CONTENTS AUGUST 2017 | VOLUME 13 ISSUE 212
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FOCUS ON 12 | Patio time Sit back and relax in your private outdoor space CONDO PROFILES 19 | All-inclusive living Life is a fun vacation at Sanderson Ridge on Fish Creek Park 24 | Stylish versatility Cardel Lifestyes’ townhomes take versatility to a new level 28 | Steady as she goes At Slokker Homes, quality, affordability are the keys to its success COMMUNITY PROFILE 32 | Luck of the Irish Nolan Hill brings a touch of Old World charm to Calgary’s NW
COVER FEATURE 14 | A world of its own The Concord creates a world of its own in idyllic downtown location CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2017
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DESIGNER SERIES 37 | A maximized lifestyle Verve design brings strong lifestyle focus to Calgary urban living LIFESTYLE 40 | Finding treasure in the Beltline Hidden gems are everywhere, Madi finds hers in her Connaught condo STYLE 43 | All hail, Caesarstone The latest rock star in the countertop arena
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FEATURES 47 | The UA take Second quarter 2017: Strength in the suburbs 50 | Above the din Peaceful, private, party-time — condo rooftop patios are all the rage 53 | Take it outside The best way to enjoy summer is eating outdoors, here are our picks for best picnic spots A DAY IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 55 | Calgary comes alive Enjoy Calgary’s lively live entertainment scene
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COLUMNS 59 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 61 | Condoscapes by Richard White 63 | Hope at Large by Marty Hope 65 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez
ITEMS 10 | Editor’s Message 66 | Maps 70 | Ad Index
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CALGARY HEATS UP
Stevie Wonder’s “Hotter Than July” is playing on my turntable as I’m writing this. Yes, I am working at home on a Sunday afternoon, and the 30-degree weather we’re enjoying right now makes this the appropriate sound track for Calgary’s summer. I hear some complaints about the heat, but not from me…at least, not yet. It is a scorcher out there, but it’s not only the weather that’s heating up in the city. Surveys show business confidence has returned to the city bringing the prospects for the housing market up with it. Sales are up and The Guardian even has even set a new record for the year for condos after selling a $2.4 million sub-penthouse suite. There is palpable excitement in the air, and the Stampede even recorded a new daily attendance record of 115,235, beating the old record set in its centennial year of 108,455. It’s quite a ride. And our cover feature on The Concord reflects this renewed energy. Sales at this most unique luxury development in Eau Claire had been pretty much immune from the downturn, but there is even more to be excited about now as the first tower starts getting off the ground and construction for the new West Eau Claire Park begins. Concord Pacific — the developer of The Concord — has still more plans in the city, so stay tuned. Cardel Lifestyles’ Nolan Park is also featured inside as this northwest development gets ever closer to completion. Sanderson Ridge, has always been a big attraction to the 40+ crowd, and now it has even more opportunities with the start of its latest phase. Slokker Homes has always been keen on Calgary and the surrounding areas and the success of its developments in the inner-city, Cochrane, Airdrie and beyond has it confident in the city’s bright future. We also cast an eye at the modern outlook of Verve’s design in East Village. Attuned to the cosmopolitan taste of today’s urban dwellers the team at Cecconi Simone Inc. has outdone themselves in presenting Verve’s show suite at the East Village Experience Centre. Our patio feature last month seemed to resound with readers and we turn our attention to condo developments — high-rises mostly — who offer their own rooftop patios to residents. “It’s one of the most popular features we have in Park Point,” QualexLandmark’s Parham Mahboubi tells us over beers at The Beltliner after taking a tour of the 50-percent completed NEXT MONTH: first tower. Occasional Tables Calgary’s live entertainment scene is also explored in this issue’s A Day In feature by Shelley Boettcher, while Aaliya Essa does double duty doing this issue’s Focus On photo feature on lawn chairs and shining a light on Caesarstone for the kitchen in Style. We’re really excited about the trajectory where condos are heading — market-wise or design-wise. Let Condo Living be your guide in finding your way through the market and finding the home you need.
Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca
PUBLISHER |
Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER |
EDITOR | Pepper Rodriguez pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRECTOR | Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca Vivian Zhang vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Ian Serpanchy ian.serpanchy@sourcemediagroup.ca Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca
PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR |
EDITORIAL
Maria Bartolotti, Shelley Boettcher, Darlene Casten, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kimberly Poffenroth, Richard White, Jim Zang PHOTOGRAPHY
Don Molyneaux, Rob Moroto ADVERTISING SALES
advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING | Norma Robertson accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSUE 212 • 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
@CondoLivingYYC
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CondoLivingCalgary
FOCUS ON |
PATIO TIME Sit back and relax in your private outdoor space
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BY AALIYA ESSA
THE LAWN LOUNGER, the patio parker, call it what you will, but the outdoor armchair is the undisputed throne of the backyard. Whether you’re in a single-family home with a spacious deck, a townhome with a smaller patio or on the balcony of an apartment condo, beer time is always better sitting in the comfort of your favourite al fresco armchair. CL
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6 9 [ 1 ] Flowerhouse Mesh Pattern Red Hanging Egg Chair, $299 at Walmart. [ 2 ] SIARÖ, $69.99 at Ikea. [ 3 ] Morocco Charcoal Oval Lounge Chair with Cushion, $749.25 at Crate and Barrel. [ 4 ] Regatta Lounge Chair, $828.11 at Crate and Barrel. [ 5 ] CorLiving Aquios Bentwood Contemporary High Back Armchair, $87 at Walmart. [ 6 ] Vivere Aluminum Wave Rocker, $219.98 at Walmart. [ 7 ] AGEN, $39.99 at Ikea. [ 8 ] Dune Swivel Lounge Chair with Sunbrella, $1359.15 at Crate and Barrel. [ 9 ] TUNHOLMEN, $80 at Ikea.
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A WORLD OF ITS The Concord creates a world of its own in idyllic downtown location
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oncord Pacific has gained a reputation in creating not just affluent condominiums in some of the most coveted urban locations in the world, but bringing the lifestyle that goes along with it. And here in Calgary that rewarding, comfortable, amenity-rich lifestyle is getting ever nearer completion, as Concord Pacific’s first development here — The Concord — starts to – literally — rise from the ground. Construction for The Concord’s first of two towers is nearing the milestone as it completes the delicate work of establishing its foundation and underground parkade with all its stout flood mitigation and emergency response systems. “We took our time to make sure that all our flood mitigation systems were in place,” says Grant Murray, Senior Vice-President at Concord Pacific. “Although the actual site for The Concord didn’t flood in 2013, we wanted to assure our residents that they would never have to worry about overland flooding affecting their property.” The community around The Concord is getting an upgrade as well as
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construction has also begun for an adjacent city park, called West Eau Claire Park, that further enhances what is already a worldclass location. The West Eau Claire Park is going up around Concord’s front door, beginning just off the iconic Peace Bridge, and it promises to bring a new riverside experience to downtown Calgary. “Our team designed a park that defines Calgary’s contemporary urban riverscape,” says Douglas Olson, President and CEO of O2 Planning + Design that’s responsible for West Eau Claire Park. Not only will West Eau Claire Park be a place “where the culture of the city and the nature of the river intertwine,” but it also
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OWN adds another layer to flood protection to the entire area. “This park will draw visitors to a variety of memorable spaces and experiences along the shoreline, creating a destination location to the heart of downtown. The design seamlessly integrates flood protection into the park as part of a broader City-wide flood mitigation strategy.” “We are very excited about the new park and flood infrastructure that will come with the completion of the first phase of The Concord,” says Concord Pacific’s Murray,
which he says adds another layer of flood protection to The Concord’s already extensive system in place. Concord Pacific is so supportive of what the West Eau Claire will bring to its residents that it has included the park and all it has to offer in its groundbreaking Concord360 virtual reality presentation. “We’re lending the same technology used for visualization of our new master planned communities in Canada to give Calgarians a unique glimpse into how amazing the park will look,” he adds. “The challenge has always been presenting to prospective buyers the vision of any development that is still years from completion. What the Concord360 app and VR goggles does is allow prospective buyers to see the totality of The Concord and explore in 360-degree, 3D virtual reality what it will be like to live here,” Murray says. “You can see what the view will be from your seventh floor suite, you can walk through the new park, it helps thoroughly explain to buyers what it is they are actually getting.” Concord360 adds to The Concord’s million-dollar on-site presentation centre. “We have a wonderful show suite that already gives buyers an appreciation of the kind of suite they will be living in, but Concord360 will allow them to see the vision for The Concord in its totality,” Murray says. Concord will be a two tower multi-family project with 105 suites in the first 14-storey West tower and another 113 suites in the 17-storey East tower. The first building is already 70 per cent sold and Murray says he already has a long list of interested buyers already reserving their spot in the second tower. With a few exceptions, homes start at the $900,000 mark with majority of suites left available in the first tower from $1 to $3 million. The Concord was always meant to be special. “This location is one of the three best in the world for a condo development,” Murray says, and is ranked behind only The Erickson along Vancouver’s seawall and Principal Place in London. “When we first saw this piece of land, we couldn’t believe it was for sale, we thought it was part of a city park — it’s that beautiful,” he tells Condo Living. “We knew we had to come up with a design that would not only match the beauty of the location, but create one that would become an instant icon in the city.”
“You can see what the view will be from your seventh floor suite, you can walk through the new park, it helps thoroughly explain to buyers what it is they are actually getting.”
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FAST FACTS The Concord, indeed, has it all for the buyer who wants it all. Its uncompromised luxury package upholds a highly refined, opulent lifestyle that promises the best in life, including a Porsche kitchens designed by the world’s oldest kitchen brand, Poggenpohl. Murray says they even provide underground parking garages with high ceilings that allow owners to stack cars on a car lift. “We know that among the biggest concern among buyers in the downsizing market is where they can store their prized car collection when they move to a condo. With this high-ceiling underground garage, they can stack up to two cars per stall.” Their in-house amenities package is simply out of this world, including a private, immaculately landscaped all-season garden with a pond that turns into a skating rink for the winter. “We have our own zamboni,” Murray says. There is also a giant, indoor pool and cutting-edge health and fitness facilities for residents to enjoy. But what really distinguishes Concord from the rest is its ingenious flood proofing and emergency back-up systems that ensure the owners’ safety despite what Mother Nature can throw at it. Given that they are on the banks of the Bow River, these extra features — which go above and beyond what the city requires — addresses any flooding concern. Murray says The Concord will bring an unparalleled lifestyle to downtown Calgary. “Many of the successful professionals who built their million dollar homes in the suburbs now want to come back to the downtown to cut on travel times and allow for more vacation time. The problem was none of the condos offered here offer the luxury, space and amenities that they’ve become accustomed to and expect,” Murray says.
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COMMUNITY: Eau Claire PROJECT: The Concord DEVELOPER: Concord Pacific STYLE: Luxury condos SIZE: From 1,060 to 3,187 sq. ft. PRICE: From $1 million, but a limited selection of two-bedroom premium suites will also be available starting around $900,000s ADDRESS: 700 1st Ave. S.W. HOURS: noon – 6 p.m. at our on-site sales centre, or by appointment PHONE: 403.266.0038 WEBSITE: www.theconcord.ca
“There’s nothing else in Calgary that can match what we offer.” The Concord presentation centre on 700 1st Avenue S.W. gives a semblance of the kind of pampered lifestyle that can be expected. Viewings are available on appointment and you can try out their Concord360 technology. n
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ALL-INCLUSIVE
LIVING BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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Life is a fun vacation at Sanderson Ridge on Fish Creek Park
hink of it as living in a luxurious, all-inclusive resort. After all, Sanderson Ridge on Fish Creek Park has everything that anyone can ask for a fun-filled time, and with its pristine location at the edge of Calgary’s largest urban park, life here is anything but dull. Sanderson Ridge sits on a hilltop in the southwest neighbourhood of Evergreen and has a commanding view of Fish Creek Park, which literally makes up its backyard. In fact nearly all its 300-plus units offer an outstanding vantage spot from which to enjoy this natural vista. Now on its third phase, the 40+ crowd has really taken Sanderson Ridge to heart. The first two phases have long been sold out, and marketing manager, Jennifer Thacker, says sales have picked up in the last few months for the 79 units in their third phase.
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“It’s really like a lifelong vacation at home, resort living at its finest. It offers a relaxed lifestyle unlike anything else in Calgary.” The location alone would be enough to justify all the love it gets, but Sanderson Ridge goes beyond this to offer the most luxurious lifestyle outside an all-inclusive five-star resort. “It’s really like a lifelong vacation at home, resort living at its finest,” says Thacker. “It offers a relaxed lifestyle unlike anything else in Calgary.” Telsec Developments Ltd. — Sanderson Ridge’s developer — made sure to maintain its luxury four-storey mountain lodge style. The exterior uses exposed timber detailing, stone accents and cement board sidings. “It wouldn’t look out of place in resort communities like Canmore or Banff,” Thacker says. More than that, it offers a lifestyle that will make residents the envy of the city. It has more than 26,000 squarefeet of amenity space, including a lap pool, hot tub, a fitness room, a games room with several pool tables and shuffleboards. There are six widescreen TVs scattered throughout these areas.
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There is also a 42-seat theatre residents can book for movie nights with their friends or family. Topping it all off is a two-lane, five-pin bowling alley, a woodworking shop, complete with power tools and even a wine room where residents can learn to make their own wine. It also has a full kitchen that residents can use to plan out their big family dinners and get-togethers. “They can bring their
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own caterers who would have full use of this kitchen,” Thacker says. There is an art room, multi-purpose room, library, hobby room and a main lounge with a magnificent fireplace surrounded by comfy couches and chairs. There is even a dedicated bike room where residents can repair and store their bicycles. “It’s one of our most commonly used amenity space, people love their bikes here. With Fish Creek Park just outside, I don’t blame them. They have all the luxury to enjoy to hike or bike through the pathways of this spectacular natural environment.” Functionality isn’t forgotten either. Sanderson Ridge also has guest suites available for residents, there’s a car wash bay in the underground, secured parking. Two-bedroom suites get two parking stalls. “We offer lock-and-leave convenience to our residents, but with all the amenities they have right here they really don’t have to go on vacation. At least, they have terrific options to entertain visiting grandkids and relations,” Thacker says. These amenities also serve as a way for neighbours to get to know each other. “Residents have already formed tight knit social groups among themselves, they meet at our very own coffee bar,
they go on hikes through Fish Creek Park together, and enjoy lots of other activities. It’s really a lively community that encourages an active lifestyle,” Thacker says. The units themselves are impeccably designed, and suit the needs of their target demographic. “Our show suite is a perfect representation of what buyers can expect, we already offer an upgraded standard that our buyers love.” The two-bedroom, den, two-bath show suite has a gorgeous open concept design that has plenty of room to entertain; the kitchen with a corner pantry is a study in style and practicality with lots of workspace for the culinary-inclined resident. “Storage is never a problem, there is a lot of living space,” Thacker says. Available are one- and two-bedroom suites and two-bedroom suites with den. They range in size from 751 to over 1,700 squarefeet. “One thing we really paid attention to is the sound-proofing, there are one-inch air gaps between the party walls to prevent the transfer of sound, superior soundproofing between floors, and even the corridors are especially designed to keep noise down. We haven’t had any noise complaints,” Thacker points out. Prices are from $349,900 to $925,900 for the biggest units. Twobed, den suites like the show suite are at the $688,900 range. Condo fees are about .48 cents per square-foot of the unit and include all utilities except cable and telephone. CL
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Evergreen PROJECT: Sanderson Ridge DEVELOPER: Telsec Developments Ltd. STYLE: Apartment condos SIZE: From 751 sq.ft. PRICE: From $349,900 ADDRESS: 2330 Fish Creek Blvd. S.W. DIRECTIONS: Take Macleod Trail south to James McKevitt Road S. W. Turn right to Fish Creek Boulevard and follow to Sanderson Ridge on the right. HOURS: Mon. to Thurs – 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Weekend and holidays, noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.sanderson-ridge.ca CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2017
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STYLISH VERSATILITY Cardel Lifestyes’ townhomes take versatility to a new level BY AALIYA ESSA
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hen it comes to offering a townhome to suit every lifestyle, Cardel Lifestyles has nailed it with Nolan Park, a community within a community. “We will have 123 townhomes in total upon completion,” says Darryl Solly, area sales manager for Nolan Park. “We are currently offering homes in Phase three, and we have already sold 54 homes with just 10 remaining.” Located in Calgary’s northwest quadrant, in the growing community of Nolan Hill, Nolan Park offers townhome living in three distinct layouts, making it possible for you to have a selection of options, which have all been designed with different buyers’ needs in mind. Well-thought out floor plans are key to helping people find the home that best suits their lifestyle. The Vista layout caters to buyers who want a home with two master suite bedrooms, each with its own ensuite. Throw in a half bathroom on the main floor, and there’s more than enough space for roommates to get ready in the morning. This means no more sharing, explains Solly. “You have two master suites, which come with their own ensuites, a tandem garage feature, so you really do have the perfect layout for a buyer that may have a mortgage helper. And with a generously sized laundry room in between the bedrooms, our buyers love this floor plan.” The main floor is an open concept layout, with nine-foot ceilings on this level with a large living space at the front of the home, and an L-shaped kitchen that’s ideal for entertaining. The Vista is 1,271 square-feet in size and starts from around $315,900 plus GST. The Hillcrest floor plan includes three-bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, a single car garage, the option to have two-double-mastersuites, and the most distinct feature is that it has a walk-out basement. The main floor also includes nine-foot ceilings, but this plan is slightly different in that you enter into the kitchen and dining room area, and have your living area at the rear of the home. The Hillcrest is 1,259 square-feet and starts from around $354,900 plus GST. The Park floor plan is the largest of the three options, with 1,550 square-feet of living space. Here you again have nine-foot ceilings on the main floor, with the trational living area at the front layout,
Nolan Park offers townhome living in three distinct layouts, making it possible for you to have a selection of options, which have all been designed with different buyers’ needs in mind.
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CONDO PROFILE | FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Nolan Hill PROJECT: Nolan Park BUILDER: Cardel Lifestyles STYLE: Two- and three-bedroom row townhomes SIZE: 1,2710 to 1,550 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $315,900 plus GST ADDRESS: 381 Nolancrest Heights NW HOURS: Monday to Thursday: 2–8 p.m., Weekends & Holidays: Noon–5 p.m. Friday: Closed DIRECTIONS: North on Shaganappi Tr. N.W., left on Nolan Hill Dr. and continue up the hill at the traffic circle take 3rd exit onto Nolan Hill Blvd N.W., then turn right onto while the kitchen truly is the heart of this home right in the centre, and the dining area nestled in the back. The upper floor includes three fairly large bedrooms, including the spacious master suite that measures roughly 12-feetby 12-feet. This plan has a double garage and has an option to turn into a double master layout too. The Park starts from around $361,900 plus GST. Each plan includes a third level basement, with the option to develop and essentially increase the living space either during the build, or perhaps down the road, giving you more flexibility and space within your own home. “Our specifications are incredible here at Nolan Park,” says Solly. “We have four professionally-designed interior colour packages, with three choices of standard quartz countertops. We have a standard stainless steel appliances package, our standard fridge is a Samsung French doors with an ice-maker,” he says. “We also have the choice of two different colours for cabinetry. There is absolutely no linoleum anywhere in our townhomes, we’ve upgraded to a product called luxury vinyl plank, this product is durable and rivals the look of hard wood, this product is going to last a lot longer,” he adds. Buyers will also notice larger windows, that make each room in your home so much brighter, and a covered deck is ideal for relaxing on hot summer days. Nolan Park is surrounded by green space, built on a seven-acre parcel of land, with tons of space to roam around, ideal for young families and couples with pets. In fact, Nolan Park has already been popular with a variety of buyers, from downsizers, to young professionals, and young families, similar to the community of Nolan Hill itself. Nolan Hill, the community, is a big part of the attraction here. It’s a community that is bustling with pathways, a variety of commercial fronts to choose from, you really don’t have to go for far for anything and everything that you need. “There are five different shopping areas all just a few minutes away,” says Solly. “There’s Beacon Hill, Creekside, Gates of Nolan Hill, Sage Hill Crossing, and CrossIron Mills Mall.” The Calgary International Airport is also a quick and easy drive, ideal for buyers who travel a lot, and main thoroughfares like Symons Valley Road, Shaganappi Trail, and Sarcee Trail, make it quick and easy to get to
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Nolancrest Heights N.W. WEBSITE: www.cardellifestyles.com/ developments/nolan-park/ downtown, or anywhere else in the city a lot quicker, says Solly. Topping it all off, Cardel Lifestyles is known as a builder that takes into account feedback from their customer, and it shows in their designs. With more than 45 years of experience, they are able to provide homes with versatility and options to suit each buyers lifestyle, “you will see the added value in each floor plan here at Nolan Park,” says Solly. “We have designed thoughtful modern layouts, and I’m sure you’ll find a layout that is perfect you.” Great townhomes designed for different lifestyles; in an established, amenity-rich community; built by one of Calgary’s leading condominium developers — three really great reasons to choose Nolan Park. CL
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STEADY AS SHE GOES At Slokker Homes, quality, affordability are the keys to its success BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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here’s a new energy coursing through Calgary these days it seems. Business confidence is up after years of languishing in the depths of the economic slowdown. Calgary’s housing industry has picked up, and many are gearing up to face new demand. Slokker Homes is perfectly positioned to handle the coming surge. With top-notch designs available in some of the most sought after locations, the 82-year-old company continued to progress through the hard years of the downturn. And now they are in an enviable position to take advantage of the upswing. A decade after opening its Western Canada office in Calgary, Slokker Homes has steadily gained a name as one of the most trusted multi-family home specialists in this dynamic young city and its surroundings. All its four ongoing Calgary and area developments have enjoyed healthy sales, and all are in an excellent position to grow even further. AXESS in Currie Barracks, the Townhomes of Jumping Pound Ridge in Cochrane, and two Airdrie developments — Georgetown in Reunion (duplexes) and Canals Townhomes — are perfectly positioned to take advantage of the rising business confidence in Calgary. To date, Slokker is involved in 16 projects (with eight now completed), representing well
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over 2,000 residential units all over Alberta. Slokker is part of a globally respected real estate development corporation established in the Netherlands in 1935. But it was never just about the company’s success, for Slokker it has always been providing the best designed multi-family homes in the best locations. Slokker has particularly gained a reputation for their unique European-influenced design, impeccable quality and affordability in locations that are perfect for a wide range of buyers. “First and foremost you have to have your customer in mind. We work hard in selecting our sites, we know that (our products) have an edge whether location-wise or price-wise or a combination of both, and that’s key,” says Slokker Homes President Peter Paauw. Quality is a given in all of their homes. All the shared walls exceed industry sound transfer standards, stone countertops and laminate flooring are all standard, kitchen cabinets are a grade above with true dovetail boxes, and soft close mechanisms. All have oversized windows that make interior living space feel larger than its actual size. Paauw adds that he has also sensed a shift in taste in Calgary for
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Photos of this page: AXESS in Currie Barracks
more modern homes that Slokker is perfectly suited to address. “Calgary has rapidly become a more international city since 2007. The range and type of cafes and restaurants has grown, as has the variety of services. It’s been interesting to see,” he says. For example, their AXESS condo and townhome project in the former Currie Barracks has a definite European feel not only in its finish, but also in the lifestyle it offers. “AXESS and Currie Barracks both represent urban living at its very finest,” Paauw says. “Currie Barracks is a master planned community that is being developed to have all the amenities within walking distance in the neighbourhood, it is a pedestrians’ paradise.”
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Photos of this page: Jumping Pound Ridge Townhomes
Then, of course, there is the impeccable modern finish of AXESS itself. The 33 two-storey stacked townhomes and studios, and 164 apartment-style condos that comprise the development have the contemporary design flourish that has been their signature in all their developments. Prices are from the $235,000s plus GST. Jumping Pound Ridge Townhomes in Cochrane is located on one of the last prime lots in the area, and the boundless panoramic views are matched with the quiet solitude of the Toki nature reserve that the development backs on to. There will be a total of 154 two- and three-storey townhomes in the complex that have so far attracted a wide variety of buyers, from downsizers to first-time homebuyers and young families. Prices are from the $240,000s. Slokker is making a lot of headway in Airdrie, too, with their GeorgeTown in Reunion duplexes and the Canals Townhomes. FA S T FAC TS “Our duplexes at GeorgeTown at Reunion offer the area’s best price DEVELOPER: Slokker Homes on top quality, space-engineered new STYLE: Apartment-style condos, homes,” Paauw says. townhomes and duplexes GeorgeTown features quick access CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS: to many everyday amenities such as major grocery stores. There’s an AXESS in Currie Barracks, Jumping Pound expanded K-8 school a few minutes Ridge Townhomes in Cochrane, Georgetown walk away. Sobeys and Superstore are in Reunion in Airdrie, The Canals just down the street. Transit services, Townhomes in Airdrie downtown shopping, Walmart, the new Kingsgate Mall, and health and SIZE: Starts from 536 sq. ft. wellness services are all nearby. PRICE: Starts from the $230,000s plus GST While the Canals Townhomes is HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m. Slokker’s most ambitious development Saturdays and Sundays 12 to 5 p.m. in southern Alberta so far with 223 row townhomes. These townhomes back WEBSITE: www.gainaxess.com
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onto the community’s meandering waterways and the development is located adjacent to the estate homes area that adds to its upscale feel. “Here you can enjoy six kilometres of waterways and more than eight kilometres of paved canal-side pathways from your door. Walk, run, ride, paddle or simply enjoy an affordable cottage lifestyle,” he adds. There’s more yet to come. Paauw says that there is an underlying economic strength in Calgary. “Under the surface, Calgary has diversified dramatically over the past few years. There is a robust undercurrent of economic strength and we believe it will support the city’s growth into the future. So we are really confident,” he says. “By Spring 2018, we will launch yet another unique project in Calgary, so yes, we have confidence in this city.” CL
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LUCK OF THE IRISH Nolan Hill brings a touch of Old World charm to Calgary’s NW BY AALIYA ESSA
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he wise man builds his house upon a hill, or so the old saying goes. It’s still sound advice today, with a couple of necessary updates to make the ancient proverb relevant to living in Calgary in the 21st Century. Today’s saying might go something like this: The wise person builds their house in Nolan Hill — for lots of good reasons. For starters, look no further than the developer of the popular new community in Calgary’s northwest quadrant. Anthem United, formerly United Communities, has a long-standing and well-deserved reputation for selecting some of the region’s prime locales for their developments, and Nolan Hill is no exception. Of course, when you start with a location like this, add a top developer like Anthem United, and then mix in a handful of Calgary’s best home builders like Homes by Avi, Morrison Homes, Shane Homes, Sterling Homes and Trico Homes, you’ve got a tried and true recipe for success. Because it’s not just the land, it’s also what you do with it. It’s a point any farmer, golf course builder or, yes, residential land developer will tell you. It’s one thing to call home a community that’s conveniently blessed with natural features like rolling
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hills, ravines and great views, but the presence of many existing nearby amenities, plus easy access to both the city and Highway #1 West, is something not every new community can boast. What it all means is that, as this Anthem United development approaches completion, residents are already finding everything they need right at their doorstep, literally, without having to wait for years to enjoy it. Throw in an abundance of green space, including a ravine, pathway system, parks and playgrounds, and it’s easy to see why Nolan Hill is the kind of community where the ever-elusive work/life balance is easy to achieve. There’s a great space for every member of the family to enjoy, whether it’s kids playing at the park, families walking their dogs, or seniors calmly strolling the
| COMMUNITY PROFILE
interconnected network of paved paths in the area. now is the perfect time to buy in this, the final phase. If you want to get into a brand new home in Nolan Hill, this There are even three future school sites, making it is pretty much your last opportunity. an absolutely perfect homestead for young families And make no mistake about it, it’s a great opportunity. Sinand newly married couples planning ahead. Steve LePan, Sales and Marketing Director for An- gle-family homes remain amazingly affordable, for less than them United, further explains the virtues of living in $500,000 on 29 to 34-foot wide lots, says LePan. Home styles Nolan Hill. “It’s now an established community,” he and sizes range from zero lot line models, to move-up and says, “in the fastest growing sector in the city. Parks, estate-style. “There are still several premium cul-de-sac lots in Phase 10, including some huge pie-shaped lots which are ponds, pathways and playgrounds are all built — and yet another playground is actually completed in phase 10.” always in high demand as they offer tons of personal outdoor “There are five different shopping areas all just a few living space for families.” Looking for your first new home? No worries. Time to minutes away. There’s Beacon Hill, Creekside, Gates downsize? Nolan Hill has something for you too, with a of Nolan Hill, Sage Hill Crossing, and CrossIron Mills wide selection of townhomes to fit virtually any lifestyle Mall,” says Darryl Solly sales area manager for Nolan Park condos by Cardel Lifestyles. and budgetary wants and needs. With prices starting in the The flip side to such a great new community, however, low $300,000s, though, and limited inventory, says LePan, is that lots move quickly. In fact, with Nolan Hill fast “they’re going fast.” approaching its master-planned build-out of 2,000 single-family homes, and housing prices predicted to be on the rise soon,
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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Nolan Hill DEVELOPER: Anthem United BUILDERS: Multi-family — Morrison Homes, Cardel Lifestyles, Creations by Shane Homes, Jayman BUILT. Single-family — Shane Homes, Sterling Homes, Trico Homes, Homes by Avi and Morrison Homes. PRICE: Multi-family from the $300,000s; Single-family homes from the $480,000s; Semi-estate homes from the $600,000 to $800,000+ DIRECTIONS: Take Sarcee Trail north from Stoney Trail and follow the signs. And, once again, similar to the community’s single-family home offerings, Anthem United has recruited some of the Calgary area’s best multi-family builders for their Nolan Hill townhome team. Would-be residents can choose from Elements of Nolan Hill by Cedarglen Living, Sonoma at Nolan Hill by Morrison Homes, Carnaby Heights by Jayman BUILT and Nolan Park by Cardel Lifestyles, each with it’s own distinct floor plan options, standard features and design style. All things considered, now five full years after the first show homes opened, the community would probably already be sold out were it not developed in separate phases over time. LePan’s enthusiasm for the community is obvious, and contagious, with sales exceeding even Anthem United’s own high expectations. “Much of this success can be attributed to the high demand location in the northwest,” he says, “with easy access to Stoney Trail.” The Calgary International Airport is also a quick and easy drive, ideal for buyers who travel a lot, and main thoroughfares like Symons Valley Road, Shaganappi Trail, and Sarcee Trail, make it quick and easy to get to downtown, or anywhere else in the city a lot quicker, says Solly. But what really makes Anthem United proud of Nolan Hill — and a big reason why they think it’s so popular — is the community’s strong appeal across such a broad demographic spectrum: from first-time buyers, to downsizers, and growing families; young and old; professionals and labourers; people from all walks of life — and all corners of the world. Part of the appeal, says LePan, is Nolan Hill’s close-to-nature character. Set amidst 500 acres of rolling prairie land, Nolan Hill is far from the concrete jungle of the inner-city, with the topography actually being somewhat reminiscent of the British Isles — hence the distinctive oldworld charm, complete with Celtic-styled castle-ruin entry features.
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HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays 12 to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.nolanhillunited.com “Old world charm and modern living come together to create an Irish theme in Nolan Hill. The castle ruins, rolling hills and architecture that focuses on stonework and deep rich colours all create a stunning sense of arrival and a place residents are happy to call home.” CL
Nolan Park by Cardel Lifestyles
| DESIGNER SERIES
A maximized lifestyle
Verve design brings strong lifestyle focus to Calgary urban living
BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ INTERIOR PHOTOS BY ROB MOROTO OF CALGARY PHOTOS
C
algary’s East Village was always meant to be a revolutionary development that would turn one of the downtown’s most overlooked areas into a thriving, cosmopolitan village attuned to demands of the sophisticated urban dweller. Verve, FRAM + Slokker’s second condo high-rise in East Village, perfectly captures this bold, pioneering spirit in its design. Cecconi Simone Inc., which undertook the task of designing Verve’s interiors say that the aim was to give residents the fullest enjoyment of living in what is already turning out to be a trendy and thriving riverside community just east of Calgary’s downtown core. “The most distinctive aspect of the suites at Verve is that they maximize the living experience of homeowners, creating a personalized and customized environment that meets all their needs,” says Anna Simone, Principal, Cecconi Simone Inc. “The suites are crafted with strong attention to views, right through to the exterior and beyond, with doors kept away from principal sightlines wherever possible. An open-concept live–cook–dine area offers maximum flexibility and maintains the kitchen as the hub of the home.” The artful interiors are modern and airy with custom Euro-inspired kitchens with fully integrated appliances that seamlessly blend into the exceptionally designed floor plans. The chief inspiration for the design is the community of East Village itself. Sitting by the banks of the Bow River, East Village is one of Calgary’s oldest communities but it had been a victim of urban decay through most of the latter half of the past century. The City of Calgary recognized the vast potential of having a relatively undeveloped area this close to the downtown and has undertaken a 20year revitalization plan that promises to bring this historic neighbourhood back to life. And now, halfway through the timeline, a new energy is coursing through the riverside community. “The interior design for Verve draws inspiration from East Village and its emerging potential as Calgary’s progressive, urban epicentre, steeped in the city’s industrial past while connected to the local, renewed, natural landscape,” Simone says.
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The gleaming modernity of East Village’s urban lifestyle is imaginatively reflected in Verve’s sophisticated show suite. “The most distinctive component of the interior design in the model suite for Verve is the custom, backlit wall of millwork, spanning the full length of the open-concept space, interrupted only by the kitchen in the centre,” Simone says. This custom design was built exclusively for the show suite only.
This exclusive custom-made cabinet “furnishes copious storage, concealing clutter behind panels of etched-glass and slotted engineered-wood, suffused with light,” she adds. “Stored objects are hidden or barely visible, their silhouettes forming an engaging composition of shapes and shadows.”
Verve’s two-bedroom plus two-bath suites are particularly attractive with oversized balconies offering expansive views of the river, and the nine-foot high ceilings in the living spaces gives it an airy freedom.
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European engineered laminate floors in satin finish bring a clean sophistication to the room, while Euro-style cabinetry, and Glacier White Dupont-Corian countertops heighten the sense of Verve’s “looks good, feels good” vibe. Kitchen stools from KristaliaBCN are a nice touch.
| DESIGNER SERIES The kitchen cabinetry in particular is functionally stylish allowing for plenty of storage options. “The kitchens are contemporary, with European-style, Cecconi Simone-designed custom cabinetry and island encompassing storage, display, preparation and dining areas,” Simone says.
The custom finish Blomberg fridge allows for the seamless glam of Verve’s suites. Mosaic (white gloss) backsplash adds to the clean, minimalist look.
The bathrooms feature contemporary, custom, Cecconi Simone-designed sink, vanity and storage tower. The custom-designed Corian sink divides the countertop into wet, semi-wet and dry areas. The drain is concealed behind a removable, Corian cover.
The tall, rectangular sink with polished taps speak to the modern sensibility of Verve. But there is also plenty of cabinet space for towels and sundries in this room. The bathtub includes a rain-head shower.
The soft-close drawers are an essential part of modern living that Verve espouses. Studio, one- and two-bedroom suites, sub-penthouse and penthouse are all still available and range in size from 610 to 1,230 square-feet. Prices start from the $300,000s. visit www.thenewcalgary.com for more info. CL
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LIFESTYLE |
FINDING TREASURE IN THE BELTLINE Hidden gems are everywhere, Madi finds hers in her Connaught condo BY DARLENE CASTEN PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX
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verything about Madi’s Beltline apartment is one-of-a-kind and she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I’m a sucker for character,” she says. The born and raised Calgarian decided two years ago it “I wanted to be a 20-minute walk from work and I was time to move out of her parents’ suburban home and find a place wanted a neighbourhood that had lots to do,” Madi says. of her own that is a lot more urban. “I didn’t want to have to drive to get to a restaurant or The timing was perfect because her brother had just started his a bar. There is so much to do here and it is very much career as a realtor and the two started venturing out a couple times set up for walking.” a week looking at downtown apartments. For those reason, her place often becomes the meet“We looked at probably 30 places in around a month,” she says. ing place for friends before they head out for the night, When her brother took her to Westbow, an 80s-era 13 story build- she says. ing in Connaught, she knew it was the one. Each floor in Westbow The Beltline’s quirky mix of old, new, trendy and trahas four corner units with a deck. And she was able to purchase a ditional was exactly what she was looking for. 1,050-square-foot, one-bedroom, two-bathroom place on the second She says mainstays like the Galaxy Diner and Myhre’s of two penthouse floors for $279,900. Deli on nearby 11 Street are worth lining up for and The angled rooms and polished concrete floor were the clinchers. the Made by Marcus Microcreamery is a short walk “It ticked all my boxes and I really liked how funky it was,” Madi says. away on 17th Avenue. She also loves discovering little Some of the boxes she needed ticked were close proximity to her hole-in-the-wall places, like a little Mexican place in work in the library of a downtown oil company. She also wanted a an old house, she frequents. totally walk-able neighbourhood. “It’s an interesting mix,” she says of her neighbourhood.
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| LIFESTYLE
“IT IS REALLY EMPOWERING TO BE ON MY OWN. I’M CALLING ALL THE SHOTS. I FEEL LIKE I’M AT A GOOD PLACE.”
Madi says she didn’t mind that the apartment was a bit of a fixer-upper. She had to look past the brown and orange wall paint and dated kitchen to get a picture of how she could make space her own. “It had A&W coloured walls,” she laughs. Madi changed the mood of the space with two tones of grey on the walls, that looks more like four or five different shades thanks to the angles, corners and varying sunlight coming in through the plentiful windows. “I don’t turn many lights on in summer because I get a lot of natural light,” she says. The aging kitchen appliances also needed to be replaced and a future kitchen renovation is likely, she adds. For now she wants to add open shelving in the butler’s pantry, just off the kitchen to pretty-up the functional storage space. Making the place her own was a joint effort, between her parents’ hand me downs, DIY projects and affordable art she snagged at an art frenzy event, where all pieces are under $100. Books are a big inspiration for her décor. She created a reading area with two wingbacked chairs and a pair of bookshelves for her hundreds of books. A future DIY project she has planned is a board with inspirational
quotes from books typewritten on old library cards she salvaged when her work went digital. She’s also made a cat seat for her two sphinx cats, Lucy and Barnaby, using an old distressed leather suitcase filled with a couple pillows that is mounted on top of a low wooden dresser right in front of the dining room window, perfect for them to catch a glimpse of the many birds flying by. Lucy and Barnaby have made the transition from suburbs to inner city well, Madi says. Although they are housebound, the large living space left enough room for a cat-sized wheel, a larger version of a hamster wheel, that they run on every day. She says the hairless cats not only keep her apartment, fur free, they also don’t set off her allergies. Although sphinx have gotten a bad rap for their appearance, Madi says the kitties are all cuddles when she gets home. “I feel like everyone’s seen that Friends episode with the pink cat that was always hissing,” she says. “But because they are hairless they run a little cool so they love to cuddle. They cuddle each other. Lots of cats are person cats, but I feel sphynx are people cats.” The other thing she loves when she walks in the door at night is the view. “I like coming home when its dark and you can see all the lights of the city,” she says. “It’s still surreal.” The 26-year-old said the move has been far more than a change of location. “I feel really satisfied,” she says. “It is really empowering to be on my own. I’m calling all the shots. I feel like I’m at a good place.” CL
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ALL HAIL,
CAESARSTONE The latest rock star in the countertop arena BY AALIYA ESSA
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hoosing a countertop can be a daunting task. There are so many options available these days, from arborite, to granite, marble, wood slab, concrete and even stainless steel — the amount of choices available makes it a challenge to narrow down the search. One product that’s proving to be a real rock star in the countertop arena is Caesarstone, a man-made product produced with quartz natural materials. It’s a product that has been around for ages, literally and figuratively, but now is finally in the spotlight for a variety of reasons. Caesarstone is 90 to 94 per cent quartz and six to 10 per cent high quality polymer resins with natural pigments and additives, such as recycled glass for a colour like 7,141 quartz reflections. By extracting this product from the ground, it can be as course as a rock salt and as fine as a grain of sand, and that’s mixed with different dyes and resins. It’s combined together, poured into a mold and baked to become a slab of quartz. Voila you have Caesarstone. “Quartz in general is less porous then most natural stones,” says Jean St-Onge President and CEO of ICON Stone and Tile. “It’s as resistant as granite, per sé, is less maintenance than natural stone because you don’t have to seal it on a regular basis. Because it’s produced in a controlled environment, patterns and colours are more consistent than natural stone created by Mother Nature.”
UNLIKE NATURAL STONES, WHERE DEPENDING ON THE SLAB THE PATTERN CAN SLIGHTLY CHANGE, WHAT CAESARSTONE OFFERS YOU IS WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET.
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THE LEVEL OF CREATIVITY WHEN DESIGNING THIS PRODUCT CONTINUES TO GROW AND PROVIDE A LOOK THAT CAN EVEN MIMIC A MARBLE SLAB.
TOP Caesarstone offers you a “what you see is what you get” feature.
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BELOW In many cases Caesarstone looks better then the actual natural stone.
“Caesarstone has grown in popularity because humans are involved,” stresses St-Onge. “Producers are trying to follow trends, and by doing so, fashionable colours are being selected. To find this direction in nature, you may spend more time than the speed of change of the trend,” he says. “Where a quartz manufacturer like Caesarstone, is able to quickly produce colours that are current, and therefore they can manage to bring products to the market that buyers want now.” Another fantastic feature to this remarkable product is that, unlike natural stones, depending on the slab, the pattern can be slightly different, Caesarstone offers you a “what you see is what you get” feature. ICON Stone and Tile has been providing stone for over 11 years They have a fantastic show room here in Calgary where you will find what you are looking for and more. Whether you’re selecting countertops for a new home, or perhaps if you are looking to do some renovations and update your current home, ICON is the place to go.
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Caesarstone comes in variety of different looks, the level of creativity when designing this product continues to grow and provide a look that can even mimic a marble slab. Though the common thread with this product is no matter which style you choose, the quality of the product is the same for each slab. And with each style that is created and mastered, “in many cases Caesarstone looks better then the actual natural stone,” says Aliza Gheron of Prestige Granite. The price varies by the look and amount of character you want in your stone, such as colour and placement of veins. “Prices depend on the modification, on style and colour,” she says. With so many options to choose from, there is a growing number of people that enjoy adding a mix of stone design to their home, “you can use as many styles in your home as you’d like,” says Gheron. With more than 50 colours to choose from, while many enjoy consistency, having the freedom to make each room unique is certainly a possibility. Prestige Granite offers Calgarians a variety of services, starting with a great selection of stones. Now 14 years in business, they also offer their assistance and expertise in other aspects of the kitchen, making it possible to have all your needs met through one provider. Currently, says Kerris Sinclair Account Manager for Jade Stone, in the market, buyers are gravitating towards the more grays and whites designs
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P H OTO CO U RTE S Y JA D E S TO N E P H OTO CO U RTE S Y JA D E S TO N E
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P H OTO CO U RTE S Y P R E S TIG E G R A N ITE
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she says. “Our Ocean Foam style is one that we sell the most of,” she adds. “We can’t keep it on stock. It’s a nice, clean white colour that has a little fleck to it which gives it some character. It’s on the lower end of the price point, and because of those reasons it sells really well,” she says. While prices do vary from one shop to the next, “an average size kitchen around 50 square-feet, depending on the style of Caesarstone you fancy, could cost around $3,000 and up,” says Sinclair. Jade Stone is a local Calgary business, celebrating their 20 year anniversary this year, they offer a variety of options at their show room, which truly gives new meaning to
hanging art on the walls. With large slabs of stone hung up like pictures, buyers have the ability to see a variety of stones up close and personal. Every store mentioned in this feature offers a variety of products at a wide range of prices, with the cost on a average sized kitchen starts from around $3000, and they all include installation, which in itself is a crucial part of the purchase. While the process is similar for each store, of course first you must select your style of stone, once this is completed, the next step is depending on if your cabinets have been installed, a measurement is taken of the kitchen or bathroom. When this information is acquired a template is made of the layout. There are a variety of checks along the way, to ensure the size and fit are correct, and there are no discrepancies. Once the stones are cut, they are finished off with a hand polisher, to be prepared for installation. Once installed, Caesarstone certainly lives up to its name, a product that was designed with the end user in mind, easy to clean, low maintenance, and can stand the test of time and will endure all the messes you may throw at it. This is a product that is finally getting the attention and recognition it deserves, a rock star in the making. CL
LEFT TOP Prestige Granite offers Calgarians a variety of services, starting with a great selection of stones. LEFT CENTRE Depending on the style of Caesarstone you fancy, could cost around $3,000 and up, says Sinclair. LEFT BOTTOM Once the stones are cut, they are finished off with a hand polisher, to be prepared for installation. ABOVE Caesarstone comes in variety of different looks, the level of creativity when designing this product continues to grow.
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| FEATURE
THE UA TAKE Second quarter 2017: Strength in the suburbs
BY KIMBERLY POFFENROTH, URBAN ANALYTICS
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rban Analytics is pleased to announce the addition of the Airdrie and Cochrane sub-markets to the Calgary market in NHSLive. Subscribers to NHSLive in Calgary will now be able to access current data on actively selling and contemplated new condominium and townhome projects in these areas. While the addition of new projects in Airdrie and Cochrane has increased the aggregate number of sales and inventories presented in the UA Take, we will reference aggregate sales and inventory information with and without Airdrie and Cochrane data to allow for representative comparisons to recent quarters. The inclusion of Airdrie and Cochrane has added 17 more wood frame condominium and townhome projects to the NHSLive — Calgary database. Activity in the new multi-family home sector of Calgary’s residential real estate market in the second quarter of 2017 highlighted higher demand at projects in the outer sub-markets. Price sensitive buyers took advantage of more affordable pricing at recently launched condominium and townhome projects in the Outer South and Outer North sub-markets. Absorptions in the Downtown sub-market levelled off in Q2-2017 compared to the first
quarter. More limited supply in the sub-market combined with the lack of new project launch in nearly two years contributed to lower buyer urgency levels as they await new product that’s more appropriate for their needs.
SALES AND INVENTORY ANALYSIS
Total new multi-family home sales were higher in the second quarter of 2017. The addition of the Airdrie and Cochrane sub-markets accounted for 78 of the total 944 sales reported in Q2-2017. The remaining 866 sales in the other eight Calgary sub-markets increased by an impressive 59 per cent. The addition of Airdrie and Cochrane data results in a 74 per cent increase in total new multi-family home sales compared to the first quarter. The spring season has historically been one of the stronger periods for new home sales in Calgary. This was the case in the second quarter of this year as evidenced by the higher Q2 sales. Another example of strengthening demand for new homes in the Calgary market is the 21 per cent increase in year-overyear sales in the second quarter.
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Price sensitive buyers took advantage of more affordable pricing at recently launched condominium and townhome projects in the Outer South and Outer North sub-markets.
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FEATURE | CHART 1
2017-TO-DATE BY TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION The majority of sales in the second quarter took place in the Outer sub-markets where the launch of new projects provided more options and choice for purchasers and helped sustain sales momentum established in the first three months of the year. Price sensitive entry-level buyers were most active with demand spread among wood frame condominium and townhome projects, both of which experienced substantially higher absorptions. New wood frame condominium projects that reported higher sales in Q2-2017 included: • Copperfield Park III • Seton Park Place • Legacy Park 4000 • Calligraphy • Auburn Rise • Walden Place Townhome projects that reported higher sales in Q2-2017 included: • Elements of Nolan Hill; • Arrive at Evanston; • No6 Chalet; • Cityscape Entry level and restart end users have been the dominant buyer groups of townhomes in recent quarters. CHART 2
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Concrete 190
Wood frame
738
Townhomes 560 Chart 2 provides a breakdown of total sales by sub-market. All but three sub-markets experienced higher sales in Q2-2017 compared to the previous quarter with the Outer North and Outer South sub-markets recording the greatest sales volume increases. The following are the percentage increases experienced in the various sub-markets in Q2-2017 relative to the first quarter: • Outer North – 92 per cent • Outer South – 65 per cent • Inner Northwest – 27 per cent (primarily the result of strong absorptions at the Noble and Ivy projects in the emerging University District neighbourhood) • Inner Southwest – 75 per cent (primarily the result of strong absorptions at the Axess and Vivace projects). There was no change in sales volume in the Inner Southeast sub-market. The only two sub-markets to experience a drop in sales activity were Eau Claire/West Village and Beltline/East Village where the lack of new project launches continues to limit buyer urgency levels. Chart 3 illustrates the amount of released and unsold inventory by product type. The townhome sector experienced the largest increase (59 per cent) as a result of several developers releasing new homes in response to increased demand. These developers had been holding off releasing these homes until market conditions improved, which they clearly have in recent quarters. Steady demand for the diminished supply of new concrete condominium product led to a seven per cent drop in concrete inventory compared to the first quarter of the year, and 21 percent year-over-year drop in unsold units. The number of released and unsold new wood frame condominium units dropped by eight per cent in Q2-2017 compared to the first quarter, but increased by five per cent over the same quarter in 2016.
CHART 3 | FEATURE
Chart 4 displays the released inventory by sub-market, with the highest number of unsold units located in the Beltline/East Village, Outer North and Outer South sub-markets. Another sign of the improved market conditions in the Calgary market is the spread between the number of quarterly sales and the amount of unsold inventory — it’s getting smaller.
PRICE TRENDS
The combination of price reductions and incentives offered by developers allowed buyers to take advantage of overall more affordable new home pricing in Q2-2017. The increased value opportunities were particularly apparent in the outer sub-markets, where the already more affordable options became even more desirable as new incentives were introduced.
project located in the Beltline will target primarily first time buyers and investors. It will be interesting to monitor whether this new project launch will continue to generate increased interest from the investor buyer group. The following is a list of projects UA expects will launch inthe next two quarters and will be monitoring closely: • Fish Creek Exchange - Graywood Developments • Citizen Tower - Chelsea Sky’s Inc. CL CHART 4
BUYER TRENDS
Strong demand from price sensitive entry level and restart buyers generated higher sales activity in Q2-2017, particularly in the outer sub-markets. Sales representatives at projects in these areas continue to see first time buyers receiving financial help from parents to facilitate the purchase of a new home. Potential purchasers considering newly launched projects such as Auburn Rise by Logel Homes can buy lower priced units at pre-construction prices. The 14 month completion schedule for this project also allows younger purchasers to continue living at home with parents and save more money for a down payment. The various incentives developers are offering are also attracting buyers seeking greater value with their new home purchase. The University District continued to attract a range of buyer profiles attracted to this emerging new master planned community. Buyer profiles here include entry level buyers, hospital employees, university employees and faculty, downsizers and investors. After nearly two years without a new concrete condominium tower launch in Calgary, Chelsea Skys Inc. is anticipated to launch its Citizen Tower project in Q3-2017. The 85-unit
URBAN ANALYTICS is a market research and advisory firm that tracks the new home multi family and purpose built rental markets in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver. The information collected on each actively selling, leasing and proposed site is consolidated and entered into the custom built platform NHSlive. Note that the report above is a copied portion of the quarterly UA Take, for the full report or more information please contact Kimberly Poffenroth, at kimberly@urbananalytics.ca.
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ABOVE THE DIN
Peaceful, private, party-time — condo rooftop patios are all the rage
BY SHYLO THOMPSON
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ummer’s here which Victory and Venture means it’s time to pull out the barbecues and spend more time outside. If you think you’re at a disadvantage in this regard living in a condo, think again. Most condos nowadays come with their own private decks for individual suites so owners can enjoy the sun, but some of the high-rise residential towers — and even mid-rise buildings — do even better with elaborate, fully-landscaped roof top patios with communal barbecues, fire pits and picnic spots. Rooftop patios are certainly one of the most popular in-house amenities for a lot of Calgary’s new condos, especially along the inner city, where captivating views of the cityscape and the mountains beyond is a key component of their selling features.
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“This has been one of our most outstanding features, designing our rooftop for the owners’ enjoyment,” says Gary Beyer, of Providence Group. Their Victory and Venture mid-rise in Bridgeland has been praised for the excellent rooftop patio that they had just opened up in the spring. “It has become a wonderful spot where our residents can gather and get to know their neighbours.” Think of it as having a well-maintained, well-manicured garden with unbelievable views that you never have to maintain. No wonder rooftop patios have become so popular. Here’s some of the new Calgary condos with (or will have) the best rooftop patios in town. VICTORY AND VENTURE (The Providence Group) Bridgeland, Northeast Calgary | Located in Bridgeland. Victory and Venture has a beautiful view of the downtown core. The rooftop patio also includes a fireplace, plants and flowers, and seating areas. The space is great for sharing with the neighbours.
| FEATURE
Verve
RADIUS (Bucci Developments) Bridgeland, Northeast Calgary | With the garden beds, trees, and space on this shared rooftop patio, you will hardly feel like you are on a roof! Radius by Bucci Developments already has views from every floor, but the view from the rooftop is an especially stunning view of the downtown core. Expected to be completed late 2018 to early 2019. VOGUE (The LaCaille Group) Downtown, Southwest | Vogue features a fully equipped rooftop Sky Gym exclusive to Vogue residents, a rooftop yoga studio, meeting room and a large party room available for booking by residents. All of these are complimented with beautiful views of the Bow River Valley and the Rocky Mountains. VERVE (FRAM + Slokker) East Village, Southeast | The suites at Verve already come with oversized balconies, but the building also has a rooftop lookout and terrace with a fireplace and comfortable seating.
MARK ON 10TH (QualexLandmark) Beltline, Southwest | MARK on 10th does every resident better with its outstanding 6,000-squarefoot Altitude 330, which combines a fitness club and lounge on the very top Park Point floor normally reserved for penthouse suites. It also has a landscaped open-air urban garden on the third floor. THE GUARDIAN (Hon Towers) Victoria Park, Southeast | The 1,350-squarefoot Social Club opens onto the spacious Garden Terrace located between The Guardian towers atop its podium. With high-end lounge seating and a concrete firebowl, it’s the perfect place to host a barbecue, toast a successful party or just gaze out at the summer stars on a summer’s night. INK (Battistella Developments) East Village, Southeast | There are several in-house amenities that add to the ease-of-living promise at INK, including a spacious rooftop patio with fireplaces and plenty of room for entertaining. “It’s a private spot where you can enjoy the company of friends and neighbours with the glittering downtown skyline as a backdrop,” says Battistella’s Chris Pollen. PARK POINT (Qualex-Landmark) Beltline, Southwest | Having residents enjoying the outdoors is important to Qualex-Landmark so their latest development, Park Point, has a ton of outdoor activity amenities. These include Zen Terrace with seating and water feature, social lounge seating with fire pit, barbecue area with large harvest table and a Yoga/Pilates deck overlooking Central Memorial Park. CL
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| FEATURE
TAKE IT OUTSIDE The best way to enjoy summer is eating outdoors, here are our picks for best picnic spots
T
he sun is out, the grass is green, the birds are chirping. You know what that means — picnic season! We have put together a list of 10 of the best picnic areas to try all around Calgary, but it wasn’t easy. Calgary has so many great parks and picnic areas — it was hard to narrow it down. BOWNESS PARK | Northwest Calgary Another park along the Bow River, Bowness is great for a picnic day as it has designated picnic areas, as well as a lagoon and boat rentals. CARBURN PARK | Southeast Calgary This park is described as beautiful, small, quiet and relaxing. There is a lake, wildlife (beavers, birds, fish), and beautiful scenery. There are also picnic benches to stop and eat your lunch. CONFEDERATION PARK | Northwest Calgary Confederation is a spacious urban park between the neighbourhoods of Mount Pleasant, Capitol Hill, Collingwood and Highland Park. It is great for family outings or picnics as there are lots of things to do: a playground, tennis court, baseball court, and bicycle trail. There is also a duck pond and a little river. EDWORTHY PARK | Northwest Calgary This park is located along the south shore of the Bow River. It is great for picnics as there are barbecue pits, beautiful scenery, and is generally kept very clean. There are also playgrounds for the kids, and off-leash areas for the dogs. PEARCE ESTATE PARK | Southeast Calgary Pearce Estate Park is a natural reserve with wetlands, river, and wildlife. It is a great place to get outdoors, have lunch by the river, and see birds or visit the fish hatchery. PRAIRIE WINDS PARK | Northeast Calgary This park is great for families as kids can stay occupied all day between the playground, water park, and even the hill. There are tennis courts, picnic tables, and even a concession stand.
PRINCE’S ISLAND PARK | Southwest Calgary Even when it is not hosting major events such as Canada Day festivities, there is always lots to do at Prince’s Island Park — boating, fishing, biking, etc. It is well maintained and has beautiful views of downtown and the river. Prince’s Island Park is located on an island on the Bow River, just North of downtown Calgary. SANDY BEACH | Southwest Calgary Sandy Beach has barbecue/picnic areas that are available for booking ahead of time. It has a playground, river access, and a great view of the mountains from the East bank. SHOULDICE PARK | Northwest Calgary This park has access to the Bow River and is also an offleash dog park, incase you plan on bringing your four-legged family members. There are barbecue pits, water fountains, and washrooms throughout. There is also lots of space to explore the trails, as well as batting cages, tennis courts, and a playground for children. STANLEY PARK | Southwest Calgary Stanley Park is a Calgary favourite for picnicking, fishing, canoeing, swimming, and even lawn bowling. (It has its own lawn bowling facility!) The park also has tennis courts, playground areas, water fountains, and washrooms, making it easy to spend a whole day here. CL
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| A DAY IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Enjoy Calgary’s lively live entertainment scene
CALGARY COMES ALIVE S
ure, it’s August. It’s beautiful outside, and you’re enjoying the summer sun. But if you want to have as much fun in the fall as you’re having now, you may want to start making a few plans. Mark a few dates on the calendar, and buy tickets to some of these upcoming amazing events. From live music to theatre, here is a short list of some of the amazing events you’ll find in Calgary this year.
Then, To the Light will be on stage October 17 to November 4. It tells the tale of a turn-of-the-century artist who struggles to figure out her identity after the First World War. Got kids? Charlotte’s Web — the play adaptation of the novel about the friendship between Charlotte, a spider and a pig named Wilbur — is on stage November 21 to December 31. Bring tissues and expect tears. Such a wonderful story. atplive.com
ALBERTA THEATRE PROJECTS
BEAKERHEAD
The Last Wife tells the story of Katherine Parr, who used her charms to stay alive while married to King Henry the Eighth. (He was rather famous for getting rid of his first five wives.) The play will be on stage September 12 to 30.
One of the city’s most original festivals, Beakerhead describes itself as “a smash up of art, science and engineering.” This year’s festival takes place around the city from September 13 to 17 and there is, literally, something for everyone. Best, many events are free. beakerhead.com
»
GlobalFest CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2017
P H OTO BY TI M OTH Y H U Y H N – J& J L AW R EN CE P H OTOG R A P H Y
BY SHELLEY BOETTCHER
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A DAY IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT |
Group of Seven, the late landscape painter is still considered to be one of Canada’s finest artists. The show will also include works from Georgia O’Keefe and other American artists. Then there’s the Black Gold Tapestry by Sandra Sawatzky. The hand-embroidered tapestry took nine years to make and tells the 5,000-year-old history of oil and its impact on civilization around the world. It’ll be on view starting October 7. glenbow.org
JUBILATIONS DINNER THEATRE Calgary International Film Fest
CALGARY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The 18th annual festival will take place September 20 to October 1. As of press time, the fall lineup hasn’t been confirmed, but it’ll be a good one. This year’s event features more than 200 features, shorts and documentaries from across Canada and around the world. Early-bird tickets are on sale until August 25. calgaryfilm.com
CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Start with the screening of the Academy Award-winning film, La La Land on September 21; the score will be performed live by the CPO. Then there’s Disney in Concert: The Little Mermaid, October 6 and 7. But that’s not all: there’s Kronos Quartet (October 13-14), Fred Penner (October 22), Corb Lund (November 2) and much, much more. calgaryphil.com
GLENBOW MUSEUM
Don’t miss the incredible photo exhibition, North of Ordinary: The Arctic Photos of Geraldine and Douglas Moodie, on now through August 27 at the Glenbow. From 1903 to 1909, the Moodies lived in what is now Nunavut and took photos of the landscape and the people they met while Douglas worked with the North-West Mounted Police. The show is both beautiful and haunting, a record of times long past. And there are new shows, too. Higher States: Lawren Harris and His American Contemporaries will be on view October 7, 2017 to January 7, 2018. A member of the renowned
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Catch Greased 2 from Septmber 1 to October 29 at Jubilations this fall, followed by Downton Abbey Road, November 3 to February4. Dinner and a play — what’s not to love? jubilations.ca Studio Bell After Hours
| A DAY IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
be launched. And the popular ATB Storytellers series, which features stories and music of Alberta, will return this autumn. nmc.ca
SPRUCE MEADOWS
NATIONAL MUSIC CENTRE
If you’ve never been to one of the Studio Bell After Hours parties at NMC, it’s time. These adult-only parties were a hit earlier this spring, so NMC staff have decided to continue them. Show up for edibles, drinks, DJs, dancing and live band karaoke. Upcoming dates include September 22, October 27 and November 24. Also this fall, special new exhibitions featuring Canadian singer-songwriters Sarah MacLachlan and k.d. lang will also
STAGE WEST THEATRE RESTAURANT CALGARY
Get ready to laugh with I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, on stage at Stage West September 8 to November 12. “If this show were a blind date, you’d feel relieved, grateful and pleasantly surprised,” said a reviewer at Newsday. Plus: food, lots of it. stagewestcalgary.com
IRONWOOD STAGE & GRILL
It’s one of Calgary’s best venues for live music. The 140-plus seat restaurant and lounge hosts live music every night of the year. It’s located at 1229-9th Avenue S.E., near downtown in the Inglewood district of Calgary, and there’s plenty of public parking nearby. CL National Music Centre
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y B IT TER M A N P H OTOG R A P H Y
Stage West Theatre Restaurant
This internationally renowned equestrian facility showcases the world’s best show jumpers, who come from as far away as the Netherlands, Germany, Ireland, the U.S. and England. Many of the best will compete at the Spruce Meadows Masters, September 6 to 10. Best, rush seats are only five bucks, and children (12 and under) and seniors get in free. Plan time at the wine bar for appetizers and a glass or two. sprucemeadows.com
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TAKING CHARGE
ASK MARIA
By Maria Bartolotti
What to consider if you are self-managing a condominium
Q:
Dear Maria, our condo board is seriously considering letting go of our current condo management company. We feel that the board is taking on most of the tasks they were hired to do. We’re planning on selfmanaging our condo ourselves. What should we consider if we plan to selfmanage?
A:
In Alberta, condominiums are either self-managed or managed professionally. In either circumstance, the condominium corporation operates through the actions and decisions of the board. If a condominium is self-managed, the condo board is responsible for managing all the day-to-day aspects of the property including the financial obligations that go with it, and you must comply with the Condominium Property Act of Alberta in carry out your obligations. Self-management may seem like the right choice at first, because it gives you control over the property, and you get to save on costs by choosing not to hire a professional condominium management company. But, you must be prepared to deal with property management issues that arise amongst your neighbors and sometimes the board you serve on. A self-managed Board will play many roles while carrying out their duties, including those that a good and active professional management company like New Concept Management would be hired
to do on your behalf. If you’re not satisfied with the current management company, you may want to consider looking into a new management company first. However, if you are going ahead with the plan to self-manage, here are a few things to consider. Foremost of which — and I cannot stress this enough — it is important that Board members be active and involved when they serve on the Board. Every Candidate for the position of Board member must be willing to devote the necessary time and effort required. Members who cannot devote the time should not be on a board. They must be willing to learn and acquire the knowledge and expertise needed to effectively carry out their responsibilities. Ask yourself these questions: • Do you have the time to devote to answering questions, concerns, and maintenance issues from unit owners throughout the day and evening? Are you prepared to respond to emergency calls at 2 a.m.? Emergencies can happen at any time. • Do you have the experience needed to handle the financial obligations of the condominium corporation? After all, its not just about answering questions. Collection of the condo fees, assessments, paying the bills, making sure the insurance is paid on time, reserve fund accountability. What about producing the budget or monthly financial statements? • Do you have a network of industry
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.
professionals you can call on to help you with your maintenance and capital projects? How do you know that you’re getting the right contractor, at the right price? • Do you have a strategic plan in place if a member of the board such as the Treasurer or President moves or resigns their position? Who on the board is willing to take on their role? After all, people move on, whose going to help you? • How well are you versed in the rules and regulation that govern your condo? Do you have a good understanding of your Bylaws and the Condominium Property Act? What about liability issues or conflict of interest? And are you willing to take courses to educate your self. • And of course, how much are you willing to do for free? How ready are you to take on these tasks? If you answered “yes” to all the above, keep in mind that a condo manager does more than what’s listed above. Then perhaps self-management is for you. If you hesitated, then you may want to reconsider and start looking for a management company that can offer you options. 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 AUGUST 2017
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LOVIN’ UNIVERSITY DISTRICT The future looks bright for this unique multi-family development
“T
hey have included everything but the cemetery,” was perhaps the best compliment I heard when I recently visited University District’s Discovery Centre just north east of the Alberta Children’s Hospital. University District has been planned as a multi-generational complete community that will be attractive to people of all ages and backgrounds. While there will be no detached single-family homes, it does feature a diversity of townhomes, low rise (under five floors) and mid-rise (six to 12 floors) apartment style homes designed to appeal to baby boomers, families and empty nesters. Upon arriving, I heard the sounds of a mother playing with her toddler, a good sign as healthy communities are attractive to young families. When I visited, there was an energetic buzz in the Discovery presentation centre that houses the Truman and Brookfield show suites with young couples
chatting with each other and sales people. There was a healthy sense of urgency. I heard one young couple saying, “we need to make a decision there are only three left,” while an older couple asked, “any chance they will back out of the deal as that is the one we want?” EVERYDAY NEEDS A key ingredient for a complete community is that the residents’ everyday needs are within easy walking distance. There is a grocery store project that will include other retail as well as residences and will become the anchor for University District’s nineblock Main Street. It will include everything from the butcher to the banker, from the baker to the candlestick maker. University District is already the gateway to the University of Calgary campus, with all that it has to offer — library, theatre, art exhibitions, lectures, talks, concerts and recreation facilities. The pedestrian-oriented Main Street will be linked to the Central Park, which is being designed as an all-ages intimate meeting place for the entire community. It will be a place where kids can frolic in the dancing fountain, families can have a picnic, while seniors can go for walk or enjoy a coffee and people watch. There are also two school sites and a working agreement with the Calgary Board of Education for an urban format school (school is located on the ground and second floor, with residential development above) to be developed depending on the demand. Both sites are next to parks so the school playgrounds are also community playgrounds. In addition to being a walkable communi-
CONDOSCAPES By Richard White
ty, University District will be transit-oriented with 12 bus stops connecting the residents to three LRT stations, as well as to the University, Foothill Medical Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital and Market Mall. BIG NEWS ON THE HORIZON From the University District staff I learned that this summer they will be announcing who will be developing the “ageing-inplace” project where seniors can transition from independent living, to assisted living to extended care all in the same complex. In the fall, the developer for the major mixed-use project that will combine a full-service grocery store with condos above will be announced. As well, a hotel project will get the green light by the end of 2017. LAST WORD What looks like a huge construction site today, will soon be Calgary’s first European style urban village i.e. no high-rise condos. Calgarians, especially those living in the northwest quadrant have been waiting for something like University District for decades. It will have great appeal to the 25,000+ young and established professional working nearby, as well as empty nesters from the surrounding established communities who want the “lock and leave” life style. Given I am in my early 60s and living in West Hillhurst, University District could be my final resting place. 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 AUGUST 2017
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A LIFETIME GOAL
HOPE AT LARGE
By Marty Hope
Logel Homes represents a lifetime goal for long-time Calgary builder
I
t was in the very early 1980s, my wife and I had just arrived in Calgary and were looking for a home. Not knowing anyone in the local real estate market, we flipped through the newspaper’s housing news and came across the name Tim Logel and an announcement that he had been named Realtor of the Year. So, we thought, who better to deal with than the top person in his profession. We bought a home from Logel and over the years have kept in touch, mostly through our professional careers. That was more than 30 years ago. I’m pretty much retired, but Logel has kept on building his career, with Cardel Homes the cornerstone of that growth. For the past 17 years he has partnered with Ryan Ockey, Cardel Group president and CEO, in Cardel Lifestyles and has carried the title of president. Then a couple of months ago the pair teamed up again, this time with the creation of Logel Homes — that will continue to offer affordability and quality in multi-family housing, but with a slightly different format. Both divisions will continue to build. “Logel Homes has been two years in the making,” says the company’s president and chief operating officer. “I approached Ryan
with the idea and he thought the same as I did, that Logel Homes would provide an opportunity to grow market share.” As part of the announcement introducing the company to the public, Logel also outlined the first development, a 373-unit, five-building condo project called Auburn Rise in the southeast community of Auburn Bay. A sales centre has been open for a couple of months now and heavy equipment was slated to be on site this summer. Auburn Rise will have 10 different floor plans priced from $139,900 to $279,900, plus GST. Logel explains how Logel Homes and Cardel Lifestyles will approach the market. “Any suburban multi-family site for product that is designed for consumers just starting out or downsizing will go to the Logel Homes brand. Move-up, higher-priced multi-family will go to Cardel Lifestyles, as our goal is to see both brands move forward,” he says. Ockey says the new partnership arrangement “allows us to jointly develop a new brand that will continue to focus on affordable, high-quality street towns, condos, and townhomes. “Cardel Lifestyles will focus on unique products such as cluster homes, street towns, and stacked towns like we build in Ottawa, Denver, and Tampa, and will be under the guidance of Cardel’s Calgary Region president Mike Selinger,” he says.
The Logel-Ockey partnership will continue to work on the development of more than 1,000 condos and townhouses that are under construction. As well, Logel will continue to “find the dirt” for both Logel Homes and Cardel Lifestyles to Tim Logel develop on. Since 2000, the two men have completed 12 successful multi-family developments and have another half-dozen under way. As well as having a deep passion for the residential development industry, Logel has a second reason for bringing his new company to the marketplace — family. “I wanted to provide a legacy for my two sons — Brayden and Kevin — who have been working for Cardel Lifestyles for five years. I just thought it was time,” he says. Brayden serves as director of customer experience, sales and marketing, and Kevin is a site supervisor in Auburn Bay. Tim’s brother Brad is area sales manager for Walden Place in southeast Walden. Logel Homes will have its own sales force, marketing, design, development, construction, and customer experience teams. And because he is a big believer in communications, collaboration, and teamwork, all members of Logel Homes will work under on roof. 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 AUGUST 2017
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HOMES BY AVI STREET TOWNS IN SAVANNA SHOWCASES AWARDWINNING QUALITY
H
omes by Avi’s Street Towns have prided themselves as the ideal turnkey home but their designs also turns heads. Their show home in the new northeast community of Savanna is the 2nd grand prize home for this year’s Kinsmen Lotto, which just goes to show its stunning family-friendly value. The Ivan show home is valued at $509,900 and marks the first time a Street Town is being awarded as a lottery prize at the Kinsmen Lotto. The 2,219-square-foot Ivan has four bedrooms, quite large for a Street Town, and its winners also get $10,000 in cash. Homes by Avi Street Towns already come with fenced backyards, rear decks or patios, and double detached garages. The top prize for this year’s Kinsmen Lotto is also a Homes by Avi show home, the six-bedroom 3,340-square-foot home in the northwest community of Tuscany valued at $900,000. Tickets can be bought at the show homes at 31 Savanna Street N.E. or 95 Tuscany Ridge Manor N.W. For more information, visit www.homelotto.com
THE GUARDIAN SETS 2017 RECORD FOR CONDO SALE
AROUND TOWN
By Pepper Rodriguez
A
lberta’s tallest residential towers are also the city’s top condo seller in Calgary so far in 2017, as The Guardian’s Paramount Suite set a record sale at $2.4 million. It is one the highest condominium transactions this year to date, according to CREB NOW, as the Paramount Suite sub-penthouse on the 39th floor of 44-storey The Guardian sold for the original listing price of over $2.4 million. With more than 2,400 square-feet in space, the home boasts floor to ceiling windows, Italian-imported kitchen and closet cabinetry, and a 270-degree wrap around balcony with panoramic city, mountain and river views. This particular unit was only on the market for three months before the sale, and was designed in conjunction with Amanda Hamilton Design. “This sale is yet another sign of renewed confidence in the Calgary real estate
market this year,” states director of sales and marketing Ernest Hon.” In the first half of 2017, we’ve seen a dramatic uptick in interest for condominiums, especially units on higher floors that have spectacular city views.” Standing 44-stories tall, both Guardian Towers are the highest residences in Alberta. The towers were recently completed in late 2016 and contain over 600 residences and community amenities. Prices of units available start at $278,900. For more information, visit www.theguardiancalgary.com
PARK POINT CONTINUES TO RISE
P
ark Point achieved 50 per cent completion of its first tower and Around Town was there to mark the occasion. Qualex-Landmark™ group, developer of Park Point, a 34-storey, $110 million Beltline residential condo tower across from Central Memorial Park took media on a tour of the soon-to-be-completed high-rise. This construction milestone comes at a time when Calgary residential sales are once again beginning to climb. According to the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB), May 2017 saw a total of 2,119 sales up from the 1,904 in April 2017. “Construction began at Park Point in the fall of 2015 and has been progressing on schedule with upwards of 170 – 200 workers currently on site and hitting every milestone in its advancement into the Calgary skyline,” says, Parham Mahboubi, vice president, planning and marketing, Qualex-Landmark™ group. He tells Around Town that Park Point has also exceeded 70 per cent sales in the first tower, including seven of the eight live-work townhomes at the base. CL For more information, visit www.qualex.ca/parkpoint CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2017
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CALGARY MAP | North West, North East and Inner City 7 32
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North West, North East and Inner City | CALGARY
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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
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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 The Mark 101 Maverick at Livingston Willow at Sherwood Sage Place Viridian Livingstone Towns Kincora Summit Emerald Sky ARRIVE at Bowness ARRIVE at Redstone
14 ARRIVE at Skyview 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Ranch Arbours Groves of Varsity University City The Townes of Redstone IVY at University District LiFTT 43 Park Victory and Venture Bridgeland Crossings Killarney Townes ARRIVE at Evanston
25 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 The Link at Symons Gate 37 Verona
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CALGARY MAP | South West, South East and Calgary Area 1
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South West, South East and Calgary Area | CALGARY
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SOUTH WEST | SOUTH EAST PROJECTS 1 Valmont at Aspen
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Stone Morena West Overture Axess Armory Juno at Currie Killarney Townes GLAS Brooklyn Condominiums Avli on Atlantic Mission34 SoBow Buffalo at Silverado Champagne The Gates Gatesone MidCity
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23 Cranston Ridge
37 Elements 39 Albert Park Stations 41 My Legacy Park
24 Mosaic Riverstone 25 Niche One
42 Jackson at Walden
26 Auburn Walk
44 Legend of Legacy
27 Canoe at Auburn Bay
28 Stonecroft Auburn Bay 29 Regatta
43 Axis 45 Legacy Gate 46 Sanderson Ridge
30 Ebony 31 Sandgate
32 Mahogany Street Towns 33 Westman Village 34 Chalet No 5 & No 6 35 Stonecroft at
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CALGARY AREA PROJECTS AIRDRIE 1 Georgetown at 2 3 4 5 6 7
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Reunion Windsong Creekside Village Waterscape at Cooper’s Crossing Canals Townhomes Ravenswood Townhomes Brookside at Baysprings ZEN Ravenswood Newport at Canals Landing Hillcrest Townhomes Midtown Gates at Hillcrest
COCHRANE 1 Riviera Riversong 2 Jumping Pound 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
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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
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OKOTOKS/ DE WINTON 1 ZEN Okotoks
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ADVERTISERS INDEX |  Auburn Rise Logel Homes page 3
Link at Symons Gate Brookfield Residential page 35
The Guardian Hon Developments page 64
Zen Ravenswood Avalon Master Builder page 62
Avenue West End Grosvenor page 54
My Legacy Park Brad Remington pages 69, back cover
The Loop StreetSide Developments page 58
Zen Redstone Avalon Master Builder page 23
Emerald Sky Carlisle Group inside front cover
The Orchard Lamb Development page 11
The Townes of Redstone StreetSide Developments page 4
Fall Home Show Market Place Events page 17
Origins at Cranston StreetSide Developments page 4
Verve FRAM+Slokker Developments page 36
Fish Creek Exchange Graywood Developments page 46
Park Point Qualex Landmark page 9
Victory & Venture Providence page 6
Cranston Condo One House Real Estate Group page 42
Room with a View Slokker Homes page 31
Viridian Townhomes Trico Homes page 42
Gatestone Remington Developments page 27
Sanderson Ridge page 18
Vivace StreetSide Developments inside back cover
Hunter House StreetSide Developments page 58 Legacy Gate Carlisle Group page 52
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Smith Grosvenor page 5 The Concord Concord Pacific front cover, pages 14-16
Vogue LaCaille Group page 60 Westman Village Jayman BUILT page 22