys,” says Jade Mahon, vice-president for

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sales & marketing at Partners Development Group. Like the rest of Partners’ ARRIVE line of townhomes, ARRIVE at The Landing boasts superior green qualities, affordability and style. “Every ARRIVE townhome is BuiltGreen certified, with beautiful modern specs, and offers a maintenance-free lifestyle that brings the best of what home ownership has to offer,” Mahon says. What makes ARRIVE at The Landing even more desirable is its location. “ARRIVE at The Landing is centrally located in the last phase of Drake Landing within Okotoks,” says Mahon. Drake Landing is a favourite in Okotoks for a reason. “The location is attractive, not only because of the mountain

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TREASURE BY SHYLO THOMPSON

views it has, but because it’s close to all the bike paths, dog park and other amenities,” says Mahon. “It’s also next to a community playground.” She says ARRIVE at The Landing suits a variety of lifestyles, especially those looking to get out of renting, or those simply looking for a maintenance-free lifestyle. “The current buyers who have shown a lot of interest are empty nesters, single professionals, and medical professionals from both the South Health Campus and Okotoks’ Urgent Care unit. People who want an affordable green home but don’t want to sacrifice quality. Our empty nesters are looking forward to being

Photos are of Arrive at Bowness show suite.

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CONDO PROFILE | Arrive at Bowness show suite.

able to travel for weeks or months at a time while not having to worry about snow removal and lawn care,” says Area Sales Manager, Brad Pond. Townhomes range in size from 1,313 to 1,450 square-feet, with prices starting from $319,900 (net GST) for pre-construction pricing on the double-master bedroom homes, and from $379,900 (net GST) for the three-bedroom homes. Mahon says there is also an early purchase incentive to get an optional basement development included in the price of the three bedroom homes. There are two floor plans with interior- and end-unit designs. Of the 30 townhomes, 21 of them are three storey homes with double master bedrooms, flex room on the ground floor, two-and-a-half baths, and single car garages with full depth driveways, and are referred to as Alto plans. The other nine are two-storey townhomes, with three bedrooms, a full basement, and double car garage, called the Stratus plans. “We have our standard upgraded specs, including high quality laminate hardwood flooring throughout the kitchen, living, dining level, luxury vinyl tile in the wet areas, and 38-ounce carpeting with eight-pound underlay everywhere else,” she says. “We are offering granite and quartz countertops as well as contemporary cabinet finishes. We have nine-foot ceilings on the main level (kitchen/living/dining) with standard eight-foot ceilings elsewhere. Upper floor laundry in all plans, for that convenience we appreciate.” The homes also include a stainless steel appliance package in the kitchen, front load washer and dryer, and two-inch faux wood blinds. While being a small, residential neighbourhood — Drake Landing has easy access to major roadways and shopping. The Landing will actually have a commercial component that will likely bring nice-to-have amenities close to home, along with Kids’ Stop Day Care, which is opening this fall. ARRIVE at The Landing is kind of a homecoming for Partners in Okotoks where they did some smaller developments including Dakotas Sky Ranch and Spring Meadows, and “we are excited to be back!” Mahon says. ARRIVE at The Landing is the latest in Partners’ line of ARRIVE townhomes that includes almost 600 Built Green certified townhomes, in the Calgary communities of Skyview Ranch,Redstone and Evanston and their recent launch with ARRIVE at Bowness. Compared to Skyview Ranch or Evanston (both are over 70 per cent sold) the 50-

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unit Bowness development has a very contemporary exterior look using galvalume ™ steel to match the neighbouring landmark of Sunnyside Garden Market. ARRIVE at The Landing has the same architect as ARRIVE at Bowness (Hindle Architects) so there are some similarities with rooflines, use of space, contemporary features, however we use Hardy siding with plenty of brick accents on this site. Pond says that right now is a great time to buy, as “the real estate market seems to be balancing out.” “Mortgage interest rates are still low and purchasers seem to be becoming more active. While the program is still being offered, CMHC and Genworth mortgage insurers reward people for purchasing a Certified BuiltGreen Home — by providing a 15 per cent rebate on mortgage insurance premiums!” Mahon points out. “ARRIVE at The Landing launched sales on March 1. Feedback thus far from has been great! We will have possessions by early Fall 2017,” Mahon says. CL

FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Drake Landing, Okotoks DEVELOPMENT: ARRIVE at The Landing DEVELOPER: Partners Development Group Ltd. STYLE: Two- and three-bedroom townhomes SIZE: 1,313 to 1,450 sq. ft. PRICE: From $319,900 (net GST) ADDRESS: 2 Drake Landing Blvd., Okotoks (at the corner of Milligan Dr. and Drake Landing Blvd.) DIRECTIONS: East on Milligan Drive, right before Ranchers Rise HOURS: On appointment at okotoks@ arrivehome.ca WEBSITE: arrivehome.ca

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The Gates at Hillcrest embraces Airdrie’s familyfriendly nature

THE HEART OF AIRDRIE T BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

The Alder

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he warm, welcoming character of Airdrie is very much in evidence in the latest townhome development from Mattamy Homes, even as the Gates at Hillcrest embodies the windswept prairie landscape and closeness to nature that the city holds dear. Seven years after embarking on its first community development in Airdrie, Mattamy Homes is well underway with its third project in this thriving city north of Calgary. The Gates at Hillcrest promises to add to Mattamy’s already sterling reputation as Canada’s largest residential land developer and as Airdrie’s top selling home builder. It sits on the west side of Airdrie, just across 8th Street from Mattamy’s previous communities of Windsong and Southwinds, and shares many of the advantages of these already popular communities in West Airdrie. The Gates of Hillcrest will have 159 units, made up of 123 manor townhomes and 36 village homes. The manor townhomes are all two-storey, front drive garage (mostly single, but some two-car garage models) with a full basement. While Village Townhomes — which will be released at a later date are three-storey townhomes with single car garages. The Manor Townhomes are a new product for the builder, offering a front-drive garage, rear yard and more square footage than what Mattamy has done with townhomes in previous developments. Mattamy vice-president of sales and marketing, Warren Saunders says the manor townhomes at Gates at Hillcrest will be the largest townhome

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The Willow

product in Airdrie, ranging from 1,471 to 1,698 square-feet. Starting at only $319,990, and No Condo Fee’s they may be the most affordable in the city as well. “They also all have oversized lots in length so owners get quite a lot of room in the back, double what you usually see in townhomes,” Saunders tells Condo Living. “The lots are fully sodded both front and back and They’re great for people with pets and small children, giving them plenty of room to play in their own backyard.” Three of the manor models come with a single-car garage, while the corner unit, dubbed The Willow, has a two-car garage. These homes have three bedrooms and twoand-a-half bathrooms. “We went into a little bit larger townhome that we haven’t offered before,” says Saunders. “It really speaks to someone in the market who we think can be a downsizer, a young couple starting out, or a single person living with an older child at home.” The spacious, functional and stylish open-concept design of the main floor works well for a wide range of lifestyle needs. Whether you like to entertain or be a homebody with just your partner or the family, the well-designed kitchen suits any purpose. Big windows and tall ceilings bring a rare sunlit quality to the interiors and top-class standard specifications blend well for a luxurious ambience. “There are spectacular walk-out lots available too, which is rare for townhome products, and just plays right into the natural landscape of the community,” Saunders says, adding that there will be a tremendous amount of

The Alder The Birch

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The Aspen

landscaping that will be done in the community that will see a lot of trees around the area. The location of the community is advantageous to all lifestyles as well. Thanks to its proximity to Windsong and Southwinds, The Gates at Hillcrest will share many of the advantages of these already popular communities, including the highly distinctive and original feature in Southwinds: the first reconstructed natural reserve in southwest Airdrie. The Gates at Hillcrest will also showcase its own environmental reserve with walkout lots opening onto this exquisite backdrop. Making it more appealing to families is the impending opening of a brand new K-8 public school in neighbouring Windsong in the fall of 2017. The Gates at Hillcrest is also near Chinook Winds Park, which offers alluring features like a boarded ice rink, skate-park, baseball diamonds and the Mattamy Spray Park. “It’s a great community to pursue an active lifestyle,” Saunders says. He points out that it has great accessibility to Calgary, especially the northern portion where many employment hubs are located. “The Calgary international airport, CrossIron Mills and the industrial districts of north Calgary are an easy drive from The Gates at Hillcrest, you can take 8th Street and bypass all the lights in Airdrie,” Saunders says. Sales at The Gates at Hillcrest have been going great since their launch, with 70 per cent of the initial phase already sold. First possessions are happening in March of 2017. Show homes will also be available for viewing at this time. CL The Birch

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FA S T FAC TS PROJECT: The Gates at Hillcrest BUILDER/DEVELOPER: Mattamy Homes STYLE: Manor townhomes and village townhomes SIZE: Manor townhomes from 1,471 to 1,698 sq. ft. Village townhomes to be announced later PRICES: Manor townhomes from $319,990 ADDRESS: Presentation centre is at 907 Windsong Drive, Airdrie HOURS: From 1 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. WEBSITE: mattamyhomes.com

The Willow

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CAMPUS LIFE University District brings fresh lifestyle approach to inner-city living BY ANDREA COX

he launch of a new inner-city community in Calgary’s northwest is creating quite the buzz. Aptly coined the University District, it’s sprouting up on 81 hectares of endowment lands surrounding the University of Calgary. “We wanted to create a place that truly does allow for people to work, live and shop — all of those things that we like to talk about, but that are very hard to create,” says James Robertson, president and CEO of West Development Trust, which is tasked with bringing the vision of University District to life. The unifying mandate behind the project is its core commitment to sustainability on all levels from economics to over-all community plan and home offerings. The broadly shaped vision incorporates the ideals of a walkable community, with concepts spring boarding from new urbanist design principles to weave together a sense of place, creating a strong and vibrant community where residents can work, live and play. The project’s genesis began with a distinct advantage — the university endowment lands are surrounded by the University of Calgary’s main

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campus, the Alberta Children’s Hospital, Foothills Medical Centre and McMahon Stadium, providing a plethora of jobs. Close to 30,000 people work in these centres, just a few minutes stroll from the community. “When we started this project five years ago, one of the things that we set out to do was to be leading edge in all aspects from process to content to how we finance it,” says Robertson. West Campus Trust looked at developments around the world, primarily in winter cities, ones that were really working well on all levels of sustainability. And it examined the principles behind neighbourhoods in University District’s backyard that really had the “vibe” — Marda Loop, Inglewood, Mission, and Kensington. “We took the best aspects from everything

we saw and planned them into this community,” says Robertson. The result is a master-planned community with a distinctive mixed-use High Street and a three-acre Central Park where residents can stroll along walking paths and partake in events like outdoor theatre. The goal was to create pedestrian, street-level interaction with retail at grade level, hidden parking (there is a parking lot underneath Central Park), and no single-storey buildings — they are all multi-storey and mixed use. “People will be able to shop here, grocery shop, buy a coffee, go out for lunch, pick up wine at a wine store, do some banking and walk to work,” says Robertson, adding that the community design applies the best ideas in city design and yet it really takes into account Calgary’s own unique, local urban fabric. It’s a design that has earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED ND) Neighbourhood Design Platinum level — it’s the only neighbourhood in Canada to have been awarded the certification. Following the successful models at UBC and Simon Fraser University, the endowment lands are set up as a trust with the University of Calgary retaining ownership of the land. Buyers lease the land through a 99-year pre-paid lease. At the end of the term, West Campus Development Trust will either negotiate an extension to the lease or buy the building back. All net proceeds go back to the university to run its programs.

University District’s 5,000-square-foot Discovery Centre opened in March to coincide with the release of Brookfield Residential’s Ivy and Truman Homes’ Noble. The Ivy is a collection of 127 townhomes featuring three different architectural styles — traditional Brownstones, the Thin Elevation with bold, contemporary architecture and the Cubist design. “It’s a very intimate development with a central courtyard, designed with connectivity to the community and each of the homes comes with grade level amenity space so that you can interact with your neighbours,” says Ryan Moon, director of business development at Brookfield Residential. The Ivy will be built to a Built Green Gold standard, an initiative that Brookfield Residential is behind whole-heartedly. “We are really excited about this project. The homes were inspired by the University District design principals, which were greatly aligned with our values and what we wanted to bring to market,” says Moon. Noble by Truman offers a collection of two-storey, two-bedroom stacked townhomes and one -, two- and- three-bedroom apartment-style condominiums peppered throughout a four-storey building designed with a central interior courtyard. Townhomes occupying the third and fourth levels have access to private rooftop terraces that extend from the second-level living spaces. Every home includes a titled underground parking space. Truman is also offering 36, luxury brownstone townhomes with fully integrated appli- F A S T F A C T S ances, underground parking and 500-squarefoot private rooftop terraces. Buyers can COMMUNITY: University District choose from two floor plans — a double DEVELOPER: West Development Trust, for master layout and a three-bedroom design. the University of Calgary University District is expected to reach final build out over the span of the next 15 years BUILDERS: that there will be around 20,000 residents The Ivy by Brookfield Residential dwelling in close to 6,000 homes. “It will be Row townhomes starting from under $500,000 a small town,” says Robertson, adding that Noble by Truman Homes the West Campus Trust will stay involved in the project for the next 99 years or longer, Apartment condos from the $200,000s providing solid and innovative programming. Townhomes from the $420,000s “As a developer we are looking to ensure we DISCOVERY CENTRE: 4410 University Ave have an appropriate seat at the table as the NW (just North of the Children’s Hospital) community grows.” CL WEBSITE: www.myuniversitydistrict.ca CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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FAMILIAL SURROUNDINGS

Evanston shines with family-friendly allure, and wide variety of home choices BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

algary is indeed one of Canada’s biggest cities, but its small town roots are evident in the idyllic charms of Evanston in the northwest. This quiet, suburban community is where the scenic prairies meet an urban and sophisticated lifestyle. This Qualico Communities development has been one of the most popular residential destinations for families, young couples and downsizers with its lively mix of affordable and stylish housing options. It is one of the city’s most recently established communities with a full set of easy-living amenities readily at hand. Residents wouldn’t have to wait years for schools or groceries as they are already found within the community.

“Your children can walk or bike to school. You can shop in the community, your parents can even live in assisted living that is also in the community. It is like buying a new house in an established small town.” 40 |

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Evanston was designed as a prairie-values environment and atmosphere where families can flourish. At every turn you’ll discover community planning that encourages people to come together, rather than keep them apart. There are fewer fences and more open spaces, back lanes and verandahs — meaning more opportunities for conversations and more to see. Evanston’s ample green spaces with playgrounds and a neighbourhood gazebo have been designed to be gathering places, too. “Evanston is the northwest community that allows families to connect. No long commutes

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to take your children out of the community for activities or play-dates. You can get to know your neighbours and find a home within your budget,” says Cheryl Heilman, Qualico Communities’ marketing manager. New single-family front-drive-garage show homes will be opening on May 27, 2017, from its five single-family home builder group. Heilman says this latest phase (Phase 29) is in the east quadrant of Evanston and will have easy access to 14th Street N.W. More single-family lots are coming down the pipeline next year. “The great part of buying now is that customers will get a new home in an established community that comes complete with a public elementary school that is now open in Evanston, in addition to a Catholic K-9 school which is also in the community.” Every amenity is well within reach in the community and around its vicinity including grocery and liquor stores, dining, dental and banking services, among others.

“A second commercial site is planned with a Tim Horton’s and a gas station, ” she says. “Your children can walk or bike to school. You can shop in the community,” Heilman adds. “Your parents can even live in assisted living that is also in the community. It is like buying a new house in an established small town.” Heilman adds that people are coming to Evanston “to establish roots or to age in place” with buyers ranging from couples buying their first single-family homes or multi-family condos, to families searching for their move-up family home all the way to downsizers and even senior assisted living. “They love the schools in the community, the established paths and parks along with great transit connections,” she says. The pristine, close-to-nature character of the community is also appealing as Evanston spans 660 acres with four lushly landscaped ponds, and numerous parks. There are currently five playgrounds, with two new ones coming summer 2017, and there are also 14 green spaces.

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“Evanston has small-town charm with an established an active community association and provides home options for everyone’s taste, lifestyle and budget.” The convenience afforded by the Evanston Towne Centre featuring Sobeys, RBC, Subway, a medical and dental clinic and many more stores and services further define the family-friendly environs. Homes here span the whole range: from townhomes starting in the $240,000s from StreetSide Developments (The Loop in Evanston), Brookfield Residential (The Link at Evanston) and Partners Development Group (ARRIVE at Evanston); duplexes from the $390,000s from Broadview Homes and Pacesetter by Sterling Homes; laned homes from the $420,000s from Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Sterling Homes and Trico Homes; and move-up homes from the $450,000s from NuVista, Broadview Homes, Trico Homes, Sterling Homes and Jayman BUILT. Architectural controls of the community include: Craftsman, Foursquare and Colonial, which were carefully selected because they provide details such as well articulated front entrances, interesting roof lines and traditional, rich colours. “Evanston has small-town charm with an established an active community association and provides home options for everyone’s taste, lifestyle and budget,” Heilman says. Evanston is conveniently located with easy access to Stony Trail, Symons Valley Road, Beddington Trail, Country Hills Boulevard and Deerfoot Trail. Plus with Stoney Trail nearby, residents have easy access to CrossIron Mills mall and the airport. CL

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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Evanston DEVELOPER: Qualico Developments AVAILABLE HOMES: Multi-family (Townhomes) from the $240,000s

Arrive at Evanston, The Link At Evanston, The Loop in

Evanston Side by side from the $390,000s

Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes

Laned homes from the $420,000s

Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes,

Sterling Homes, Trico Homes

Move up from the $450,000s

NuVista Homes, Broadview Homes, Trico Homes, Sterling

Homes, Jayman BUILT

HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. DIRECTIONS: From Stoney Trail, head north on Symons Valley Rd. N.W., right on Symons Valley Pkwy N.W., and follow the signs. WEBSITE: www.qualicocommunities.com/evanston

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P H OTO BY P EP P ER RO D R IG U E Z

Homes by Avi’s Julie Punter (left) and Chloe Leung.

THE GLAMOROUS LIFE

Glam is just part of the stylishly functional design in Avi Urban’s Jackson BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

ust as building a home needs complete co-operation between the buyer and the home builder to create their dream home, there’s also a lot of collaborative effort that goes into creating a show home. Maybe even more so. In both cases, everyone has to be on the same page in coming up with the feel, the look and the practicality of the design. And it helps when everyone sees eye to eye. But the pressure of coming up with a fresh, exciting home that will capture everyone’s imagination — and not just your own – is extremely challenging. Even more so when you have to do it several times a year. Julie Punter and Chloe Leung have been designing and decorating show homes for Homes by Avi and their multi-family devel-

opment arm, Avi Urban, for such a long time that they’re practically attached at the hip. They are able to feed off each other’s creativity and energy and have successfully created the signature glam look of the Homes by Avi brand show homes and show suites. “There’s not that much that we don’t do together anymore,” Julie says. “It gets really busy but it helps that there’s two of us to work on it.” It’s also good that they have basically the same taste. A contemporary design infused with retro trendy touches is evident in most of their work, and they establish the unique, glamourous look for Avi Urban’s designed-for-life homes. Just one look at their latest work in Avi Urban’s Jackson at Walden townhomes and it’s quite evident that the vision for an attractive, appealing home that doesn’t lack in the wow department has been achieved. The 1,423-square-foot Auburn and the 1,142-square-foot Iris showcase everything Jackson at Walden has to offer; from open concept main floors to tandem parking, large bedrooms and ample entertainment space. “Our design team has truly outdone themselves again by using décor to highlight just how well-designed and functional each floor plan is,” says area sales manager, Cathy Wolski.

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The white-industrial glam theme of the Auburn show home accentuates the airy spaciousness of the main floor. The sparkling-smooth quartz countertops of the central island and perimeter counters and the glossy sheen of the kitchen cabinetry heighten the seamless elegance of the main floor. “We like the openness of the Auburn, but we’ve designed it so there is distinct separation between the dining room, kitchen and living room,” Julie says.

The master bath of the three-bedroom Auburn is masterfully crafted with optional full height tile in the oversized shower. “The designer tile is used on the wall and floor to establish a continuity. It also has a similar look to the oak hardwood flooring in the main floor,” Julie says.

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The standard track pendant lighting over the centre island works well with the nine-foot ceilings of the Auburn’s main floor. “For an open-concept design such as this, the Auburn still has plenty of wall space for your favourite art,” Chloe says, and she picked a ballerina theme for the show home that emphasizes its feminine appeal.

Sensual chrome taps from Moen adorn the kitchens and bathrooms in Jackson at Walden. “They’re fantastic, they have that elegant, modern look, the pull-out function is very handy in the kitchen, and they are quite easy to clean too,” Julie says. The Iris’ fun winter cottage theme has been a big hit, as visitors fell in love with its blend of rustic warmth and modern edginess. The wood plank design wallpaper pairs well with the winter woodlands art work that Chloe picked, and the faux concrete coffee table as a centerpiece. Those are real cut logs in the built in bookcase. “They were a challenge to bring in, but it worked well in establishing the theme of the home,” Julie says.

The window over the kitchen in the Iris is a very welcome feature that has made it one of the most popular models in Jackson at Walden. The slate grey glass tile kitchen backsplash and the stainless steel appliances that come standard with the home make it easy to design the space to suit your own taste.

Decorative touches, like these fancy mason jars in the Iris, involve a lot of time spent in on-line and hands-on shopping. “You can never tell where you can get inspired, so trips to HomeSense and other such retailers are always involved, as is surfing the web in sites like Wayfair. com,” Julie says. Visit the Jackson at Walden show homes at 340 Walden Parade S.E. to see for yourself. CL

Brushed chrome handles are almost de rigueur in a modern household, and they do bring out the chic in any room. ”It’s not all about elegance and style, as the practical applications also matter — like maximizing storage with this stylishly functional vanity cabinet.

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| LIFESTYLE

Meeting the challenges of change T

Laura, Bill and their miniature schnauzer

Lido helps downsizing couple find the perfect fit for their lifestyle

STORY BY DARLENE CASTEN PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX

he only constant is change, and Laura and Bill are no strangers to it. Bill has worked all over the world and across Canada; they’ve raised their growing family in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary. Laura, a teacher, changed careers at the age of 40, and began studying law with three growing kids at home. Now that they are empty nesters, enjoying their retirement, there is one thing that is still inevitable and that is change. But maybe — just maybe — they can stop now after they found their perfect downsizing condo. The two said a few years ago they knew it was time to change locations to better suit their age and lifestyle so they started hunting around for a centrally located condominium to fit their needs. They had already downsized once, moving from the family home to a west side

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villa with a 1,700-square-foot main floor and a 1,300-squarefoot walkout basement. Laura said it was time to pare things down again. Even though this is their second downsize, it wasn’t simple to cut their living space in half. Getting rid of a lot of the accumulated stuff in their lives was a challenge. “We tried Kijiji, but that was just like an online garage sale,” she said. “We gave stuff to charity and to family and friends and we threw some stuff out that nobody wanted.” She said downsizing for them is about more than just reducing the size of their floor plan. “We could do with less space and wanted to be closer to walk-able amenities and be less car dependent,” she says. “I stumbled on this place.” This place is Lido, an eight-story condominium building by developer Battistella, in the heart of Kensington. Located on the corner of 10th Street and 2nd Avenue, Lido is right next to Pixel, its sister-building. Lido faces onto 10th Street and has lower level business space that already has a Red’s Diner and a Calgary Public Library pop-up. Kensington was Laura and Bill’s original stomping grounds when they moved to Calgary many years ago. “We knew the neighbourhood, but it is has changed muchly,” Laura says.

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However, what still exists are all the amenities that will help them age in place, they say. “We are aging and need to look ahead and be able to take care of ourselves,” Laura says. For the first time since he was a teenager, Bill has a bike that he keeps in the building’s bike storage unit in the winter. This fall he enjoyed riding it around and even has a basket for their dog. Laura says they also often walk their miniature Schnauzer around the quiet streets in nearby Sunnyside. For Laura and Bill finding an affordable apartment condo with the space of a small starter home in the inner city was difficult until Laura stumbled onto Lido. Lido offers spacious, inner city suites in their price range and had the walkability they were looing for. Laura and Bill’s three bedroom, two bathroom, sixth-floor apartment is 1,470 square-feet and has a generously-sized outdoor patio. The corner-unit’s floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows on two sides overlook the bluff where Crescent Heights and SAIT are perched. Their sophisticated furniture graces the open living space that is shared with the kitchen and dining room. A quartz-topped island in a fawn colour is the focal point of the open living area. Modern European appliances and the stainless steel stove vent hanging over the island are a nice contrast to the traditional finishing and colours in the kitchen. They converted the third bedroom into a relaxed family space with a television and comfortable couch that can be closed off by using space-saving pocket doors that slide into the wall. The guest room doubles as an office, with a pullout couch for company. Guests also enjoy the use of a full-size main bathroom with a bath and shower. The bedroom and master bathroom are found tucked away down a hallway behind the kitchen, in a layout typically found in a single family home. It allows for privacy and the feeling of a separate sleeping and living space. Laura has created a family picture wall on the long wall to the bedroom. Across the hallway are two

For Laura and Bill finding an affordable apartment condo with the space of a small starter home in the inner city was difficult until Laura stumbled onto Lido. large banks of his and her closets. The master bedroom is located at the end of the hallway, allowing for a large window overlooking bustling Kensington. It is very quiet,” Laura says. “We don’t hear the neighbourhood noise.” They already have a bucket list of places they want to try out, like the newly opened Red’s Diner downstairs and Pie Cloud. They have already established some favourites too, including the neighbourhood dollar store, which Laura says looks small, but she is always surprised when Bill comes back with exactly what he was looking for. A Thai restaurant just down the block is another place they frequent. There is also a grocery store and transportation, shops and services within walking distance that will allow them to stay put for some time, Laura says. “We hope to be here for 10 years,” she says. CL CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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ARF IN THE PARK See spot run and run and run in Calgary’s best dog parks STORY AND PHOTO BY SHYLO THOMPSON

ith winter ending, it will be easier to get outside with your dog and there is definitely no shortage of good dog parks in the city. Calgary has 150 off-leash areas (city of Calgary website) — more off-leash space than any other major city in North America. If you are wondering where to take your furry friends for a walk — here’s a list of some of the best dog parks all over our beautiful city with the help of Beth O’Connor, dog trainer and owner of Cultured Canines.

RIVER PARK - Southwest. “River Park is by far my favourite dog park. It’s not fenced, which means only people with good dogs go there. Of all of the parks I’ve been to, this is where I’ve seen the least fights,” says O’Connor.

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BRITANNIA PARK - Southwest. Britannia Park is located on the other side of the Elbow River from River Park, and has off-leash river access.

CONNAUGHT PARK – Southwest. If you live downtown, Connaught Park is close-by, small, and fenced in. O’Connor recommends this park if you don’t have good control over your dogs as “they can’t run very far.”

NOSE HILL PARK - Northwest. Nose Hill Park is a Calgary-favourite for it’s spacious environment, plant life, and wildlife. The park covers 11 square kilometres with various hiking trails. A majority of the park is off-leash, though O’Connor says there are usually not a lot of dogs here. 12 residential communities surround this park, making it accessible to many. O’Connor listed Nose Hill Park as one of her favourites — however she warns that if your dog has bad recall, do not take them here off-leash as they can get out of the park, and there is a lot of wildlife such as coyotes and porcupines. This park is partially fenced-in.

EDWORTHY PARK – Southwest. Located off the Bow River, Edworthy is a large diverse park featuring: picnic tables, picnic shelters, playgrounds, fire pits, and even (seasonal) public washrooms. This park is not fenced in, and O’Connor says you can expect a medium amount of dogs.

AUBURN BAY DOG PARK - Southeast. O’Connor describes this fenced-in dog park as busy, making it “good for socializing your dogs.” She says this park has smaller fenced-in areas designed for individual dog training.

SUE HIGGINS PARK (formerly Southland Park) – Southeast. Adjacent to the Bow River, this off-leash park features: picnic tables, pathways, hiking trails, an island, and washrooms. This park is liked for its scenery — plant life and wildlife. It is home to ducks, geese, frogs, and several types of birds. This park is fenced-in, and O’Connor says you can expect it to be busy with other dogs/dog-owners.

ROXBORO PARK - Southwest. O’Connor describes this park as small, and “good for playing fetch.” She notes that it is not fenced in, and it is along a street — however the street is not busy.

SILVER SPRINGS RAVINE – Southwest. O’Connor describes this park as “almost a hiking trail.” It is not fenced-in, and doesn’t have a lot of dogs.

SOUTHVIEW (End of Southland Park) – Southwest. Small. Not fenced. Small-medium amount of dogs. CL CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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| A DAY IN KIDDIE FUN

FUN CITY

Kids of all ages can participate in loads of indoor and outdoor fun in the city BY SHELLEY BOETTCHER

pring can be a tough season if you’re a parent with young kids in Calgary. The weather may be good. The weather may be bad. What do these parents do to entertain the troops and burn off energy, too? Here are 15 fine suggestions, both indoor and outdoor, for April and beyond. It may seem like a lot of work for the parents, but we really envy the kids who get to enjoy all these endless fun activities.

STAY INSIDE

Bricks 4 Kidz (bricks4kidz.com) offers tons for pint-sized Lego lovers, from after-school classes on how to build robots to drop-in events and open play times, too. There are 18 locations throughout the city including the Bricks 4 Kidz Creativity Centre at 1428, 19 Avenue N.W. is just 10 minutes from the downtown core. Photos on this page courtesy Bricks 4 Kids.

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A DAY IN KIDDIE FUN |

Heritage Park

The Calgary International Children’s Festival (calgarykidsfest.ca) takes place May 24 to 27 at Arts Commons and Olympic Plaza. Buy tickets for one of the internationally renowned acts, or simply stop in to see what’s fun and free. A highlight: Fana Soro and Masabo Culture Company features the music and dance of West Africa, and shows take place in French or English. Glenbow Flip Factory (flip-factory.com) offers gymnastics, Parkour, stuntman and circus classes. But you can also show up for drop-in times for adults, teens and tiny tots alike. Call for times and details. Located in the far northeast corner of the city, Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park (flyingsquirrelsports.ca) bills itself as Canada’s largest indoor trampoline park. We have no idea if that’s true, but we know it’s big, very big. It is a bit of a drive if you don’t live in the northeast, but it’s a great place for kids to jump, run and burn off tons of energy. Glenbow (glenbow.org) has a slew of fun stuff on the go for adults and kids alike. The weekend art workshops take place on select Saturdays throughout the year and are led by Glenbow’s talented educators. Each workshop is inspired by Glenbow’s feature exhibitions. Upcoming dates include April 8 (string art), April 22 (glass painting) and May 6 (also glass painting.) Each workshop runs from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Space is limited so pre-registration is required, but workshops are free with museum admission. Heritage Park has plenty to do when it’s nice outside but even on a cold day, there are fun activities, too. Book in advance to decorate Easter eggs at Heritage Park’s Wainwright Hotel April 16. (That’s inside, where it’s warm!) Got a cat lover in the house? The 2017 Kitties ‘N Blooms cat show will take place April 8 and 9 at the Shouldice Arena (1515 Home Road N.W.).

Presented by the Calgary Cat Association, this show will feature all kids of cats and cat-related paraphernalia. The beautiful National Music Centre (nmc. ca) is fast becoming one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Sign up for the weekly newsletter to stay on top of live performances and workshops; most are free with the cost of admission. Another favourite for adults and kids alike, Telus Spark is currently featuring Star Trek: The Starfleet Academy Experience on now to June 4. This hands-on, interactive exhibit lets visitors become Starfleet cadet recruits. You can sign up to be evaluated in seven areas — engineering, navigation, tactical, command, science, medical and communications. At the end, you’ll receive your very own personalized Starfleet career recommendation. And don’t miss the artifacts and memora-

This hands-on, interactive exhibit lets visitors become Starfleet cadet recruits. You can sign up to be evaluated in seven areas — engineering, navigation, tactical, command, science, medical and communications. At the end, you’ll receive your very own personalized Starfleet career recommendation. 56 |

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| A DAY IN KIDDIE FUN

Calgary Zoo

Olympic Plaza

Glenbow

bilia from the Star Trek franchise. Go to sparkscience.ca/ startrek for more details. Take your kids to an indoor playground. Coffee & Scream (coffeeandscream.com), Tommy K Play (tommykplay.com) and Fun n’ More (funnmore.ca) are just three of the offerings in the city. Go golfing at XFactor Indoor Golf (xfactorindoorgolf.com). Lessons are available and there’s plenty for both parents and kids to do. Your teen can practice their swing and gear up for a fun summer on a real course.

GET OUTSIDE

Heritage Park

Telus Spark

Penguins, bears, monkeys, oh my! The Calgary Zoo always has plenty to see and do. Don’t miss Easter Eggstravaganza April 14 and 15. Official details weren’t available at press time, but if it’s like previous years, expect kid-friendly activities, face painting and sweet treats, too. Then, on Earth Day, April 22, the zoo will also have special eco-themed programming. And check out the Canada 150 celebrations through to midMay. Go to calgaryzoo.com for up-to-date details. A Day Out With Thomas the Tank Engine will take place May 6-7 and May 12-14 at Heritage Park. The event features a 20-minute ride with the beloved English train, plus plenty of Thomas and Friends activities throughout the rest of the park. Got a crafty kid? The largest outdoor quilt show in Western Canada, Festival of Quilts runs May 27 to 28 at Heritage Park. Kids can submit their own quilted creations to the festival’s Creative Kids Challenge, too. Will there still be ice to skate this month at Olympic Plaza? Maybe. Maybe not. Either way, it’s likely too cold to go wading. But don’t forget about this pretty spot this summer; it’s a great place to picnic or splash in the water for an hour or two. CL

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STYLE |

Crate & Barrel’s Tourney coffee table is not only a chameleon that fits well with a number of decorating styles, it also helps hide an amazing number of household items

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| STYLE

A CLEAN STYLE

Stylish living is the reward of a few hours of spring cleaning BY DAVID CROSSON

P H OTOS CO U RT E S Y O F C R AT E & B A R R EL

ife is full of trade-offs. Eat your veggies; get dessert. Indulge too much; suffer the hangover. Greet spring’s arrival; clean the house. While that last one offers a great reward — especially when we sometimes see snow into May — it does come at a price. Chores are called chores for a reason: they’re chore-ish. But weigh a clean, airy, sunlight-filled house against a few hours’ toil and it’s well worth the effort. Of course, there’s nothing saying you can’t rely on a bit of help, particularly when it contributes to your overall quality of life. The following are a few things I’ve found that help make bearing down on spring cleaning just a little more, well, bearable. On the whole, North Americans are burdened with too much ‘stuff’ so de-cluttering is always Step One. The tried-and-true Triple D method — Designate, Donate, Dump — is a great way of dealing with this. Designate means you decide to keep something and commit to finding a place for it. Donate, my personal favourite, obviously means you send useable items in decent condition off to a charity that will welcome them. Dump, of course, means sending things to the landfill — but please only do this as a last resort and with items that can’t be recycled. Bear in mind, though, that Triple D is a system and not a miracle, so you will still have things to organize and store. Forget utilitarian plastic totes, though: clever concealment is all about integrating stored goods into your décor scheme.

Rugged and rustic, the Tucker Trunk from Crate & Barrel is a great place to store a multitude of items, the perfect ally for quickly concealing clutter

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P H OTO CO U RT E S Y O F P I ER 1 I M P O RT S

STYLE |

ABOVE LEFT A bench can be pressed into service in the most stylish way, especially if it’s the Clarke Storage model from Pier 1. ABOVE RIGHT Seagrass baskets, as seen in this Holtom Antique White Double Chest from Pier 1, are a charming way to stow your stuff, especially if the vibe in the room is breezy and beachy. BOTTOM FAR RIGHT Created just up the road in St. Albert, Alberta, Clean Conscience products are fantastic tools to have in your arsenal for spring cleaning. Mother Nature would approve.

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while the hardy linen-look poly upholstery also makes it durable enough to use in kid-accessed spaces. As far as general storage pieces go, Pier 1’s Holtom Double Chest offers a more relaxed, beachy vibe (especially in the antique white finish) with exposed seagrass baskets that exude charm while concealing clutter. A pair of them would be great flanking a rough-hewn fireplace but would work equally well in a mudroom, laundry or walk-in closet setting. A de-cluttered home is all well and good but tidy doesn’t necessarily mean clean. That said, the important thing to remember is that clean doesn’t smell like anything, most certainly not chemically conjured roses or fake citrus. The best cleaning products smell like the sum of their parts and Mother Nature always provides the best ingredients. Unlike other natural, eco-friendly items on the market that don’t work well and require a second mortgage to purchase, Clean Conscience products out of St. Albert are both effective and affordable. I could sniff their Sweet Orange and Lime Stainless Steel Cleaner all day it’s so fresh and authentic and the Orange and Cinnamon All-purpose Disinfectant smells like a year of Christmas mornings in one spray. Clean Conscience goods are available locally at Amaranth Market’s Central and Calgary South locations or online at www.cleanconscience.ca. By the time you have completed the above exercises (Mother Nature willing) the season should have shifted to warm-up mode. Be sure to get out and enjoy it while you can, as next month we’re talking gardens and you’ll then be busy with yard work. Happy spring! CL

Hiding clutter in plain sight is an excellent solution and more and more manufacturers are clueing into this. And, although storage tables are not a new concept, it seems the ability to do them in a sleek and non-obvious way has eluded many. Crate & Barrel is not among them. Their Tourney Square Coffee Table is a study in transitional simplicity, a design that could work equally well in contemporary or “soft” traditional settings and even splice in nicely with midcentury motifs. Despite its crisp, spare design, this model boasts not one but two capacious drawers as well as an open lower shelf perfect for stacked books, magazines or even a discreet tray-full of chargers and remotes. As an added bonus, the Tourney features two pull-out ledges on either end to provide additional surface area or accommodate casual noshing in a pinch. Though more rugged in character, their Tucker Rectangular Trunk is a wonder of utility, offering two very generous interior compartments (large enough to hold folded throws or even small toss cushions) and a handy tray for snack runs to the kitchen. Although heftier than the Tourney, the Tucker still maintains an air of discretion in repose and is a perfect fit for rustic, industrial or country-tinged spaces. Similarly, double-duty ottomans have gotten a bad rap due to lackluster design efforts in the past. The Clarke Storage Bench from Pier 1 is what I refer to as “deep and delicious” when it comes to storage furniture. Unlike ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Crosson is a its unremarkable cousins, which freelance design writer and principal of the David are essentially featureless upholCrosson Design Collective. He is a frequent media stered slabs, the Clarke is dressy commentator on matters of life and style as well enough to hold its own in a living as a regular guest on CTV Morning Live. For more room or formal entry hall and has of his design ideas, visit www.dc-dc.ca capacity to spare. The nailhead detail gives it just enough edge

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SHOPPING |

RETRO TIME What was once old is new again in antique fashion

BY KATHY MCCORMICK

ike the bears’ porridge in Goldilocks, antiques are sometimes hot and sometime cold - but if you’re an avid collector, there are a lot of options today where you can find one that’s just right. The ‘hot’ antique craze of years gone by is gone. No more making your whole home look like great Grandma’s parlour or even like the rustic cabin escape you had as a child with weathered paint peeling off surfaces and rough-hewn log tables. But antique and vintage pieces are still treasured, say the experts. “Certainly, the interest in antique furnishings has changed from the height of the market 15-20 years ago,” says Kevin King, owner of Hall’s Auction Services, which holds auctions approximately once a month. “No longer are people dedicating entire rooms or multiple rooms to antiques, but we find our clients are quite successfully mixing in quality antique pieces with more modern, even very contemporary, spaces.”

Indeed, says King, “We find that people are currently seeking out smaller and more unusual items. The large, 12-seat dining room suite is increasingly difficult to place in today’s market, but an Art Nouveau art glass vase or Georgian sterling pipe box is contested by clients in ever-increasing values.” A big part of the retro craze is the return of vinyl records. Once just a forgotten reminder of the pre-digital age, phonographs are once again all the rage. You can find these second-hand turntables and old LP records themselves for cheap at your local pawn shop or music specialty stores like Sloth and Melodiya in the southwest or Turn It Up and Revival Records and Collectibles in the northwest. Antique buffs and collectors are always looking for just the right piece to add to their treasures. So, where are they finding them? Obviously, antique sales and used furniture stores are a great place to start — but you’ll need to keep an eye out for just the pieces you’re looking for since they’re one-of-a-kind items. “Auctions bring a great selection of unique items to the market in one place,” King says. “Often these items have been purchased across Vintage furniture and décor items from the ‘70s and ‘80s are particu- many decades, countries and continents. Where larly popular, says a part-owner of Calgary Furniture Exchange, where else can a person go to look at an 18th Cenapproximately half of the items for sale are consignment furniture and tury Chinese bronze teapot and a mid-20th home décor items. Century credenza at the same time?” Join up with auction sites online to get “We find the antique and vintage china cabinets and hutches are probably the most popular to sell,” says Debbie Skalicky. “We are also selling them advance notice of upcoming sales. At Hall’s, to a much younger age group - people in their 30s and 40s.” for example, as well as regular sales, they And it’s easier today with unique ways to add interest to your décor. have themed sales that may be of particular “These days a household is no longer required to be ‘matchy-matchy’,” interest to you. says Skalicky. And do your homework if authenticity of

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| SHOPPING

the item is important to you. “There are many more resources available to individuals online now than ever before,” says King. At Hall’s online site (www.hallsauction.com ), for instance, a ‘prices realized’ feature allows clients to browse through more than five years of auction items. “Check signatures, etchings, markings,” says Skalicky. “It’s hard to tell on a lot of items, so research is important.” And talk to the store/owner/auction house that is offering the item for sale. “There is often a story about many of the pieces that is not immediately apparent,” says King.

TIPS FOR BIDDING ON AUCTION We asked expert Kevin King, owner of Hall’s Auction Services, for a few tips for those who have never been to an auction or are afraid or unsure how to bid. Here are some of his tips. Do your research to be assured the item you are interested in is authentic. Work with an auction company/dealer that you trust. “They have much more experience on a day-to-day basis, working with thousands of items annually, than the general public ever will,” King says. “Most will be more than happy to share their knowledge.” There are many ways to bid. Live Auctions: “Live auctions are held at our showroom with an auctioneer and bidders in attendance.” Simply register in-house and obtain your bid card. Auction houses normally will have previews of the items to be auctioned. Written Absentee Bids: An Absentee Bid Form is found at the bottom of the catalogue or online (or at the preview event). List your maximum bids and return the form to the auction house and they will administer your bids during the auction. Telephone Bidding: Again, complete the Absentee Bid Form but put PHONE in the Top Bid column. A staff member will call you during the auction and relay information and your bids. Webcast Bidding: If available, the auction house will have a webcast feature allowing you to participate electronically in a live auction, either in real-time or by pre-bidding. In both cases you will need a username and password and be registered for the sale.

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SHOPPING |

New and used furniture stores are great places to find treasures, or even to find practical, quality furniture, especially if the budget is tight after buying your home. “Going to small-town stores is also a great idea,” Skalicky says. “They all have great treasures - and of course, Kijiji is a great start.” Several shops are run by charities, offering people more opportunities to find just the right items for their homes and they have a dual purpose. You’re also helping others by spending money there. One of the biggest and most well-known is Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, where there is not only gently-used furniture and home décor items, but appliances and brand-new building materials and supplies. It’s the perfect spot to find material to build extra shelves, change-up the colour of the walls or begin a basement development. Habitat’s extensive inventory consists of new building materials and supplies donated by industry. “Most of the furniture and appliances are donated by individuals, although furniture from malls, hotels and restaurants comes in occasionally as well,” Brunton says. “Industry donations can sometimes mean great deals on quality materials. Lots of businesses have discovered how donating to the ReStore helps their bottom line. When they have discontinued lines or colours, or extra unusable inventory of materials, paint or flooring, donating to the ReStore reduces their warehousing costs and eliminates cost of disposal.” And there’s more. “Not only can you shop at ReStore, buy you can donate, too, and donating helps both you and Habitat,” says Bill Brunton, vice-president marketing and external relations for Habitat Southern Alberta. “You get a charitable tax receipt for a donation worth more than $150 and, at the same time, you are helping Habitat families. And yes, you can arrange a ReStore truck pick up.” Hall’s Auction donates its services to approximately 20 charity auctions a year as well. However you look at it, finding just the right pieces to perfect your new home purchase is a win. Happy hunting. CL

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FEATURE |

MEDICAL TRAVEL SHOW

Expert advice on out-of-country treatment

WRITTEN BY SHYLO THOMPSON PHOTOS BY JEAN FAYE RODRIGUEZ

he Medical Travel Show is the only consumer show of its kind in Western Canada, offering one-stop-shopping for a variety of out-of-country medical and dental procedures. Medical Tourism is a growing trend, says Norma Robertson, co-owner/founder of Source Media Group, producers of the Medical Travel Show, with people choosing to travel for cosmetic surgery, dentistry, cancer treatments, reproductive procedures, and more. “Experts predict that the ‘medical tourism’ industry is only going increase in popularity. We’re presenting The Medical Travel Show to give Albertans the opportunity to meet face-to-face with medical professionals from around the world as well as medical tourism consultants.” Robertson, who travels to Cancun for much of her own dentistry, started Calgary’s Medical Travel Show and accompanying magazine, Destination Travel, to help spread awareness to consumers about the medical tourism industry. “I’ve had work done in the past, and I think people need more opportunity to do their homework. I’ve had good and bad experiences, mostly good, and I’m hoping to provide people another source for more information,” says Robertson. Last year, The Medical Travel show had representatives for dental, stem cell, and bariatric procedures. This year, Robertson is hoping to have an even wider variety of medical practice representatives at the show. “We are approaching people of different types of practices — such as plastic surgery and fertility. We have a hospital out of Cancun (Galenia) already confirmed.” Doctors and medical service representatives from around the world will be in Calgary to discuss facilities and procedures and meet potential patients. There’s a speaker series as well as a chance to meet one-on-one. The show will also have facilitators present and available to help co-ordi-

nate and book your whole trip for you — from booking flights and accommodations, right through to selecting a hospital and doctor. There are three main reasons people are choosing to travel for medical procedures, says Robertson. • COST: Even after factoring in the cost of

“Experts predict that the ‘medical tourism’ industry is only going increase in popularity. We’re presenting The Medical Travel Show to give Albertans the opportunity to meet face-to-face with medical professionals from around the world as well as medical tourism consultants.” 68 |

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Glenbow

flights and hotel for you and your caregiver (as it is usually recommended to bring someone with you), the price is often still a quarter of what the procedure would cost here. • SHORTER WAIT TIMES: Depending on the surgery, procedure, or treatment, some patients are put on monthsyears long waiting lists in Canada before being able to see their specialist or surgeon. For that reason, many people are choosing to travel elsewhere and have the procedure done sooner. • AVAILABILITY: Some procedures or treatments are not yet available in Canada, or they are not covered under the patient’s plan or healthcare. Popular medical tourism destinations include Costa Rica, India, Malaysia, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, and United States. Each destination has its own pros and cons, and specialties. For example, Brazil is a top choice for plastic surgery, followed closely by Thailand. Mexico is known for dental work and weight loss procedures and, of course, is relatively convenient for Canadians. While there are plenty of benefits to medical travel, there are things to consider before booking a flight and surgery. Robertson urges you to do your research before you go. It is recommended that you speak to your doctor beforehand. Also, know how long your recovery time is going to be — and if you should be on an airplane shortly after your surgery. “Different hospitals offer different levels of post-surgery care,” says Robertson, “and it is important to research and make sure you are choosing the best location, hospital, and doctor to fit your needs.” The Medical Travel Show will take place October 20-21, 2017 at the Deerfoot Inn & Casino in Calgary. For more information visit www.medicaltravelshow.ca. Admission and parking are free, and tickets are available at www. eventbrite.com CL CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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| INDUSTRY NEWS

BEST OF THE BEST 2016 I Finalists for 2016 SAM Awards announced

t is time once again to honour some of Calgary’s best in the new home industry, and this year proves how resilient the community has been in the face of the economic slowdown. BILD Calgary Region is pleased to announce the 78 finalists for the 2016 SAM Awards. With close to 800 entries, the economy did not suppress member enthusiasm to compete for 60 industry awards. Winners of individual categories plus five prestigious Grand SAM Awards will be announced April 8, 2017 at the SAM Awards Gala to be held at the Telus Convention Centre. “For three decades the SAM Awards have demonstrated the determination and innovation of member companies, and this year will be no different,” says Shane Wenzel, chair of the SAM committee. “This year we celebrate the SAM Award’s 30th anniversary and the first Awards for BILD Calgary Region, the new identity of the association.” This yearly celebration of excellence is the biggest party for our industry and one of the biggest annual private events in Calgary. The gala presentation will include local talents with this year’s focus being closer to home. “For this year’s gala we wanted to support our locally economy,” says Wenzel. “There will be a 100-mile menu and local, world-class, entertainment.” The awards cover 10 different categories and finalists are chosen through a detailed, rigorous process with industry judges awarding points which are then authenticated by an accounting firm. “The Awards have the ability to bring the industry together as a community,” says Guy Huntingford, CEO of BILD Calgary Region. “This event is an exciting occasion annually and recognizes the best in a hugely competitive industry where quality, design and innovation prevail in every way. Congratulations to all the finalists and good luck at the SAM Awards Gala.” BILD Calgary Region is a not-for-profit organization representing the Calgary and region building industry. The Association has a membership base that includes all facets of residential home and commercial construction, from single and multi-family builders, renovators, and residential land developers, to trades, suppliers, and professional companies involved in some aspect of the building industry. Its vision: “To create the most liveable communities in the world.” For more information, please visit bildcr.com Here is a partial list of this year’s finalists. For the complete listing, go to www.chbacalgary.com.

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INDUSTRY NEWS |

ADVERTISING & MARKETING AWARDS BEST BILLBOARD • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Salmon Recipe - Air Exchange System • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Shower - Sound Dampening • Dream Development Vista Crossing • Mattamy Homes Outdoor Billboard • Nuovo by Shane Homes, a division of Shane Homes Ltd. Nuovo Truck Wrap Nuovo by Shane Homes (Multi-Family) BEST BROCHURE • Bordeaux Developments Corporation Harmony Community Signature Launch Brochure • Divine Flooring Ltd. Divine Flooring - Best Brochure Entry • Dream Development Vista Crossing • Hopewell Residential Management LP Hopewell Residential Mahogany Magazine • Trico Homes Viridian Brochure BEST DIRECT MAIL PIECE • Bordeaux Developments Corporation 12 Reasons to Live in Harmony • Lux Windows & Glass Ltd. Triple Pane Promotion Direct Mail Piece • Morrison Homes Home School DM • Morrison Homes Mahogany DM • StreetSide Development Corporation Are you in the Loop? BEST MOVING MEDIA • Calbridge Homes Ltd. The Calbridge Story • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Mullet Recipe - Air Exchange System

• Hopewell Residential Management LP Hopewell Residential Sandgate Testimonial Video • Jayman BUILT Jayman BUILT - Peanut Butter Baby • Shane Homes Ltd. Love It or Customize It, Better Way To Build Commercial SHANE HOMES BEST PRINT AD • Bordeaux Developments Corporation Life is Better When it’s Lived in Harmony • La Vita Land Inc., a division of Calbridge Homes Ltd. Fireside - Cochrane’s Premier Family Community • La Vita Land Inc., a division of Calbridge Homes Ltd. Fireside - K-8 School Coming Soon • Lux Windows & Glass Ltd. Made Right Here Print Advertisement • StreetSide Development Corporation Metro Cover Wrap - Are you in the Loop? BEST AUDIO MEDIA • Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. Two Big Loons • Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. You’re on with Dr. Will! • Brookfield Residential Slash • La Vita Land Inc., a division of Calbridge Homes Ltd. Mrs. G - Fireside K-8 School Coming Soon • Lux Windows & Glass Ltd. Triple Pane Promotion Radio Commercial

• Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. My Legacy Park 2000/3000 Launch Campaign • Brookfield Residential The Henry Brand Campaign • Hopewell Residential Management LP Hopewell Residential Paired Grand Opening Campaign • Morrison Homes Home School Campaign BEST WEBSITE • ALBI Luxury by Brookfield Residential Albi Refresh • Bordeaux Developments Corporation LiveinHarmony.ca • Brookfield Residential Livebrookfield.com • Hopewell Residential Management LP Sandgate by Hopewell Website • WestCreek Developments Ltd. Best Website – Legacy BEST ONLINE CAMPAIGN • Brookfield Residential A Glimpse of the Good Life • Brookfield Residential Luxury Quick Possession • Homes by Avi (Canada) Inc. Inspirations • Hopewell Residential Management LP Hopewell Residential $1,000 Registration Campaign • Hopewell Residential Management LP Sandgate by Hopewell Grand Opening Online Campaign

BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN • Bordeaux Developments Corporation The Community of Harmony Launch Campaign

DEVELOPER AWARDS SHOW HOME PARADE OF THE YEAR • Brookfield Residential Symons Gate Parade • Genstar Development Partnership Walden Phase 28 Single Family Show Home Parade • Heritage Pointe Properties, a division of Upper Lakes Group Inc. Artesia at Heritage Pointe Show Home Parade of the Year • Hopewell Residential Management LP Mahogany - Paired Parade by Hopewell Residential • La Vita Land Inc., a division of Calbridge Homes Ltd. DV2 Fireside Phase 8 Parade NEW COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR • Bordeaux Developments Corporation

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Harmony, Rocky View County • Dream Development Vista Crossing • Genstar Development Partnership Savanna New Community of the Year • Walton Development and Management LP Cornerstone - New Community of the Year 2016 • Wenzel Developments Inc., a division of Shane Homes Ltd. Midtown Community of the Year - APEX & Wenzel Developments COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR – CITY OF CALGARY • Brookfield Residential Auburn Bay • Brookfield Residential Cranston’s Riverstone

• Genstar Development Partnership Walden • Hopewell Residential Management LP Mahogany by Hopewell Residential • WestCreek Developments Ltd. Legacy COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR – CALGARY REGION • Bordeaux Developments Corporation Harmony • Dream Development Vista Crossing • Heritage Pointe Properties, a division of Upper Lakes Group Inc. Artesia at Heritage Pointe • La Vita Land Inc., a division of Calbridge Homes Ltd. Fireside of Cochrane • La Vita Land Inc., a division of Calbridge Homes Ltd. The Willows of River Heights

| INDUSTRY NEWS

MULTI-FAMILY DESIGN AWARDS BEST NEW DESIGN APARTMENT STYLE CONDO UP TO 699 SQ. FT. • Anthem Properties 1 Bedroom Plan B1A, 208 Riverfront Avenue SW, Calgary • Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. (2010) Ltd. Super E, 215 Legacy Blvd. SE, • Brookfield Residential The Victoria at Regatta, Auburn Bay, Calgary • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Walden Place - Somerset K4, 10 Walgrove Walk SE, Calgary • Hopewell Residential Management LP Sandgate by Hopewell 664.1.1 Plan, Mahogany, Calgary BEST NEW DESIGN APARTMENT STYLE CONDO 700 SQ. FT. TO 899 SQ. FT. • Anthem Properties Sub Penthouse E, 208 Riverfront Avenue SW, Calgary • Brookfield Residential The Kingston at Regatta, Auburn Bay, Calgary • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Walden Place - The Palliser (B), 10 Walgrove Walk SE, Calgary • Remington Development Corporation Champagne 5 Suite D-, 108 - 221 Quarry Way SE, Calgary • Remington Development Corporation Champagne 5 Suite J, 221 Quarry Way SE, Calgary BEST NEW DESIGN APARTMENT STYLE CONDO 900 SQ. FT. AND OVER • Anthem Properties Parkside NW Penthouse 901, 208 Riverfront Avenue SW, Calgary • Remington Development Corporation Champagne 5 Suite E-, 221 Quarry Way SE, Calgary • Remington Development Corporation Champagne 5 Suite H, 221 Quarry Way SE, Calgary • Remington Development Corporation The Gates Suite B, 39 Quarry Gate SE • Remington Development Corporation The Gates Suite C, 39 Quarry Gate SE

INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS BEST INNOVATION: IDEA/PRODUCT • All Weather Windows Ltd. Horizon 7100 • Astoria Homes Ltd. Digital Signage • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Independent Air Ventilation System • Morrison Homes Home School • Stonetile (Canada) Ltd. UrbanStone Launch

BEST NEW DESIGN VILLA/DUPLEX/ TOWNHOME UP TO 1,199 SQ. FT. • Calbridge Homes Ltd. The Assiniboine, Vantage Fireside, Cochrane • Calbridge Homes Ltd. The Chester, Vantage Fireside, Cochrane • Calbridge Homes Ltd. The Galwey, Vantage Fireside, Cochrane • RNDSQR, a division of Beyond Homes Capitol Hill 18, 1803 20 Avenue NW, Calgary BEST TOWN HOMES UP TO $349,999 • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) The Vista – Nolan Park 207, 207 355 Nolancrest Heights NW, Calgary • Hopewell Residential Management LP Chalet by Hopewell A Plan, 96 Copperstone Common SE, Calgary • Hopewell Residential Management LP Chalet by Hopewell P Plan, 95 Copperstone Common SE, Calgary • Jayman BUILT Carnaby Heights – Serendipity, 141 Nolan Hill Blvd., Calgary • Jayman BUILT Rise Townhomes – Brio, 502 501 River Heights Drive, Cochrane BEST TOWN HOMES $350,000-$549,999 • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) The Park – Nolan Park 381, 381 Nolancrest Heights NW, Calgary • Millenium Plus Homes M 12432, Private • Millenium Plus Homes M 21937, Private • Millenium Plus Homes M 22430, Private • Trico Homes Verona Townhomes E2, 456 Sage Hill Grove, Calgary BEST TOWN HOMES $550,000 AND OVER • Empire Custom Homes Ltd. Valour Park | Estate 7, 14 Valour Circle SW, Calgary • Maillot Homes Inc. Maillot Homes - Cliff Bungalow Town Homes, 1924 5A Street SW, Calgary • RNDSQR, a division of Beyond Homes South Calgary 31, Private

• Sagebrook Developments Inc. Marda 35 Townhomes - Front Unit, 2018 35 Avenue SW, Calgary • Sagebrook Developments Inc. Marda 35 Townhomes, Private BEST VILLA / DUPLEX UP TO $374,999 • Brookfield Residential The Linden, 211 Fireside Drive, Cochrane • Douglas Homes Ltd. Catalina, Private BEST VILLA / DUPLEX $375,000 AND OVER • Brookfield Residential The Aria, 53 Fireside Crescent, Cochrane • Millenium Plus Homes M 2422, Private BEST APARTMENT-STYLE CONDO – ONE BEDROOM + DEN • Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. (2010) Ltd. Bohemian Hacienda, 215 Legacy Blvd. SE, Calgary • Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. (2010) Ltd. Cosmic Chic, 215 Legacy Blvd. SE, Calgary • Homes by Avi (Canada) Inc. 42 Auburn Meadows Avenue SE, Calgary • Hopewell Residential Management LP Sandgate by Hopewell - 601.1.1, 113 10 Mahogany Mews SE, Calgary • Jayman BUILT Overture - Unit E, 303 33 Burma Star Road SW, Calgary BEST APARTMENT STYLE CONDO TWO BEDROOMS & UP • Hopewell Residential Management LP Sandgate by Hopewell - 957.2.2, 115 10 Mahogany Mews SE, Calgary • Jayman BUILT Overture - Unit A, 101 33 Burma Star Road SW, Calgary • Jayman BUILT Overture - Unit C2, 305 33 Burma Star Road SW, Calgary • Remington Development Corporation Champagne 3 Suite 504, Private • Remington Development Corporation Champagne 4 Suite 501, Private

MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNITY AWARDS BEST MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNITY • Cardel Lifestyles (Panamount Inc.) Auburn Walk, Auburn Bay, Calgary • Cove Properties The Armory, Currie Barracks, Calgary • Embassy Bosa Evolution, East Village, Calgary

For the complete listing, go to www.chbacalgary.com CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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HANDLING CONDO BOARD CONCERNS

ASK MARIA

By Maria Bartolotti

How do you defuse a heated argument within your condominium community?

Dear Maria; I’ve been asked to serve in my condo board. I’ve heard it can be a difficult task. What’s the most difficult thing that I can encounter, and how would you handle such a situation?

I think it goes without saying that being a volunteer condo board member can be a thankless job. And yes, it is a job! They may not get paid for the work that they do, but board members put in a great amount of time to ensure that the Condo Corporation is being managed efficiently. At some point as a volunteer board member you probably have come across a homeowner who is demanding, unhappy and aggressive and no matter what you say or do, it’s their way or the highway. So, when is enough, enough? Recently I got a call from a board member (Shirley), who indicated that she was once again, approached by a homeowner (Jack) who was angry that the board did not approve his request to paint the exterior of the unit door black. Well, from the way Shirley described it to me; you would have thought that the world

was about to end because the board denied his request. Before you knew it, Jack declared war on the board and made all kinds of unreasonable demands. I swea, residents tend to forget that board members are VOLUNTEERS, who devote their time and efforts towards managing YOUR condo. When you are faced with a bully resident, try to stay calm and neutral (unless you fear for your life). Don’t get personally involved with the situation. I get it; it can be hard to do. Ultimately, refer resident to the condo manager and have resident send their complaint or disappointment in writing to the management company where it can properly be reviewed and addressed. A good management company like, New Concept Management Inc. can help defuse the situation by speaking and listening to the resident and reviewing the condo bylaws and regulations that govern the corporation, and any policies that may apply in that situation. It is my experience that homeowners typically act in this way, because they do not have the fundamental principals of living in a condo. Essentially, they do not know what the role of the board, owner or the management company is.

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.

Keep the lines of communication open with the residents, and keep them up to date on what’s happening with their investment. Promote a sense of community within your condo and don’t lead with a heavy hand. Best way to do that is by sending a monthly or quarterly newsletter to all owners and residents via the management company. Include an educational section in your newsletter, which covers topics such as. • Owners responsibility vs. the boards responsibility • What to expect from your condo manager and the management company • What it means to be a good neighbour? • Finances Communication is key and it helps to dispel the common myth “us vs. them” attitude. Be clear with your words so there is no confusion on what your message is. The above is just a fraction on how to handle a difficult owner or resident. Remember, your actions, as a board or management company will reflect on how the resident responds to you. 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 APRIL 2017

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BETTING ON THE BELTLINE Qualex-Landmark goes all in on the Beltline. Here’s why

he renaissance over the past 10+ years of Calgary’s Beltline community as a very desirable place fascinate me. Recently Parham Mahboubi, Vice-President, Planning & Marketing, Qualex-Landmark™ shared with me his insights into how new Beltline home buyer has changed given his role as developer of six condos totally 1,000+ new homes in this vibrant inner-city community just outside the downtown core.

to achieve its vision of growth. We believe we have made an important contribution in the transformation of the Beltline alongside other developers and visionary City staff. We love the new bike lanes, the improved parks like Barb Scott and Thompson Family Park. How has the Beltline changed over the years? Over the last decade, the Beltline has undergone many positive changes with numerous new mixed-use residential condo projects, revitalization of parks and streets, introduction of public art, the new Cycle Track, and hopefully soon the introduction of the Green Line.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE BELTLINE COMMUNITY? Location is a big part of Qualex-Landmark’s™ investment decisions when acquiring land, just as much as it is for the homebuyer who is making the biggest HAS QUALEX-LANDMARK™ INTROinvestment decision of their life. DUCED ANY NEW INNOVATIONS IN We chose to develop in Calgary’s Beltline CONDO LIVING TO THE Community because it is an CALGARY MARKET? established community Qualex-Landmark™ believes in within walking distance to timeless innovation, rather than every amenity imaginable trendy innovation. Our projects — restaurants, cafes, lounges, are intended to instil a modern pubs, nightclubs, art look and feel today as it would galleries, grocery stores, in the future, and not become boutiques, and of course the out-dated due to technology downtown business core. that quickly becomes obsolete. I also love that it is a The rooftop amenities in quieter neighbourhood with Parham Mahboubi MARK on 10th, was a first for many heritage ties that Calgary. We decided instead of a creating contribute to a strong sense of identity and one or two penthouse homes, we would community. make the rooftop, with its lounge, BBQ, kitchen, hot tub and other amenities WHY HAVE YOU CONTINUED TO available to all residents. It has been very BUILD ALL OF YOUR PROJECTS well received. IN THE BELTLINE? Since acquiring our first property in 2002, HOW HAS THE CONDO BUYER we have observed how much positive CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? attention this community has received from Slight shifts are occurring as condo living numerous stakeholders. We have also seen becomes less fearful and better understood how the City of Calgary has identified the by the older demographic; however, the Beltline as one of the priority communities

CONDOSCAPES By Richard White

bulk of our purchasers are in the 30 to 40 year range. The younger demographic is also growing, looking to get into the market and less concerned about unit size, more concern about centrality and seeing a return on their investment. Average condo unit sizes have decreased about 15 per cent, but layouts have become far more efficient, cancelling out the reduction in size. Ten years ago, projects had a very high investor demographic; today we are seeing a much higher mix of actual residents buying. HAS THE DEMAND FOR CAR AND BIKE PARKING CHANGED? The price point of new Beltline condos seems to be the main contributing factor to homebuyers opting out of a vehicle stall. While we’ve seen a shift in homebuyers becoming less car dependent, this is more applicable to first time homebuyers, particularly the younger professionals and millennials. Some of these buyers are living in the Beltline because they can work and live downtown without the need for a vehicle. They can save $30,000 on the purchase price of the condo and use car2go, Uber and car rentals when walking and cycling isn’t an option. The resistance to buying a condo without parking mainly comes from investors driven by the concern over resale and market demand for a unit without a vehicle-parking stall. 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 APRIL 2017

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LAST CHANCE IN AUBURN BAY

HOPE AT LARGE

By Marty Hope

Regatta is among the final opportunities to own a new condo in this lake community

hey are few and far between, but a multi-family campus being created with a park setting is under way in the award-winning southeast community of Auburn Bay. Regatta in Auburn Bay by Brookfield Residential will be comprised of a trio of four-storey apartment buildings and nine blocks of townhomes on slightly more than five acres of land overlooking a central park that will provide ample opportunities for passive and active lifestyles. “There is no large-complex feel to what we are building,” says Chris Richer, vice-president of business development Calgary Homes at Brookfield. “Not many multi-family projects wrap a public park the way the first two buildings of Regatta will.” For now, the main focus for Brookfield is on building the apartments with an eye to welcoming residents into the first building as early as this fall. Parkade construction is complete, allowing work on the condos, with nine different open-concept floor plans to move forward. The units, measuring from 552 to 1,000 square-feet, come in various configurations from one-bedroom/one-bath, one-bedroom plus den and one bath, to two-bedroom/ two-bath. Pricing for the apartments runs from $189,000 to $314,000. No pricing or construction progress has been announced by Brookfield for the townhomes, but will be in place for the sales kickoff this fall. “We have tried to focus on what our homebuyers truly desire, so the kitchens are very large, and we have ensured the patios

are generous as well — making both indoor and outdoor entertaining easy for them,” says Richer. “Regatta will be our legacy multi-family development in Auburn Bay,” says Richer. To provide the opportunity for home ownership and a lake lifestyle — with affordable and attainable condominium living — is remarkable.” The main target market for Regatta in Auburn Bay will be the first-time buyer, and is the reason why the show home/sales centre has opened its doors. It is located at 109 Auburn Meadows Drive S.E. just minutes from the recently-opened retail/ commercial area called Auburn Station. “We know that our target market likes to have immediate gratification in knowing what they are choosing they are purchasing not only quality construction and finishings but a space that will become the hub of their lifestyle,” says Richer. Among the interior features are quartz countertops, carpeted bedrooms, vinyl plank flooring in the main living areas, stainless steel appliances, and an in-suite laundry area. The exterior are a combination of James Hardie concrete board, stone and stucco.

Development is definitely in the home stretch for this 12-year-old community and as such, Regatta will be one of the “last opportunities” to live in this nautically-themed community, Richer says. Launched in 2005, Auburn Bay is a four-season lake community spread over 900 acres with a 43-acre lake. Community amenities include a 14,000-square-foot activities centre, a 13-acre private beach and park with facilities for year-round enjoyment. The community itself offers great access to Stoney Trail, 52nd Street and Deerfoot Trail, and to Brookfield’s Seton community, with its hospital and retail and commercial amenities. Richer estimates that when buildout, possibly sometime in 2018, Auburn Bay will be home to approximately 17,000 residents. 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 APRIL 2017

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AROUND TOWN

UNIVERSITY DISTRICT OPENS DISCOVERY CENTRE

he much-anticipated launch of University District was — as projected — a huge success with throngs crowding the newly opened Discovery Centre to find out as much as they can about this new inner-city community going up next to the University of Calgary campus. The Discovery Centre itself is a state-ofthe-art central hub where interested buyers can establish community connections and get information about home options, project

progress and community programming. The Discovery Centre has two show suites from Brookfield Residential and Truman Homes to expertly show visitors the kind of lifestyle they can look forward to here. Brookfield Residential’s The Ivy will have 127 urban row townhomes that open to a Central Courtyard. Two or three-bedroom homes are offered, with single or double attached garages on the lower level, and a den for that extra quiet space. They start from under $500,000. Truman’s Noble offers apartment-style condos and townhomes, as well. Noble features 1 - 2 bedroom condos suites and a Calgary first “SkyTowns” which offer private decks, patios, and courtyards over two levels of living space. (Find out more about University District in the community feature on page 36).

VICTORY AND VENTURE OPENS ROOFTOP PATIO

rom atop this four-storey condo on a quite hillside in Bridgeland, the sparkling beauty of the cityscape is there for residents to enjoy. Victory and Venture just opened their rooftop patio to owners and they can’t help but marvel at the fantastic view. “This has been one of our most outstanding features, designing our rooftop for the owners’ enjoyment,” says sales manager David Frid. Owners are now able to enjoy the rooftop patio garden that is designed as a gathering space with lounge chairs, dining tables, and outdoor grills. A fire table,

water feature and a giant chess set will all be installed up there on the deck — plus a couple of barbecues for events and get-togethers. A raised bar with barstools, and multiple seating areas for large groups are part of the plan. This shared amenity is one of the ways residents get the most bang for their buck at Victory and Venture, a property where units are the most space efficient condominiums of their kind, yet packed with potential. Sales have been on an uptick and Frid says only three two-bedtwo-bath homes are left for $325,000. Townhomes are still available at $389,000.

By Pepper Rodriguez

CMLC LAYS OUT PLANS FOR VICTORIA PARK

algary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) – the organization responsible for bringing Calgary’s East Village back to life — takes its first step to rejuvenate the next part of downtown’s eastside — Victoria Park. “With the new East Village rising rapidly skyward, we’re now turning our attention to the rest of the Rivers District — specifically Victoria Park,” says Michael Brown, CMLC’s president and CEO. “Much like the East Village of 10 years ago, Victoria Park is an inner-city neighbourhood at a turning point in its history. While sporadic development here and there has helped the community to some degree, it’s not enough. To truly transform Victoria Park and steer the Rivers District toward its full potential, bold moves are needed.

CALGARY HOUSING STARTS LOWER IN FEBRUARY

otal housing starts in the Calgary Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) fell to 508 actual units in February 2017, a 14 per cent decline compared to the total 589 units recorded in February last year. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, single-family home starts in the city did see a rise in the same month to 296, compared to 218 in February 2016. But apartments and row house construction slid 43 per cent to 212 from 371 in the same period last year. CL CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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CALGARY MAP | North West, North East and Inner City 7 32

3 2

36 4 8

5 35

27 10

19 20 31

22 23

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North West, North East and Inner City | CALGARY

MAP

1 3

7 20

13 14

15 9 8

10 19

11 12 13 14

16 17

INNER CITY INNER CITY PROJECTS Kensington INK 3 EZRA on Riley Park 4 Avenue West End 5 Vogue 6 The Concord 7 Waterfront 8 FIRST 9 Evolution 10 Verve 1

11 6th and Tenth

12 The Guardian South 13 The Orchard

14 The Park 15 ARRIS

21 Duke at Mission

22 Park Point

23 The Royal

16 Drake 17 Smith

18 The District 19 N3

20 Riverfront Pointe

NORTH WEST | NORTH EAST PROJECTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Villas at Watermark Sonoma at Nolan Hill Nolan Park Mark 101 Maverick at Livingston Willow at Sherwood Sage Place Viridian Avira Kincora Summit Emerald Sky ARRIVE at Bowness ARRIVE at Redstone

14 ARRIVE at Skyview 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Ranch Arbours Groves of Varsity University City Synergy of Sky Pointe IVY LiFTT 43 Park Victory and Venture Bridgeland Crossings Killarney Townes ARRIVE at Evanston Bridgeland Hill

26 Ezra on Riley Park 27 Carnaby Heights

28 Vivace at West 85th

29 Ashbury at Saddlestone 30 The Link at Evanston 31 RADIUS

32 Diseño 33 Cityscape Townhomes

34 The Henry 35 The Loop in Evanston 36 Link at Symons Gate 37 Verona

CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2017

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CALGARY MAP | South West, South East and Calgary Area

11 7 41

8 11 7

4 6

50 5

10 51

AIRDRIE

COCHRANE

7 5 6

10 11

3 2 9 4

8 13

OKOTOKS/ DE WINTON 2 3

14 19 1

CHESTERMERE

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3 1

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

Cooper’s Crossing

5 Stone Keep at 6 7

COCHRANE

1 The Edge

9 10 11 12

King’s Heights Ravenswood Townhomes Brookside at Baysprings ZEN Ravenswood Newport at Canals Landing Hillcrest Townhomes Midtown Gates at Hillcrest

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

40 18

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

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 3 Arrive at the Landing

36 32 26 28 47 31 29 30 22

44 52

48 21 38 49 39 42

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ADVERTISERS INDEXâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 6th and Tenth Lamb Development page 17

The Henry Brookfield Residential page 4

Street Towns Homes by Avi page 59

ARRIVE Partners page 29

Kensington Bucci page 5

Sunset Ridge Jayman BUILT page 2

Auburn Bay Stonecroft page 58

Legacy Gate Carlisle Group page 34

The Townes of Redstone StreetSide Developments page 4

Avenue West End Grosvenor pages 35

Legacy Park III Brad Remington back cover page 88

Viridian Condos Trico Homes page 58

Brand Townhomes Birchwwod Properties page 43

Legend of Legacy Aldebaran Homes page 86

Verve Fram/Slokker Developments page 78

Carnaby Heights Jayman BUILT page 80

The Loop StreetSide Developments page 67

Vivace StreetSide Developments cover, pages 14-16

Concord, The Concord Pacific page 9

The Mark 101 Shane Homes page 76

Vogue LaCaille Group page 74

Copperfield Park III Brad Remington Homes page 85, back cover

The Orchard Lamb Development page 25

Walden Place Cardel Lifestyles page 3

Cove Properties page 6

Origins at Cranston StreetSide Developments page 4

Westman Village Jayman BUILT page 38

Park Point Qualex-Landmark page 11

Zen Ravenswood Avalon Master Builder page 70

Quarry Park Remington Developments page 63

Zen Redstone Avalon Master Builder page 21

Emerald Sky Carlisle Group page 48 Ezra on Reily Park Birchwood Properties page 52 The Guardian Hon Developments page 44 Hunter House Streetside page 87 INK Battistella Developments page 66

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Radius Bucci Oversize insert - centre spread Rise Jayman Modus page 54 Smith Grosvenor page 39