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CONTENTS APRIL 2018 | VOLUME 14 ISSUE 220
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COVER FEATURE 12 | The Loop lifestyle Natural theme park sets the background for life in The Loop in Evanston
FOCUS ON 8 | Sink or scheme Make a splash with designer bathroom sinks CONDO PROFILES 16 | A promise kept Verve topping off signals next stage of growth in East Village 21 | A tale of two storeys Partners Development introduces two-storey townhomes in ARRIVE at Redstone Way 26 | The Northeast is calling Saratoga hits the market with new show suite in Skyview Ranch 30 | The sky is the limit Carlisle Group releasing more phases at Skyview Landing 35 | Common ground Legacy Commons brings the village lifestyle to life
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40 | Join the Q It’s all about contemporary cono lifestyles at Morrison Homes Multi-Family’s Q COMMUNITY PROFILE 45 | Evanston: a vision comes to life As Evanston comes to a close, there has never been a better time to build new in an established community
8 CONDOSCAPES SPECIAL 66 | Bike city Calgary’s evolving bicycle culture
IN THE CITY 57 | The Furniture District 11th Street S.E. is becoming known as a one-stop-shop to furnish your home
COLUMNS 75 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 77 | Hope at Large by Marty Hope 79 | Real Estate Insider by Mario Toneguzzi 81 | Condo Tales by Jim Zang
STYLE 61 | Powder room power Bring your designs full measure on half-baths
ITEMS 6 | Editor’s Message 71 | Around Town 82 | Ad Index
DESIGNER SERIES 51 | Radiant beauty Sophisticated, urban lifestyle captured in Radius’ new show suites
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PEDAL TO THE METAL Our Condoscapes columnist, Richard White, is a step ahead of me at all times, especially in getting back to physical activity. I don’t think he really has stopped, and his Everyday Tourist blog takes us on his “flaneur-ing” or strolling jaunts around the city and beyond. This issue, he writes a special Condoscapes Q&A feature for us on his chat with Tom Thivener Calgary’s Cycling Co-ordinator. They talk about the growth of the city’s biking culture — and not just in the inner city. Bike lanes are some of the most ubiquitous amenities in many of the new communities in the suburbs too. The feature appearing in this issue is a shortened version, the entire conversation can be seen in our website www.calgaryhomeliving.com. Speaking of amenities, our cover feature on StreetSide Developments’ The Loop in Evanston has these in spades. Not only is it located in an almost built-out community where tons of commercial, entertainment and everyday conveniences already abound, but they are also building their own unique park where their singular line of three-story townhomes “loop” around. They just opened a bunch of new show homes, so do yourself a favour and check those out to see the relaxed lifestyle they offer. Spring is the busiest time for the industry and we do our level best to keep readers informed of what’s going on. April sees us featuring Partners’ new ARRIVE at Redstone Way with their two-storey townhomes that started pre-sales. We have FRAM + Slokker’s Verve, which just held their topping off ceremony and is approaching sold out status. Then there’s Morrison Multi-Family’s new Q Condominiums in Sage Hill Quarter that’s smack in the middle of a future NEXT MONTH: commercial centre. Trico’s Legacy Commons The garden issue townhomes has the same idea with its closeness to the future Legacy Village commercial centre. Shane Homes’ Saratoga in Skyview Ranch Carlisle’s Skyview Landing both bring to focus the affordability and value of condos in this bustling northeast community. Winter’s behind us, thankfully, and spring (such as it is in Calgary) brings us the promise of warm weather and growth. Go out there and check out these new condo developments. We just might bump into each other.
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
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EDITORIAL
Maria Bartolotti, Darlene Casten, Brandi Holmes, Marty Hope, Mel Ladner, Christina Loc, Mario Toneguzzi, Richard White PHOTOGRAPHY/ILLUSTRATION
Ainsley Ashby-Snyder, Barbara Goulet Richard White, Eymeric Widling Photography ADVERTISING SALES
advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING | Norma Robertson accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSUE 220 • ISSN 1918-4409 © 2018 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission from the publishers. Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Condo Living® is published 12 times per annum with copies available for distribution at more than 1,500 locations every month. Condo Living® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: cleditor@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. Condo Living® is a registered Trademark the property of Source Media Group Corp. Reg. USPTO 3,584,683 & 3,584,583. Contact: Source Media Group Corp., 6109 — 6th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9; Tel 403.532.3101 Toll free 1.888.932.3101; www.sourcemediagroup.ca
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Make a splash with designer bathroom sinks BY MEL LADNER
IN GENERAL, WE may think of sinks as functional and not necessarily a décor piece. The reality is that the sink is one of the few half-bath items that is both absolutely necessary but can be a focal design piece, as well. Forget about basic white square sinks and look at these items that can increase the style of your bathroom without requiring a full remodel or even a fancy granite counter to sit on. CL
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[ 1 ] SILVERÅN / HAMNVIKEN Sink cabinet with 2 doors, light brown, $193.50. Available at IKEA. [ 2 ] Kraus Irruption Rectangular Glass Bathroom Sink, $161.95. Available at Home Depot. [ 3 ] Vigo Glass Vessel Sink in Kenyan Twilight, $109. Available at Home Depot. [ 4 ] LILLÅNGEN Sink cabinet, 1 door, 2 end units, white, $151. Available at IKEA. [ 5 ] EAGO Ceramic Basin – BA138, $240. Available at Perfect Bath. [ 6 ] Kraus Circular Glass Bathroom Sink, $107.95. Available at Home Depot. [ 7 ] KATTEVIK Countertop sink, gray, $93. Available at IKEA. [ 8 ] Kraus Luna Circular Bathroom Glass Sink, $161.95. Available at Home Depot. CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2018
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LIFESTYLE S
outhern Alberta’s pristine grasslands, its glorious Foothills and magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains are just some of the natural wonders that set this part of the province apart. Capturing this rare beauty has been the goal for The Loop in Evanston, a townhome community that is meticulously recreating these views as part of the development’s allure. The Loop in Evanston by StreetSide Developments, a Qualico company, is being built all the way around a park in this established northwest community. Each of its four phases will be facing a portion of the park that is uniquely designed with specific Alberta nature themes: Rocky Mountain, Foothills, Parkland, and Grassland. Using a different landscaping theme gives each phase its own identity. “What we want to emphasize with The Loop is that the outside areas are just as important as the inside of the homes, it’s a total package,” adds Ian Macdonald, director of marketing and sales at StreetSide.
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The Loop in Evanston by StreetSide Developments is being built all the way around a park in this established northwest community.
Natural theme park sets the background for life in The Loop in Evanston “We designed The Loop so that if you are sitting out on your patio, you’re looking out into nice lush landscaping with big hills, and not into your neighbours’ house,” he adds. The Loop townhomes were also designed in the Saltbox architectural theme, gaining in popularity, with pitched roofs and large front windows all located on a gently curving streetscape. All in all, it presents a stylized vision of modern living in a nature-themed setting. And it has captured buyers’ imaginations. The nearly sold-out phase one has a Rocky Mountain theme, with 10-foot hills and large boulders, creating a dramatic and aesthetically pleasing elevation change, with stone pathways meandering throughout. It will have vegetation actually brought in from the Rockies and seating areas that provide an environment where neighbours can interact and congregate. Sales have recently started for phase two, whose portion of the park will have a Foothills landscape theme. Our homeowners are really going to enjoy the views of this type of OUR NEW WEBSITE
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landscaping,” says area manager Jared Kulawik. New show homes have also opened in phase two to reveal more of the kind of contemporary, stylish and affordable lifestyle that The Loop offers. One of the new show homes is the Amaranth that has so far been the best seller at The Loop. “We sold out of the Amaranth very quickly in phase one,” Kulawik says. “The Amaranth is such a wonderful home. It’s no surprise that it’s been so popular. You get a home that has an attached garage, large kitchen, large living room and large bedrooms! All for an unbeatable price.” The Amaranth is a two-bedroom home with attached single oversized garage that comes in handy for storing a motorcycle, winter tires, and other assorted sundries of an active lifestyle. The Amaranth starts at 1,116 square-feet and goes up to 1,168 square-feet for the end homes. It is priced from the $290,000’s (plus gst). “It’s an open concept home with lots of room for someone looking to get their first home or for a family starting to grow,” Kulawik says. Phase 2 will have 62 homes. They include the Amaranth, the Carmine and the Rosewood floor plans. “Based on purchasers’ feedback we made great design improvements to give them a fresh look, but they are largely the same from what was offered in phase one,” Kulawik says. The Carmine layout is offered from 1,267 to 1,333 square-feet in size, with either two or three-bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. Slightly larger than the Amaranth, there are some key differences that set the Carmine layout apart, such as two car parking and models including a flex space between the two bedrooms, such as shown in one of the new show homes.
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“The Carmine also provides a larger kitchen area, an eating bar, a large pantry, third floor laundry, and a two-car tandem garage,” Kulawik says. The Loop’s largest floor plan, the Rosewood comes in sizes ranging from 1,485 to 1,511 square-feet, with threebedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. Spacious is the key word to describe these two options, with large bedrooms, as well as generous kitchens with the choice of either an island in the centre or perhaps an open kitchen with tons of counter space. This home also includes a third floor laundry room and a tandem two-car garage. “Our standard features include nine-foot ceilings on the main floor in the kitchen and dining/living rooms area, stainless steel appliances by Whirlpool, and luxury hardwood patterned LVP flooring,” says Kulawik. “We have chandelier pendant lights, the cabinetry comes in three different colour COMMUNITY: Evanston choices with the option to have DEVELOPER: StreetSide a darker tone on top and a Developments, a Qualico company lighter shade on the bottom, PROJECT: The Loop in Evanston tile backsplash, and soft close drawers and cabinets.” STYLE: Townhomes with single and “Clients are purchasing here tandem garages at the Loop because we have SIZE: 1,205 to 1,511 sq. ft. on-trend floor plans that work. PRICE: Starting from around The open plan concept living $290,000’s plus gst is a real winner. Not to mention SALES CENTRE: 6 Evanscrest the convenience of a spacious garage,” Kulawik adds. Manor N.W. “Our location in the popular HOURS: Monday to Thursday from community of Evanston is 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays
FAST FACTS
also a big factor. With a less than five-minute walk to a grocery store and maximum of 10 minutes walk to schools, living at the Loop is so convenient.” The community of Evanston itself lends to a leisurely lifestyle. “It’s already an established community with loads of amenities now available!” Evanston offers plenty of parks and pathways, there’s a long list of schools in the community and surrounding areas, everything from pre-school right up to high schools. You’ll be 15 minutes to the airport and 10 minutes to CrossIron Mills for shopping. Beacon Hill shopping center is also less than 10 minutes away, which includes Home Depot, Canadian Tire, Costco, Good Life Fitness and more! “Also, when the final extension to Stony Trail is completed in the near future, you’ll be able to get around to the south of the city in record time. Who wouldn’t want to live here,” he asks. n
from noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.liveintheloop.ca
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A promise kept Verve topping off signals next stage of growth in East Village BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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he newest residential high rise in Calgary’s East Village is nearly complete, as Verve by FRAM + Slokker topped off the 25-storey building. But the milestone does not only represent a promise kept by its developer, FRAM + Slokker, but a testament to the unfolding vision of this historic neighbourhood. Once upon a time, East Village had been a vibrant part of Calgary’s downtown in its early days. The redevelopment it has undergone over the last few years brings it full circle to its historic relevance and today some 4,000 new residents call it home. Verve will add to this total — and soon — as construction is in its final stages and first move-ins are expected this fall. “Right now, we are completing installation of all the windows, drywalling is up to the 10th floor and interior finishings up to the seventh floor,” says FRAM + Slokker’s Director of Sales Deb Pedersen. “People are excited to see how fast Verve is going up, and they now have a better feel for buying here to suit their timeline.” The mixed-use high-rise is one of the most anticipated condo developments in East Village and it is 90 per cent sold with only 25 units left. But Pedersen assures that there are plenty of premium suites left with some of the most dramatic and panoramic views in the city. “Having only this many units left to sell allows us to require only a five per cent deposit from buyers, so that’s an added perk.” A 620-square-foot one-bedroom-plus-media nook suite on one of the upper floors has some of the most fantastic west-facing views in the city and is selling for under $400,000, which Pedersen says is one of the best prices in its class in the city. Starting price for available suites is from $354,900, all with parking. Lovely sub-penthouse suites are from $744,900 and the one remaining penthouse is in the low $900,000s. The lifestyle that East Village offers, however, is priceless, Pedersen points out.
THE MIXED-USE HIGHRISE IS ONE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED CONDO DEVELOPMENTS IN EAST VILLAGE AND IT IS 90 PER CENT SOLD…
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P H OTO CO U RTE S Y B A R B A R A GO U L E T
“VERVE IS TAILOR-MADE AND DESIGNED FOR THAT URBAN EXPLORER WHO ENJOYS THE DOWNTOWN LIFESTYLE.”
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“There is definitely a scene developing in East Village,” she says. “It has become COMMUNITY: East Village such a hub for people to congregate, to shop, to sample the numerous food trucks, DEVELOPER: FRAM + Slokker restaurants and services that have already PROJECT: Verve set up shop here. Dog walkers, bikers, STYLE: Apartment style condos joggers have made the RiverWalk™ promSIZE: From 620 sq. ft. enade such a happening place.” What’s even more exciting is that East PRICE: Starting in Verve are from the Village is far from done, with a Loblaws mid $300,000s. upscale grocery — a “super SuperStore,” SALES CENTRE: East Village Experience Pedersen says — already under construcCentre, 553 Riverfront Ave. S.E. tion. Then there’s a Shopper’s Drug Mart, the new Central Public Library, and more HOURS: Friday noon to 6 p.m., Saturday and hotels, retail and commercial establishSunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday noon to 6 p.m. ments coming down the pipes. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday by appointment Verve itself will have a Good Earth WEBSITE: www.vervecalgary.com Coffeehouse, Panago Pizza and Barber Culture as tenants at its base, and Pedersen says more exciting announcements for new tenants are pending. “They will add to the growing scene in East Village,” Pedersen says. Verve residents can very much live in the neighbourhood with the plethora of shopping, entertainment and dining options laid out before them in East Village, as well as all the recreational opportunities available. Cultural touchstones like Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, and the soon-to-be-completed New Central Library add another layer of lifestyle sophistication in East Village. But Verve’s suites themselves are in line with the modern, urban lifestyle of this revived riverside community. The suites are crafted with strong attention to views, right through to the exterior and beyond, with doors kept away from principal sightlines wherever possible. An open-concept live–cook–dine area offers maximum flexibility and maintains the kitchen as the hub of the home.
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Suites have oversized balconies offering expansive views of the river, nine-foot high ceilings in the living spaces, European-inspired kitchens with fully integrated appliances, porcelain tiles with a luxurious soaker tub in the bathrooms, and more capture the imagination. Not only are the suites magnificent, but Verve also offers each resident up to three private outdoor spots to meet their neighbours, and enjoy the sun and views from its distinct vantage point along East Village’s The Riff trendy pedestrian walkway. “Verve has three private outdoor amenities,” Pedersen says. “There is a courtyard on the second floor, just above The Riff, which is great for people-watching. a large terrace on the sixth floor with a hot tub, lounge and cabana — we’re the first outdoor hot tub in the East Village with a beautiful southwest exposure. Then there’s a third on the 25th floor that has some of the most extravagant views of the cityscape and the river.” Verve features an entire floor of awesome amenities, including a fitness studio and a party lounge. “Verve is tailor-made and designed for that urban explorer who enjoys the downtown lifestyle,” says Pedersen. “Verve in East Village really has the best of both worlds — downtown is only a short 10 minutes walk away yet there’s plenty of park and green space right outside your door plus the extensive pathways for biking and walking.” CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
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A TALE OF
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Partners Development introduces two-storey townhomes in ARRIVE at Redstone Way BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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ddition by subtraction seems to be the innovative way of thinking that Partners Development Group has come up with, as they introduce ARRIVE at Redstone Way to bring two-storey townhomes to this northeast community. The three-storey row townhome has been a tried and true layout for a lot of multi-family builders including Partners, meeting the City’s density requirements. But finding new ways to simplify home life in terms of affordability, function and style has always been a prerogative for Partners’ ARRIVE communities. “Two-storey townhomes are not only more affordable, they also appeal to a larger segment of the market who desire the convenience and low maintenance lifestyle that townhomes offer but not necessarily all the stairs they have to contend with in a three-storey model,” says sales manager, Ismahan Omer.
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ARRIVE AT REDSTONE WAY WILL OFFER FOUR MODELS WITH TWOAND THREE-BEDROOMS UPSTAIRS, ALL WITH APPROXIMATELY 500 SQUARE-FEET OF DEVELOPABLE SPACE IN THE OPEN BASEMENT. OUR NEW WEBSITE
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FA S T FAC TS PROJECT: ARRIVE at Redstone Way COMMUNITY: Redstone DEVELOPER: Partners Development Group STYLE: Two-storey townhomes SIZE: 1,179 to 1,295 sq. ft. PRICE: From $259,900 including GST SALES CENTRE: Onsite sales centre opening weekends only at 33 Redstone Way N.E. HOURS: For March, weekends only from noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.arrivehome.ca
“Two-storey townhomes with full basements have recently become a requirement for multi-generational living amongst families, however detached homes have a higher price tag. This is a great family focused floorplan that we are excited to offer our purchasers, and we will offer the same in future builds around Calgary as well,” she adds. ARRIVE at Redstone Way will offer four models with two- and three-bedrooms upstairs, all with approximately 500 square-feet of developable space in the open basement. These townhomes range in size from 1,179 to 1,295 square-feet starting from $259,900 including net GST. “What our purchasers will like about them is that they all have spacious basements that can add 466 to 510 square-feet of additional living space when developed,” Omer says. “First-time homebuyers will be able to get the home they can afford now with plenty of room to grow, while paying down their mortgage.” ARRIVE at Redstone Way is Partners’ sequel to the sold out ARRIVE at Redstone that was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the family-friendly affordability that this northeast community of Redstone has become known for.
“ALONG WITH BEAUTIFUL MODERN SPECS GEARED TOWARD ENERGY EFFICIENCIES, THESE TOWNHOMES OFFER A MAINTENANCE-FREE LIFESTYLE THAT BRINGS THE BEST OF WHAT HOME OWNERSHIP HAS TO OFFER.” 22 |
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Pre-sales will begin in March with two show homes expected to be open by July of this year. Partners’ vice-president for sales and marketing, Jade Mahon, says ARRIVE at Redstone Way consists of 92 townhomes with a fresh, contemporary appeal that will rival the more expensive single-family homes. The modern design of the exteriors are in line with Redstone’s identity that changes the perception of north Calgary to a more lifestyle-oriented, amenity-rich, modern community. ARRIVE at Redstone Way will have Hardie cement board and metal clad exteriors that are as close to maintenance-free as possible and have fire-resistant benefits. There’s a lot of architectural detail that also goes into establishing its curbside appeal, including triple-glazed, black metal clad windows that gives each townhome a very distinguished street-appeal. “They will look beautiful, and having the Hardie board and metal clad exterior features gives ARRIVE at Redstone Way a long term OUR NEW WEBSITE
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ARRIVE at The Landing
and it’s so convenient to get in and out of this location, being at the main entrance of Redstone,” Mahon says. Like all ARRIVE townhomes, ARRIVE at Redstone Way is a certified BuiltGreen development. “Each ARRIVE townhome is inspected by an independent energy advisor, which includes blower door tests to confirm it is sealed well, providing an individual energy report and labeling for each home. Along with beautiful modern specs geared toward energy efficiencies, these townhomes offer a maintenance-free lifestyle that brings the best of what home ownership has to offer,” Mahon says. Partners is proud to provide a New Home EnerARRIVE at The Landing Guide label, along with a Certified Built Green home with gold labelling. Equipped with high efficiency ARRIVE at Bowness furnaces, electric water heaters, and a heat recovery ventilator that circulates clean, fresh air helping people with breathing or allergy issues, these townhomes are built with sustainability in mind. “Purchasing a BuiltGreen certified townhome allows homeowners to receive a 15 per cent rebate on mortgage insurance premiums. That’s in addition to the obvious benefit from the significant savings on utility bills, on average by 10 per cent compared to the current building standard.” Partners has been offering their BuiltGreen certified ARRIVE townhome communities in Calgary since 2010, but the developer has been building in Calgary and surrounding areas since 1998, comadded value and sustainable condo fees,” Ma- pleting numerous multi-family communities to date. hon points out. They have ARRIVE developments in Evanston, and Drake Landing in ARRIVE at Redstone Way townhomes are Okotoks that are both approaching build out. But they do have another located conveniently at the corner of Redstone one besides Redstone Way that is already in the pipeline: ARRIVE at Street and 128th Avenue N.E., which provides Sage Meadows. “We’re excited about bringing another ARRIVE community to a market in the northwest that is growing and vibrant with an easy access point to Metis Trail. amenities and Creekside is just south of us,” Mahon says. Go to their “We’re located in the heart of the community, website www.arrivehome.ca for updates and to register for pre-sales where the Redstone Market area, future LRT information. and future school sites are going to be built, CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
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The Northeast T
he second condo development by the Shane Homes Group of Companies’ Multi-Family division is Saratoga in Skyview Ranch. They are bringing the same Shane Homes quality, style and affordability to the northeast. Once completed, Saratoga will consist of two low-rise buildings housing 187 units total, with a generous mixture of both one and two bedroom floor plans. A brand new presentation centre and two-bedroom show suite was unveiled on Saturday, February 24th, and it is sure not to disappoint buyers interested in Saratoga. The new show suite is of the A1 floor plan that has shown to grab a lot of interest in the pre-sale phase. Additionally, the slightly larger A3 floor plan is also getting a lot of attention from buyers. The A1 show suite is an 865 square foot unit with two bedrooms and
two bathrooms. The Owner’s suite is upgraded to show the alternative options and showcases Shane Homes’ Multi-family’s ability to mix and match finishes; something not very many mutli-family builders are able to offer. The suite also shows the built in table upgrade option that was extremely popular in Mark 101, Shane multi-family’s first condo development in Calgary. “What you see in the show suite is mostly standard, with a few small upgrades here and there to explore the different options
“WHAT YOU SEE IN THE SHOW SUITE IS MOSTLY STANDARD, WITH A FEW SMALL UPGRADES HERE AND THERE TO EXPLORE THE DIFFERENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE.” 26 |
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is calling
Saratoga hits the market with new show suite in Skyview Ranch WRITTEN BY BRANDI HOLMES PHOTOS BY EYMERIC WIDLING PHOTOGRAPHY
available,” says Helena Kipp, the area sales manager for Saratoga. The standard finishings that can be expected in all units are nine foot ceilings with textured knock down, luxury vinyl plank flooring, custom flat door cabinetry with soft close doors and drawers, pantries, quartz counter tops in the kitchen and bathrooms, in suite laundry with generous storage and stainless steel appliances. Kipp also says, “since the grand opening, feedback has been great.” So far, Saratoga has had a mixture of all types of buyers visiting the presentations centre. “We have had every type of buyer so far, from first timers, young professionals, young down sizers to families, everyone is interested in this development,” says Kipp.
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“Everyone is very excited about the show suite, espePROJECT: Saratoga in Skyview cially the standard finishings.” Skyview Ranch is very much DEVELOPER: Shane Multi-Family an already established commuCOMMUNITY: Skyview Ranch nity, and with the expansion STYLE: One- and two- bedroom apartment condos of Cornerstone and Redstone SIZE: From 610 square feet – 947 square feet communities, there are tons of already existing amenities and PRICE: Starting from the $170,000s plus GST services available. There are ADDRESS: Presentation Centre and Show suite at already established bus routes 280 Skyview Ranch Road N.E. and a future LRT coming soon HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m. to Skyview Ranch, and Saratoga offers parking with every Weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. unit — either a underground WEBSITE: www.shanehomes.com heated or surface stall. The community has easy access to major routes such as Stoney Trail and Deerfoot, but with transit and the future C-train station, a car is not necessary to live there. Every unit also comes with secured personal storage and bike storage. Skyview Ranch has almost reached completion, so construction of other housing projects is not a concern. “There’s not a ton of construction going on, the location that we are in is already built up around you,” Kipp explains. “Both phases of Saratoga are quite modest, with 100 units in the first
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building and 87 in the second, this will be a very neighbourly development.” Which adds to the already friendly demeanour of this northeast community. With all the new community developments this area is becoming the ‘new north’. Easy accessibility, existing services and tons of shopping opportunities, Shane Homes multi-family has sure hit it out the park with Saratoga. CL
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THE SKY IS THE LIMIT
Carlisle Group releasing more phases at Skyview Landing
BY BRANDI HOLMES
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kyview Landing has been hugely successful for the Carlisle Group in Skyview Ranch. The first phase of six storey condo complex offering affordable one-, two- and three- bedroom floor plans is already 92 per cent sold out. Elizabeth Hynes the marketing manager at Carlisle Group says, “the feedback has been phenomenal, we sold 180 units at our last sales launch. It was the most successful launch in years.” Their next sales launch is slotted for April 14th and they will be releasing the next phase of units. “Building 3000 has 148 new homes, while building 4000 has 88 homes,” says Hynes, “all floor plans have been selling amazingly well, we have a good mix of smaller plans with a lower price point, but also larger plans for those who require more space.” Homes in Skyview Landing start at the very affordable $119,900 for a one bedroom unit and $139,900 for a two-bedroom suite, with nothing over $200,000. With such a wide range of floor plans and price points Skyview Landing has seen a mix of first time buyers, downsizers, newly singles and investors. “We offer such incredible pricing that it gives many people their first opportunity to get into the market,” says Hynes about who is purchasing the homes. “Buyers are excited about our new contemporary floor plans and low price points.” Construction is anticipated to start in Spring 2018 for the first phase with move in dates expected for Summer 2019. When phase one is complete a brand new show suite will also open. “Our future show home will be one of our Pinnacle floor plans,” explains Hynes, “a corner unit featuring two-bedrooms, two bathrooms and 970 square-feet of living space.”
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The community of Skyview Ranch also has a lot to offer residents with already established bus routes, and easy access to major routes and highways… Skyview Landing also offers home owners access to shared amenities like an exercise room, heated underground parking, amenity room, and two high speed elevators in each building. Each suite also comes with free Telus cable and internet for one year. “The West side of the first phase buildings border a park,” says Hynes, “where families can easily take their children to play.” The northeast community of Skyview Ranch also has a lot to offer residents with already established bus routes, and easy access to major routes and highways, it is easily accessible in all forms. And, don’t forget the proximity to Calgary International Airport! Skyview Landing is also across the street from a future LRT station coming soon.
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“Skyview Ranch will have a new shopping centre going in at Metis and 128th,” says Hynes, “with a gas station, grocery store and Canadian Tire.” There are also tons of existing amenities surrounding Skyview Ranch in other previously established communities. Cross Iron Mills and Deerfoot City are just a short drive away for all your other shopping needs. The low price point and contemporary design of Skyview Landing has contributed to the huge success that Carlisle Group has been experiencing. The product that they are offering is
extremely affordable and attainable for all buyers. With such a great mix of amenities, incentives and services offered by the community and Carlisle Group, the sky really is the limit at Skyview Landing. CL
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Skyview Ranch PROJECT: Skyview Landing DEVELOPER: Carlisle Group STYLE: Apartment style condos PRICE: Starts from $119,900 SALES CENTRE: 4641 128 Ave N.E. HOURS: Monday – Thursday 12 – 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 12 – 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.skyviewlanding.ca
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COMMON GROUND Legacy Commons brings the village lifestyle to life BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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any of today’s multi-family developments try to capture the essence of small town living by creating an environment of shared amenities and stronger interaction between neighbours. But no builder comes close to what Trico Homes’ Legacy Commons will ultimately offer. Legacy Commons in the award-winning southeast community of Legacy, is being built right next to the future Legacy Village, which will have 7,000 square-feet of commercial space and is destined to be a social, and cultural hub of the neighbourhood. Future plans include a proposal for a two-storey medical facility including a pharmacy, dental clinic and a doctor’s office. The development may also include a fitness facility, restaurant, pub and a coffee shop. “Legacy Commons will have walkways connecting residents directly to
Legacy Village which makes it a very appealing. No one else has this kind of connectivity to a vital commercial centre,” says Legacy Commons’ area manager Adam Zymirski. “The Village is slated to open in summer of 2019,
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“This exciting new townhome development is ideal for those who desire to be close to nature and appreciate having convenient amenities a stone’s throw away from home.” which is about the same time we get our first move-ins.” The community of Legacy itself has plenty of amenities, including park, playgrounds and walking paths, and there are even more coming down the pipeline that has made it the back-to-back winners of the SAM community award in the last two years. This sets the amazing backdrop for Trico’s Legacy Commons development, which, is a big factor for the outstanding reception it had when the project launched in January. “Once our showhomes opened & people could see the layout our sales took off. Everyone who sees what we have to offer here just falls in love with it,” Zymirski says. Legacy Commons has two new show homes that present their stylish functional floor plans that have attracted a lot of first-time homebuyers, couples, young families and downsizers alike. “Our buyers include nurses who work at the nearby South Health Campus hospital and single parents adapting to a changing lifestyle,” he adds. On offer are two and three-bedroom townhomes with attached tandem
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garages from the $285,900 including GST. They present a stylish design that blends with the timeless architecture of Legacy. “Legacy Commons is anything but common,” says Trico marketing manager, Glenda Schwartz. “This exciting new townhome development is ideal for those who desire to be close to nature and appreciate having convenient amenities a stone’s throw away from home.” Legacy Commons offers three-storey townhome models, the Eden and the Lincoln, that range from 1,141 to 1,178 square-feet and are offered with two-bedroom and three-bedroom options. All have attached tandem garages, some with full-length driveways too; they also come with a deck or patio, sometimes both that maximizes the enjoyment of private outdoor spaces. There are also options available to develop a 120-square-foot flex room off the garage. “Those are great for storage, a home office or a mini-gym, or its extra living space for the homeowners,” Zymirski says. “The Lincoln
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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Legacy DEVELOPER: Trico Homes PROJECT: Legacy Commons STYLE: Row townhomes SIZE: From 1,141 to 1,178 sq. ft. PRICE: From $285,000 including GST ADDRESS: 87 and 91 Legacy View S.E. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.tricohomes.com models have private outdoor spaces that back onto a gorgeous green space.” The show homes display an end-unit Eden and an interior unit Eden. The three-bedroom models are all end units. “The end-unit Eden show home has all standard features, and we receive a lot of compliments from buyers who can’t believe what we offer as standards,” Zymirski says. Those include the nine-foot ceilings with, OUR NEW WEBSITE
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knockdown finish, granite or quartz countertops throughout, laminate flooring on the main floor, 42-inch tall kitchen cabinetry in the kitchen, and a 14-inch deep flush eating bar in all kitchens, among others. All units also come with Venetian blind package that not many other builders offer. “The maintenance free, lock it and leave it lifestyle is attractive because peoples lives are busier than ever so not worry about shoveling snow or watering grass is a huge relief. For a limited time, we are offering a oneyear no-condo-fee incentive,” he adds. The show homes are at 87 and 91 Legacy View S.E. or go to tricohomes. com for more information. CL CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2018
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Join the It’s all about contemporary condo lifestyles at Morrison Homes Multi-Family’s Q BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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Q R
ob Kennedy knew he was looking at an opportunity to build a one-of-a-kind, gamechanging condominium the very first time he saw the plans for Q Condominiums in Sage Hill Quarter. After all, it isn’t everyday that a chance comes along to purposefully build a contemporary multi-family complex in the heart of an upand-coming commercial centre in the northwest. Kennedy, the president of Morrison Homes Multi-Family division, says he knew right away that the combination of its location within the thriving community of Sage Hill in the northwest, and the plans that Ronmor had for the 17-acre mixed-use land itself captured his imagination from Day One.
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Q CONDOMINIUMS WILL HAVE A TOTAL OF 173 APARTMENTSTYLE SUITES SPREAD OVER TWO BUILDINGS.
“This is the first condomini- F A S T F A C T S um development designed specifically to fit within a COMMUNITY: Sage Hill commercial area,” Kennedy PROJECT: Q Condominiums in Sage Hill Quarter tells Condo Living. “Imagine BUILDER: Morrison Homes Multi-Family living in the middle of a busSTYLE: One- and two-bedroom apartment condos tling district that will have over 240,000 square-feet of SIZE: 564 to 908 sq. ft. commercial space; it will be PRICE: From the low $200,000s like living in the downtown at a fraction of the cost.” WEBSITE: www.myqcondo.ca to register With a name that calls to mind the exotic locales of the French Quarter in New Orleans or the Latino Quarter in Los Angeles, with their friends and not have to worry about Sage Hill Quarter by Ronmor will feature a wide array of shops, driving back home, the grocery is just down the services, pubs, coffee shops and grocery stores that promises to block if they forget to buy milk, finding a place for make it a commercial, social and cultural hub in the northwest. a quick bite will always be easy. It’s a complete And having a multi-family residential component right in the lifestyle package.” Sage Hill Quarter will rise up near where Shamiddle of it — not in its fringes, not around it, but actually at its heart — presents a unique opportunity for Morrison Homes Multi-Fam- ganappi Trail and 144 Avenue N.W. meet, an area ily to offer an affordable, stylish and urban-centric product that that many in the industry are already calling the addresses the lifestyle needs of residents, Kennedy says. new “Golden Valley” for development in Calgary. “It’s unbeatable in the lifestyle it offers. The ease and walkability “Q Condominiums is a very site-specific build that it can give to residents with all the amenities right at their doorstep, is designed to fit with Sage Hill Quarter, but also and the affordability offered by its suburban location in Sage Hill, fit in what we think will be a very vibrant commuit’s a winning blend of a modern, urban lifestyle and the conve- nity in the next five to 10 years,” Kennedy says. nience and price only seen in the suburbs,” he adds. “There is also a money-saving and a time-saving Q Condominiums will have a total of 173 apartment-style suites component that comes with living in a neighbourspread over two buildings. The first phase will be a five-storey, hood where you can live and play and not be that wood-frame low-rise that’s slated to start pre-construction sales far off from work in the downtown,” he adds. “You in March. The second will be a six-storey building. can save all that time wasted on driving around.” It will offer one- and two-bedroom suites from 564 to 908 squareQ Condominiums’ official launch date is planned feet, with a starting price from the low $200,000s, including GST. for June when their on-site presentation centre Kennedy says that their prices and floor plans will certainly opens. Pre-sales are beginning in March and appeal to those looking for their first homes or those wanting to interested buyers can already register at www. downsize, but he believes that Q Condominiums will be a perfect myqcondo.ca to get information and updates. fit for the Millennial lifestyle.” Construction will start this year and completion “Q certainly has the stylish, contemporary design that Millen- projected in late 2019, early 2020. “We think that nials like, but it is the lifestyle component where, in a sense, they the market is ready for something different, and live more in the community than their actual home that they will Q Condominiums are certainly that,” Kennedy really find appealing. They can go out to the neighbourhood pub says. CL
“Q CONDOMINIUMS IS A VERY SITE-SPECIFIC BUILD THAT IS DESIGNED TO FIT WITH SAGE HILL QUARTER, BUT ALSO FIT IN WHAT WE THINK WILL BE A VERY VIBRANT COMMUNITY IN THE NEXT FIVE TO 10 YEARS.” 42 |
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EVANSTON:
A VISION COMES TO LIFE As Evanston comes to a close, there has never been a better time to build new in an established community
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wide variety of housing options available, a fabulous array of everyday amenities already on hand, and the relaxing convenience of not having to live in an active construction zone — Evanston’s appeal has never been more apparent. The community which began in 2007, by Qualico Communities in the northwest is approaching final build out and is down to its last few phases, and residents already enjoy the promised family-friendly lifestyle. “In Evanston, you can run to the Evanston Towne Centre to get eggs, bank, or pick up something for dinner. You can pick your children up from one of the two schools in the community, or they can even walk home,” says Cheryl Heilman, Qualico Communities’ marketing director. “Now that Evanston is almost built to completion everything you need is here.” There are 16 community parks and seven playgrounds with picnic areas and a sheltered gazebo dotting the neighbourhood. There are two schools in the community — a public elementary school and a Catholic K-9. Public transit is readily available, and the Evanston Towne Centre is already up and running and has easily become the social, cultural and commercial hub of the entire area.
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“Evanston allows families to connect. No long comutes to take your children out of the community for activities or play-dates. You can get to know your neighbours and find a home within your budget.” This quiet, suburban community in the northwest is where the scenic prairies meet an urban and sophisticated lifestyle. This Qualico Communities development has been one of the most popular residential destinations for families, young couples and downsizers with its lively mix of affordable and stylish housing options. “Evanston allows families to connect. No long commutes to take your children out of the community for activities or play-dates. You can get to know your neighbours and find a home within your budget,” Heilman, says. Even if Evanston is approaching completion, there are still plenty of housing options available, including townhomes from $299,000s, duplexes from the $370,000s, laned homes from the $360,000s and front garage homes starting from the$470,000s. Single-family home builders in Evanston collect some of the best known names in the industry, including Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Trico Homes, NuVista Homes, Sterling Homes and Jayman BUILT. Townhomes are from Partners Group (ARRIVE Evanston); StreetSide Developments (the Loop in Evanston).
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With the release of the lots in Phase 31 and 33 there is a full-range of product types. With a couple show homes opening early spring 2018, and the grand opening event featuring all nine new showhomes May 5. Buyers can see why they will want to call Evanston home. “There are a full variety of product options for potential buyers to choose from, with zero lot lines, to larger lots backing onto a pond the new lots release provide home options for everyone’s taste, lifestyle and budget.” Evanston was designed as a prairie-values environment and atmosphere where families can flourish. At every turn you’ll discover community planning that encourages people to come together, rather than keep them apart. There are fewer fences and more open spaces, back lanes and verandahs — meaning more opportunities for conversations and more to see. The 6.3-kilometres of walking and bike paths winding through the neighbourhood lays bare the natural beauty nearby, including the grasslands of Symons Valley and West Nose Creek areas. Relaxing, panoramic views of Country Hills Golf Course and the sandstone rocks bluffs give Evanston added flair and character. Heilman adds that people are coming to Evanston “to establish roots or to age in place” with buyers ranging from couples buying their first single-family homes or multi-family condos, to families searching for their move-up family home all the way to downsizers and even senior assisted living. There is the nonprofit organization Covenant Care, and the Evanston Grande Village assisted living senior living facilities so families can stay near their elderly parents,” Heilman says. “They love the schools in the community, the established paths and parks along with great transit connections,” she says. The pristine, closeto-nature character of the community is also appealing as Evanston spans 660 acres with four lushly landscaped ponds, and numerous
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parks. There are currently seven playgrounds, and there are also 16 green spaces. The convenience afforded by the Evanston Towne Centre featuring Sobeys, RBC, Subway, a medical and dental clinic and many more stores and services further define the family-friendly environs. Architectural controls of the community include: Craftsman, Foursquare and Colonial, which were carefully selected because they provide details such as well articulated front entrances, interesting roof lines and traditional, rich colours. “There are no HOA fee in
Evanston, but there is an established an active community association,” Heilman says. Evanston is conveniently located with easy access to Stony Trail, Symons Valley Road, Beddington Trail, Country Hills Boulevard and Deerfoot Trail. Plus with Stoney Trail nearby, residents have easy access to CrossIron Mills mall and the airport. Visit the grand opening event May 5 from noon – 5 p.m. CL
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Evanston DEVELOPER: Qualico Communities AVAILABLE HOMES: Multi-family (Townhomes) from the $299,000s – ARRIVE Evanston, The Loop in Evanston Side by side from the $370,000s – Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Jayman BUILT Laned homes from the $360,000s – NuVista Homes, Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Jayman BUILT, and Trico Homes Move up from the $470,000s – NuVista Homes, Broadview Homes, Trico Homes, Sterling Homes, Jayman BUILT HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. DIRECTIONS: From Stoney Trail, head north on Symons Valley Rd. N.W., right on Symons Valley Pkwy N.W., and follow the signs. WEBSITE: www.evanstoncommunity.com
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RADIANT BEAUTY Sophisticated, urban lifestyle captured in Radius’ new show suites BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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apturing the essence of any subject requires an imaginative, artistic mind, putting the vision together needs a well-structured, analytical brain. Natalia Kwasnicki, an associate at Portico Design Group, has always been able to use these two hemispheres of her brain in creating her transcendent, lifestyle-focused show suites, and her latest work in Bucci Developments’ Radius speak for themselves. Natalia knew that the design for Radius’ new on-site show suite should not only capture the intent of the developer in bringing the latest, contemporary mid-rise condo in Calgary’s vibrant inner-city community of Bridgeland, but also bring an appreciation of the elegant, urban lifestyle it offers. “I come from an art history background and fell in love with design through the stream of architecture. I’ve been in the business for almost 10 years now, and working as an interior designer for seven-and-a-half years. There is a science behind design that I truly love and appreciate. It works my brain in both analytical and creative ways,” she tells Condo Living. Her appreciation for the arts and her sharp, analytical brain is able to come up with designs that are both sophisticated and practical. “The people who would live at Radius are worldly, they worked hard and they look forward to coming home at the end of the day to a place that is warm, inviting and comfortable,” she says. The two-bed-two-bath-plus-den, E2 show suite brings this vision to the fore.
Natalia Kwasnicki
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DESIGNER SERIES | Natalia further illustrates the stylish practicality of the suite with lots of built-in cabinetry. “The kitchen cabinets are a wood veneer, so you really get a true wood look here. The backsplash is the same material as the counters (quartz), which gives a beautiful continuous visual.” Natalia’s penchant for grounded sophistication is taken to great heights in the design of the E2’s kitchen, whose modern styling she says she achieved by using sleek flat panel cabinetry in soft wood tones, with expansive crisp white, quartz countertops.
The attached ensuite is a study in elegance and practicality. “Elegance is carried through into the master bath through the use of natural looking stone that is actually porcelain tile,” Natalia says. “It was also important for us to provide some really great storage, hence the upper cabinets.”
The five-piece ensuite is not something seen often in apartment-style condos, Radius offers a bath tub and a glass stall shower. The overhead cabinetry is also a standard.
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The pantry speaks to the well-organized practicality of the E2, and gives the open concept design a sleek, seamless elegance. “We try to provide as much storage as possible in the suites to allow owners to maximize its entire 1,321-square-foot living space,” says Chelsey Marshall, Sales and Marketing Manager at Bucci Developments.
Natalia says customizing furniture pieces to suit an open concept room is key. “First and foremost, you need to think about what you want to be situated around in your living space — are you TV people? Or curl up in a chair with a book and a view people? Once you’ve established the focal point of the space, everything else should speak to that. Rather than design each space individually, think about how you would flow and interact with the different areas.” “Don’t be afraid to customize pieces to make them fit into the space. An off the shelf piece, with an added top, or switched out legs, will make a piece look like its supposed to be there,” she adds. The E2 suite features hardwood flooring, as do all suites over 1,000 square-feet in Radius. “Those under a 1,000 square-feet have laminate, but laminate flooring nowadays is so bang on that you would probably not know the difference,” Natalia says. Just check out Radius’ second show suite down the hall and see for yourself. CL
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| IN THE CITY – THE FURNITURE DISTRICT
THE FURNITURE DISTRICT
11th Street S.E. is becoming known as a one-stop-shop to furnish your home
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located. Now, these Swedish furniture builders have evolved over the years — producing higher quality items but at an affordable price. So, if you are on a budget, IKEA furniture is a great option, especially if you are interested in putting your own furniture together. If you are looking for pieces that are not mass-produced or for something you won’t see when peeking into your neighbour’s house, IKEA may not be for you. Very close by there are other well known big name furniture stores like The Brick, Leon’s and Ashley HomeStore — which are all great options when searching for the bulk of your furnishings. A few unique stores that are worth checking out are Bondars and Home Evolution. The same family owns both stores but despite being operated by the same company both stores have different styles and price points. Home Evolution is much more modern, where as Bondars has more classic pieces. Jordan Bondar says, “we have been in this location for 25 years, we used to be a destination, but the furniture district has developed around us.” Bondars current location is a massive 33,000 square foot facility that allows customers to completely visualize their furniture in a room-by-room setting. “What sets us apart from
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o you ever wonder where to find good quality furniture or statement pieces without having to shop online or go downtown into the hustle and bustle of the design district? 11th street S.E. might have just what you are looking for, this area is becoming known as the ‘furniture district.’ With big name retailers, boutique shops and destination stores moving in from previous downtown locations or elsewhere, 11th street SE is proving to be the one-stop-shop location to furnish your home. There are tons of great stores along this stretch that are sure to fit the needs of any style and décor that you could think of. Heading towards the south, 11th street S.E. will lead you right to Deerfoot Meadows shopping centre, which is where Calgary’s only IKEA store is
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other stores is our selection of merchandise, we offer over 50 manufacturers with a handful being exclusive only to us,” explains Jordan during Condo Living’s visit to both Bondars and Home Evolution. The show room is set up in mock rooms, there are complete living room, office and bedroom set ups that allow customers to see how certain pieces fit together. “Customers are able to purchase one piece or an entire room package if they love what we have set up,” explains Jordan. Bondars and Home Evolution is welcoming of the development of the Furniture District, it allows the entire location of 11th street S.E. to become a destination known for good quality furniture. “We were one of the first furniture store here and now we see everyone moving here from downtown.”
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Jordan couldn’t help but give us some tips on how to furnish a new home or what to start with. “Always a sofa and a good quality bed frame are the items you need to start with and be willing to spend some money on — sofas should last 10 years minimum.” She also recommends staying timeless and collecting art, “a lot of pieces in my own home are classic and clean with great art — I have to have good art.” This district is sure living up to its upand-coming title of the furniture district. Everywhere you look there is another great furniture store, light gallery, carpet retailer, appliance centre and even a pool/spa company — every type of store you could ever need to complete your home. CL
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P H OTO BY RO B M O ROTO AT C A LG A RY P H OTOS P H OTO CO U RT E S Y O F EM P I R E K I TC H EN A N D B AT H
Powder room power Bring your design’s full measure on half-baths BY CHRISTINA LOC
O I M AG E CO U RT E S Y RO B I N S O N L I G H T I N G A N D B AT H
ccupying so little space yet having some of the biggest aesthetic impact in the home, the powder room is definitely a favourite for the design imagination. With a bit of thought, inspiration and attention to detail, this space that your guests tend to see the most has plenty of potential to wow. If you are building new or are thinking of renovating, consider these key elements for the half-bath/powder room: SELECT PLUMBING FIXTURES TO IMPRESS. With so many options available, it is imperative to make your selection in the early stages of the build process, as this will dictate where the plumbing rough-ins need to be. From tankless toilets to pedestal sinks, wall faucets and vessel sinks, your plumber will need to run the proper lines.
It has heated seating, lights up, washes, dries, pulsates, oscillates, deodorizes and has motion sensors all controlled through a touchscreen remote control. The Veil toilet, by Kohler, can be explored on the showroom floor of Robinson Lighting and Bath.
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High tech toilets are making their way to the North American market stronger than ever so look out for toilets with heated seating, built-in bidets and dryer options. Matte gold finishes and mixing metals continue to be strong in 2018 with matte black faucets gaining traction too. VANITY WITH STYLE. Floating vanities with or without storage will be strong this year. They make a space light, airy and are simply cool-looking and impressive. Pedestals remain great choices for smaller areas and come in a wide range of traditional to modern pieces. A word of caution on pedestal sinks: though they are sleek and stylish, they don’t offer storage space, so you will need accompanying pieces like baskets and bins to provide the functionality. On the other hand, the furniture-like vanity will continue to appeal as it’s practical for storage and is timeless. IT’S THICK OR THIN WITH COUNTERTOPS. If your vanity style requires a counter top, you have a plethora of choices from granite, marble, man-made stone popularly known as quartz, concrete and glass to name a few. Play with the thickness of your countertop to draw attention; go three inches thick or 3/4 inches thin.
With an award winning showroom, Empire Kitchen and Bath is a main dealer for Waterworks. Shown here from backsplash, washstand, sink, faucet to shelf are all by Waterworks. The Isla faucet is stunning in the burnished brass finish!
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ABOVE: The Hub Mirror by Umbra is sleek and simple with its black rubber frame available in a 24” or 37” diameter. Pick one up at Stuff for Him and while there, check out their line of body care products.
RIGHT: Black is back. The sturdy Siderna towel bar and tissue holder, by Brizo, as shown here is in a matte black finish can be ordered through Wolseley Studio. This collection has other matching accessories and is available in brushed nickle and chrome finishes too.
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tiles and wallpapers, both floral and modern, can be stunning. Combine and mix different wall treatments like wallpaper and wainscoting to create intensity. Take these treatments all the way up to the ceiling for an even greater statement. ADD FINISHING TOUCHES WITH BATHROOM HARDWARE AND ACCESSORIES. Invest in a solid good quality towel bar and toilet paper holder. Just like everything else, there are lots of styles and finishes to select from. Change up your decor every now and then for a fresh look. Purchase neutral plush towels or pull out accent colours from your artwork. Keep the counters clutter free and simple. Group together a few decor pieces like vases, a candle or diffuser, a luxurious hand soap and voila, you have everything you need for the perfect powder room for you and your guests to enjoy. If there is one room that needs to be impeccable, it is the powder room. I always say to my trades, people will judge your work based on what they see in the powder room. Cleanliness, attention to detail and craftsmanship are on full and quick scrutiny so make sure to dust those baseboards! While you may end up splurging more on upgrades, (relatively to the rest of your home price per square foot) your powder room footprint is typically smaller, requiring less material and cost. Have fun with this room. Don’t be afraid to make it stand out and design it in stark contrast to the rest of your home. If you are hesitating because your house is modern, white and fresh and are thinking of making the powder room eclectic, dark and moody, I say do it! Black is back. It makes walking in to that bathroom just that much more dramatic, fun and exciting! If unsure whether your vision will work, hire an interior designer to help you pull it all together. Don’t follow trends because you feel pressured. Be inspired by them, select timeless pieces that you love and the end result will be amazing! CL
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Another trending countertop material is a live-edge slab of wood. Pair it with a concrete vessel bowl and the result will be stunning. Organic looking materials in warm neutral tones are so welcoming. Or, play with colour on your countertops. Glass can be custom painted to any colour and there are a lot of neutral and vibrant colours to select from with quartz by Caesarstone. LIGHT IT UP. Lighting can really change the look and feel of a powder room. Sticking to where the electrical box is traditionally wired above the sink on the wall, there are many beautiful vanity lights to choose from. But, if you want to take it up a notch, hang a chandelier in the middle of the room, use trendy wall sconces, drop one or two pendants over your sink area or add LED strip lighting behind a floating mirror and under a vanity, an instant ambience changer. Use multi-colour LED strips to instantly change the hue of your room. When planning for lighting, ensure proper wiring is roughed-in. MIRROR, MIRROR ON A WALL. Mirrors are available in all shapes and sizes with options of having them framed, frameless, floating and lit. If on a budget but in need of that extra bit of detail, carrying a frameless mirror all the way to the ceiling will make your powder room feel fuller, taller and bigger. Banjo arms have been a faux-pas in recent years, but they’re a great way to have that extra bit of counter space while allowing you to carry the mirror across the full width of the wall, making your space appear larger. I know, designers reading this are cringing, but just hear me out: imagine a full wall of decorative cement tile with a floating back-lit mirror running across the width of it with a simple clean line rift oak floating vanity, and bam! A beautiful banjo armed slab of marble on top! If you’re not sold on the banjo arm, ask your contractor not to install the standard mirror so you can purchase a decorative one. Think of your mirror as an extension of your wall art. TREAT YOUR WALLS WITH THE ATTENTION THEY DESERVE. Wall treatments are a wonderful way to add interest and express taste. Tile, wallpaper, accent paint, wainscoting, wall paneling and moulding are all fantastic ways to add an extra layer of pattern, colour and texture. Make a bold statement with a fully tiled wall behind the vanity. Textured, pattern and geometric wall
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A full wall of cement tile samples by Saltillo Tile, known for their large selection of patterns and colours, is available through Crestview Flooring and City Tile in Calgary. Follow @saltillocalgary on Instagram and be inspired.
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SAGE HILL DRIVE NW
SAGE BLUFF GATE NW
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CONDOSCAPES SPECIAL |
BIKE CITY Calgary’s evolving bicycle culture STORY AND PHOTOS BY RICHARD WHITE
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algary’s relationship with bicycles and bike lanes has always been one of the love-hate kind. One thing is certain; bike culture in the city is growing. Given that spring is in the air, which means many of us will be starting to think about getting out and cycling more, I thought it would be interesting to check in with Tom Thivener, Calgary’s Cycling Co-ordinator, to get an update on how Calgary is doing in its quest to create am more cycling friendly city. I emailed him a few questions and here are his responses.
What have been the key accomplishment to date with respect to to cycling infrastructure? Calgary should be very proud of the off-street pathway network. The river path network and connections into some of the communities are very good. It is a blessing to have so many bridges across the rivers. Rivers can be a barrier to cycling, but clearly Calgarians figured out a long time ago bridges can be a true asset to the city. The downtown cycle track network has proven, in a short amount of time to be a huge success in extending the protection and comfort of the pathway network into the heart of the downtown and Beltline, through
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on-street in the form of separated bike lanes. People of all ages and abilities bicycle, roller blade and skate board on them. It’s great to see.
What have been the biggest disappointments? The most disappointing piece of infrastructure in Calgary is the maze gates in many suburban communities. They usually show up on walkways between two homes on a corridor that goes to a park, an LRT station or university campus. These corridors are a perfect place to walk or bike to destinations except for the fact that a set of two strategically placed steel gates are there to keep cyclists from flying down them. The placement of these gates makes it next to impossible to get a bike with a trailer, wheel chair or a large stroller through them. We have so many of them across the city but we OUR NEW WEBSITE
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have identified a few locations to be retrofitted with simpler treatments this summer as part of the Spot Improvement Program I oversee.
What have been the surprises? The biggest surprise is the level of interest in Bike Share in Calgary. Several companies have approached The City to discuss launching bike share soon here. The typical model is very similar to Car2Go in that members can find a bike through a smart phone app and GPS technology. Seattle, in a short amount of time has gone from having zero bicycles to 9,000 bicycles. And with that they are giving citizens and visitors a healthy, inexpensive and fast way to get around town, especially trips under five kilometres. If one of the companies doesn’t launch this summer, I anticipate next summer for sure. OUR NEW WEBSITE
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Where does Calgary rank as a cycling city in Canada? North America? In the USA, the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) organization has a thorough application and review process that has ranked over 400 cities in terms of bike friendliness. They focus on the 5 E’s (engineering, evaluation, education, encouragement and enforcement), arguing that you need to be strong in all these areas to be truly bike friendly. An organization in Ontario has adopted this model to rank cities there, but we don’t have similar national organization in Canada.
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people cycling tend to regulate themselves and even dismount when it gets too busy, like during the summer months.
But having been through the LAB process when I worked in Tucson, I’d say we’re approaching their level of bike friendliness, which is Gold rated. While there is a lot to be proud of in Calgary, there is still a lot of work remaining, to graduate to Platinum or Diamond status.
What new cycling infrastructure can Calgarians look forward to this summer? We have three corridors slated to get Complete Street improvements to them this summer. This includes bike lanes or cycle tracks, continuous sidewalks, traffic calming treatments, improved pedestrian crossings and intersection improvements for all modes of traffic. In Midnapore, Midlake Boulevard S.E. has been identified for improvements. While I don’t expect many people to bike to downtown from there, there are lots of local destinations including schools, shopping centers, lakes and Fish Creek park nearby. In Southview and Forest Lawn/Heights, 19 Avenue S.E. has been identified for similar improvements in conjunction with the Bus Rapid Transit project happening on International Avenue. This project will connect to a new bridge with a pathway that will connect with Inglewood over Deerfoot Trail. And in Mission/Beltline 2 Street S.W. has been identified for some improvements. We still have several gaps in the network in the Centre City but this project will finally connect people from Elbow River Path into the Centre City network. Can you comment on how the pilot project of having cyclist use Stephen Avenue has been going? The pilot to allow cyclists during the day on Stephen Avenue was approved by Council in December 2016. It is now permanent that cycling is allowed all day and in both directions on Stephen Avenue. People cycling share the space with people walking during the day and at night share the street with taxis and other vehicles. We haven’t seen any real problems with adding cycling there. As we have seen in other cities in Europe and Asia
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What are the myths/misconceptions Calgarians have about cycling in Calgary? Probably that bike infrastructure is expensive. The City spent nearly $2 million to upgrade a really deficient pedestrian underpass in the community of Bowness this summer. We managed to double the width for people walking and biking and improved the transitions to and from the roadway. The work was nothing flashy but residents and people traveling through Bowness will get to enjoy the improvement every day for the next 100 years or so. $2 million sounds expensive but that won’t even buy you one C-Train car.
Do we know how many Calgarians cycle year-round today as compared to five years ago?
We have seen a lot of growth in the last five years in terms of ridership. Since the Cycling Strategy was approved in 2011, we have installed or improved 87 kilometres of bikeway and in turn we have doubled the number of people cycling. We have a couple sources for this data. Calgary’s Civic Census asks the question about how people get to work and that result went from just under one percent in 2011 to just under two in 2016. Ever year in May, the transportation Department monitors all traffic entering and exiting downtown. The portion of trips by bike has risen from just under two per cent in 2010 to just under four per cent in 2017. Whether you think this is a lot or a little, there are still several thousand Calgarians who bike, many year round. CL NOTE: This article was edited for brevity. For the entire Q&A with Tom Thivener, please go to www.calgaryhomeliving.com
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 OUR NEW WEBSITE
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AROUND TOWN
By Pepper Rodriguez
TOWNES OF REDSTONE SHOW HOMES OPEN
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treetSide welcomes spring with the grand opening of two show homes of their popular Townes of Redstone no-condo-fee townhomes. Rhishi Patel, Area Manager for The Townes of Redstone says the two professionally staged show homes give homebuyers inspiration of what their home could look like. “Many of our customers are first-time homebuyers who aren’t sure what to expect and show homes help give not only a better understanding of what they will be purchasing but establish an emotional connection that helps them make a decision,” Patel says. “These show homes will open their eyes to all the possibilities.” The two staged show homes are the 1,460-square-foot Onyx and the 1,438-square-foot Copper. “The Onyx is a three-bedroom show home that shows its full potential with the optional lower level development, which features two more bedrooms. It’s perfect for households with extended families,” Patel says. The Townes of Redstone consists of 50, two-storey, open concept, townhomes. Visit them at 306 Redstone Blvd. N.E.
AVI URBAN LAUNCHES AUGUST IN UNIVERSITY DISTRICT
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vi Urban celebrated the launch of August at University District with the opening of their new show suite in the Discovery Centre of this vital, new master-planned community in the northwest. This newest six-storey condo from the multi-family arm of Homes by Avi pays homage to Calgary’s urban landscape. It is a mixed-use development that will have 120 one-and two-bedroom suites above a retail base. “Avi Urban is so proud of our upcoming development, August at University District. The team has truly designed such an amazing mixed-use building situated
on one of the best corners in the entire community,”says Charron Ungar, president of Avi urban. “University District is one of the most progressive urban communities Calgary has to offer, and with August situated immediately next door to the amazing future Alt Hotel and surrounded by amazing shops and services, our homeowners will undoubtedly be spoiled by the convenience of it all.” Starting from the mid $200,000s, August at University District will offer suites ranging from 544 to 958 square-feet. Ungar says design, value and quality are paramount — from Built Green Gold certification to secure underground parking, expansive exterior amenity spaces and close proximity to the hotel and commercial spaces. Visit their show suite at the University District Discovery Centre, 4410 University Avenue N.W.
HOLLAND PARK COMES TO WALDEN
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ark your calendars for the opening of Excel Homes’ highly anticipated Holland Park townhomes on March 24 in the popular southeast community of Walden. The new show home is on 68 Walcrest Gate S.E., just off of Walgrove Boulevard and 210 Avenue S.E. After the weekend launch, they will be open Mondays to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., and Fridays to Sundays noon to 5 p.m. Excel Homes’ Stephanie Chapman says Holland Park is inspired by the European lifestyle made famous by the Dutch. “Holland Park brings modern living to the growing urban community of Walden in Calgary’s south side. Experience elevated interiors and intelligent space planning in this unique collection of townhomes designed by a team with over 30 years of experience in home building,” she tells Around Town. Holland Park will have a total of 216 three-storey townhomes. There are 10 floor plans to choose from ranging from 1,177 to 1,452 square-feet. Two- and three-bedrooms units are available with 80 per cent of homes coming with two-car garages (double or tandem). Prices start from $279,900. “These townhomes are exceptionally modern, affordable, and spacious!” she adds. “The interior and style of them follows the trends of 2018. The development features a community garden and is also pet friendly!”
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For more information, visit www.aviurban.com/august OUR NEW WEBSITE
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GET TO KNOW SAGE HILL PARK
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rad Remington Homes opens its sales centre for its highly anticipated development, Sage Hill Park, and encourages prospective buyers to know more about their first northwest venture. “People will be able to register and get to know more about Sage Hill Park in our newly opend on-site sales centre,” says Bryan Logel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Brad Remington Homes. Sage Hill Park will have approximately 600 condo-style apartments over two phases (eight buildings). One- to three-bedroom suites will be available that emphasizes Brad Remington Homes’ “Love It, Live It, Afford It” philosophy that has been the trademark for their successful developments in Copperfield and Legacy in the south.
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algary’s inner-city has always inspired creative design, and RNDSQR (pronounced, round square) has been one of the proponents of avant garde architecture that encourages a modern, community-based lifestyle. RNDSQR is entering its most productive stage in its young history, as they release more than 40 homes (20 condos and 20 townhomes) in two separate multi-family developments in the inner city. RNDSQR, which has made its reputation in building some of the most iconic infill custom homes is introducing two new multi-family projects: Peaks + Plains and Grow. Peaks + Plains is in Altadore along 48 Avenue, S.W. It is inspired by the mountains and prairies that meet in Calgary. “It pays homage to the beauty of our hometown, drawing inspiration from the big sky and sheltering Rockies,” says RNDSQR founder, Alkarim Devani. “It combines a modern Scandinavian aesthetic with honest, natural materials in an unbeatable location.” Peaks + Plains has 20 units with two unique designs, one based on the Slopes and another inspired by the Prairies. They are all three-bedroom units ranging in size from 1,821 to 2,187 square-feet. “These were designed for families who want to live affordably in the inner-city.” Prices start from $699,000. Grow is something totally differnt that hasn’t been seen in Calgary. The building located on 16A Street in Bankview has been meticulously designed by MoDA with interiors by RNDSQR. Recognized with a Special Mention from the Architizer A+ Awards, Grow is for people who value the style and life-enhancing benefits of modern design. Grow is reasonably priced to encourage a diverse community, including families,” Devani says. Grow has 20 one-, two- and three-bedroom units ranging in size from 515 to 1,315 square-feet. Prices are from $289,000.
Interested parties can also register and find out more at www.sagehillpark.com.
Peaks + Plains
For more information, visit rndsqr.ca
URBAN ANALYTICS PAINTS DETAILED PICTURE OF CALGARY’S CONDO MARKET
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rban Analytics’ 2017 year-end report on the Calgary condominium market helps give the most high-def picture of the city’s multi-family market, presenting well-researched data in easy-to-understand language. The report written by UA’s Kimberly Poffenroth and Jayne McKay see Calgary’s new multi-family home market enjoying an increase in sales in the fourth quarter of 2017, due largely to 17 new project launches that occurred during the final three months of the year. “These project launches in the last quarter helped renew buyer interest in some areas, with developers and home builders adapting to prevailing market conditions by adjusting the product mix in new projects to better meet the needs of today’s buyers,” the report says.
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“The majority of new project launches occurred in the outer sub-markets, attracting younger price-sensitive buyers and investors. In addition to the new project launches, home builders and developers also increased the value of incentives being offered, which resulted in higher sales volumes — all of which allows for optimism for the market as a whole looking further ahead into 2018. Total new multi-family home sales were 29 per cent higher in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the third quarter of the year. “The new mortgage rule changes set to occur in early 2018 also contributed to an increase in buyer urgency as some buyers sought to avoid being subject to the new ‘stress test’ rates and the resulting loss in buying power.” The full UA report is available at our website: www.calgaryhomeliving.com. CL OUR NEW WEBSITE
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CONDO CONDENSATION
ASK MARIA
By Maria Bartolotti
How to deal with condensation in your townhome
Q:
Maria, I live in a Bare-land Condominium just west of the City and believe I may have an issue with condensation in my attic. Do you have any helpful tips that I can use to combat this concern?
A:
It’s no secret that Calgary is experiencing extreme weather instability, some say, more so this year then we’ve had in the last two. Brrrrrr, is all I have to say! With the fluctuation between -25 in the weather and the sudden drop to -7 it’s no wonder that were seeing more calls about water dripping from the bathroom fans or signs of stained ceilings or water streaming from windows are often indications of excessive water vapour in the air. This is most likely caused by condensation inside the duct. In the winter, the warm moist air from the bathroom hits cool air in the attic or outside and it condenses, sending drips back down the ductwork. This can also be seen during the summer time when the air is saturated with humidity; the excess amount of humidity will start to condensate (i.e., transforms itself back into water). This can create numerous problems inside your unit if not properly addressed. So, what to do, well, I spoke with Tyrone Mellon, from Mellon Real Estate Inspections. Tyrone and his company come across
this very issue all the time. Here’s what Tyrone has to say: “It’s important to increase the flow of air inside your unit to supply fresh air, which is necessary to vent off water vapour. Here are a few helpful tips to help you address some of the basic concerns with condensation.”
VENTILATION SYSTEM
“First and foremost-check the attic inside your unit and ensure you have an adequate and a properly installed ventilation system. This is essential to allow the moisture to escape from the property before it turns into condensation. Once a year it’s of value to peak into the attic to see what’s going on, simple checks with a flashlight looking to see that the Bathroom exhaust vent hoses are still attached to the underside of the roof sheathing.
WINDOWS
It’s important to periodically open your windows to allow fresh air to enter your unit. Not only, is it healthy for you; it’s the most efficient way to solve your moisture problem. Of course we DO NOT recommend leaving windows open during a cold snap or over night during the winter season, as it can cause an array of problems.
INSULATION
Tyrone says, is it important to ensure that you have proper insulation around the ventilation pipes and attic inside your unit.
Editor’s note: Maria Bartolotti is a board member of the Canadian Condominium Institute – Southern Alberta chapter (CCI-SA). CCI represents all participants in the condominium community.
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“Depending on the year of construction, the attic will have different levels and types of insulation. Insulation will compress over time, with older properties 6 inches of insulation would be deemed a minimum level. Brand new homes today require R-50 levels for insulation in the attic space this would be equivalent to approximately 18 inches of loose fill fiberglass.”
EXHAUST FANS
Yes, this can be a pain when you have to remember to turn them on; but, very important to use them when you are taking a shower, bath or cooking. The use of fans helps remove moisture from the air. Run the fan for 15-20 minutes is sufficient after your shower, bathe or cook. A simple recommendation: install a timer switch for the bathroom fan versus a manual on/off switch. The key is to remember to use them, I cannot stress how import it is to run the fan or keep the timer on for at least 15 minutes after you have finished using the bathroom, cooking or laundry to properly expel the humidity from these areas. Until next time…. CL This article was shortened for space considerations, for the full text, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com
Maria Bartolotti
ACCI, FCCI is the ownermanager of New Concept Management Inc. She has developed a strong reputation for rendering timely and efficient services to the condominium industry. Maria believes that her company’s success hinges on her hands-on approach to condominium management as well as maintaining open lines of communications with her clientele. Maria is actively involved in her industry. For more information, visit www.newconceptmanagement.com CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2018
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HOPE AT LARGE
GOLDEN HARVEST
By Marty Hope
The Rise at Parks of Harvest Hills debuts
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alk about a family affair! Veteran new home builder Cedarglen Homes has partnered with its multi-family division Cedarglen Living to break ground on a mixed housing development on the property that was the Harvest Hills golf course in north-central Calgary. The Rise, which will have apartments and townhouses taking up nine of the 50 acres making up The Parks of Harvest Hills, is under the watchful eyes of brothers Ward and Cole Haggins, sons of Cedarglen Homes chairman Scott Haggins. For Cedarglen Homes, this is its initial foray into the world of land development, but for Cedarglen Living this will be multi-family project number seven in its brief history. The most recent of those are Seton Park Place and Seton Park Place II in the southeast community of Seton. Earlier projects can be found in Panorama Hills, New Brighton, and Nolan Hill. “The vision for The Rise is all about connection, connection to the new pathways, green spaces, and existing commercial and retail,” says Ward Haggins, sales manager for Cedarglen Living. “Additionally, we wanted to extend the green spaces into our first phase of multi-family development so it would blend into the park spaces and single-family developments.” After much early-on controversy surrounding the overall project, the multi-family portion received development approval from the City of Calgary in January with land servicing scheduled to get under way this month, according to Haggins. “We are also hoping to begin construction of our first building in June, but already 40 homes have been sold,” he says of the development located off Country Hills OUR NEW WEBSITE
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Boulevard east of Harvest Hills Boulevard. Haggins says The Rise will be made up of five apartment buildings with a total of 258 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units measuring from 609 to 1,250 square-feet, along with 54 townhomes sized from 1,300 to 1,716 square-feet. They will feature double-master or three-bedroom designs with single, double, or tandem garages. “We anticipate the first possessions to take place near the end of this year with completion of The Rise, depending on market conditions, to be sometime in 2021,” says Haggins. In addition to the housing being built, residents of the existing community of Harvest Hills and those buying in the planned neighbourhood will have access not only to the 33 acres of green space that have been retained but to a five-kilometre stretch of pathways that will wind through the multi-family portion along with the single-family, and duplex areas. “Within these pathways Cedarglen Homes is looking to have workout stations or meeting areas for clients, and tennis courts to further their active lifestyles,” says Haggins. As for who the buyers will be and where they will come from, Haggins has already seen a wide cross-section.
“We anticipate people from the existing areas to move into our new development as it allows them to remain in the same areas they have grown to love, as well have a new home so they don’t have to worry about the thought of renovating,” he says. Many of the homes in the community were built in the 1990s and early 2000s, so some of them have reached the point where people may desire to renovate or move, he adds. At the same time, though, interest has been high from people in surrounding communities. Visit www.theparksofharvesthills.com for more information on The Rise and The Parks of Harvest Hills. CL
Marty Hope. For more than two decades Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry. CO N D O L I V I N G APRIL 2018
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THE HOUSING PICTURE
REAL ESTATE INSIDER
By Mario Toneguzzi
Seeing the housing market through the CMHC's lens
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ne of the greatest resources we have out there about the real estate industry is Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. The federal agency consistently puts out reports, statistics and surveys that really give the industry and consumers a comprehensive feel about what’s taking place. Besides its regular data on new home construction and the resale and rental markets, CMHC also has some very interesting reports that come out on a regular basis that delve into the housing market at a much deeper level than anyone else. Take for example the Housing Market Assessment that was released to the public in the first quarter of this year. The report identifies locations in which there are heightened vulnerabilities to housing market instability from the level of house prices and/or from factors that are known to influence house prices. It looks at four categories — overheating, price acceleration, overbuilding and overevaluation — rating the degree of vulnerability in each area as low, medium or high. Here is what it had to say about Calgary: “The HMA framework detected a moderate degree of vulnerability in the Calgary housing market. House prices of repeat sales in the third quarter of 2017 were relatively stable compared to the previous quarter, with year-over-year gains slightly above the rate of inflation. Growth in employment and in the young adult population have helped support housing demand and price levels in Calgary. While there was low evidence of overheating,
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price acceleration, and overvaluation, there continues to be imbalances in the area of overbuilding. Apartment rental vacancy rates, and multiple new home inventories remain at elevated levels.” The agency rated the Calgary census metropolitan area as a low risk in overheating, price acceleration and overvaluation but high in overbuilding. The overall assessment was moderate. For comparison purposes, high degrees of vulnerability were found in Victoria, Vancouver, Hamilton and Toronto.
HOUSING STARTS
New home construction in the Calgary region began with a bang in 2018. CMHC stats show that in January total housing starts for the Calgary census metropolitan area of 651 were 53 per cent higher than January 2017. The single-detached market rose by 47 per cent to 325 units while all other housing types was up by 59 per cent to 326 units.
NEW HOUSING PRICE INDEX
In December, “builders in Calgary (-0.2 per cent) reported the largest new house price decline, linking it to weak market conditions and lower negotiated selling prices,” said Statistics Canada in its monthly report about markets across the country. On a year-over-year basis, prices in the Calgary region were up 0.3 per cent.
INVESTMENT IN NEW HOUSING CONSTRUCTION
StatsCan also produced some interesting data for December on the homebuilding industry in Alberta. Investment in new housing construction for the province rose from $574.3 million in December 2016 to $664.6 million in December 2017. CL
This article was shortened for space considerations. For the full text, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com
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 APRIL 2018
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| CONDO TALES
MAN-CAVE
A tale of two condos
STORY BY JIM ZANG ILLUSTRATION BY AINSLEY ASHBY-SNYDER
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never thought it would happen to me. I’m a condo owner. Times two. It’s true I’ve written lots of stories about condo living, but mostly as told to me by others or, in some cases, just plain fiction. But, since January 20th, I’ve gained a whole new perspective. That’s the day I moved into my new condo — and so far, so good. But there’s more to the story than that. Much more. And it gets a little confusing so you might want to read carefully, or even take notes along the way. It started with my son and his wife. They owned a two-bedroom, 825-square-foot condo in the deep south burbs, but had their hearts (and paycheques) set on a new two-storey ‘forever’ home in Mahogany. And who can blame them? They’ve both got good, stable jobs and Hopewell’s Mahogany is Calgary’s most popular new lake community. So a down payment they did make, and up for sale their condo did go, last summer. Unfortunately, with the condo market saturated with both new and re-sale product at the time, selling was a prospect easier said than done. In fact, after lowering the price several times over a six-month span, they were no closer to selling it than when they started — but a lot closer to the closing date for their new dream home. Enter dear old Dad. I had promised them that if the condo didn’t sell by a certain date, I’d buy it at a certain price. It didn’t, so I did — and I became the proud owner of a nice new (just over a year old) condo in Cranston Ridge by Cardel Lifestyles. But wait, there’s more! I already sat on the title of my daughter’s one bedroom, 615-square-
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foot condo at Streetside’s Origins at Cranston, as a co-signer for her a couple of years ago. All of which makes me the owner of not one, but two condos in Cranston. And here’s where it gets interesting. My daughter and her husband would like to start a family, but are feeling cramped already with the two of them in their small suite. They tried to qualify for the mortgage on my son’s place, but fell just short. Enter dear old Dad again. “Why don’t you guys rent my two-bedroom place off me,” I suggested, “and I’ll rent your one-bedroom flat off you? We’ll each keep paying the mortgage on our own places, and you’ll just owe me the difference, a couple hundred bucks tops, every month.” So everybody wins. The son and his wife moved into their lovely new home. Daughter and her hubby are in the two-bedroom space they needed, without having to come up with the down payment. And me, well, I’m living by myself, in my own place, for the first time in my life at age 56. With a good-sized storage space (approximately 6 x 8 feet) in the basement, I’ve really got all the space I need. Indeed, I’ve gone full man-cave, with oversized leather furniture, unique giant Coke can stereo, remote control trucks on display and, of course, my foosball table. I’ve even measured for a pool table, nothing smaller than 4 x 8 feet will do, but my buddy Marc at Acclaim Condo Management says I better clear it with the condo board first. Sure, I might have been able to find something bigger for less money if I went a little further south, but it really was all about helping out the kids — because I can. As Brad Remington Homes’ vp of sales and marketing, Bryan Logel, told me in jest as I joined him on a tour of some of their spacious new Legacy Park suites, “You’re a great dad, Jim, but a lousy businessman.” And I can live with that. CL
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ADVERTISERS INDEX |  ARRIVE at Redstone Way Partners page 20
Fish Creek Exchange Graywood Developments page 44
Retreat Brookfield Residential page 69
Verona Trico Homes page 49
Avenue West End Grosvenor page 43
Gatestone Remington Developments page 48
AXIS in Walden Rockford page 78
Holland Park Excel Homes page 2, gatefold
Sage Hill Park Brad Remington Developoments back cover
Verve FRAM+Slokker Developments page 19
Brand Townhomes Birchwood Properties page 34
Legacy Commons Trico Homes page 39
Sanderson Ridge Sanderson Properties page 80
Viridian Trico Homes page 39
Brookfield Residential page 24-25
Legacy Gate Carlisle Group page 64
Saratoga Shane Multi-family page 29
Vivace StreetSide Developments page 54
Skyview Landing Carlisle Group page 33
Wentworth Pointe Trico Homes page 63
Stile Flats Rohit Communities page 10
ZEN Redstone Avalon Master Builder page 73
The Guardian Hon Developments page 59
ZEN Urban District Avalon Master Builder page 56
Carnaby Heights Jayman BUILT page 74 Carringting Homes by Avi page 60 Cornerstone Jayman BUILT page 38 Cranston Ridge Cardel Lifestyles page 3 Designer Townhomes in Cochrane Rohit Communities page 4 Emerald Sky Carlisle Group page 64 Essential Savanna Rohit Communities page 83
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Legend of Legacy Aldebaran Homes page 82 Mark 101 Shane Multi-family page 76 My Legacy Park II Brad Remington Developments page 63
The Link Brookfield Residential page 65
Octave Brookfield Residential page 55
The Loop in Evanston StreetSide Developments front cover, pages 12-14
Origins at Cranston StreetSide Developments page 70
The Townes of Redstone StreetSide Developments page 15
Park Point Qualex Landmark page 50
The Windsor Brittania Block LP page 11
Radius Bucci page 7
Unity in Seton Trico Homes page 49
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