CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2017 | VOLUME 13 ISSUE 215
14
12 FOCUS ON 12 | Art and soul Add a little artistic touch to your home CONDO PROFILES 18 | The royal life The Royal heralds Bosa Development’s unique style to Calgary’s inner city 23 | Luxury living at Riley Park Ezra brings effortless, luxury living to a once-in-a-lifetime location 28 | Downtown connection Avenue West End brings young people back to downtown living 33 | Vogue, a chart topper LaCaille Group high-rise is tops with Calgary condo buyers 38 | Relaxing retreat The latest townhomes in Cranston’s Riverstone are an exquisite treat COMMUNITY PROFILE 46 | The cornerstone of life The New North comes to life in Cornerstone OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
COVER FEATURE 14 | Welcome, My Legacy Park II Brad Remington Homes continues to forge its legacy with sequel to My Legacy Park CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
|7
CONTENTS
51
58
DESIGNER SERIES 51 | Style in the park Fish Creek Exchange puts natural spin in contemporary park living
46 54
65
LIFESTYLE 54 | Life on the hill It’s all about the climb STYLE 58 | Lighten the mood Here’s how we can affect our home lifestyle with lighting A DAY IN KIDS’ BIRTHDAYS 61 | You say it’s your birthday Take the preteen birthday party to the next level FEATURES 65 | Comfort & care There are a growing number of choices in and around Calgary for elderly care
COLUMNS 73 | Condoscapes by Richard White 75 | Hope at Large by Marty Hope 77 | Real Estate Insider by Mario Toneguzzi 79 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez
68 | Summer slumber and silver linings Urban Analytics’ third quarter report on the Calgary condo market
ITEMS 10 | Editor’s Message 82 | Maps 86 | Ad Index
8|
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
61
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
EDITOR’S MESSAGE |
SPREADING THE WORD
The November issue marks a milestone for us at Source Media Group, as we finally launch our revamped website www.calgaryhomeliving.com. After months of trial runs and rough drafts, we finally have a website we can be proud of. It’s easier to navigate, has a ton of exclusive content and has a more pronounced lifestyle edge that homebuyers are looking for. Our new social media guru, Ian Serpanchy, unveiled the new website at the CHBA Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing event in Jasper and it got a bit of a boost when we chimed in with our two cents in an X92.9 Facebook post about a brewing note war in the condo where one of the alternative radio station’s hosts (Angela) lived in. You can read all about this kerfuffle and our take on it in the website and in the Condo Living Facebook page too. Speaking of which, follow us there (and Twitter) and you can get even more information not just on what our homebuilders and land developers are up to, but what else is going on in the city. We try to cover everything that’s going on in our world and keep our followers and readers up to date. It’s a brand new way to spread the word. As long as we’re spreading the word, did you know that Brad Remington Homes is already launching their My Legacy Park II? That’s right, the follow-up to their successful My Legacy Park, which is all but sold out, is ready to roll out and don’t be surprised to see long lines at the sales centre and show suites on October 14. Check out our cover story for more information. We have a bunch of inner-city condo developments in this issue too. The Royal by Bosa Developments, Ezra at Riley Park by Birchwood Properties, Avenue West End by Grosvenor, and Vogue by LaCaille are all featured here. Most are almost ready for moveins, so when you’re in downtown, look up in the sky and you’ll notice subtle differences in the skyline that these new high-rises have brought about. We also shine a light on new senior care residences that are coming up in the Calgary area, we spoke with a couple who are actively looking for one and we were quite surprised by the number of new residences that are coming up. I’m getting way up there in age, too, maybe I should start NEXT MONTH: looking now. Christmas issue Finally, a mea culpa: I’m a screw up. The hectic pace that we produce these books gets me in trouble a lot of the times, and things get missed. A couple of instances where in the Victory and Venture article that ran in September issue, and also in the Skyview Landing piece that ran in October. Both had typos in the Fast Fact box. We’ve corrected both in the digital editions and in our website (which is another fantastic use for them — you’ll always get the most up-todate info).
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
Shelley Boettcher, Darlene Casten, Aaliya Essa, Brandi Holmes, Marty Hope, Christina Loc, Jayne McKay, Kimberly Poffenroth, Mario Toneguzzi, Richard White PHOTOGRAPHY
Don Molyneaux ADVERTISING SALES
advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING | Norma Robertson accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSUE 215 • 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
Stay up-to-date with the Calgary Home Living newsletter:
www.calgaryhomeliving.com/subscribe
10 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
FOCUS ON ON |
12
ART AND
1
Add a little artistic touch to your home BY AALIYA ESSA
NOTHING REVEALS MORE of the homeowner than the art they display in their home. In this issue, we went around three of Calgary’s most popular art galleries to see the kind of character pieces that we can use to add a little personality to home décor. Here’s what we found. CL
4
2
3 12 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| FOCUS ON
8 10
SOUL 11
9
[ 1 ] Don Toney — Enraptured, $800 at Webster Galleries. [ 2 ] Frogman — Alfie, $825 at Gainsborough Galleries. [ 3 ] Yehouda Chaki — Flowers 247-A, $7,800 at Newzones Gallery. [ 4 ] Colleen Philippi — Life After Black, $6,000 at Newzones Gallery. [ 5 ] Aleksandra — Rainy Day Crowd, $5,050 at Gainsborough Galleries. [ 6 ] Lisa Shorten — Emerald Tree Medium, $675 at Gainsborough Galleries. [ 7 ] Clément Lemieux — Coming Together through the Heart, $6,950 at Webster Galleries. [ 8 ] Denis Chiasson — Bohemian Family, $995 at Webster Galleries. [ 9 ] Evelyn Brader-Frank — Jason #1305, $2,500 at Newzones Gallery. [ 10 ] Jonathan Forrest — Canary 2017, $6,400 at Newzones Gallery. [ 11 ] John Rombough — Dreams, $225 at Webster Galleries. [ 12 ] Ted Raftery — Typhoon Approaching, $1,875 at Gainsborough Galleries.
7
6 5 OUR NEW WEBSITE
4
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 13
| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
WELCOME, MY LEGACY PARK II Brad Remington Homes continues to forge its legacy with sequel to My Legacy Park
14 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
T
he way Brad Remington Homes sees it, their ultimate goal is providing the most affordable, highest quality homes to the most people it can. For this award-winning builder, it has never been about the awards, nor the accolades, and all their past developments stand testament to this commitment. They get to prove this once again with the launch of My Legacy Park II. The first My Legacy Park condo community was a definite hit and is already 95 per cent sold, quite a remarkable feat as that development came into the market facing the strong headwinds of the economic downturn. Bryan Logel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Brad Remington Homes, says he expects that My Legacy Park II will be no less of a success. My Legacy Park II will launch on October 14, and as in all their previous launches, Logel says to expect line-ups. “There is a definite demand for our condos. Buyers respond well to the message that affordability doesn’t mean it is any less in quality. The care and attention to detail that we put in the design and the build of these homes means buyers get a home that they love and are proud of, at a price they can afford.” With My Legacy Park II, Brad Remington Homes further hones their selection of suites and brings all that they have learned in their previous developments together to come up with new suites with the most popular features. “Innovation is a very important part of what we OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
do at Brad Remington Homes, there is constant improvement as our condo suites evolve from what we learn from previous developments,” he tells Condo Living. “In My Legacy Park II, we have taken the most popular plans from the previous My Legacy Park and tweaked them and made them larger, without necessarily increasing prices.” The first phase of My Legacy Park II will have one-bedroom suites from $149,900, two-bedrooms from $169,900 and three-bedrooms from $229,900. Logel is predicting that the D2 two-bed, twobath plan will be a star for My Legacy Park II. At 837 square-feet starting from $199,900, it indeed hits all the sweet spots for Brad Remington Homes’ biggest market: single professionals, young couples, and downsizers. “There is an excellent selection of plans in My Legacy Park II and we allow the highest level of personalization that can be done for a condo, we have hundreds of ways for buyers to personalize their condo and make it their own,” he says. “We provide what condo owners are looking for, at a price they can afford, without sacrificing quality or use of space. It’s as simple as that,” says Logel. My Legacy Park II will have 72 suites in the first
building. It will ultimately have 296 units spread out over the four, fourstorey buildings in the development. Although designs of suites are constantly being improved, Brad Remington Homes has a definite formula that they follow to ensure the success of their developments. “First, the location has to be perfect, then the homes need to have well-thought out floor plans; high-quality standard specifications package are becoming increasingly important, and My Legacy Park I and II have every one of these,” Logel says. The location in the southeast community of Legacy is one of the key ingredients in the success of My Legacy Park, as this community by WestCreek Developments itself has won back-to-back SAM Best Community of the Year awards. There are already plenty of amenities in the community, from parks to tot lots and pathways, and even a community garden that My Legacy Park residents are already enjoying. There are even more developments in the pipeline, including a major commercial development just outside the community that will add enormously to the lifestyle value of My Legacy Park. As mentioned earlier, the amount of personalization that can be done in a suite is remarkable, but the top quality standard specifications that it comes with are just as amazing. “Stone countertops, a full stainless steel appliance package, made-in-Alberta soft-close cabinets. And even more importantly, underground parking; it’s everything anyone could want at a price they can afford.”
»
“WE PROVIDE WHAT CONDO OWNERS ARE LOOKING FOR, AT A PRICE THEY CAN AFFORD, WITHOUT SACRIFICING QUALITY OR USE OF SPACE. IT’S AS SIMPLE AS THAT.” OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 15
| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
Traditionally, condo owners have traded affordability for space, but that isn’t the case with My Legacy Park II, nor any other Brad Remington Homes development. “It isn’t just the space we provide, it is the intelligent use of that space, which comes from years of experience.” Brad Remington, president of Brad Remington Homes, is one of the most experienced multi-family builders in the city. He has built over 2,500 condos and resorts in Calgary and area prior to launching his own company. With the string of successful developments from Copperfield Park I, II and III and now, My Legacy Park, Brad Remington Homes has established itself in the firmament of Calgary’s premier condo builders. “We take pride in the fact that Brad Remington Homes was not an overnight success, this was a hard-earned reputation,” Logel says.
“To be a success, you need a multitude of things to get right, and that’s what we do.” Yet Brad himself has been one of the most humble, most low-key people in the industry, and he can be regularly seen at the construction sites in his Ford pickup truck. Not quite the image of the young, successful entrepreneur. “Home-building is in his blood, his grandfather was one of the first builders in Calgary, building bridges, roads, churches and houses,” Logel says. That’s where Brad Remington’s drive comes from, but his insistence on providing the most affordable homes at the highest quality is something uniquely his own. “Our record for delivering customer satisfaction is something we are extremely proud of, and having 99 per cent of our homeowners say they would recommend Brad Remington Homes to their family and friends is more important to us than industry awards,” Logel adds. The October 14 opening of My Legacy Park II promises to be another feather in Brad Remington Homes’ cap, and Logel reminds interested parties that they have to act quickly as the most popular suites are likely to go fast due to the incredibly attractive pricing. n
FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: Legacy DEVELOPER: Brad Remington Homes PROJECT: My Legacy Park II STYLE: Apartment-style condos SIZE: Starting from 564 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $149,900s SALES CENTRE: 215 Legacy Blvd. S.E. at the corner of Legacy Blvd. and Legacy Main Street HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.mylegacypark.com
16 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CONDO PROFILE |
THE ROYAL LIFE
The Royal heralds Bosa Development’s unique style to Calgary’s inner city
18 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
E
mbassy Bosa recently took things to a new level with its merger with Bosa Development. With deep roots in several major North American cities, including Calgary, the new Bosa Development is promising to think different and think big. “Our merger is about opportunity,” said Ryan Bosa, president of Bosa Development. “The two companies are stronger together, and as such, can accomplish so much more.” Bosa Development’s Founder Natale “Nat” Bosa is no stranger to Calgary. As one of the first developers to see the city’s West end’s potential, Bosa built five residential developments there in the 1990s. His son Ryan set his sights on Calgary more than a decade ago, envisioning a robust downtown and inner city. Under Embassy Bosa, Ryan implemented his company’s pioneering approach to development with smart design, something which he will expand on with Bosa Development.
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| CONDO PROFILE
“We have evolved from project builders to city builders, and with that ‘bigger thinking’ comes greater responsibility,” said Bosa. “Smart growth is about limiting urban sprawl and creating livable, inclusive, and pedestrian-centric communities that have high amenity bases, offering everything within reach, which ultimately gives people more time and flexibility in a day. These communities also help create lasting social connections.”
This approach is reflected across all of Bosa’s projects in Calgary, whether in the planning stages or under construction. The Royal in historic Mount Royal Village West is 75 per cent sold, with construction now going vertical with concrete forming in the tower at level 12. With their recently launched Fall Collection and an upcoming projected completion of late next year, it’s worth a visit to their presentation center to see what the Royal life is all about. “The Royal will bring inner-city condo living to a whole new level of sophistication, lifestyle, and upscale charm,” said Marchand. The Royal is a joint venture between Bosa Development and First Capital Realty. It is being built on a the half city block along 16th Avenue and 9th Street S.W. Not only will The Royal be the tallest high-rise in the community, it will also be the only one with a massive commercial component. First Capital Realty is building a 90,000 square-foot
»
The Royal is a destination unto itself — an iconic modern address that is defined by sophisticated design and upscale charm. OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 19
CONDO PROFILE |
FA S T FAC TS
commercial podium, which will be home to Calgary’s first Urban Fare, a 27,000 squarefoot premium grocery store. COMMUNITY: Mount Royal Village “Being connected to a grocery store is PROJECT: The Royal the ultimate convenience,” said MarchDEVELOPER: Bosa Development and. “Urban Fare at The Royal will serve STYLE: Mixed-used development – residents and become a destination for the community at large.” commercial and residential The Royal’s gorgeous window walls in each SIZE: From 599 to over 2,000 sq. ft. home give the interiors an incomparable PRICE: From $380,000s luxurious feel, abetted by the high-end finSALES CENTRE: Corner 16th Ave ishings that Bosa lavishes in each home. Adding a sparkle of elegance are the sturdy and 9th St. S.W. and elegant high-end laminate floors, plus HOURS: Saturday to Thursday quartz countertops along central islands and noon to 5 p.m. kitchen counters. The inherent functionalWEBSITES: www.theroyallife.ca ity of the floor plans is complemented by the high-quality millwork that integrates or www.thinkbosa.com kitchen appliances to create a seamless flow. One-bedroom homes start at $389,000 while two-bedrooms homes start at the mid $500,000s. The Royal also offers a limited number of Sky Collection homes on the upper floors that feature large floor plans and premium finishings to provide an elevated level of comfort and style. “We’re really excited to offer these homes that will surely appeal to an underserved portion of the market looking for livable downsizing options,” said Marchand. Among other mixed-use projects, you’ll find Arris, which is a continuation of Bosa’s revitalization of East Village. Arris is a joint venture with RioCan, who is building a commercial podium at the base of Bosa’s 42 storey tower.
20 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
Bosa is also part of the redevelopment of the former military base, Currie Barracks. “We have big plans for the centre sector of Currie, including retail, public spaces and 2,500 homes,” said Marchand. For now, Bosa’s focus is the last homes remaining at The Royal, which are now available for sale. CL
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| CONDO PROFILE
LUXURY LIVING AT RILEY PARK Ezra brings effortless, luxury living to a once-in-a-lifetime location
BY BRANDI HOLMES
OUR NEW WEBSITE
E
zra on Riley Park has such a stunning exterior it is hard to drive down 5th Avenue and not take notice of the gorgeous twin eight-storey towers that sit on the corner of 12th street and 5th Avenue. Ezra’s East Tower is finished with residents already moving in, and the West Tower is getting close to completion as well. Now, everyone gets to see and experience the full grandeur of the boutique condo that its developer, Birchwood Properties, had promised as it opens two new show suites, with a third coming soon. The contemporary look of the exterior is mirrored in the interior design where Birchwood Properties did not hold back in luxurious standard furnishings. Every unit has the wow factor upon entrance, be it long New
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
York style hallways in a two-bedroom unit, the spectacular view of downtown in one-bedroom units with floor to ceiling windows, or the exquisite openness of the two- or three-bedroom town homes, no unit found in Ezra on Riley Park is disappointing.
»
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 23
CONDO PROFILE |
The features that are included in every unit in both towers are to an executive level; you can expect things like full sized Whirlpool washer/dryer, stainless steel kitchen appliances (integrated in some units), engineered hardwood flooring, stone tiles in bathrooms, glass back splash, LED interior/ exterior lighting, and many more. The superb sound proofing of these buildings is also notable. Being right on the street there is absolutely no residual noise inside, unless of course, a window or door is open. Ezra also offers shared amenities, a furnished guest suite, social lounge, fitness centre, wi-fi enable lobby and a remote concierge. All units include a bike rack and storage; units over 500 square feet get a underground parking stall, Ezra is the condo building that keeps on giving. The location of this development is key, being in Kensington you will be close enough to anything you will ever need. “Ezra’s location is second to none. We’re right in the heart of Kensington but backing onto one of Calgary’s most iconic parks,” Adele Kerr, the DirecFA S T FAC TS tor of Sales & Marketing at Birchwood Properties says. “You can take a five DEVELOPER: Birchwood Properties minute walk in either direction and PROJECT: Ezra on Riley Park reach the restaurants and shopping COMMUNITY: Hillhurst/Sunnyside (Kensington) boutiques on 10th Street N.W., or the STYLE: Boutique apartment-style condos and amenities on 14th Street.” There are currently two show suites townhomes with a third on the way in the East SIZE: One-bedrooms from 465 sq. ft.; tower to showcase the vast diversity two-bedrooms from 740 sq. ft., and townhomes of homes offered at Ezra. With a lot from 1,100 sq. ft. of interest from all different types of buyers, Ezra has a lot to offer everyone. PRICE: From $324,900 plus GST Ezra offers one-bedrooms from 465 ADDRESS: 1234 – 5th Avenue N.W. to 645 square-feet, two-bedrooms from HOURS: Monday – Thursday 12 – 7 p.m.; 740 to just under 1,500 square-feet, and weekends 12 – 5 p.m. two-storey townhomes from 1,106 to 1,681 square-feet. Only one penthouse WEBSITE: www.ezraonrileypark.com
remains for sale, on the 8th floor the East Tower. It will be ready for occupany in the New Year. The first show suite is that of a two-storey, two-bedroom plus flex, exectutive townhome, sitting at 1,557 square-feet and with a price tag of $879,900 plus GST. This townhome features 10-foot-plus ceilings downstairs, and nine-foot ceilings upstairs with an immense amount of standard features that are sure to blow you away. There are many things in this townhome that pleasantly surprise the prospective buyer, the massive L-shaped walk through closet might be one of them, or the brilliant utilization of the concrete column on the main level may be another. No detail was overlooked and you really have to see it to believe it. The same goes for the second show suite, a one-bedroom unit of 502 square-feet not including the approximately 370 square-feet of outdoor living space. With many of the features of the townhome repeated in this unit it is easy to see the level of consistency present throughout Ezra, it really is astonishing. “It is a small boutique development in a
The Alder
24 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| CONDO PROFILE
once-in-a-lifetime location. Basically, there will not be another opportunity to live on Riley Park in a luxury condominium like Ezra,” Kerr adds. With the East tower being 70 per cent sold and the West tower nearing completion with 40 per cent sold, it is clear that Ezra on Riley Park is a success. The building has come alive with residents enjoying the beautiful fall weather on their balconies and the convenience of Riley Park as their backyard, the location is truly once in a lifetime. If you are considering an inner city move Ezra is really the place to be, as mentioned with the vast amount of executive standard features, stellar location and stunning views, you cannot go wrong with calling Ezra on Riley Park home. CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 25
CONDO PROFILE |
DOWNTOWN CONNECTION Avenue West End brings young couple back to downtown living BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
T
he downtown life had always held an allure for Gavin and Marina Reeves; after all, this was where they met and fell in love. They lived in downtown Calgary for the first part of their eight-year marriage, but had found themselves in Highland Park for the next half. They had been yearning to get back to the core and have now finally found a home that suits their lifestyle. The Reeves are getting ready to take possession of their 1,434 square-foot, two bedroom townhome in Avenue West End (Avenue), the high-rise on the corner of 5th Avenue and 10th Street SW. This townhome is the best of both worlds. “We just love the fact that we are so close to work now and don’t have such a long commute,” Marina tells Condo Living. Avenue is just a short walk to the C-Train station, which means Marina can be at her desk in City Hall in no time at all. “I’m a seven-minute walk to work, I timed it,” Gavin adds. They opted for a townhome because it offers the space of a single-family home that they need now and for the future. “We have two dogs and we’re planning on starting a family. This will give us the room we need,” Marina says. “I really prefer the lifestyle downtown,” Gavin adds. “This actually brings us full circle from where we started.” Aside from proximity to work, Gavin also likes that he can find almost anything he needs a short distance away. “We have everything we need here. The Coop grocery is just a couple of blocks over on 10th Avenue.” There’s also a new Superstore going up even closer to them on 9th Avenue. The gated street-access they have from their townhome is also perfect for their dogs. “The Bow River pathway system is just down the block,” Martina says. “Being close to work, amenities and transportation was very appealing to us and ultimately that’s the reason that we chose
28 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| CONDO PROFILE
“We went into the show suite and the standard finishes they had were already quite beautiful, it just made our decision that much easier.”
to purchase a townhome at Avenue.” The building also has its own dog wash which “makes it super convenient for us,” says Marina. The couple fell in love with Avenue’s well-designed living spaces that exude an air of contemporary comfort with flexible and seamless features found nowhere else in the city. “We went into the show suite and the standard finishes they had were already quite beautiful; it just made our decision that much easier,” Marina says. “I’ve read about Avenue in Condo Living so I had a good idea of what to expect.” The CresseyKitchen™, an integrated and revolutionary kitchen space that makes its Calgary debut at Avenue, is one of the features she is excited to try out. “I love to cook and I’m excited to try out the fancy new kitchen,” Marina says. OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
Jason Turcotte, Vice President of Development from Cressey, states that the CresseyKitchen™ is a selling feature for many buyers, “We’re excited to bring the CresseyKitchen™ to Calgary. The customizable layouts attract an array of homebuyers. A kitchen is an intimate place, where time is spent with friends and family. Being able to tailor it to your specific needs is an important feature for our buyers.”
»
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 29
CONDO PROFILE |
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: West End PROJECT: Avenue West End Avenue is a development project by Grosvenor Americas. The two-tower project brings a luxurious presence to the western portion of downtown. Homeowners have started taking possession of their new homes in mid-September. The building is coming to life, as people are getting settled and meeting their new neighbours. Avenue is over 75 per cent sold, but there remains a great selection of one- and two-bedroom homes available at a starting price of $338,900. Townhomes and penthouses are also still available. Avenue is at the heart of the vibrant city’s most sought after multi-family location in downtown. With its exciting blend of West Coast design, innovation fitting in nicely with the fresh, urban lifestyle offered in this popular part of town, this development will be a shining landmark in Calgary condo living for years to come. There will be 195 units in the 23-storey East Tower; these homes range from 572 to 2,315 square-feet and are comprised of one-bedrooms, one-bedroom and dens, two-bedrooms, an executive penthouse and two-storey townhomes. This wide array of offerings is a key factor to its appeal. “Avenue’s broad range of home sizes and styles will appeal to everyone from first-time buyers, professional couples, or busy executives,” says Robert Duteau, Senior Vice-President of Development at Grosvenor. But it’s the project’s prime location — just off the Bow River and between trendy Kensington and the central business district — that is its most attractive feature. It is just steps from the Downtown West Kerby C-train station, within the no-fare zone. “That’s what makes Avenue so appealing. From entertainment, to shopping, to dining, to getting outdoors, it’s perfect for every kind of Calgarian,” he adds. “The location has generated a great deal of interest from buyers because of the diversity that if offers. On the one hand, there is a distinct urban feel. There is access to restaurants, night life, and boutiques of Kensington and the downtown core” Duteau says. “Yet on the other hand, there is a relaxed atmosphere, with close proximity to the Bow River Trail and the
30 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
DEVELOPER: Grosvenor Americas STYLE: Condos and townhomes SIZE: 572 to 2,315 sq. ft. PRICE: Starts from the low $300,000s ADDRESS: 1025 5th Avenue S.W. HOURS: 12 – 5 p.m Saturday & Sunday. 12 – 6 p.m. Monday – Wednesday. Thursday & Friday by Appointment Only. WEBSITE: www.avenuewestend.com Prince’s Island Parkway. Avenue strikes the perfect balance of big city life, while being just steps away from nature and serenity.” Avenue was also designed to create an elevated sense of arrival upon entry, complete with a hotel-style porte-cochere driveway, grand double height lobby and expansive windows to maximize views of Bow River, mountains and the city. A stone podium façade and extensive use of glass and metal panel marks Avenue’s appearance, while the balconies in all homes add a defining detail to the exterior. The street oriented townhomes have been designed to emphasize the feeling of neighbourhood by way of having private terraces and a front door facing 5th Avenue. Each homeowner will be able to leave their front door and immediately embrace the surrounding downtown West End, Bow River walkway or Kensington Village. CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| CONDO PROFILE
VOGUE, A CHART TOPPER LaCaillle Group high-rise is tops with Calgary condo buyers BY AALIYA ESSA
I
f condos were ranked the same way hit pop songs are, LaCaille Group’s Vogue would be a real Billboard chart-topper. In fact, in the six months since Vogue first opened its doors to residents, this impressive, 36-storey, architecturally-striking tower has generated a lot of buzz on Calgary’s downtown condominium scene — and for a lot of great reasons! For starters, there’s the LaCaille name and brand itself. Because, when it comes to building upscale condominiums, LaCaille Group has a well-earned reputation for building timeless quality at a great downtown price point, following in the footsteps of previous successful projects like LaCaille Park Place, Solaire, Chateau LaCaille and the twin Five West Towers. “As people have experienced the completed building, the reviews have been universally positive,” says LaCaille Group Vice-President Al Schmidt. He tells Condo Living that Vogue’s “spectacular views, fantastic lobby, beautiful bathrooms, large kitchens and awesome gym” have continued to place Vogue at the top of most people’s condo shopping list downtown. The project is over 80 per cent sold, but Schmidt says there are approximately 50 units available, with more than 40 of them located above the 25th floor. “Interested purchasers have a great opportunity to take advantage of the great view units left on Vogue’s upper floors,” he says. Vogue has 232 suites ranging from 543 to 715 square-feet for one-bedroom suites; and 773 to 1,105 square-feet for two-bedroom suites. Higher up, on floors 34 and 35, the penthouses offer a spacious 1,335 to 1,474 square-feet.
»
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 33
The premium selection in suite sizing is reflected in the pricing, with one bedrooms generally starting in the upper $300,000’s, and two-bedroom units starting in the upper $400,000’s. There are several show suites open in the building, giving motivated buyers the opportunity to see first-hand the kind of upscale urban lifestyle available at Vogue. The suites themselves are beyond reproach for their pristine, high-end finish. “LaCaille equals quality and, as always, we’ve paid ultimate attention to detail,” Schmidt says. “The kitchen and bathrooms, from layout to appliances and fixtures, are exquisite. Quartz or granite countertops, full stainless steel appliance package, engineered wood flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows add a lofty ambiance and let in lots of natural sunlight.
34 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
Bathrooms are finished with classic hexagonal floor tiles, while luxurious soaker tubs and modern plumbing fixture are all standard as part of Vogue’s retro take on a modern downtown lifestyle! Vogue was imagined and constructed to make a dramatic architectural statement, reminiscent of 1920s Chicago or New York — capturing all the glamour and excitement of that era. “The arched entry soars 10 stories up, giving you a sense of arrival like no other building,” Schmidt points out. The grand lobby is designed after a high-end vintage hotel, offering comfortable seating areas with TV, Free Wi-Fi and a coffee bar. Designed with the intention of allowing residents to connect with their neighbours, this community gathering space has all the necessary
amenities to serve as an urban town square. And speaking of amenities, Vogue residents have every amenity at their doorstep to ensure a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle. The fully equipped rooftop Sky Gym located on the 36th floor, offering both a fitness centre and a games room for the exclusive use of Vogue residents, is a great way to get to know your neighbours while enjoying spectacular views of the Bow River Valley and Rocky Mountains. The adjacent yoga studio, meeting room and a large party room that can be booked by residents for special events, offer residents an unparalleled “have it all” lifestyle. On top of all that, at the heart of it all, Vogue represents true downtown living. “You’re one block away from the 8th street LRT station in the downtown free-fare zone,” says Schmidt, “and within easy walking distance to the Plus-15 walkway system. This prime location in the downtown west end is just a block off the river pathway and a short walk to the stores and restaurants in trendy Kensington over the Louise Bridge.” More than all that, however, Vogue is the fulfillment of a promise kept by LaCaille Group, as they continue to provide world-class condo communities in the heart of downtown Calgary at a very appealing price point. “The current price list reflects tremendous value, as remaining units are priced at 2013 price levels,” says Schmidt. “Vogue delivers on our LaCaille Group promise of an upscale urban lifestyle.” CL
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Downtown West End PROJECT: Vogue DEVELOPER: The LaCaille Group STYLE: Luxury Apartment-style Condos and Penthouses SIZE: From 543 sq. ft. PRICE: Starting from the upper $300,000s Move-in: Immediate Show Suite Address: 930 6th Ave. S.W. Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. daily; Closed Fridays Website: www.liveinvogue.com OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 35
CONDO PROFILE |
RELAXING RETREAT The latest townhomes in Cranston’s Riverstone are an exquisite treat BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
C
ranston’s Riverstone has established itself as Calgary’s premier riverside community. With the gently flowing bow River at its backyard, the southeast community by Brookfield Residential has become a soulful, natureendowed haven for homebuyers. With the introduction of Retreat townhomes, affordability is also brought into its already exhilarating appeal. With townhomes starting from $250,000, including GST, and topping out at the mid $300,000s, Retreat townhomes are an unbelievable deal in an established, amenity-rich community.
38 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
Retreat is a collection of 178 townhomes at the heart of Cranston’s Riverstone. It offers a mix of row and stacked, bungalow-style models, each with a private, attached one- or two-car garage. “Sales have started with great interest early in September,” says Brookfield Residential Marketing Manager, Justin Castelino. “We are seeing a number of people from within Cranston and within Riverstone coming down to see us, some looking to downsize from their current home as their family needs have changed. Some are working at the South Health Campus and want to live closer.”
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| CONDO PROFILE
“Retreat was chosen as it really signifies an opportunity to get away from the city, and immerse yourself in nature.” Its name says it all, as these townhomes represent a relaxing retreat from the busy, hurly-burly world outside Riverstone’s confines. “Retreat was chosen as it really signifies an opportunity to get away from the city, and immerse yourself in nature,” Castelino says. “Cranston’s Riverstone is all about connecting with Fish Creek Park, the Bow River and the great outdoors and we wanted to ensure that this project reflected this.” Retreat offers stylish and affordable townhomes in a community where nature surrounds you. There are 11
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
floor plans ranging from the 742-square-foot Ivory bungalow model, to the 1,980-square-foot Sienna live/work townhome. “Most plans will be two-bed with two-and-a-half baths, with some having a third bedroom option,” Castelino says. He is excited about the new live/work townhome Retreat offers. “We have a limited number of ‘live/work’ homes in Retreat with spaces dedicated to bringing at-home businesses such as hair styling, personal training or professional services to Cranston’s Riverstone,” he says, adding that this component should bring another level to the community’s connectedness.
»
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 39
CONDO PROFILE |
There are a number of parks and playgrounds within Riverstone as well.
A youthful energy runs through Cranston’s Riverstone, as the idyllic community surrounded by nature has attracted a wide range of buyers that find the family-friendly, active lifestyle-oriented living it offers irresistible. It had recently won Community of the Year at the CHBA - Alberta Award of Excellence in Housing. It’s easy to see why. Its winding pathways are filled with early morning joggers taking full advantage of the natural landscape, dog-walkers taking their pets out for a jaunt are everywhere, and the laughter of children enjoying the numerous tot lots and green space echoes through the river valley everyday. The Bow River is steps away and offers some of the best fly-fishing in the world. There are a number of parks and playgrounds within Riverstone as well. Residents of Cranston’s Riverstone also enjoy a very urban lifestyle with its proximity to the developing Seton shopping and commercial district. Cranston Market at the top of the hill has a Sobeys, Good Earth Café, Berwick Pub and a number of everyday essentials. “Plus Seton is just across Deerfoot, with a YMCA, restaurants and a brand new, VIP Cineplex theatre opening this year,” Castelino adds. Cranston’s Riverstone is part of the greater community of Cranston — also by Brookfield — that is well on its way to build out. Riverstone may be one of the final opportunities to own a new home in what is already one of the most popular,
40 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
and thriving communities in the southeast. Retreat sits in the middle of all these — the best of life’s simple pleasures. It adds to the relaxing scenery with its own common central courtyard and a planned small community garden. “Additionally, as a resident of Cranston’s Riverstone, you will have access to Cranston’s Century Hall — a 22,000-squarefoot facility (banquet facilities, programs, events, gymnasium, and daycare) and seven acre private park (splash park, hockey rink with chiller unit and Zamboni, tennis court, pleasure rink, toboggan chute, basketball courts and great lawn.) Retreat’s exterior has been very intentionally designed to fit the rest of the architecture in Cranston’s Riverstone — in a classic, craftsman style, Castelino says. “The buildings are finished with durable fiber-cement siding and shingles. Units with balconies will have aluminum rail and vinyl decking. There will be a comprehensive landscape plan in place as well, to ensure the site is looking beautiful year round.” Each townhome also gets a full set of upscale features including triple glazed windows, stainless steel appliances (washer and dryer included) and luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring. An on-site presentation centre is already open at 847 Cranston Avenue S.E., with show homes already under construction and set to open in early 2018. CL
FA S T FAC TS PROJECT: Retreat DEVELOPER: Brookfield Residential COMMUNITY: Cranston’s Riverstone STYLE: A mix of row, stacked and bungalow townhomes, with live-work units SIZE: 742 – to 1,980 sq. ft. PRICE: Starts from $250,000, including GST ADDRESS: 847 Cranston Ave S.E. HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 2 – 8 p.m., Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 12 – 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.retreatinriverstone.ca OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| ADVERTISING FEATURE |
V IS FOR VICTORY & VENTURE Providence Group’s new Bridgeland condos sow the seeds of community
BY JIM ZANG
T
he concept of community has always fascinated Bryan Helfenbaum. In fact, he was actually developing a cohousing project with other like-minded individuals — somewhere they could explore all the possibilities and advantages of living in a shared residential complex — when the buoyant Calgary economy of 2013/2014 drove construction costs above budget. Those plans were scrapped but, as fate would have it, another opportunity opened when the Victory & Venture condominium was launched. As so often happens in life; when one door closes, another opens. “The location in Bridgeland is perfect, it’s
Bryan Helfenbaum
42 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
just about a block over from where we had intended to build our cohousing project,” Helfenbaum tells Condo Living. “So, 12 of my colleagues from that original cohousing idea all bought units here, and we even bought an extra two-bedroom unit that serves as a shared space where we can hold gatherings and put up visitors.” Victory & Venture’s developer, The Providence Group and its president Gary Beyer, were very supportive of the idea, he says. “Gary even worked with us in re-designing that shared unit to make it more functional for our purposes,” Helfenbaum adds. The experiment has worked wonderfully, not only for members of Helfenbaum’s group but for the other residents of this four-storey low rise on the corner of Edmonton Trail and 4th Avenue N.E. “Having two rooftop gardens provides everyone here the environment to create n even stronger community,” he adds. “The last apartment I lived in, I hardly knew any of the neighbours. Exactly the opposite of what we have here,” Helfenbaum continues. “The Canada Day party we had on the rooftop patio was awesome! Multiple groups shared the space to barbecue, socialize, and watch the fireworks.” And, for anyone who thinks a condo is just for singles, young couples or retirees, think again. Helfenbaum’s family, with two young boys, says they have everything they need in their three-bedroom suite. “There’s actually another family living here with kids the same age as mine,” he says. “In our case, we have multi-functional furniture, including a Murphy bunkbed that helps save space. Our boys have made friends with the other kids living here, and they go to Langevin School that’s just nearby, so it’s really the best environment for them,” he says. “I wish I lived in a place like this when I was a kid.” The strong sense of community isn’t just what attracts buyers to Victory & Venture. Its prime location in the vibrant inner-city community of Bridgeland is a close second, and the efficient floor plans is another good reason. Of course value is something that can never be overstated, and Victory & Venture scores high marks here too, offering the most affordable two-bedroom, two-bathroom condos this close to the inner-city. “We’re almost 70 per cent sold,” says Beyer. “There are still very good suites available, and our typical two-bed, two-bath suites range from $325,000 to $369,000. Our highest priced unit is where everyone else in the inner-city starts at for similar two-bedroom suites.” OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| ADVERTISING FEATURE |
The concept for Victory & Venture is based on a contemporary European design, with creative storage solutions, allowing residents to manage their everyday lives — a space for everything and everything in its place. Floor to ceiling wardrobes add character in the bedrooms, helping organize storage space, while cabinetry in the kitchen is built nearly to the ceiling, allowing for a tremendous amount of storage. “Our units are intelligently designed spaces,” says Beyer. “The bedrooms are able to easily accommodate a king-sized bed in the master suite and a queen in the second room, as well as two full bathrooms — by means of the Euro second bath. Every thing you want in your home,” he adds. “The smart design goes beyond the efficient layouts, too, we also equip our units with smart technology that allows you to control temperatures, lock and unlock doors, and turn lights on and off, with the use of your smart phone,” Beyer says. The bathrooms are also a masterpiece of modern design that include a tiled open
shower, floating sink vanity, and a tankless toilet, all laid out in an efficient FA S T FA C T S plan that allows Providence to offer two-bedroom two-bath units. “Two COMMUNITY: Bridgeland bedroom units with just one bathroom PROJECT: Victory & Venture doesn’t make much sense to us, this DEVELOPER: Providence Group is just another way where we don’t compromise quality.” PRICE: From $325,000 – $369,000 What makes the concept of commuSTYLE: Apartment style condos nity really work for Victory & Venture is ADDRESS: 515 4th Ave. N.E. the neighbourhood itself. “Bridgeland HOURS: Monday – Thursday noon to 6 is one of the most sought-after and active redevelopment communities in p.m., Friday available by appointment the inner-city close to downtown, river only, Saturday – Sunday noon to 5 p.m. pathways, Bridgeland LRT station, not WEBSITE: www.victoryandventure.com to mention all the services and amenities in the community,” Beyer says. It’s a synergistic relationship between the development and the community, as Victory & Venture’s residents will add youthful energy and vitality to the streets of one of Calgary’s most trendy neighbourhoods. Victory & Venture’s residents enjoy the numerous fine and casual dining establishments within walking distance, and unique boutique shops lend an authentic local experience. The new Edmonton Trail cycle path goes right past the building, and there’s a bicycle wash and maintenance station in the parkade for residents as well. “From our location, residents can choose to walk to work downtown or to the LRT station,” says Beyer, “but Victory & Venture also has a two-level heated, secured parkade, and almost all remaining units are provided a parking stall. It really is about balancing your investment in your home against other lifestyle priorities. Buy the home with all the features you could want, while still having the room to enjoy all of your other lifestyle choices.” As for Helfenbaum’s original vision of community living: “Victory & Venture,” he says, “has worked out better than I ever thought possible.” Our fall promotion ends October 31st and is our biggest offer yet. Contact Steph Grassi at (587) 433-4416 for details. n
Our fall promotion ends October 31st and is our biggest offer yet.
For corrections, updates and latest info, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 43
COMMUNITY PROFILE |
THE CORNERSTONE The New North comes to life in Cornerstone BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
T
he vision for Cornerstone is quickly becoming a reality, as one of the city’s hottest selling communities launches its second phase. Kendra Milne, vice-president, marketing, at Walton Development and Management, says Cornerstone was a close second in the number of building permits issued by the city up to August 2017 with 221. “It has been an absolutely busy summer in Cornerstone. More than 100 families are already living here, and we’re working hard to put in more new amenities — including a new playground — that our new residents will soon get to enjoy.” Walton is moving to the second phase of the 1,100-acre community in the northeast in October where it will release 280 more lots in a new parcel of land on the south side of Country Hills Boulevard. It’s a spectacular feat, considering that Cornerstone only launched its first phase last year on the north side of Country Hills Boulevard. “We released 590 lots last year and many have already been snapped up,” Milne says. “We’ve also been able to keep lot prices steady.” Cornerstone is living up to its billing as part of the New North that highlights the improving quality of life available in this vibrant sector of the city. New commercial, recreational and industrial developments throughout the northeast have vastly enhanced lifestyle in the area, and Cornerstone is helping by bringing a wide array of stylish, practical and affordable homes.
46 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
“The vision for Cornerstone has always been one of connections, where neighbours can congregate and get to know each other, and we’re building an environment that encourages this kind of strong community bond,” Milne says. Asides from the park, which children should already be able to enjoy this fall, Cornerstone’s uniquely walkable characteristic makes it a fit for active, recreation-minded families. “We have 95 acres of dedicated parks and school spaces, and 14 kilometres of regional pathways connecting the community and offering attractive gathering places and inviting opportunities for walking, jogging or cycling,” she adds. It’s conducive to a healthy lifestyle with its natural areas and open spaces that accommodate leisure activities and organized sporting events. “Plus, Cornerstone is the
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| COMMUNITY PROFILE
OF LIFE future home of Calgary’s next regional park in the northeast,” Milne says Perhaps the most heavily anticipated development is the upcoming Major Activity Centre (MAC), which will offer plenty of shopping, commercial and employment opportunities, making it a true live-work-play community. “The MAC will straddle Country Hills Boulevard and be a commercial, residential and social hub for the community and beyond,” Milne says. There will also be Neighbourhood Activity Centres (NAC) scattered through Cornerstone that will provide extra convenience to residents. These will include gas stations, convenience stores and the like.
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
There are also five future school sites within Cornerstone, including a potential public high school, which Milne says is important for a lot of their buyers. But Milne feels that Cornerstone’s focus on preserving the environment is also key in its timeless appeal and sustainability. “The most significant environmental consideration is the preservation of 180 acres of environmentally significant natural wetlands that promotes preservation of natural attributes of the area,” she says. These natural wetlands will become a part of the new regional park and will encompass 20 acres and connect to the Parks Foundation’s Greenway — a 140-kilometre network of parks and pathways. With this pristine, connected setting as a background, Walton has also assembled a powerhouse cast of home builders that will help them bring the entire vision of Cornerstone into a reality.
»
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 47
COMMUNITY PROFILE |
Jayman BUILT, Morrison Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Shane Homes and Truman are the builders in the community. They have 31 show homes in Cornerstone’s first phase that displays the sheer breadth of styles and lifestyles available. Cornerstone offers everything from starter homes — townhomes (both street-oriented and condominium style), semi-detached and laned homes — to semi-estate front-drive homes — including courtyard homes from Jayman BUILT and five-bedroom homes from Truman. Condo townhomes are from the $298,000s and no-condo-fee street-oriented townhomes start from $310,000. Semi-detached homes are from the $330,000s, zero-lot-line homes are from the $380,000s, while courtyard homes are from the $470,000s and front-drive homes are from the $490,000s. “All of Cornerstone is also zoned for secondary suites and single-family homes with side-entrances are a common sight in the community. It just helps us attract more of our demographic of young families and extended families,” Milne says. Its excellent location close to major transportation thoroughfares and employment hubs is a huge plus. There is already an established bus route in nearby Skyview Ranch (also a Walton community) and there are plans to have a future LRT Station right in the neihbourhood. “Metis Trail, Country Hills Boulevard and Stoney Trail all border the community making it as accessible as possible. The ongoing widening of Country Hills Boulevard will also improve traffic flow here soon,” she says. “People also have to realize that Cornerstone is also the last major development inside the Ring Road in the northeast,” Milne points out. “They can be part of the change in the northeast.” “We are only beginning to see the potential for a new lifestyle in the northeast with Cornerstone, there is still much growth ahead,” Milne says. CL
48 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Cornerstone DEVELOPER: Walton Development and Management BUILDERS: Jayman BUILT — street-oriented townhomes, and courtyard homes Morrison Homes — duplexes, and front-drive homes Pacesetter Homes — zero-lot-line homes, and front-drive homes Shane Homes — duplexes, zero-lot-line homes, streetoriented townhomes, and front-drive homes Truman — front-drive homes and a multi-family development in the future PRICES: From the $298,000s DIRECTIONS: North on Deerfoot Tr., east on Country Hills Blvd., north on Metis Tr. to 128th Avenue, and follow the signs HOURS: 2 – 8 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekdays and holidays WEBSITE: www.liveatcornerstone.ca OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| DESIGNER SERIES
STYLE IN THE PARK Fish Creek Exchange puts natural spin in contemporary park living BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
T
he last great address on Fish Creek Park deserves to look like it is the best place to live, so Graywood Developments pulled out all the stops in creating a memorable presentation centre that lays out in bold form its vision for Fish Creek Exchange. The multi-family development — Graywood’s first in Calgary — offers apartment-style and townhome condos in one of the most coveted pieces of land in the city, bordering the Fish Creek urban park. The relaxing, nature-filled ambiance is captured by the interior design of their two show suites here. Designers Edge CEO, Danielle Paul, took on the task of presenting the lifestyle vision for Fish Creek Exchange, and she has done an outstanding job in adding a chic, modern look to the show suites. “Given the location of the building we wanted to design the show suites to have some natural elements that would be reflective of Fish Creek, but we also wanted to create a space that felt chic and modern so it was blending those elements together that helps us achieve the end result of what you see here,” she tells Condo Living. Set on the southern edge of Fish Creek Provincial Park, Fish Creek Exchange is the idyllic southwest Calgary location with an abundance of existing amenities and services. A Transit-oriented Development (TOD), this urban style mixed-use development provides unmatched connectivity to Calgary’s vast LRT network providing ease of access to the downtown core via Fish Creek/Lacombe Station. This suburban infill development offers proximity to many of the city’s major traffic corridors including Macleod Trail, 22X/Stoney Trail and the future southwest leg of the “ring road”. Fish Creek Exchange will provide a vibrant, active and connected lifestyle experience for residents, visitors and patrons alike and its one- and two-bedroom show suites expertly details the lifestyle it offers.
»
Danielle Paul
DESIGNER SERIES |
Each suite is impeccably designed and feature sought-after standards that include ENERGY STAR® stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, modern European-style cabinetry and durable LVP flooring. Fish Creek Exchange has a West Coast feel that Danielle brings about with the “use of natural colors, organic textiles and incorporating different woods elements.”
With suite sizes starting from 600 square-feet, Danielle says it’s important to plan out spaces. “You would do better selecting furniture that has clean lines to it,” she says. “Proper scale and proportion are important.” Fish Creek Exchange’s apartment-style condos have one or two bedrooms from 600 to 1,400 squarefeet with one or two baths and are priced from the mid $200,000s.
The comfy living room has a decided feminine feel to it, as single, professional women are a key part of their demographic. “I would describe the living room as having a romantic bohemian feel. This room feels a bit more feminine introducing a hint of blush. You’ll notice that when we decorate we use lots of layers and textures which helps create that warmth and comfort that you feel when you come into the space.”
52 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| DESIGNER SERIES
The design is sure to appeal to first-time homebuyers and downsizers with its judicious use of space. Danielle says quartz was used for countertops because it is “extremely durable, more so than most granite and stone.” The backsplash is ceramic tile. There are two options for cabinets. “The standard is a maple stained, and the upgrade is a painted MDF. You’ve noticed that painted cabinetry is quite popular these days so I suspect this will be a popular upgrade.”
Danielle keeps in mind a couple of things when designing a space, like this bedroom. “There are a few elements that are working together here to achieve a spacious feel. One, properly scaled furniture — you’ll never create a spacious open feel with oversize, bulky furniture. Two, flow — it’s important to have a good traffic flow around your furniture. The last thing you want is running into the back of a sofa or chair. Open the space up by arranging your furniture properly.” CL
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 53
LIFESTYLE |
LIFE ON THE HILL It’s all about the climb BY DARLENE CASTEN PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX
W
ith only 24-years life experience, Mike, isn’t wasting any time getting things done. If you look at this millennial’s resume, you’d probably think he was much older. He’s already worked on a farm and has undertaken two careers, one fighting fires in northern Canada and is now a school teacher. He lived abroad for a year, teaching geography to junior high students in a tough London neighbourhood and his travels have taken him all over Europe, northern Africa, Australia and Asia. Now, back in Calgary, Mike isn’t done with his forward momentum. He’s teaching phys-ed and in the classroom at a Beltline school and just
54 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
moved in to his first home in Bridgeland on the slope on the north side of the Bow River valley “I was looking for something accessible to downtown, walking distance to lots of things and something affordable,” Mike says. Bridgeland Hills, a GableCraft Homes development, had the location, price and proximity Mike needed. The five-story condo is built up the grassy slope on the corner of Edmonton Trail and Fourth Avenue, N.E. The modern west coast feel of the building’s exterior appealed to Mike. “It has a trendy modern look,” he said. The apartments Mike looked at had the look he was going for, he says. “It had a homey feel,” Mike says. “The colours were what I wanted.” Mike bought a $265,900, one-bedroom, one-bathroom 600-square foot in July and moved in September 1, just in time for the start of school. The apartments in Bridgeland Hill stood out from other apartments, he’d looked at, Mike says. “It was well laid out,” he says. “This place looked much bigger than other places.” In the bedroom the entire wall is closet space
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| LIFESTYLE
Mike Quiambao
and the opposing wall is glass, looking into the main living area, allowing light into the bedroom and keeping an open feel. His modern kitchen has white quartz countertops and stainless steel Whirlpool appliances, a full-size Fisher and Paykel refrigerator, a gas range and oven and white laminate upper cabinets contrasted with grey wood-grain lower cabinets.
“I really like cooking, so I’m really liking the gas stove,” Mike says, although he admits he’s had to get use to how fast it heats up. “At first I was burning things because when you turn it on, it’s hot right away, but I’ve gotten used to it. The open-concept living space is light and bright with a view of the grassy hill and the bright blue prairie skies. There is already a walking path on the hill, just steps from his ground floor patio, and Mike says there are future plans to develop it as a park. It’s a quick walk to the Crescent Point lookout over downtown, a favourite romantic destination in the city. “The view of downtown from the top of the hill is pretty nice,” he says. Mike looked around in other inner-city neighbourhoods and in Fish Creek near the C-Train, but in the end the quiet hillside community of Bridgeland won out.
»
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 55
LIFESTYLE |
“The view of downtown from the top of the hill is pretty nice.” “I get to be downtown, but I don’t have the hustle and bustle,” he says. Everyday Mike walks out his front door, gets on his long board and makes his way to work in about 10 minutes. In the winter, he says, it will be about a 20-minute walk or quick five-minute drive on the really frigid days. He has a car parked in his underground parking spot, but says he’d like to take it out as little as possible so finding a pedestrian community was important. “When I lived in London I walked everywhere and took the tube,” he says. I like the idea of not being dependent on anything else.” He also likes being able to take walks around the neighbourhood and stop in at Diner Deluxe or OEB Breakfast Co. for brunch or if he’s out later he’s likely to head to Chinese food at Kings. “It has such a mix of old and new,” he says. “It’s a nice mix. There are lots of good restaurants and cool little hipster places.” When he does venture outside the core, he finds it’s a quick drive almost anywhere in the city. He plays on a rec floor hockey team in gyms all over the city and find it is easy access to all quadrants from Bridgeland, particularly because Deerfoot Trail is nearby via both 16th Avenue and Memorial
56 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
Drive, he says. “And I can go to Banff or Canmore a lot easier,” says Mike. Living at Bridgeland Hill also makes continuing traveling even further abroad a possibility. “This place was affordable, so I’m hopeful I can continue traveling,” he says, noting the turnkey lifestyle of a condo will also help. In the meantime, Mike’s enjoying sharing his condo with his family, friends and floor hockey team, some of whom have already crashed on the pull out couch. “My friends love this place cause they can stay over and it’s near everything,” he says, smiling. CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y O F C A RT W R IG HT L IG HTI N G
STYLE |
LIGHTEN THE MOOD
Here’s how we can affect our home lifestyle with lighting
58 |
A
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y C A R R I N G TO N L IG HTI N G
RIGHT How stunning is this lamp! The decorative Atmospheric Circulation table lamp, by Dimond Lighting, would make a great statement piece on a buffet or console, in a living room or bedroom. Only available in café bronze finish.
s the days get shorter, darker and colder, it can really mess with our moods — which is why lighting is so crucial at this time of year. Well-balanced lighting can be achieved by layering ambient, task and accent lighting together. As with anything, select light fixtures for your home with intention and purpose. Decide which areas of the home you want decorative fixtures to make a statement. Pendant lighting and chandeliers are great pieces to create a dramatic effect. Trending ways to use pendant light include hanging multiple pieces over a dining table or island, over bathroom vanities or above night tables or side tables to free up tabletop space. Personality can be injected by hanging stylish chandeliers over top of dining tables and in open to below areas to serve as ambient lighting. Rochelle Cote, principal and senior designer at Rochelle Cote Interior Designs, does the interior design for Calbridge Homes’ Calgary Hospital
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
BY CHRISTINA LOC
Home Lottery show homes among a slew of other fantastic projects. She says, “you can have fun with lighting and make the larger pieces stand out”. The suggested guideline to hanging pendants and chandeliers above a table or counter top is about 28-36 inches with the option of hanging it three inches higher for every extra foot of ceiling height. Once you figure out the bigger pieces, fill in the rest. Use recessed lights and ceiling mount fixtures in the foyer and hallway areas for ambient lighting. When selecting a ceiling light, you want to have at least seven feet clearance from the bottom of the fixture to the floor. Recessed lights are great for ambient
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| STYLE
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y LIG HTI N G CENTR E
Part of the Fairfax Collection, by Avenue Lighting, this chandelier over a dining table or island looks stunning. For more of a dramatic effect, place multiple pieces together.
P H OTO CO U RT E S Y S H EL L A R D P H OTO G R A P H Y
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
If it’s not possible to fit recessed lights in to your space, track or rail lights can also serve the same purpose. This system allows you to place multiple heads and/or pendants on to a single track using one junction box and gives you the flexibility to direct light where it’s needed. Incorporate lamps in to your space for that extra layer of interest. Desk, table and floor lamps are great for task lighting. With so many styles to select from, they really form part of your decor and give you lots of flexibility as they are portable. Lamps can be used for ambient lighting in rooms where there are no light fixtures or lack of light. Place them strategically in corners or areas where there are shadow spots to help distribute light more evenly throughout a space. Wall sconces are another fixture that can serve with multiple purpose. Instead of direct light beaming from above, it can give off soft ambient lighting in stairways and halls. It can be used as task lighting beside bed sides or as accent lighting to highlight artwork. I think most of us have the basics when it comes to selecting ambient and task lighting. It is accent lighting that takes the spotlight in recent years and is becoming a very strong category thanks to new LED lighting innovations and creative minds. Now that LED is available in warmer colour temperatures, we can replace all of or at least compliment the incandescent lights. LED technology also has the ability to create a continual thin line of light and is able to fit in tight or small spaces. For this reason, it can highlight and follow the silhouettes and lines of almost everything. Use it to accent ceiling details, under cabinet and in cabinet toe kicks, around and behind vanity mirrors, in built-ins and stairway steps, under floating hearths and floating
LIGHTING CENTRE
and can serve as task and accent lighting too. Recessed lights, such as pot lights and puck lights, are very clean and timeless. A guide for calculating the amount of lights you need is to take the height of the ceiling and divide it by two. This determines approximately how many feet to space them apart. Of course this is just a guideline and depending on what your intentions are will determine the need for more or less. For example, in a kitchen, you may want more recessed lights not only for ambient but to use as task lighting too.
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y
LEFT LED ceiling mount puck lights are a great option if you prefer a subtle clean look. These are available in different diameters and finishes.
ABOVE These canopystyle pendants are popular and come in lots of xizes, shapes and finishes. This particular one is called the Cupola, by Elk Lighting, and is available in black or copper. Be mindful when choosing painted canpy lights that will only shine downward and not give off light the way opaque or clear glass pendants do so you will definitely need other means for ambient lighting.
LEFT Interior designer, Rochelle Cote, creates layers of light in the Calgary Hospital Home Lottery home by Calbridge Homes. She uses recessed lights in the kitchen and bonus room, concrete pendant over the island, ceiling mounts in the foyer and upper hallways, a large chandelier in the dining area and the open to below area. Lighting fixtures supplied by Cartwright Lighting.
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
»
| 59
STYLE |
P H OTO CO U RT E S Y L I G H T I N G C EN T R E
Track lighting has come a long way since the ‘90s. As you can see, the Suspenders Zig Zag system, by Sonneman, is an example of what you can do with track or rail lighting.
60 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
shelves. That little bit of glow can really enhance a setting. The importance of strategically selecting your light fixtures is so that it is aesthetically appealing to your senses while serving its purpose. Lighting plays a key role in our circadian rhythm and over all health and well-being. During the day, especially on a gloomy winter morning, we want lighting that will replicate natural light and as the day turns in to evening, we want to adjust our lights to help calm us. Having a consistent colour temperature through out the home will also create harmony for the soul. Pair dimmer switches with LED lighting and you will be de-lighted! This powerful combination reduces the consumption of energy, makes your bulbs last longer, saves money while lighting up your life.
The Armstrong two-light wall sconce, by Kichler, works well paired together whether or each side of an art piece, morror, window, bed, or in stairways to name a few places.
Dimmer switches give you that flexibility — to use different styles of light as ambient, task or accent interchangeably because you can control the amount of light you want at the touch of your hand. Recessed or track lights for example, can be cranked up for task lighting and dimmed down for ambient. During the day, you will use most of your lights for task purposes. In the evening, it’s nice to select different light fixtures to help set the mood depending on your activity. If you’re reading or playing a game on the coffee table, use your ambient and task lights. If you’re having a conversation, relaxing or watching TV, that direct overhead light can be harsh. In an open concept space, turn off the ceiling task lights. Turn on the under cabinet lighting. Turn on the accent lights in your shelves that will show off the millwork and highlight the objects on them. Dim down the pendants and chandeliers so you can appreciate its art like silhouette while it casts a nice light on your furniture and countertops. Turn on your portable lamps, the accent light that highlights your fireplace and artwork. Cote says, “lighting is like jewellery for an outfit. It should compliment and/or make a statement”. Having these pockets of light help accentuate all the things you appreciate in your home while helping you unwind after a busy day. As we all hope for a mild winter, I hope I’ve shed some light on how to help you get through the winter months and make you feel all warm and cosy inside. CL
P H OTO CO U RT E S Y C A RT W R I G H T L I G H T I N G
“LIGHTING IS LIKE JEWELLERY FOR AN OUTFIT. IT SHOULD COMPLIMENT AND/OR MAKE A STATEMENT.”
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| A DAY IN KIDS’ BIRTHDAYS
You say it’s your
BIRTHDAY…
Take the preteen birthday party to the next level BY SHELLEY BOETTCHER
L
ong gone are the days when the average preteen or teen birthday party is held at home. Pin the tail on the donkey is no longer enough entertainment to keep your little ones busy for hours. Today’s kids are used to considerably more when it comes to the average birthday party. And Calgary’s businesses have plenty to offer. Take the new Granary Road, for instance. Located just south of Calgary, not far from Spruce Meadows, Granary Road is a public market and family fun centre that includes a 37-acre Active Learning Park to teach kids about the natural world. It’s a perfect choice for a preteen birthday party, or just what one needs to let their kids burn off some energy. Granary Road You can learn about the Alberta Wetlands, or explore the four-storey ant farm. Discover why the world needs bats, as you wind your way through the echolocation maze. Or pet the goats, rabbits and alpacas at the Farm Granary Road Friends petting zoo. In spring and summer, families can host birthday parties in the Active Learning Park. And in the fall and winter, birthday party offerings feature cookie decorating, terrarium building and over-the-top science parties, or go behind the scenes at the petting zoo. Then, when you’re ready for something good to eat, explore the rest of Granary Road. Pick up some fresh produce at the market. Buy a good wine or two at the new Bin 905 wine shop. Or grab a delicious burger or flatbread at The Loft Bakery, Kitchen and Lounge, a restaurant owned and operated by Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts.
»
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 61
A DAY IN KIDS’ BIRTHDAYS |
Megan Reneau at Breathe Parkour
“Granary Road is a place where friends and family can come and enjoy the day together,” says Jane Walter-Lockwood, the facility’s director of business development. “There is literally something for everyone at Granary Road, whether you’re a baby or a grandparent.”
Granary Road
OTHERS TO CHECK OUT:
Breathe Parkour (breathepk.com) — Parkour is one of the hottest fitness trends in North America, and kids, especially teen boys, love it. Breathe has popular birthday parties for a range of ages in North and South Calgary on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and weekdays during opening hours. Book online or call for more details.
themes including Ninja Warrior and Stuntman Training and Circus training. There’s a fun tot spot for wee ones, too. Flying Squirrel Sports (flyingsquirrelsports. ca) — Flying Squirrel bills itself as Canada’s largest indoor trampoline park. We have no idea how to prove that, but what we do know is this: an hour at Flying Squirrel will tire out the average lively teenager. Party information is all listed and available for booking on the website.
Color Me Mine (colormemine.com) — With locations around the world, including Airdrie and Calgary, Color Me Mine offers fun art parties for kids and grown-ups. The Mega Pottery Party includes a pottery piece for each person, two slices of pizza per artist, a cupcake, juice box, party invitations and more. Other themes include canvas painting parties and glass parties, where you can create glass artwork, jewelry or picture frames. Flip Factory — A favourite for gymnastics programs in the city, Flip Factory also offers fitness-focused birthday parties, including the Ultimate Sleepover Pyjama Party. Kids will try out the reverse bungee, go trampolining, watch a movie and sleep in tents set up around the gym. In the morning, they’ll get a continental breakfast, too. Other
62 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
Rampage Paintball
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| A DAY IN KIDS’ BIRTHDAYS
Patrick Schmeikal at Breathe Parkour
Heritage Park (heritagepark.ca) — “Host a party that will go down in history at Heritage Park,” according to the website. Themes include a Teddy Bear Picnic and an old-fashioned Tea Party. Each party includes admission to the park and Gasoline Alley. Depending on the package and season, you’ll also get a wagon ride, steam train, antique midway rides and paddlewheel boat rides, too. The Locked Room (thelockedroom.ca) — Trying to come up with a theme for a teen’s birthday, age 12 and up? Try an escape room-themed party. They have to follow the clues and break through obstacles to find their way out. You can book your party online at The Locked Room; depending on the room you choose, you’ll need at least three or four people to play. Neon Milkshake Art Studio (neonmilkshake. com) — Let kids get messy and have fun creating original works of art at Neon Milkshake’s Active Artistes for children ages six and up. Maybe they’ll create a traditional canvas painting — a mini canvas art magnet, for instance — or a mixed media piece using acrylic paint, gold leaf, collage and other techniques. Cost of art materials is included in the price of the party, and you get the studio for two hours,
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
Neon Milkshake Art Studio
Granary Road
plus 20 minutes before and after for set-up and clean-up. Go wild and invite your kid’s entire class if you want; there’s enough space to host up to 25 kids. Rampage Paintball (eatpaint.com) — Located just outside of Calgary, Rampage offers Pee Wee Paintball parties for kids, with guns designed for younger players. They supply masks, chest protectors and jerseys, and “you’ll have use of the field for two hours of outdoor paintball fun,” according to the site. CL
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 63
64 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| FEATURE
COMFORT & CARE
There are a growing number of choices in and around Calgary for elderly care
A
BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
ge may be just a number, but aging is something else entirely. Getting old does have its challenges, and, despite the saying, not everything gets better with age. Like in every stage of the home-buying cycle, finding a home that fits your needs as you age is paramount. Changing health may make it more difficult to stay in the home where one has lived the majority of their adult lives in — stairs may be more difficult to negotiate, unmodified baths may present more risks, failing mental health opens a Pandora’s box of bigger problems. The provincial government estimates that there are more than 540,000 seniors in Alberta and that number is climbing. Housing them is a critical endeavour for the government, and everyone else in the province.
Mike and Kathy Ratuski are active seniors who are coming to the realization that they will likely have to find a new home. But they hasten to remind us that “seniors” is a very broad term that describes everyone from 65 to 100. “That is such a wide range of ages, needs, and abilities. It needs to be broken down more,” Kathy says. She points out that people who just turned 65 are likely to be living in a their own single-family home, more active, and are spending their retirement travelling, involved in volunteering and keeping as busy as they did when they were younger. This changes, obviously, as one gets older; and Mike, 84, and Kathy, 77, does recognize the need now. They still live in their single-family home in Shawnee, but they are now actively searching for new accommodations more suited to their needs. “At the present, we are not looking for a definite ‘care’ facility. We are looking at the possibilities for the future. The reason we are looking now is that in the past five years or so out of our bridge group of 12 people about a third have died, and another third have decreased mental or physical capacity,” Kathy says.
»
Kathy and Mike
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 65
FEATURE |
“As we have observed friends our own age, we noticed that mental and physical health conditions can deteriorate rather quickly,” she adds. “Some of our acquaintances were forced by rapid health changes to move into an assisted living complex in a crisis situation which meant selling their home quickly, getting rid of their things in a crisis situation, and often having Cambridge Manor family members make the decision where they would go, and which possessions they would keep.” The Ratuskis says they would like to make their own decisions in this regard and prepare themselves by doing research into what is out there in terms of what kind of care they could possibly need in the future. “In our case, we have talked about our explorations with some of our middle aged adult kids and they know our preferences. We believe it is just as important to preplan and discuss your senior care facility choices, as it is to discuss your funeral plans. Maybe more so, as you won’t be there for your funeral, so it won’t matter what happens, whereas you could be in a seniors’ residence for years,” Kathy says. “We are also thinking that if one of us dies, would the other one wish to live alone in a big home and yard with the upkeep and maintenance responsibilities. Also, we are aware of a decrease in our physical abilities. When we are no longer able, or do not wish to do some of the things we do at home now, we
Cambridge Manor
66 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
want to be knowledgeable of the choices out there,” Mike says. Their ideal condo is at least 1,100 square-feet in an unassisted senior living facility, with assisted living available on the site, as well as “memory care” living. “Doesn’t have to be in the same building, but at least within walking distance for the (healthier) spouse to visit. The reason is that we have friends who have had to drive across town to visit their spouse in ‘memory care’ or nursing home. We feel if we moved into a complex now while we are independent and if one of us becomes incapacitated in the future — either physically or mentally — the other one could stay in the condo and visit several times a day, if desired,” Kathy says. “Right now we would want condo style living, a small, but complete kitchen, two bedrooms. Shower, not tub as they are tricky for seniors, storage room in our condo, our own laundry facilities, underground parking and extra storage space,” she says. “We definitely want a deck so that we will at least be able to step out to see what kind of day it is,” Kathy says, relating that she is surprised how many places they checked out had no decks. “We are used to sun decks, back yards, and large windows. The prices of the places we have looked at (some of them only 600 to 700 square feet) are around $5,000 to $7,000 per month. We think that if people can afford that kind of monthly fee, they are probably coming from a fairly large home, as we are,” she says. “We would want a place where we could go on walks, not necessarily in a park like setting (although that would be nice) but we would like to at least get out, maybe walk somewhere for coffee, etcetera,” she adds. They have checked out seven retirement facilities so far. One of the latest was the Journey Club in the new Westman Village that Jayman BUILT is building in Mahogany in the southeast. “We are seriously interested in Journey Club in Mahogany and will keep an eye on the construction as it progresses,” Kathy says. OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| FEATURE
They have checked out seven retirement facilities so far. One of the latest was the Journey Club in the new Westman Village that Jayman BUILT is building in Mahogany… Journey Club by Jayman BUILT
There are more developments coming up that should fit their criteria. There is Cambridge Manor in University District in the northwest that is being built by the West Campus Development Trust in tandem with The Brenda Strafford Foundation. There is also Origin at Spring Creek, a 65+ facility already built and operating in Canmore that offers a mix of independent living condominiums with assisted support as well as luxury all-inclusive rental suites. Further down the road is the Bingham Crossing senior lifestyle community in Springbank, near the new community of Harmony that has also just been announced. The Journey Club is composed of three five story buildings with suites ranging from a 365-square-foot studio suite, to a 1,343-square-foot two-bedroom. “We have 21 memory care studio suites, 30 assisted living studio suites, nine two-bedroom assisted living suites, and 77 two-bedroom independent living suites,” says Nicky Zeimann, sales manager at Westman Village. “All of these are available for rent or life lease. For purchase, we have 75 in the first phase and 75 to be released in the second phase,” she adds. Homes at The Journey Club start from $330,000 to $740,000, including GST. Cambridge Manor is a state-of-the-art Origin at Spring Creek senior living facility within Calgary’s University District. The 217,000 square-foot building breaks ground in early 2018 and is set to open in 2020. It will have 240 units to be built and operated by The Brenda Strafford Foundation as an important part of Calgary’s University District, a comprehensive 200-acre community with a bold new vision for urban life in Calgary. Origin at Spring Creek is a mountain-lodge inspired, modern senior living facility with 110 suites in total (56 condominiums, 42 rental units and 12 specialized memory care suites). OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
The residence is located in the unique Spring Creek master-planned community, with the Rockies as a fantastic backdrop, and it is within walking distance of downtown Canmore, and 30 minutes to Banff. The location alone is well worth it. While Bingham Crossing is just in the initial stages of development, but it is going to have a care building with about 90 units which include ground floor common facilities and shared community facilities. An independent living building attached to the care building with about 53 units. Right now, the Ratuskis still like the lifestyle they live, going to Hawaii in the winter, and Palm Springs in the spring. “But we are slowing down and we are not fond of waiting at the airports,” Kathy says. CL
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 67
FEATURE |
SUMMER SLUMBER AND SILVER LININGS Urban Analytics’ third quarter report on the Calgary condo market BY KIMBERLY POFFENROTH AND JAYNE MCKAY
A
fter two quarters of increased sales, Calgary’s new multi-family home market experienced a summer slumber in the third quarter of 2017 as new condominium and townhome projects across Calgary experienced modest sale volumes, which many sales representatives attribute to the record breaking sunny and warm summer weather. While sales activity was lower than the previous quarter, the limited number of new project launches during the summer months resulted in lower unsold inventory levels in all three product sectors compared to the end of Q2-2017. Developers and home builders recognized the lower buyer urgency levels and delayed new project launches until fall when the housing market is typically more active.
sales occurred despite little if any change in pricing and fewer incentives being offered. (See Chart 1) Chart 2 provides a breakdown of the quarterly unit sales by product type. Each product sector experienced lower sales during
the third quarter of the year compared to Q2-2017. The largest decrease occurred in the wood frame condominium sector; -29 per cent compared to the previous quarter. The concrete condominium sector experienced a smaller decrease in sale volume of six per cent, while there were 19 per cent fewer townhome sales. Both the wood frame condominium and townhome sectors experienced a 21 per cent increase in year-over-year sales volume. The six per cent drop in concrete condominium sales during Q3-2017 compared to the same quarter in 2016 can be attributed to a more limited supply of this product form and generally lower buyer urgency levels among prospective buyer of this product form. The outer sub-markets continued to account for a significant proportion of all new multi-family home sales during the third quarter, as illustrated in Chart 3. This higher proportion of sales can be attributed to greater number of options prospective buyCHART 1
SALES AND INVENTORY ANALYSIS
Total sales of new multi-family homes in the third quarter were 23 per cent lower than in the previous quarter. However, third quarter sales were 32 per cent higher than in Q1 -2017. Further, on a year over year basis, the third quarter experienced a 16 per cent increase in sales volume compared to the same quarter in 2016. The higher year-over-year
68 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
| FEATURE
CHART 2
ers have in the Outer North and Outer South neighbourhoods. There are 35 and 39 actively selling new multi -family home projects in the Outer North and Outer South sub-markets respectively. Price-sensitive purchasers continue to be the most active buyer group in this market, particularly at the more affordably priced townhome and wood frame condominium projects. While the Outer North sub-market enjoyed the highest number of sales in the third quarter, total sales were seven per cent lower than in the previous quarter. Sales representatives at new multi-family projects in the Outer South sub-market attribute the 34 per cent drop in quarterly sales volume to very little buyer urgency during the summer months. ( See Chart 3) The only two sub-markets to experience higher sales relative to Q2-2017 were Inner Southeast and Cochrane. While the higher sales volume in the Inner Southeast sub-market represents a total of just 11 sales, it should also be noted there were just eight new multi-family projects being actively marketed in Q3-2017 and that all but one of these CHART 3
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
projects has been marketing for more than two years. The Cochrane sub-market experienced an 84 per cent increase in sales volume, with the majority of sales occurring in the townhome sector. The year-over-year per cent change for each sub-market is as follows: • Eau Claire/West Village: -86 per cent • Beltline/East Village: -36 per cent • Inner Northwest: +28 per cent • Inner Northeast: -22 per cent • Inner Southwest: +36 per cent • Inner Southeast: -50 per cent • Outer North: +17 per cent • Outer South: +2 per cent The preceding per cent change statistics reflect which Calgary sub-markets enjoyed the strongest demand levels for new multi-family homes; the Inner Northwest sub-market, which includes the emerging University District neighbourhood, the Outer North, and the Inner Southwest sub-market where there are relatively few projects in this submarket, which allows a few additional sales at one project to impact the per cent change. Chart 3 illustrates the amount of released and unsold inventory by product type. On a year-over-year basis, both the concrete and wood frame condominium sector experienced lower released inventory. The 23 per
cent drop in released and unsold concrete condominium inventory can be attributed to limited new product launches over the past two years. Meanwhile, the 15 per cent drop in released and unsold inventory of wood frame condominiums relative to the same quarter in 2016 is largely due to steady demand and absorptions to date in 2017. The townhome sector experienced a 23 per cent increase in inventory levels compared to Q3-2016 as developers continued to release new phases of this product in their existing projects. The Beltline/East Village, Outer North and Outer South sub-markets have the highest amount of unsold units, which is reflective of the greater number of actively selling projects in these sub-markets. The limited number of new project launches in several sub-markets contributed to the drop in unsold inventory. The slight increase in inventory levels in the Beltline/East Village sub-market is attributed to the third quarter launch of Chelsea Sky’s Citizen Tower. A positive sign for Calgary’s new multi-family home market is the continued trend of a diminishing spread between the number of quarterly sales and the amount of unsold inventory at the end of a given quarter. The CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 69
»
FEATURE |
CHART 4
Downsizers and empty nestershave been active in location-specific projects. Projects indicating higher downsizer buyer interest include, Graywood Developments’ Fish Creek Exchange, Streetside Developments’ Vivace, Overture at Currie Barracks, Cove Properties’ Pinnacle at Kincora, and Telsec’s Sanderson Ridge. CL
NEW LAUNCHES
gap between these two metrics narrowed by ten per cent at the end of Q3-2017 compared to the end of the second quarter and by eight per cent on a year-over-year basis. While strong demand contributed to the narrowing spread, the limited number of new project launches is also a factor. For the first time in nearly two years, the number of unsold move-in ready units dropped from the previous quarter. Standing inventory levels were 14 percent lower at the end of Q3-2017 compared to the previous quarter. While there was a 31 percent increase in the number of completed and unsold units on a year-over-year basis, the decreasing trend of standing inventory Q3-2017 is an encouraging sign for the Calgary market as it justifies the release of new projects and generates increased buyer urgency. Chart 4 provides a breakdown of the number of move-in ready unsold units at the end of the third quarter by sub-market. The Beltline/ East Village, Outer South and Outer North sub-markets continue to have the highest numbers of completed and unsold units, which is in part attributable to the higher number of actively selling projects in each area. Some developers have made the decision to convert existing standing inventory units to rental units as opposed to reducing pric-
70 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
es or offering price-reducing incentives to try and increase absorptions. LaCaille’s Vogue and Lamb Development’s 6th & Tenth are examples of this.
BUYER TRENDS
Price sensitive entry level buyers continued to drive sales in the outer sub-markets in the third quarter of the year. Sales representatives of these areas continue to indicate many of these purchasers are receiving financial assistance from parents to help facilitate the purchase. After experiencing strong demand during their respective launches, absorptions have tapered at the Ivy and Noble projects at the University District community. The positive initial response to these projects earlier this year was a positive indication of some pentup demand for well-designed and strategically located new multi-family product.
There were six new multi-family projects launched during the third quarter of 2017 in Calgary: • Citizen Tower by Chelsea Sky is the first concrete condominium tower to launch in the downtown area of Calgary in nearly two years. Sales staff at the project report 14 units sold since the launch at a blended price per square foot price of $617. • Graywood Developments launched Fish Creek Exchange Condos and Fish Creek Exchange Townhomes • Genesis Land Developments launched Ashbury at Saddlestone, which was built to spec in the Outer North sub-market and is seeking a blended average sale value of $243 per square foot. • Stepper Homes’ launched a 50-unit townhome project called Legacy Towns. CL
Fish Creek Exchange
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.
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 71
72 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
A GARDEN PARADISE Point McKay is one of Calgary's earliest attempts at creating an urban village
M
any times I have said “don’t judge a community until the trees are taller than the houses.” I was reminded of this over the summer as I picked up a golf buddy once a week at his townhome in Point McKay before heading out to Redwood Meadows. As the summer unfolded, so did the amazing trees and flowers that make the northwest community of Point McKay, a garden paradise. It is bounded at the north by Bowness Road, at the east by 37 Street N.W., at the south by the Bow River and at the west by the Edworthy Park parking lot. For many, Point McKay is the two brown brick highrise condo towers (Riverside I and II) along Parkdale Boulevard next to the Edworthy Park parking lot, or the townhome backyards you can see when you walk or cycle along the north shore of the Bow River. In reality, it is a hidden gem. Point McKay was one of Calgary’s first attempts at creating an urban village. The 21-storey Riverside I and II towers (completed in 1979 and 1981 respectfully) create the high density (295 units) with retail and a fitness centre at street level they are similar in many ways to the new towers in the Beltline. It isn’t until you drive into the townhome area to the east of the towers that you begin to appreciate how this urban village is a garden oasis. The curved, tree-lined streets are divided into six clusters (built from 1977 to 1980) totalling 505 town homes and 30 duplexes. What makes them really special is the lovely side and backyards that open up to common areas lush with flowers, trees and expanses of green grass. There are no detached single-family homes in Point McKay, the same as University District one OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CONDOSCAPES By Richard White
of Calgary’s new 21st century urban villages, currently being built just a few kilometers away. CITY BEAUTIFUL MOVEMENT One Sunday afternoon, I cycled over to explore the community on foot. I was gobsmacked by how beautiful the side yards and interior common areas were. I was immediately reminded of the “City Beautiful” movement popular in Canada in the early 20th century, with its principles of creating urban communities that were less grid-like and more park-like. This meant curved streets, irregular lot shapes, boulevards, an abundance of parks and architectural controls; not dissimilar to what we saw in Calgary’s late 20th century communities. AMENITIES Point McKay has easy access to the Bow River pathway — for cycling downtown to work and/or play, or perhaps a recreational walk in the evenings or on weekends. You could walk to work if you worked at the Foothills Medical Centre. It is also close to both Edworthy (pebble beach) and Shouldice (sports fields) Parks. It is also only a short walk to Angel’s Cappuccino & Ice Cream café in Edworthy Park or the Lazy Loaf Café, Extreme Bean or Lic’s Ice Cream in Parkdale. BACKSTORY: In 1977, Cinema Park Drive-In, with its parking lot that accommodated 1,036 cars,
was demolished to make way for the Point McKay upscale high-rise/townhouse development. The development is named after Alfred Sidney McKay (1860–1940), a Calgary who homesteaded the land that is now Point McKay and Parkdale. He built a sandstone home near the Bow River at 1st Ave and 37th St N.W. that is still there today albeit hidden in the middle of Point McKay and rented to an architectural firm. Yes you can still walk in and see it. FYI: There are also four 100 year old brick homes along 37th Street that were built as a parade of show homes when the new community of Parkdale was McKay built as show homes when he was first being developed. LAST WORD Today, Point McKay is home to some lucky 1,348 people who live in a garden paradise that is unique to Calgary. 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 N OV EM B ER 2017
| 73
GETTING TO THE POINT Park Point tops the Beltline
HOPE AT LARGE
By Marty Hope
T
he most prolific high-rise condo builder in Calgary’s Beltline already has plans about what the next tower will look like. A picture of what Vancouver-based Qualex-Landmark™ has in store for its most popular construction location on the shoulder of the city’s downtown was talked about following the recent topping-off ceremony for the company’s $110-million-dollar, 34-storey Park Point project — the first of two mixed-use towers on the property. Plans remain fluid for the moment on the tower that will share a site adjacent to the just completed Park Point across from Central Memorial Park, says Parham Mahboubi, Qualex-Landmark™ vice-president of planning and marketing. “The preliminary concept shows the second tower at 26 storeys, but that could change a bit in the final design. And we don’t know if it’s going to be called Park Point II or whether it takes on an entirely different brand and name. So, the short answer is ‘we don’t know yet,’” he says. While Calgary continues to regain economic ground lost during the most recent oil-fuelled recession, Qualex-Landmark™ has not settled on a specific date for the start of the next tower, either. “We don’t have a definitive date for launch of the second tower yet. However, we will be considering pre-construction sales of it when the first tower is virtually sold out,” Mahboubi adds. Currently, more than 70 per cent of Park Point’s 288 one-, two- and three- bedroom residences and townhomes have been snapped up since construction on the tower started in the fall of 2015. OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
Qualex-Landmark’s Mohammed Esfahani (front) doing topping off hounours at Park Point
“We are thrilled to be delivering another iconic condo tower in Calgary’s Beltline community,” says Qualex-Landmark president Mohammed Esfahani. “And we look forward to welcoming our homeowners next summer.” Designed by IBI Group, Park Point has a long list of indoor and outdoor amenities and a unique vertical look to it. As the building rises, the floorplate grows, creating a stepped effect with colour enhancing the pattern. From the street, a double-height lobby with distinctive canopy will just add to the prestigious feel of the tower. Located atop the tower podium on the third floor, Park Point will have nearly 9,000 square feet of amenities, including a Zen terrace with seating and water feature, a second area with fire pit, barbecue, and harvest table, and a sun deck overlooking Central Memorial Park. Inside Park Point is a state-of-the-art fitness centre, yoga and pilates studio, steam room, sauna and change rooms with showers. Park Point is the latest in a string of projects by Qualex-Landmark in the Beltline, following in the wake of Calla, Stella, Nova, Luna, and Mark on 10th. Matter of fact, in the past decade the company has accounted for some $400 million worth of construction and has
contributed 1,000 new high-rise homes to the neighbourhood. “Not many can boast about such an accomplishment,” says Esfahani, adding that the company has always been bullish about Calgary and its real estate market. “We’ve already been through two economic swings over the last 12 years, and we have always persevered, just as we have with Park Point. Our commitment to homebuyers and our faith in Calgary has enabled us to succeed with Park Point,” he says. Park Point, though, is the first Esfahani has completed without his business partner Reza Navabi, who passed away in April. “As partners, we have tried to be visionaries with a great passion for the projects we develop, and we have tried to always deliver on our promise to homeowners. We are extremely proud of achieving another milestone with the topping off of our Park Point tower,” he said during the rooftop ceremony. 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 N OV EM B ER 2017
| 75
ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY
REAL ESTATE INSIDER
By Mario Toneguzzi
Signs point to real estate comeback
T
aking a look at housing prices over a long period of time can be a very interesting endeavour. It really can tell you how a market has performed while also showcasing its ups and downs. So here’s some fascinating data from the Canadian Real Estate Association in its August monthly report on the MLS Home Price Index. The benchmark price in Calgary — what realtors say is the typical property sold in the market — was $436,500. That’s down 0.25 per cent from the previous month but up 0.65 per cent from three months ago. It also increased 1.98 per cent from six months ago and 0.8 per cent from a year ago. But if you look over time at prices, the market shows something interesting. While the benchmark price has dropped by 3.55 per cent from three years ago, it has also risen by 13.5 per cent from five years ago. Remember that three years ago — August 2014 — was when oil prices started to collapse resulting in two years of a recession in Alberta and thousands of job layoffs. But if you backtrack five years ago, Alberta’s economy was firing on practically all cylinders. Just goes to show you that the more info you have about the housing market the more informed you are to make decisions. So here’s some interesting info and stats. HOUSING STARTS Housing starts in the Calgary census metropolitan area moved closer to historic averages in August, continuing a OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
stronger level of construction activity that began in the spring, says Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. “Apartment unit starts have been strong in recent months, despite inventories sitting at near record highs. Although multi production was lower than in July, there is the possibility that inventories will stay elevated for an extended period of time at current production levels,” says the federal agency. Here is the raw data. Single-detached new home construction jumped 33 per cent year-over-year to 388 units while the multi-family market was up two per cent to 422 units. Overall, total housing starts in the Calgary region were up nine per cent from a year ago to 809 properties. NEW HOUSING CONSTRUCTION INVESTMENT One should always look at the future as well when it comes to the housing market. One key indicator of where the market is headed is investment for new housing construction. In July, that was up an impressive 20.3 per cent year-over-year to $761.5 million. A clear indication that homebuilders and developers like what they see in the market.
VALUE OF BUILDING PERMITS This is also showing some positive signs. According to StatsCan, in July, the Calgary region’s total value of residential building permits was $211.3 million, up slightly from $210.4 million in July 2016. That uptick was primarily due to a solid hike in the single-detached sector as the value rose in a year from $137.9 million to $151.2 million. That represented a jump in single-detached dwellings from 320 to 376. Another really good indicator that homebuilders and developers are a bit bullish on the Calgary market following a couple of years of uncertainty. CL
Mario Toneguzzi. Based in Calgary, Mario Toneguzzi has 37 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist and editor. He worked for 35 years at the Calgary Herald covering sports, crime, politics, health, city and breaking news, and business. For 12 years as a business writer, his main beats were commercial and residential real estate, retail, small business and general economic news. He nows works on his own as a freelance writer and consultant in communications and media relations/ training. Email: mdtoneguzzi@gmail.com. CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 77
AROUND TOWN
THE VILLAS OF SILVERADO IS STREETSIDE’S ANSWER TO RISING DOWNSIZER DEMAND
T
hose looking to downsize have more to choose from with the release of StreetSide Development’s The Villas of Silverado. The new development collects 50 stylish bungalow villas in the picturesque community of Silverado in the southwest. “These open concept, beautifully appointed homes are the last chance to move into Silverado before its completion,” says StreetSide’s Kim Orr. Priced from the mid $500,000s, The Villas of Silverado are from 1,250 to 1,300 squarefeet in size. There are two floorplans, the Morgan and the Meadows, each with one master bedroom with attached ensuite and walk-in closet and double attached garage. It presents maintenance-free living with the option for an upgraded lower level development with one or two more bedrooms, which can add a further 1,100 square-feet of livable space. “Each home was efficiently designed to maximize space and are open floor concept design. One plan has a den and walk-through pantry from garage. Kitchens feature eating bars or islands and roomy pantries. Some walkouts will be available in Phase 2,” she adds. The sales centre is located at 220 Silverado Plains Park S.W., which is open Mondays to Thursdays 2 to 8 p.m., and holidays from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.streetsidecalgary.com
W
UNIVERSITY DISTRICT GETS SAVE-ON FOODS GROCERY
estern Canada grocer, Save-On Foods, will be the grocery of choice in the new community of University District. “We are excited for Save-On-Foods to be a part of University District,” says James Robertson, West Campus Development Trust’s president and CEO. “It is a natural fit and the company shares common principles about lifestyle with our vision for the community.” West Campus Development Trust and Save-On-Foods announce the partnership that will see a new 38,000-square-foot Save-On grocery store open in University District by 2020. It will be part of the first mixed-used development block within the project. “There’s going to be 65,000 square-feet of retail in Phase 1 of University District,” Robertson tells Around Town. “Having Save-On Foods here adds to the growing need for more grocery options in the northwest.” OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
By Pepper Rodriguez
CARDEL LIFESTYLES WIN IN CHBA – ALBERTA
C
ongratulations to the team at Cardel Lifestyles for winning the 2017 Multi-Family Builder of the Year Award at the CHBA – Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing. Tim Logel (right) and his sons, Brayden and Kevin, accepted the award. "The boys and I were thrilled to receive this award as it recognized our team's results with customer satisfaction scores from surveys, our site safety record, and the designs in show homes in both Walden and Nolan Park models," Tim tells us. "Our steady focus as a team on continuous improvement and innovation in all aspects of the home building process to improve the customer experience helped us win this award," he adds. "This is the best team I have worked with in my 35 years of being in this business."
»
Tim Logel (right) and his sons, Brayden and Kevin, from Cardel Lifestyles.
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 79
AROUND TOWN |
CHAMPAGNE DOWN TO LAST TWO PENTHOUSES
T
he extraordinary, luxury development of Champagne is fast drawing to a close with only a handful of apartment-style units left, including two incredible penthouse suites that are perfect for the discerning downsizer, or the active professional couple. The award-winning luxury riverside condo from Remington Developments has proven to be quite the hit and only two one-bedroom suites, one two-bedroom and the two penthouses remain. The final two penthouses in Champagne were unveiled to a select group on an early fall day, when the whole community seemed to glow in the season’s spectacular colours. Champagne’s captivating design, perfect riverside setting,
and the amenity-rich nature of the community of Quarry Park all contribute to its popularity. These exclusive penthouses offer 11-foot ceilings, oversized windows and massive patios, SubZero and Wolf appliances, linear gas fireplaces, and sophisticated finishings professionally selected by Designers Edge making each suite unique. Suite 502 is a two-bed/two-bath 2,280 square-feet open concept floorplan priced at $1.3 million, whereas Suite 501 offers two-bed plus den/two bath 2,190 square-feet priced $1.2 million. Both suites come with secured storage as well as two oversized underground parking stalls with the option to purchase a 3rd for that “summer” sports car.
For more information, visit their Presentation Gallery at 350 Quarry Park Boulevard S.E. or go to www.quarrypark.ca
TRICO OPENS WENTWORTH POINTE TOWNHOMES
T
rico Homes continues to make giant strides during its yearlong 25th anniversary celebration, as they open Wentworth Pointe. Wentworth Pointe is a new, contemporary townhome located along the amenity-rich 85th Street corridor in the southwest. This 83-unit project offes row townhomes ranging from 1,328 to 1,719 square-feet with double and single garages. Its location within the larger community of Wentworth in Calgary’s upper west side is one of its biggest attractions. “The upper west side is a highly desirable, and amenity-rich location with easy access to the city’s core, by car, bus and LRT as well as to the TransCanada Highway,” Trico’s Glenda Schwartz tells Around Town. The Wentworth Pointe site will contain pedestrian walkways between all building blocks in the east-west and north-south directions, and with four of these walkways connecting to 85th Street, there will be easy accessibility within the site. Townhomes with two-, three- and even four bedrooms are offered. Prices are from the $550,000s. Wentworth Pointe is one of several new developments that Trico has in the works, and includes Legacy Commons in the southeast community of Legacy, and Verona in Sage Hill. Developments in Seton and Marda Loop are also in the pipeline.
80 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
S
NEW CALGARY HOME LIVING WEBSITE NOW AVAILABLE ON ALL PLATFORMS
ource Media Group announces the launch of its newly revamped website that now features exclusive content, the full archives of previous publications, and also now available in all platforms. The new website, www.calgaryhomeliving.com, brings together the previous condolivingonline. com and newhomelivingonline.com into one SUPER site with the addition of more lifestyle, décor and design features. Now, they are all accessible on all platforms, including smart phones and tablets. Calgaryhomeliving.com will have all the latest condo and show home profiles and community features readers have come to expect from the printed Condo Living and New Home Living magazines. Besides these, the website will have a renewed emphasis on lifestyle content. You want ideas on how to decorate your new home? Where to buy furniture for new home? Or what kinds of appliances you’ll need? You’ll definitely find answers here. “It is geared to give readers a more enjoyable online experience while looking for their new home, it’s way easier to navigate, and now available for all platforms, including smart phones and tablets,” says Source Media Group’s online and social media specialist, Ian Serpanchy. CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CALGARY MAP | North West, North East and Inner City 7 32
3 2
6
36 4 8
5 35
37
30
9
20
24
27 10
11
1
12
18
28
34
26
25
21
19 31
22 23
82 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
North West, North East and Inner City | CALGARY
MAP
1 3
6
13
7 20
17 14
4
15
15 9 8 10
5
33
11 12 13
29
16
14
23
16 17
22
18
21
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
2
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
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
Villas at Watermark Sonoma at Nolan Hill Nolan Park The Mark 101 Maverick at Livingston Willow at Sherwood Sage Place Viridian Livingston 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 Skyview Landing Savanna Urban Terraces The Townes of Redstone IVY at University District LiFTT Octave 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 Essential Savanna 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
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 83
CALGARY MAP | South West, South East and Calgary Area 1
9 3
5
1
10 40
7
25
8 11 7
4
2
9
6
11
2
8
3
10
4 6
12
21 5
AIRDRIE
COCHRANE
7 5 6
10 11
3 2 9 4
1
8 13
12
19 46
2
OKOTOKS/ DE WINTON 2 3
13 18 1
3 1
CHESTERMERE
84 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
South West, South East and Calgary Area | CALGARY
MAP
SOUTH WEST | SOUTH EAST PROJECTS 1 Valmont at Aspen
18 Hunter House
36 Copperfield Park III
2
19 Fish Creek Exchange 20 The Morello
38 Legacy Street Towns
22 Villas of Riverstone
40 MAX
3 4 5 6
12
7 8
39 26
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
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 Gatestone Townhomes MidCity
21 Avenue 33
23 Cranston Ridge
37 Elements 39 Albert Park Stations 41 My Legacy Park I & II
24 Mosaic Riverstone 25 Niche One
42 Jackson at Walden
26 Auburn Walk
44 Legend of Legacy
27 Canoe at Auburn Bay
43 Axis
28 Stonecroft Auburn Bay
45 Legacy Gate 46 Sanderson Ridge
30 Ebony
48 Seton Stile
29 Regatta
47 Auburn Rise
31 Sandgate
32 Mahogany Street Towns 33 Westman Village
49 ZEN Urban District
50 Retreat
34 Chalet No 5 & No 6 35 Stonecroft at
Copperfield
CALGARY AREA PROJECTS AIRDRIE 1 Georgetown at 2 3 4 5 6 7
14 15
16
8 9 10 11 12
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
37 17
Townhomes Stonecreek Landing Vantage Fireside The Village Townhomes in Sunset Ridge Heritage Hills Street Towns RiverReach Brand Townhomes Sunset Ridge Street Towns Duplexes in Sunset Ridge Clearbrook Villas Fireside The Rise
CHESTERMERE 1 The Courtyards in
Chestermere
2 Townhomes of
Chestermere Station
3 Lakes of Muirfield
OKOTOKS/ DE WINTON 1 ZEN Okotoks
2 Villas of Artesia 3 Arrive at the Landing
35
34
20
36
26 27
47
30
29 28
31 33
32
48 49 42
24 43 44
22 50
45 38
23
41
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
| 85
ADVERTISERS INDEX |  ARRIVE Partners Development Group page 37
Legacy Gate Carlisle Group page 76
Smith Grosvenor page 6
Vogue LaCaille Group page 32
Auburn Rise Logel Homes page 3
My Legacy Park II Brad Remington front cover, pages 14-16, 85 back cover
Stile Seton Rohit Communities pages 11
Wentworth Pointe Trico Homes page 64
The Guardian Hon Developments page 44
Winston at Walden Avi Urban page 17
The Loop StreetSide Developments page 4
ZEN Urban District Avalon Master Builder page 27
The Townes of Redstone StreetSide Developments page 81
ZEN Redstone Avalon Master Builder page 74
BOSA page 21 Calligraphy Jayman BUILT page 31 Cranston Condo Corey Zang page 64 Emerald Sky Carlisle Group page 76 Fish Creek Exchange Graywood Developments page 50 Gatestone Remington Developments page 49 Homes by Avi page 36 Hunter House StreetSide Developments page 22
86 |
CO N D O L I V I N G N OV EM B ER 2017
Mark 101 Shane Multi-family page 72 Origins at Cranston StreetSide Developments page 81 Park Point Qualex Landmark page 9 Radius Bucci page 5 Retreat Brookfield Residential page 41 Scarboro 17 Bow Developments page 87 Skyview Landing Carlisle Group page 57
Verona Townhomes Trico Homes page 86 Verve FRAM+Slokker Developments page 26 Victory and Venture Providence pages 2, 42-43 Vivace StreetSide Developments page 78
OUR NEW WEBSITE
C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M