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CONTENTS AUGUST 2018 | VOLUME 14 ISSUE 224
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COVER FEATURE 12 | Rising to the top
Dallas 54 brings exciting, new condo lifestyle choice to North Glenmore Park FOCUS ON 8 | Bicycle beats Calgary has a lot of gear expertise and options for cycling CONDO PROFILES 16 | August is here Avi Urban stuns at University District 21 | Radius of influence Bucci Developments’ Radius perfects inner-city condo living 26 | Q ups the energy Q Condominiums attract millennials with vibrant, downtown lifestyle COMMUNITY PROFILE 30 | Prairie perfect Heartland has grown to be a family favourite in Cochrane LIFESTYLE 34 | A room with a view Panoramic vistas add luster to luxury living at Avenue West End
34 DESIGNER SERIES 39 | A team of two Kristina and Kendra bring their inspired, dynamic style to Auburn Rise IN THE CITY 44 | Re: Cycling Where to go to get on (or back on) the bike
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STYLE 47 | Curated corridors Approach hallway design with an eye for style
57 | Condoscapes by Richard White 59 | Real Estate Insider by Mario Toneguzzi 61 | Condo Tales by Jim Zang
COLUMNS 53 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 55 | Hope at Large by Marty Hope
ITEMS 6 | Editor’s Message 51 | Around Town 62 | Ad Index CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2018
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ADVENTURES ON THE POND
The community pond is one of the best features of the suburban communities, it has a functional purpose to store rain water and mitigate flooding risks, and adds an aesthetic touch as well. My dog Bucky, and I love our afternoon walks by the duck pond in our neighbourhood. It’s peaceful and a great spot to bird-watch (There was a flock of pelicans the other day. Pelicans!). Meeting and interacting with neighbours is the best part, you get to know the community that way. I’ve gotten to know several fellow dogwalkers in these daily 40-minute jaunts, and friends who recently visited us from the U.S. were envious that we had these beautiful pathways and ponds in the neighbourhood that we can go to everyday. (I used to take them for granted, but that was before we had the dog). It is this kind of park-like setting that is the biggest allure of our cover feature, Dallas 54. With the entirety of North Glenmore Park and its varied parks and recreational areas surrounding it, Dallas 54 does make for a wholesome inner-city location. All new condos and townhomes strive for this connectivity with nature and accessibility to amenities. Avi Urban’s August is the newest mutli-family development in University District, which is fast gaining a reputation for the kind of easy living lifestyle it offers. Q at Sage Hill Quarter by Morrison Multi-Family takes pride in its location at the heart of what will be a bustling commercial district in the northwest. While Bucci Developments’ Radius has been a hit because of its serene surroundings in Bridgeland and its proximity to the downtown. Our feature on Heartland in Cochrane also reveals the pleasure people can get from park and playgrounds that Apex Developments has provided for them, not to mention the varied chocies in multi-family options in this neighbourhood. We also explore the bike world of Calgary NEXT MONTH: in our In the City feature and the newest Calgary Home + Design Show gear you can use for this particular pursuit in Focus On. Take advantage of the parks, pathways and ponds in your neighbourhood, it’s a great way to get to know the community and stay active. For the warm months, that it is. I’m not sure what Bucky and I would do come the winter when it’s minus-20 degrees Celsius out.
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 DESIGNER | Vivian Zhang vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca
Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca
PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR |
EDITORIAL
Maria Bartolotti, Darlene Casten, Brandi Holmes, Marty Hope, Mel Ladner, Christina Loc, Mario Toneguzzi, Richard White, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY | ILLUSTRATION
Lama Azhari, Barbara Goulet, Don Molyneaux ADVERTISING SALES
Andrew Best andrew.best@sourcemediagroup.ca Brandi Holmes brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca Jennifer Mills jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING | Norma Robertson accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSUE 224 • 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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FOCUS ON |
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BICYCLE BEATS
Calgary has a lot of gear expertise and options for cycling
BY MEL LADNER
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AS A CYCLING hubbard (one who knows little about bikes) I knew I was in for a challenge with this month’s topic. I had always thought that a snow bound city like Calgary wouldn’t have much for cycling culture or shops; I was very wrong. With more than 12 independently owned cycling shops and hundreds of kilometers of cycle track or paths; Calgary has a lot of gear expertise and options. There are three primary things to think about when selecting gear: safety, suitability and style. Bikes aren’t just for casual Sunday rides anymore; they are primary modes of transportation. Just like you upgrade and do maintenance on your vehicle, you can increase the performance and extend the life of your bike. Add these items to your kit and set your own cycling cadence. CL
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8 [ 1 ] Fizik R4B Uomo Cycling Shoes – Unisex, $260, at MEC. [ 2 ] Thousand Brand Epoch Collection Helmet, $160, at BikeBike Inc. [ 3 ] Garmin Edge 130 Cycling Computer, $270, at MEC. [ 4 ] MEC Turbo Turtle White LED Front Light, $7, at MEC. [ 5 ] MEC Audax Roll-up 28L Panner – Unisex, $65, at MEC. [ 6 ] Abus Ugrip Bordo 5700 Lock, $99.99, at Lifesport Shop. [ 7 ] Nutcase Classic Street Gen 3 Helmet – Unisex in Navy Dots, $90, at MEC. [ 8 ] Muc-Off Team Sky Drybag Cleaning Kit, $199.99, at Velofix Calgary (velofix.com). [ 9 ] Kryptonite Evolution Bike Lock, $103.99, at Ridley’s Cycle. [ 10 ] GIRO Cylinder Shoe, $199.99, at Calgary Cycle. [ 11 ] Crankbrother S M17 Multi-Tool, $34, at MEC. [ 12 ] Electra Checkerboard Mirror, $26.99, at Ridley’s Cycle. CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2018
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
RISING
TO THE TOP
Dallas 54 brings exciting, new condo lifestyle choice to North Glenmore Park
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s any baker will tell you, the best bread comes from using the best ingredients, but what you do with those ingredients matter, too. The new condo development of Dallas 54 certainly has all the ingredients of its perfect location in North Glenmore Park can offer – supreme accessibility, an established community and surrounded by all of life’s most necessary amenities. But what its developers did is also give it a style and appeal that makes it a complete lifestyle choice for a wide range of condo buyers. Sal Daklala made his mark in Calgary as one of the founders of the famous Byblos Bakery, he has since moved on to developing commercial properties and Dallas 54 marks his first venture in residential multi-family development. But he had his eye on this area for a long time.
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“I’ve loved this area of North Glenmore Park, and I have always dreamed of building a condo development here,” Daklala tells Condo Living. He says he had nursed the vision close to 15 years and when the opportunity presented itself, he jumped at the chance. He didn’t want just any condo building on the site, either. He wanted something special that was affordable, stylish and reflected the look and culture of this inner-city community. And after two years of intense negotiations and preparations, Dallas 54 is now ready to take off. Dallas 54 (a word play on the family name and its location on 54th Avenue S.W.) collects
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“With Dallas 54 you get the opportunity to live in a well-established neighbourhood in a brand new home attuned to traditional values and contemporary tastes.” 37 apartment-style condos on three floors with a 10,500-square-foot retail space at its base. One- and two-bedroom suites are offered in seven floorplans, ranging from 610 to 1,161 square-feet. Prices start from $299,900 plus GST. There is an on-site show suite/presentation centre at 2104 54th Avenue S.W. that gives prospective buyers an idea of the stylish lifestyle Dallas 54 can offer. Dallas 54 has wonderful accessibility as it’s just off where Glenmore Trail and Crowchild Trail converge, it is five minutes to Mount Royal University and less than 15 minutes to the downtown. The community is close to the North Glenmore park and the Glenmore Reservoir and all its green space and pathways; groceries, shopping and restaurants and eateries are readily found in nearby Marda Loop. “The community itself is the amenity,” C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
Daklala says. “Here you can lead an active lifestyle, close to all the important things in life, yet we are on a less busy side of town where you can also relax and enjoy the quiet,” he adds. “With Dallas 54 you get the opportunity to live in a well-established neighbourhood in a brand new home attuned to traditional values and contemporary tastes,” says his daughter, Anna Daklala, who is also helping in the family-run venture. “Sales have started and people from around the neighbourhood are really excited about it,” she says. “We’re getting a lot of interest from downsizers
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Everyone will find the level of finish Dallas 54 provides deeply satisfying. Suites feature high-quality finish in keeping with contemporary urban tastes.
from adjacent communities who love the idea of being able to move to a new home that’s right for their needs and not leave the neighbourhood that they have loved all these years,” she adds. “Professors and students from Mount Royal University will also surely find our location appealing,” she says. So will singles, couples, empty-nesters and downsizers. Everyone will find the level of finish Dallas 54 provides deeply satisfying. Suites feature high-quality finish in keeping with contemporary urban tastes. Each one comes with in-suite heating and air conditioning, quartz countertops in baths and kitchen, soft close cabinets in kitchens and baths. “We offer tons of storage including drawers for pots and pans and recycling for added convenience and style, each unit also gets more storage space in the underground parkade,” Sal Daklala says. “Gas lines are roughed in to each of the oversized balconies too,” he adds. “The way we designed each suite is to envision how people will be using the space, so everything flows.” Like the true baker he is, Sal Daklala is particularly proud of the kitchen design. “The kitchen is where everyone congregates, it is the heart of the home, and the way we designed this in Dallas 54 speaks of how central it is in our lives. There’s lots of storage space and work space, every aspect of the design has a purpose.”
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Standard package includes stainless steel Whirlpool appliances, 30-inch smooth top range and built-in dishwasher. There are a range of options available and include an electric fireplace and white two-inch horizontal blinds for style and shade. A beautiful garden plaza frontage will be in place, but that is as far as in-house amenities go. “You can find everything else you need in and around the neighbourhood, there are two golf courses nearby, the Glenmore Aquatic Centre is just down the road. And our commercial base will have a fitness centre, a coffee shop and retail, so Dallas 54 is a complete lifestyle package that remains affordable,” Daklala says. Dallas 54 is a labour of love for the Daklalas and the passion for the development can be seen in every aspect of this stylish new inner-city condo. n
FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: North Glenmore Park PROJECT: Dallas 54
DEVELOPER: Dallas 54 Living
STYLE: One- and two-bedroom apartment-style condominiums SIZE: From 610- 1,161 sq. ft.
PRICE: Starting from $299,900 plus GST ADDRESS: 2104 54th Avenue S.W
HOURS: Monday to Thursday – 2 to
6 p.m.; Friday – Closed; Saturday and Sunday – noon to 5 p.m.
WEBSITE: www.dallas54.ca
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AUGUST IS HERE Avi Urban stuns at University District BY BRANDI HOLMES
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he up and coming University District located in northwest Calgary is home to another new condominium development, Avi Urban’s August at University District. As the multi-family arm of Homes by Avi, Avi Urban has been dedicated to delivering innovative designs, high quality finishes and functional spaces since 2000.
The August show suite is the newest addition to the University District Discovery Centre, which includes a unique product offering from two other builders. This truly distinctive experience gives prospective buyers access to three multi-family builders, all offering different product, under one roof. It is apparent that each of the area sales managers, associates, and University District ambassadors are passionate about University District and understand the value of the community — and August is no exception. Between the striking white and teal colours, custom metallic floorplates and attention to detail, the sales centre sets a high precedent for the upcoming development. Upon completion, August at University District will be a six-storey building — with five residential floors sitting above main floor retail. Already sold out of one floorplan, the residential floors still have 13 configurations to choose from including one-, two- and three-bedroom homes — from 544 to 1,088-square-foot.
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The exterior combines brick, aluminium and glass panel siding to create an unexpected modern aesthetic that will stand the test of time, while complimenting the contemporary style of the interior. Not to mention the stunning architecture will mesh perfectly with its neighbouring building — the future Alt Hotel. Interior selections provide completely customizable colour palettes, high-end standards, and homeowners even
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get to choose their exterior door colours. And while the thoughtful specifications are stunning on their own, upgrade options are available to homeowners if they so wish. Charron Ungar, the president of Avi Urban, is very excited for August, especially the amazing location of the final buildings. “Avi Urban is so proud of August at University District. The team has truly designed such an amazing mixeduse building situated on one of the best corners in the entire community”. Sales for August started back in March and feedback has been fantastic. With
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“OUR HOMEOWNERS WILL UNDOUBTEDLY BE SPOILED BY THE CONVENIENCE OF IT ALL.” pre-construction pricing ranging from the $260,000s to the $540,000s, buyers are scooping up their homes at amazing prices. The building is already 25 per cent sold and construction is set to begin in fall 2018. Once completed the community of University District will cover 200-acres and offer a wealth of amenities, services and experiences. With a vast collection of shops, pathways and entertainment options, residents won’t have much need to leave the community at all. Buyers are thrilled with the conveniences that the location provides and the lifestyle that comes along with such a lively and verFA S T FAC TS satile community. COMMUNITY: University District “Our homeowners will undoubtedly be spoiled by the convenience of it PROJECT: August all,” says Ungar. When purchasing DEVELOPER: Avi Urban a new home, no matter where it is, STYLE: Apartment style condos location really is everything — and SIZE: 558 sq. ft to 1,088 sq. ft. August at University District without a doubt delivers. PRICE: Range from $260,000s to $540,000s Primarily from neighbouring northDISCOVERY CENTRE: 4410 University Ave., N.W. west communities, new homeowners HOURS: Tuesday to Friday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. love the area, and are happy to mainSaturday & Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. tain their lifestyle in a more manageable, lower maintenance home. WEBSITE: www.aviurban.com/august
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August at University District residents will reap the benefits of the main floor retail shops, a spacious communal lobby, a second floor mixed-use patio, the close proximity to Central Park, and secure underground parking, which includes a car wash, bike and personal storage space. From the stunning location, customizable colour palettes and interior features, nine-foot ceilings (10 feet on the sixth floor), and shared amenities; Avi Urban delivers the whole package with August at University District. CL
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RADIUS
OF INFLUENCE Bucci Developments’ Radius perfects innercity condo living BY PORTIA YIP
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he search never stops for optimal convenience, topnotch quality, and incredible value when it comes to crafting an ideal, full-spectrum lifestyle in Calgary. True to its name, Radius by Bucci Developments is quickly proving its amenity-rich focus covers all the bases of inner-city living. Easily turning heads and matching buyer’s wish lists, Radius is a seven-story building in the heart of Bridgeland with an endless supply of swoon-worthy features. “The building really leaves little to be desired,” Chelsey Marshall, Sales and Marketing Manager at Bucci Developments tells Condo Living. “All homes have heated underground parking, additional storage lockers, bicycle parking, air-conditioning, and private balconies with a gas line plus no neighbours on either side — you won’t want to leave the comforts of your home.” When Radius residents do venture out their doors, the building is a welcome extension with over 8,000 square-feet of amenity space. These features include yoga, spin, weight training, and cardio studios to a concierge, workshop, dog and car wash station, rooftop terrace, and a grocery delivery room. “The location Radius offers is unique because there’s no need to compromise. You’re close to downtown, many of the major arteries in the city, and you get panoramic downtown views even from the ground floor,” adds Marshall.
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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Bridgeland PROJECT: Radius (201 one, two, twobedroom plus den, and penthouse units) DEVELOPER: Bucci Developments STYLE: Apartment condos SIZE: From 618 to 1,321 sq. ft. PRICE: Starts from $340,000 PRESENTATION CENTRE: 3 – 88 9th Street N.E. HOURS: Monday to Thursday noon to 6 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m., closed Friday WEBSITE: www.bucci.com/radius
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For an even better vantage point, the rooftop terrace offers spectacular skyline views and plenty of space to cozy-up next to a double-sided fireplace, wine and dine in the BBQ and visiting areas, or room to grow and harvest veggies in the community garden. Thoughtfully designed and LEED registered, Radius also includes energy-friendly features such as solar panels on the rooftop. With the Bridgeland community centre and Murdoch Park in Radius’ backyard, new homeowners are treated to an already established and quiet community. Abundant benefits and amenities can be found in every direction from the greenspaces and parkside living to the charm and convenience of trendy restaurants and boutique shops, plus ample activities to enjoy the outdoors. Marshall describes that the workshop space in the building is important to active homeowners and those moving from a house with a garage. “Radius is close to amazing parks and pathway systems, and it’s easy to head to the mountains for the afternoon,” she says. “The workshop space also gives owners a place to wax their skis or snowboards, tune-up bikes, or just a place to complete projects that can’t be done inside the home.”
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A unique and exclusive feature at Radius is the grocery delivery room (also known as the SPUD room) thanks to a unique partnership between SPUD and Bucci Developments. According to Marshall, SPUD will offer grocery delivery service every day of the week to Radius residents. “Most quadrants in the city only receive groceries on certain days,” she says. “That said, this is really a room for residents to use for any grocery delivery service. It’s easy, convenient, and it keeps the lobby and hallways clear of delivery boxes.” It’s hard to top the enticing draws of Radius’ shared building amenities, but there’s even more to admire with the flexible interior plans ready to compliment everyone’s lifestyle and budget. Paying homage to the Italian roots and influences of Bridgeland’s rich history, the interior finishes in the suites are warm with wood tones and use both C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
natural wood material and manufactured marbles for maximum durability. Two stunning style schemes — one with a serene, relaxed feel and the other a stylish and contemporary look — are on display in the new Radius show suites. The layouts offer plenty of storage space and highlights such as over nine-foot high ceilings and over 10-feet high on the upper floors. Roomy kitchens are equipped with efficient natural gas Bosch cooktops, wall-ovens, and contemporary stainless steel Fisher Paykel fridges. In the spacious bathrooms, marble tiles and oversized mirrors add a touch of elegance and luxuriousness. Radius has attracted a variety of buyers from current Bridgeland residents and first-time homeowners, to downsizers who appreciate the spacious living areas and maintenance-free living to its fullest. “This is our fourth project in Bridgeland,” says Marshall. “We only choose to develop homes in locations we would be happy to call home ourselves.” With everything Radius has to offer, the timing is perfect and buyers are excited to move in. “Bucci was able to secure this exceptional development site in ‘the Bridges’ at an unbelievably fair price,” says Marshall. “This means we can offer the same to our homeowners at Radius—a very competitive price point without compromising on our fit or finish.” Radius has 201 suites in total and is currently over 63 per cent sold with possessions slated for early 2019. Suites range from 618 to 1,321 square-feet in size and come in various floorplans including one-bedroom, two-bedroom, two-bedroom plus den, and penthouse suites starting at $340,000. “Buyers can expect the beautiful finishings they have come to expect from a Bucci home at an aggressive price point. This, coupled with the fact that you can put down a five per cent deposit today and take possession in 2019, has really been appealing,” says Marshall. “It’s a great way to leverage the market conditions and make a purchase with strong equity potential.” CL CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2018
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Q UPS THE ENERGY
Q Condominiums attract millennials with vibrant, downtown lifestyle
BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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here’s a new energy coursing through the northwest these days, where plenty of newly established communities replete with all the amenities have turned this suburban sector into one of the hottest live-work-play areas in the city. Q Condominiums in Sage Hill Quarter is turning heads in this booming neighbourhood, as the latest development from Morrison Homes Multi-Family division opened its new presentation centre giving prospective buyers a taste of the urban lifestyle it holds.
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Q is right in the centre of the beating heart of the future commercial and social hub of the northwest, Sage Hill Quarter. The Sage Hill Quarter complex is a 17-acre mixed-use development that will feature an array of sought-after businesses and amenities. Developed by Ronmor, it is projected to have over 240,000 square-feet of commercial space aimed to bring a “downtown vibe” to the northwest, says Robert Toth, marketing lead for Morrison Homes Multi-Family. He believes that Q will be a perfect match for the millennial lifestyle that puts a premium on living in a vibrant community. “This is an ideal condo location — right in the middle of a commercial centre with a host of eateries, coffee shops, pubs and restaurants that will give it a youthful, energetic downtown vibe,” he tells Condo Living.
“Sage Hill Quarter will add another exciting dimension to this area of the northwest, which has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years, with some very special shops and amenities coming that people will love having close at hand.” Best of all, this downtown lifestyle is available at Q at a fraction of the cost of an actual downtown condo. Q Condos offer one- and two-bedroom suites from 564 to 908 square-feet, with a starting price from the low $200,000s, including GST. “Accessibility, affordability and an amenity-rich area, they’re an unbeatable combination,” he says. Q Condominiums will have a total of 173 apartment-style suites spread over two buildings. The first phase will be a five-storey, wood-frame low-rise that’s now selling. The second will be a six-storey building coming in 2019. Q has already found a receptive market among downsizers who are eager to experience this kind of urban lifestyle and still remain in the same vicinity of the communities that they have grown to love. “Sales have been strong, and we’ve had success with buyers coming from nearby communities like Panorama Hills, Nolan Hill and Evanston, looking to downsize. They know and love the area, and want the space and style and functionality that these suites provide,” Toth adds. This can all be seen in the newly opened presentation centre that details the sophisticated design of Q. The condos offer heated underground parking included with every unit, nine-foot ceilings, contemporary cabinetry, designer interior selections, stainless steel appliances, and ultra-smart floor plans all combine to make Q Condominiums the project of choice among the young and mature homebuyers.
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“LIVING IN THE Q MEANS NOT HAVING TO SACRIFICE ON QUALITY, AFFORDABILITY, OR LOCATION.”
“Living in the Q means not having to sacrifice on quality, affordability, or location. Q certainly has the stylish, contemporary design that Millennials like, but it is the lifestyle component where, in a sense, they live more in the community than in their actual home that they will really find appealing. They can go out to the neighbourhood pub with their friends and not have to worry about driving back home, the grocery is just next door if they forget to buy milk, finding a place for a quick bite will always be easy. It’s a complete lifestyle package at an affordable price,” Toth says. Sage Hill Quarter has already begun construction and is rising up near where Shaganappi Trail and 144 Avenue N.W. meet, an area that many in the industry are already calling the new “Golden Valley” for development in Calgary. “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,” says Rob Kennedy, president of Morrison Homes Multi-Family. “This is the first condominium development designed specifically to fit within a commercial area.” The Q Condominium project is developed by Morrison Sage Hill Commons LP. As project manager
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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Sage Hill PROJECT: Q Condominiums in Sage Hill Quarter BUILDER: Morrison Homes Multi-Family STYLE: One- and two-bedroom apartment condos SIZE: 564 to 908 sq. ft. PRICE: From the low $200,000s ADDRESS: 67 Sage Berry Way, N.W. WEBSITE: www.myqcondo.ca to register on the Q, Morrison Homes (Calgary Multi) Ltd. is a division of Morrison Homes — recognized as Calgary’s 12-time Builder of the Year; a numerous customer satisfaction award winner; and a Canada’s Best Managed company, Platinum Member. Morrison Homes (Calgary Multi) Ltd. is a two-time in a row winner of Best Customer Experience by Customer Insight Awards. Morrison Homes (Calgary Multi) Ltd. continues a tradition of excellence with a commitment to quality craftsmanship, unwavering integrity, outstanding customer service, and exceptional multi-family construction. CL C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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PRAIRIE PERFECT T
Rohit Duplex
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Heartland has grown to be a family favourite in Cochrane BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
he fantastic pace of growth of Heartland cannot fail to amaze. What had once been windswept prairie grassland on the northwest edge of Cochrane is now a thriving, vibrant community where neighbourly bonds grow ever stronger, even as more stylish and affordable home products are now available to entice people to put down roots. Heartland is currently in its sixth phase, which includes new duplexes from Excel Homes, Pacesetter by
Sterling Homes and Rohit Communities. No condo fee townhomes are also now available from Rohit Communities, says Morgan Gowland, sales and marketing coordinator for Apex Developments, Heartland’s developer. This recreation-minded, family-friendly community just off Highway 1A on the western edge of Cochrane has been on the fast track to growth. This 250-acre community will have just over 1,450 residential units on build out, with an additional five multi-family sites throughout the community. Some estimated 1,500 people already call it home. Further marking its growth is the opening of a new access road leading to the community, as well as new stoplights to ease the flow of traffic and new commercial establishments just across the road. A lot of its residents are young families who find the active, accessible, and amenity-rich C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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lifestyle it offers very enticing. “Lots of young families are flocking to Heartland. Potential homebuyers are often remarking on the established, comfortable feel of the community and highlight its convenient location relative to Calgary and mountain parks nearby. People love that they can step out their door and be minutes from Ghost Lake recreational area, boutique stores in town or head into the city for a night out,” Gowland says. There are already two playgrounds in place in the community. The original playground was designed for younger kids, and resides next to mini fields for future sport programing. “Its unique horseshoe shape, benches and trees make it a great place for parents to hang out while their kids play,” she points out. The community’s newest park is a place the whole family can enjoy! It features outdoor exercise equipment, a formal play area and naturalized space for organic play. The inclusion of these two popular amenities underscores Apex’s vision for Heartland. “Heartland was designed to encourage healthy lifestyles and provides plenty of common spaces where residents can come together and share in the
Rohit Communities — Hudson
“HEARTLAND WAS DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE HEALTHY LIFESTYLES AND PROVIDES PLENTY OF COMMON SPACES WHERE RESIDENTS CAN COME TOGETHER AND SHARE IN THE OUTDOORS.”
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outdoors. The community also has a pathway system, and will feature both a school and a commercial space, the latter of which could begin construction as early as 2019.” Heartland has indeed captured the hearts of families, downsizers and even young couples finding their first homes. It is an already established community with handy commercial amenities already close by. “Now in its 6th phase, Heartland is quickly becoming an established community and a family favorite. The architectural styles, convenient location and green space make Heartland an attractive place to live, at a price both first time home buyers and people making the switch from the city can agree on,” Gowland says. Underscoring its wide breadth of home offerings is the 11 show homes available to explore. Pacesetter by Sterling Homes recently launched their new Ellis 2 and Denali 4, single-family front drive garage show homes. Also for viewing in the community are two single-family front drive garage show homes by Excel Homes, six duplex models (two from Excel Homes, two from Pacesetter by Sterling Homes and two from Rohit Communities), as well as a show suite for Brand Townhomes by Birchwood Properties. Townhomes start from the $250,000s and single-family homes are from the low $350,000s. The multi-family offerings in Heartland have been particular favourites, and
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“We are really excited for these no-condo-fee street towns. They will be move-in ready with possessions by November.” Rohit Communities’ no-condofee townhomes and Birchwood Properties’ Brand Townhomes have been well received. Amy McGregor, area manager for Rohit Communities says they are excited to introduce their new line of street towns, Casa townhomes, in Heartland. The five-plex development offers 1,508-square-foot townhomes with two- or three-bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths from $315,990, including GST. “We are really excited for these no-condo-fee street towns. They will be move-in ready with possessions by November. They also come fully landscaped in Brand Townhomes the front and back and include a deck and a double detached garage. It really is the best deal in town.” The Casa floor plan features an open concept main floor that is spacious and inviting with an ideal layout that’s perfect for cozy movies nights with friends
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Heartland DEVELOPER: Apex Developments BUILDERS: Excel Homes • Single Family (front drive) from the $350,000s • Duplex (front drive) from the $300,000s Pacesetter by Sterling Homes • Single Family (front drive) from the $410,000s • Duplex (laned) from the $310,000s Rohit Communities • Duplex (laned) from the $310,000s • Townhomes (no condo fees) from the $310,000s Birchwood • Townhomes from the $250,000s DIRECTIONS: Turn onto Heartland Boulevard off Highway 1A, just west of Highway 22. WEBSITE: www.heartlandcochrane.com
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and family. The second floor features a versatile flex space, second floor laundry and a sizable master bedroom with its own ensuite. The backyard is all about inclusions; with an included rear-detached garage and a great balcony. Adele Kerr, Sales and Marketing Manager at Birchwood Properties, says the response to the design of their Brand Townhomes have been quite positive. “We have taken the time to learn and produce what today’s buyers are looking for, and we are offering the only attached garage townhomes in Heartland — at an unbelievable value.” She adds that the first phase of Brand sold out sooner than expected so Phase 2 has now been released. “We currently have units at all stages of construction. We have homes available in the early Fall, before Christmas, and others for early 2019. We still have a few homes available for quick possession.” Kerr says they have seen a wide variety of purchasers at Brand. From first time home buyers, single parents, and even some downsizers from the surrounding communities looking for a maintenance free lifestyle and wanting to still enjoy the small town lifestyle. Brand offers three townhome styles: the Galloway, Highland, and the Devon. With a mix of two-and three-storey townhomes, each with a choice of two or three bedrooms and a single or double attached garage Sizes range from 1,055 to 1,372 square-feet and start at an incredibly affordable price point in the mid $200,000s, plus GST. “Offering an attractive starting price for young couples and families was an important factor,” adds Kerr. The varied home products have always been a big part of the allure of Heartland, and now there are more to choose from. “With homes of enduring value and an established community feel, we want people to come out and envision themselves living here,” says Apex’s Gowland. CL C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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A ROOM WITH
Panoramic vistas add luster to luxury living at Avenue West End BY DARLENE CASTEN PHOTOS BY BARBARA GOULET
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t’s amazing the difference a block can make. A Calgary musician and music therapist made a small move late last year and it brought her big gains. In 2017, Shannon was living in a one bedroom, one bathroom, 780-square-foot apartment on 6th Avenue and 10th Street S.W. A block away on 5th Avenue, Shannon watched as Grosvenor Americas and Cressey Development Group built their latest Calgary condominium, Avenue West End (Avenue). As the 23-storey luxury condominium neared completion, Shannon decided to go take a look at the sales centre. “I had been watching this building being built,” she says. “It was a thought
Shannon
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in the back of my mind about moving into something larger. It was just kind of a fleeting thought. In April (2017) I decided to go into the sales centre.” When she entered the 17th floor apartment, her fleeting thoughts became concrete. “I saw the view and I was like — it’s mine,” she says. “I was sold quite quickly.” Her old apartment faced north and had a view of the Bow River, but it couldn’t compare C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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TH A VIEW
to the diverse 720-degree view at Avenue that takes in Kensington, the Peace Bridge, the river valley bluffs and the river as it winds west to east. “On a clear day you can see the Rocky Mountains. I’m very drawn to rivers and mountains,” she explains. “I grew up in Silver Springs and had a view of the river. I went to school in Vancouver and was near the ocean. I’ve always been near the water and I’d say that is the biggest draw for me here.” The two-bedroom, two-bathroom 1,138-square C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
-foot condo was almost ready for possession. Grosvenor’s luxury finishes at Avenue include quartz countertops in the kitchen and marble in the bathroom, hardwood flooring, heated floors in the master bathroom and floor to ceiling windows. Avenue is international developer Grosvenor’s third foray into the Calgary residential high-rise market and is their most luxurious building to date that includes street-side townhomes, apartments and a two-storey, 2,315-squarefoot penthouse with a 2,000-square-foot terrace. The steel and glass tower on the corner of 5th Avenue and 10th Street S.W. was designed by Order of Canada winning architect James Cheng. The front courtyard has a high-end hotel feel with a porte-cochère entry. In addition to the luxury finishes in each home, the building has a concierge, gym, pet wash station and bike repair area.
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Avenue’s trademarked CresseyKitchenTM also increases the lux factor. Grosvenor worked with Vancouver-based developer, Cressey Development Group, to create their signature kitchen that economizes on space, while providing plenty of storage and style. The CresseyKitchenTM was introduced to the Calgary market at Avenue. The modern kitchen’s European appliances, including the refrigerator, are fully integrated into the modern cabinetry for a sleek look. The countertop five-burner gas stove top and wall oven is by Porter and Charles and the in-island dishwasher is Blomberg. Marble backsplash adds natural beauty and a built-in wine rack at the end of the spacious island contributes to the home’s sophistication. Shannon says after the view, the kitchen was the next thing to catch her eye. “It has a very clean look,” she says. “I think that is what appeals to me. Everything is very clean and simple.” Keeping her space organized was important to Shannon, a music therapist and musician, who has many instruments stored in her home. The second bedroom serves as her office, with a desktop computer, piano and her variety of drums, guitars and other instruments. It still has room for a fold-up treadmill. “This was all about location and size,” she says. “For work I have a lot of gear that I need office space for.” More space also has improved her ability to host friends, she adds. “I entertain more here than the other place,” she says. “I have more space to entertain now.” A spacious balcony with room for a pair of chairs and a table adds to the square footage, she notes, and allows for her to enjoy the incredible view. Getting outside, appreciating nature, roaming around downtown Calgary on foot or driving to the mountains are all made convenient when you live at a central location, says Shannon. “I’m very fond of Analog on 17th Avenue and I’m very fond of Monogram on 4th and
2nd — they are both local, so it’s supporting that local feel,” she says. “I like Trolley. It’s a fun little pub. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk to 17th and six minutes to Kensington. I do lots of walking in this area.” The simple move a block away has changed her perspective, she says. “I just wake up and say I can’t believe I live here and the view,” Shannon says. “You can’t help but wake up here and be excited to start your day.” CL
“It has a very clean look, I think that is what appeals to me. Everything is very clean and simple.”
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A TEAM OF TWO
Kristina and Kendra bring their inspired, dynamic style to Auburn Rise BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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Kristina Hutchins
taging some 20 show homes and show suites a year is a daunting challenge for anyone, but after 10 years of working together, you could say Kristina Hutchins and Kendra Halluk have got the hang of it. Kristina and Kendra are the in-house design team of Cardel Homes, handling all their single-family show homes, as well as the multi-family show suites from Cardel Lifestyles, and now also Logel Homes. But working for so long together and over so many different styles of homes in Calgary, Ottawa, Denver and Tampa (do the math, that’s like 200 show homes in over a decade), their style has never staled. It is a wonder how, as their personalities are diametrically opposed yet their work relationship has thrived and lasted longer than many marriages. The work speaks for itself, and it tells how well their designing styles mesh. Kristina tends to like the rustic, more traditional look, while Kendra may lean more towards a more modern style, but what they come up with is pure magic. “We know the way each of us works, we tend to offset each other’s crazier tendencies and what we come up with
Kendra Halluk
is a more compelling home that people can see themselves living in,” says Kristina, the Creative Director Corporate Design at Cardel Homes. “It helps that we have access to tons of designer accents and furnishing that help us come up with our vision for each home,” she adds. “There’s just so much you can do with a, say, kitchen or living room, when you have to design a few several times a year, it helps that we can bounce ideas of each other,” Kendra adds. Their latest creations in the seven show suites of Logel Homes’ hit Auburn Rise condos in Auburn Bay serve to remind us the power of their unified design vision resulting in a look that fits a wide variety of lifestyles. The Atwood and the Carr show suites are a couple they are proud of, as each displays a different take on two disparate lifestyles and how their experienced eyes set the tone for life in each.
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“We know the way each of us works, we tend to offset each other’s crazier tendencies and what we come up with is a more compelling home that people can see themselves living in.” C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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The Carr has a definite masculine charm about it. But even if the 544-square-foot one-bed, one-bath suite has a very bachelor pad look, it remains utterly functional. The two-tier overhead cabinet system brings a sexy, storage solution to the room and adds to its sleek, seamless style.
Although Kendra set up the Carr’s kitchen to have a more contemporary look, Kristina added some specific touches like the antique-y metal floor lamp, the rustic dining table and utilitarian sofa to achieve a balanced, transitional style. “We don’t have a signature look, we don’t follow trends, we just do what feels right for the demographic the condo is aimed for,” Kristina says.
The floating cabinets in the threepiece bathroom add sophistication to its practical style. The ingenious use of space is something Kristina and Kendra have excelled at. The Carr even uses a frosted glass barn door for its bedroom that saves space and adds a further glam dimension to its look.
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It’s difficult not to notice the elegant light fixtures used in Atwood, the black-and-gold motif is a recurring theme in the suite. “It helps establish a more modern look and offset the more mature style we envisioned for this particular model that is more targeted towards downsizers,” Kristina says.
Stainless steel appliances are a standard in Auburn Rise, but buyers are able to customize their suites to their taste. “Our standard spec is one of the best in the city, but there is an extensive list of upgrades available for customers to pick from,” says Brayden Logel, Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Customer Service at Logel Homes. “They can select their appliances, flooring, faucets, cabinets, counter tops, air conditioning and much more. This level of customization allows for every customer to put their unique style into their homes.” Visit the Auburn Rise show suites at 105 Auburn Meadows St. S.E. or go to www.auburnrise.ca. CL The shiplap feature wall by the kitchen and the exposed beam detail over the living room bespeaks of a genteel sophistication of the Atwood. “There’s a definite rustic charm that goes well with Auburn Rise’s proximity to Auburn Bay’s lake,” Kendra adds.
Kristina says creating a show suite that people can see themselves living in is the ultimate goal. Although some of the accents and fixtures they have picked for each one — like those in the Atwood — are hard to come by, she says picking out the right ones for your lifestyle is just a matter of opening up ones mind to inspiration. “The trick is getting buyers to identify with the lifestyle the show suite presents.”
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Re: Cycling
Where to go to get on (or back on) the bike BY BRANDI HOLMES
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e are lucky to live in such a versatile landscape that is the Canadian Rockies. We are able to take part in all kinds of outdoor activities no matter what the weather is doing. One of those activities that we are able to enjoy almost year round is cycling. The definition of cycling means something different to everyone — there are so many varieties that the sport is really inclusive to all ages and abilities. Maybe you’ve been riding forever and are a serious enthusiast, maybe you’re thinking about going pro, or are just getting on (or back on) the bike — the cycling community is extremely welcoming and accepting of anyone who wants to join in on the adventure. If you are just getting started in the sport a great place to check out would be any of the local bike shops around the city. One of Condo Living’s faves is Ridley’s Cycle. Ridley’s has been around since 1945 and while no longer run by a Ridley, the legacy of welcome hospitality lives on with owners Ron Uhlenberg and Kristyn Hall. Ridley’s Cycle currently has two locations, one in Okotoks and the other in
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Kensington, right next door to the original location where Harold Ridley got his start. “Bikes are meant to be fun,” says Ron Uhlenberg, co-owner of Ridley’s Cycle, “we want our customers to get the right bike for what they are doing and feel like they can hang out in the store anytime.” Uhlenberg and his employees are very approachable and upon entering the store I was warmly greeted by multiple staff members. The history and sheer knowledge that lives inside the walls of Ridley’s Cycle was enough to make me want to take up cycling — the friendliness sure helped too. Ridley’s has an enormous selection of bikes from mountain, road, urban and even electric assist — the store is extremely versatile and C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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“The first step to buying a bike is to think about where you want to ride and what type of bike matches your goals — make sure to set some aside for accessories too.” WHERE TO RIDE
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here are tons of places to go riding or to just cruise around — it all depends on your ability level and what you are comfortable with. Here are a few trails our bike experts recommend.
WINSPORT — Calgary’s only in city
ski hill turns into a downhill mountain bike trail in the summer months. GLENMORE RESERVOIR — Elbow River LEGACY TRAIL — Between Canmore
and Banff, you can ride along side nature but are safe from highway traffic.
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These are just a few trails that are accessible to all riders and ability types. There are also tons cycling clubs you can join for weekly excursions. Visit ridleys.com or events.mec.ca for more information about bike clubs. CL
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the staff is there to help you get what you need. Uhlenberg finds it imperative that you share what you want to be doing or planning to do with your new bike. “There is no absolute with bikes, everything can be fine tuned depending on the rider — just tell us what you want to do and we will fill in the blanks.” Another great place to check out is MEC downtown and their new location in Seton — opening in September. According to their bike professionals they see everyone from new riders to experienced cyclists in all disciplines. “There’s a huge amount of diversity when it comes to bikes” says Esteban Acuna, store manager of the downtown location. “We offer a wide assortment of mountain, road, urban and kids bikes — and the kids bikes sell as fast as we can build them!” Esteban and his crew also think it is important to plan your bike budget accordingly.
“The first step to buying a bike is to think about where you want to ride and what type of bike matches your goals — make sure to set some aside for accessories too.” There is a huge assortment of add-ons you can get but the most important are a helmet, lock and the right attire. With such an over reaching activity a new rider really needs to be conscious about budgeting — things can escalate pretty quickly and prices can be found well over the thousand marker — so it is better to be prepared and have some sort of idea. What I’ve learned so far from my venture into the cycling world is that everyone is completely accepting of whatever type of riding you want to do — they are just happy that the sport is thriving. It does seem to be important to have some sort of idea of what kind of riding you want to do. Be that commuting to work down the city streets, trekking up the mountains that are in our backyard or just cruising around — there really is something for everyone of any ability. And not to mention it’s great exercise! CL
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| STYLE
CURATED CORRIDORS
Approach hallway design with an eye for style BY CHRISTINA LOC
P H OTO CO U RT E S Y C ROW N WA L L PA P ER S A N D FA B R I C S
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t’s about the journey, not the destination. At home, your hallways often encapsulate this expression. They are typically small, narrow and often neglected. Hallways, however, are the first spaces you and your guests experience upon arriving and for getting from one room to another. They are the segue to much valued and well-invested spaces in your home and are equally deserving of attention to detail! These pointers can help turn typically overlooked spaces into functional and beautiful statements consistent to the overall style of your home.
WALL TREATMENTS & WALL ART
With little square footage to work with, conceptualise your hallway by dressing the walls. Paint is the most economical way to alter a space. Opt for a neutral colour on the walls and floors to enhance the feeling of light and space. Alternatively, consider a bold colour or be inspired with trending colours for 2018 from blush, emerald or tropical green, to any shade of blue between the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean! Wallpaper, from unique to hand-crafted, to eclectic and bright can work wonderfully in narrow passage ways or entries, adding interest especially when no artwork can be hung without being overwhelming.
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Wallpaper, from unique to hand-crafted, to eclectic and bright can work wonderfully in narrow passage ways or entries.
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For a crisp, clean, moody and dramatic look, this wallpaper pairs nicely with the geometric runner. Less is more with simple accent pieces on the contemporary furniture. Having the largest selection of wallpaper in Calgary, this wallpaper can be purchased at Walls Alive.
Additionally, consider wood-panelling. For a rustic look, use reclaimed wood half way or all the way up a wall. For a more classic expression, choose board and battens to create a multi-dimensional pattern. Extra interest can always be added by using mouldings. Consider using combinations of paint, wallpaper and wood-panelling for a greater effect. Wall art is the next obvious choice, and here, hallways are a great place to personalise with photos of family, friends, memories and places. Block out your space as a museum curator and calibrate your photos to tell a story or pique interest, placing them with well thought out distance. Use identical gallery style frames for a clean, crisp, consistent look. Or, go for an eclectic mix with different sizes, styles and coloured frames. If displaying personal photos is not something of interest, then art that is appealing or meaningful to you is a timeless addition. Whether it be a canvas with a story, or simply a welcoming cheerful image to greet guests and residents, your art is a focal point. Choose it in function to the first feeling or message you want to feel or share with your guests upon entering the home or space. And of course, mirrors are always a great decorative addition — also handy for admiring yourself and for creating the illusion of extra space.
funky hooks and knobs in monograms or various shapes. Turn your coats, boots and bags into the feature accessories. For families, this is a great room to decorate collaboratively with your kids since it’s guaranteed to be a high-traffic area.
LIGHTING IS EVERYTHING
To save the best for last, a word on lighting. Lighting can be used as an accessory and will set the overall feel of your small space; illuminating not just the walkway, but your objects and colours. Your hallways may be bland because you have the standard builder’s grade dome-shaped ceiling mount light fixtures. Switch them out or invest in an upgrade — it is worth the money. Find a light fixture that reflects your taste, and will serve as a visual interest point, just like a piece of art. Be sure to choose some-
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y H O M E E VO LU TI O N
SELECTIVE ACCESSORISING Having lots of texture, this starburst mirror from Home Evolution is the perfect mirror for both function and style.
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A walkway should always be a minimum width of 36 inches. If you are lucky enough to have wider hallways, choose between consoles, floating shelves, benches, ottomans, chairs, baskets and narrow book shelves to store or display paraphernalia. Be selective by choosing furniture that will have a pop or wow factor through its style or colour, just as much as they will be practical in storing items like hand bags, shoes and keys. Find a well-proportioned table, on which to put chic lamps and a floral arrangement, or books for a classic look. Keep things simple by remembering that less is more. Be surprised by the effect of a simple runner — whether it be simple in colour or complimentary to surrounding décor, solid or patterned, it’s both practical and will add warmth and texture. A rug can make a dark hallway cosier. If you are decorating a hallway used as an entry or mudroom, choose open storage units with stylish backdrops, and
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P H OTO CO U RTE S Y C A RT W R IG HT LIG HTI N G
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| STYLE
FAR LEFT Even with 8’ ceilings, flush mount light fixtures don’t have to be dull. Available at Cartwright Lighting, this LED light fixture is bold with the beautiful black fabric wrap and gold accent on the interior.
Subtle can still make a statement when done right, as epitomized in this exquisite Phillip Jeffries watercolour selection.
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on your wall or table. Lighting is powerful — it can have a calming effect and it can make your space feel plush and sophisticated. Consider adding ceiling details with up lights that bounce light off the ceiling and reflect down your hallways. Use directional recessed down lights to wash light down the walls. Layering of light is a useful trick to create the impression of space, excitement and drama, to any degree you seek. Hallways are small, but as you see, the rules to spiffing them up are simple. You don’t need much to fulfil their full beauty and functionality potential — just targeted and thoughtful planning through the use of proper colour, lighting and choice accessories make the journey of entering your home and rooms a beautiful and seamless one. CL
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y INTERIOR LIVING
Exploiting vertical surfaces helps draw the eye upward and make a room feel grander in scale, like this shelving unit filled with collected objets.
P H OTO CO U R T E S Y DAV I D C R O S S O N D E S I G N CO L L E C T I V E ; S H OT B Y B R E N T M Y K Y T Y S H Y N
thing that emits enough light and make sure you have at least seven feet of clearance from the bottom of the fixture to the floor. There’s nothing worse than endangering a beautiful chandelier (or yourself for that matter) because it’s hanging too low. Other lighting options are wall sconces that are perfect for long hallways or placed at the end of a hallway. Place one near your wall art to accentuate it. Use lighting as an accessory to layer with the other accessories displayed
Being 60 inches wide and only 10 inches deep, the Haley console table from Interior Living is narrow and great for a hallway.
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A
AIRDRIE WELCOMES SOUTHPOINT
irdrie welcomes its newest masterplanned community, as Vesta Properties (South Point) Ltd. opens Southpoint. Offering a wide range of home products to fit any lifestyle, Southpoint includes traditional townhomes, rowhomes and single-family homes. Traditional three-bedroom townhomes (with condo fees) have attached double garages, either side-by-side or tandem style. Rowhomes (no-condo-fee townhomes) are available with three- or four-bedrooms with both front and backyards; while
single-family homes have interiors designed with families in mind and some models even offer a unique attic space. Show homes are open to check out. “Vesta is building all homes within Southpoint to ensure the community stays true to the architectural vision,” says AJ Van Der Linden, sales manager at Vesta. “Doing so will enhance the streetscapes, create a sense of place, and protect the re-sale value of your investment. These architectural design elements include such classic farmhouse features as turrets, large front verandas, decorative gables, shuttered windows and stone accents. Southpoint will have the look and feel of a high-end country community.”
Southpoint is located at the corner of 40th Avenue S.W. and Reynolds Gate, Airdrie.
GREENWICH OPENS
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ne of the most anticipated residential developments in Calgary just opened their doors. Greenwich is touted to be the face of the “New Northwest” with 59 acres of multi-family urban living, complete with boutique shopping, restaurants and office space; plus parks and trails for active outdoor living – all within an hour of the Rocky Mountains. “We have three builders in Phase 1,” says Catharina Mendonca, marketing manager at Melcor Developments, Greewich’s developer. “Cove Properties is building a four-storey walk up condos starting in the $190,000s. Landmark Homes is building townhomes starting in the low $300,000s and Madison Avenue Group is building townhomes starting in the $390,000s, she says. “A playground is in, most of the landscaping and pathways are completed and we are already seeing strong sales.” Presentation centres are now open at 9523 Greenbriar Blvd. N.W.
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NEWPORT CAPS CANALS LANDING IN AIRDRIE
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hat is likely the last opportunity to own a new townhome in Airdrie’s hit community of Canals Landing just opened and people are responding. Genesis Builder Group debuted show homes for their Newport development and excitement is at fever pitch. With only 85 units, Newport promises to bring a new level of style and sophistication to Airdrie’s hot townhome market. And with prices from the $190,000s it seems unlikely that they will last for long. “We’re enjoying strong demand right now,” says PS Sidhu, General Manager Home Building at Genesis Land Development Corp. “Newport is in the heart of a well established community that’s all but built out with all of the supporting amenities already available.” One- two- and three-bedroom models are available. Visit their show home at 115 Sagewood Drive S.W., Airdrie.
AROUND TOWN
By Pepper Rodriguez
HOLLAND PARK CONSTRUCTION BEGINS
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xcel Homes broke ground for their first townhome development in Calgary in a long time — Holland Park. With strong demand for townhomes in southeast Calgary, Holland Park could not have happened at a better time. 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. Excel also offers townhome products in Airdrie (HillCrest) and Cochrane (Sunset Ridge and Heartland). Holland Park will have a total of 126 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. CL
Visit the show homes at 68 Walcrest Gate S.E. CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2018
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MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS IN CONDOS How condo boards and property managers can cope with this growing issue
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his is a topic that most fear talking about, but in my personal opinion and like many, I think it’s one that needs to have a voice in the condominium industry. Mental Health disorders are now reported to be the leading cause of non-fatal illness not only in Canada, but worldwide. What is mental health? Generally, this includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental Health is important at every stage of life from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. The affliction does affect young people, but it is more common among the older generations. Calgary has seen its aging population begin downsizing from the single-family homes to condo communities. And with this comes increased risks for mental health disorders in multi-family setting. Condo boards and management companies will find that they will have to address mental health disabilities and psychological disorders among their condo residents as part of there daily tasks. I understand that most managers are not trained and/or equipped in the area of dealing with mental health issues, but as managers, I think its important to understand and know how to address concerns with individuals facing mental health disorders. So what do you do as a condo manager or a board member and how can you help address
the issue when it comes up? Condo boards and mangers like New Concept Management Inc., should be proactive. Start with the least intrusive, least costly, and least heavy-handed measurers and work from there. I hear so many horror stories of condo managers and or board members who lack compassion. Well, I’m here to tell you that it simply doesn’t need to be that way. The old adage is true- you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Being nice to nice people is great, but being nice to those who are not nice to you or have a hard time with basic communication skills is how the world becomes better. Here are some suggestions that may help go along way. 1. Be supportive — it doesn’t hurt or cost anyone to show some compassion towards one another. Kindness goes a long way even in the toughest of situations. Trust me, I know, it’s not always easy being a condo manager and I face a lot of challenges in my industry. In fact, I’m thinking about writing a book. 2. If someone has disclosed that they have a mental health issue. See how you and the board can accommodate their request. Every condominium in Alberta has a duty to accommodate an owner with a disorder, whether it is a physical or mental one up to the point of undue hardship and upon request. The obligation is set out in the Human Rights Code (the “Code”). The assessment of undue hardship is usually limited to considerations of any significant financial impairment to the condominium or health and safety concerns, but on rare
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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ASK MARIA
By Maria Bartolotti
occasions the courts have considered the effect on the other residents. 3. Gather as much information as possible regarding the nature of the disability and the request for accommodation from the owner, caregiver or family member. 4. It goes without saying, but keep the information confidential. It should never be disclosed to outside sources like residents or other owners. It’s also as important to keep all communications regarding the request on file and not delay responding to the request for accommodation. 5. Most importantly, act in good faith in reviewing the request for accommodation and accept it unless there is legitimate reason for denial. You may want to seek legal council and or review the Human Rights Code. 6. Boards are infamous for setting policies and procedures that govern their condo. Why not set a policy on how you as a management company and board should respond to requests for accommodations that deal with Mental Health Disorders or any Disability. I know we at New Concept Management Inc.; are in the process of developing polices to accommodate mental health disorders. 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 AUGUST 2018
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AUBURN RISE MAKES AUSPICIOUS DEBUT
HOPE AT LARGE
By Marty Hope
Logel Homes make a splash in Auburn Bay
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im Logel has never been one to let grass grow under his feet. For something like 35 years he’s kept himself more than a little busy building and selling single-detached and multi-family homes in Calgary — and over that time he has piled up an enviable record more than 8,500 homes built and sold. Until a year ago, he had been working with his pal and partner — and head honcho at Cardel Homes, Ryan Ockey — under the Cardel Llifestyles banner. Then, again with Ockey’s blessing and support, Logel launched his own condo/townhouse brand called Logel Homes. As I said, that was a year ago. And it didn’t take long before Logel had jumped into the marketplace with his inaugural development called Auburn Rise located in the popular and successful Auburn Bay community being developed by Brookfield Residential. At the recent official opening of Auburn Rise, Logel was saying that he likely has the best location in Auburn Bay — across the street from Auburn Station’s retail development, just minutes from the South Calgary
Auburn Rise - Jackson
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Health Campus and more retail in Seton, and access to Auburn’s lake, pathways, and parks. While location is important to the success of any housing endeavour, quality, price, and appeal also play major roles, Logel says, standing at the entrance to the first building’s foyer. “We are developing Auburn Rise with 373 homes over five phases,” he says while pointing out the concrete work taking place on the second building. “And we now have seven fully-decorated show suites available and 10 different floor plans to offer.” The residences range from 467 square feet with one bedroom and one bath up to two-bed/two-bath units measuring 1,020 square feet. Pricing starts from the mid$100,000s while condo fees start at an estimated $170 per month. Obviously, consumers, everyone from first-time buyers to downsizers, like what they’ve seen so far, as sales have topped 100. And I’m sure those who have purchased and those considering buying have been impressed with the level of finishing in the show suites, the efficient use of space, and the large windows that are common to all
the floor plans. “We had a team of designers study the plans and kept going over them — and redrawing if necessary to make the best use of every square foot,” says Logel. “And our windows and patio doors are among the largest available so we can create brighter, open spaces.” Tim Logel Among the features available with each residence are nine-foot ceilings, a sound attenuation system to reduce sound transmission and increase privacy, heat recovery ventilation system, fibre-optic wiring, hard-wired alarm and sprinkler system, and key-pad entry at the building foyer. “We’ve tried to offer our residents everything they might need in an elegant, comfortable, and secure lifestyle,” says Logel. Other interior features include premium cabinetry, large kitchen island, walk-in pantry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, vinyl plank flooring and carpet, and tile backsplashes. “Whether you’re buying your first home or right-sizing for the future you’ll see quality and value in every part of your Auburn Rise condo,” says Logel. CL
Marty Hope. For more than two decades Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry. CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2018
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ON THE WATERFRONT Anthem’s Waterfront nears end, new condos in the works
CONDOSCAPES By Richard White
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recently toured Anthem’s impressive Waterfront project located on the shore of the Bow River between Sien Lok Park and Eau Claire Market. Some might remember it as the old Greyhound Bus Barns site as I do. I have been following the development of this site since the late ‘90s , first as the Executive Director of the Calgary Downtown Association and later as a member of City of Calgary Planning Commission. To make a long story short… Anthem bought the Greyhound site in 2004, spent two years getting approvals and cleaning up the contamination, before starting sales in 2007, just as the North American mortgage crisis hit. But they kept building and were rewarded with Calgary’s booming economy from 2010 to 2014, only to be hit again by the oil price crash. But they continued to build and are just now completing the last of the 10 buildings that comprise Calgary’s largest multi-family development with 1,000+ homes. URBAN LIVING AT ITS BEST Waterfront is located at the heart of Calgary’s amazing Bow River Promenade that now extends from the 14th Street Bridge and Shaw Millennium Park all the way east to Fort Calgary and the new ENMAX Park. Residents can easily walk to the Olympic Plaza Cultural District, Stephen Avenue Walk or to Kensington Village. They also have immediate access to Prince’s Island or St. Patrick’s Island Park. And Chinatown is just outside their front door. Waterfront is home to Calgarians of all ages and backgrounds, including young families. I even heard that at one time an oil company had 30 condos that they rented to
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employees from around the world who were working in Calgary on a temporary basis. VANCOUVER EAST? Whether you are driving, walking or cycling along Memorial Drive, Waterfront has a definite Vancouver look, not only because of the glass-dominated façades, but also because each building is strategically located to maximize the views - you could easily think you are living in Vancouver’s Yaletown or Coal Harbour. This is not surprising as the buildings were designed by Vancouver’s Rafii Architects, designers of many of Vancouver’s signature glass condo towers. Also, the location right on the Bow River promenade gives the feel of Vancouver’s seawall. WHAT’S NEXT? Anthem is currently building a 93-home project on Memorial Drive just west of the tony Kensington Inn and have purchased the old CBC site further west on Memorial Drive. They also have completed the planning and design for a transformative new development on McLeod Trail across from
the Erlton LRT Station. Named Crosstown, it will be a four-tower condo project with a 75,000-square-foot grocery store (that is size of a typical suburban store) which will help make Erlton a more complete community. LAST WORD While the public and politicians sometimes think condo development is easy — you just buy some land, create a plan, get approval, sell it, build it, then sit back and collect the profits, it is a lot more complicated than that. The developer pays for the land, the cost of design, approvals and construction before they see a dime and if the economy changes (as it always does), they have to do some fancy dancing to keep the project viable. Condo development is not for the those who are risk adverse — or the faint of heart!. CL
Richard White has been writing about Calgary urban living for over 20 years. Follow him on twitter @everydaytourist, read his blogs at everydaytourist.ca or contact him at richardlw@shaw.ca CO N D O L I V I N G AUGUST 2018
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A BETTER SECOND HALF IN 2018
REAL ESTATE INSIDER
By Mario Toneguzzi
Cagary market still facing significant challenges, but signs of improvement seen
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s the second half of 2018 approached, there were some very promising signs in Calgary’s new home construction industry for the rest of the year. Housing starts until the end of May had climbed to positive levels in almost every residential category but perhaps more importantly the signs of economic recovery in the city were buoying the mood of everyone about the future although still at a cautiously optimistic level. Lai Sing Louie, a regional economist with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, says there was an overall sense of optimism based on employment levels rebounding where they were back in 2014 just before the economic downturn began as a result of plummeting oil prices in the second half of that year. Oil prices are now up and so are the spirits of the province. Population has grown and net migration is turning positive again as people from elsewhere are moving to Alberta because of the brighter economic picture. All those positive signs are supporting housing demand. “There’s a lot of condos under construction,” Louie says. “In terms of supply levels, that’s going to give buyers more choice and probably keep prices steady right now. “We have the market classified as favouring the buyer right now. This additional supply will offer consumers even more choice at a competitive price . . . In this type of marketplace you’ve got to put product on that’s competitive, C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
otherwise it will sit there for awhile before it’s sold . . . But the apartment inventory has been coming down. That’s why you’re seeing more apartment construction.” According to the CMHC, year-todate until the end of May, there were 4,912 housing starts in the city compared with 4,135 for the same period in 2017. Year-to-date starts by housing category and 2017 numbers in brackets are: single-detached, 1,652 (1,571); semidetached, 466 (414); row, 594 (654); and apartment, 2,200 (1,496). Year-to-date until the end of May, there were a total of 11,298 new homes under construction broken down in the following way: single-detached, 2,422; semidetached, 784; row, 1,228; and apartment, 6,864. The future does indeed look good for the Calgary market. In its Metropolitan Outlook, the Conference Board of Canada said an improved oil price in 2017 helped Calgary’s real GDP post a 6.9 per cent gain, following two annual contractions in the mid-three per cent range prompted by oil’s 2014 price collapse. These dips were the first back-toback contractions since at least the late 1980s and inflicted considerable economic pain. “Last year’s strong rebound was accordingly welcome, although we estimate it did not quite recoup the two real GDP losses. That task will be accomplished this year, as we expect Calgary’s real GDP to expand 2.5 per cent,
putting local real GDP at a fresh record high. A further 2.1 per cent increase is on tap for 2019. Our medium-term call is for real GDP hikes to average in the mid-two per cent range annually,” it says. The conference board is forecasting total housing starts in the Calgary region to climb to 11,475 this year from 11,302 in 2017. Then it is forecasting slight growth annually for starts reaching 12,742 in 2021. But despite all the positive signs, the conference board said construction firms will still be wary of the residential market. 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 AUGUST 2018
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| CONDO TALES
MAN SHOPPING
It’s not as much fun as it might sound STORY BY JIM ZANG ILLUSTRATION BY LAMA AZARI
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don’t like shopping. Never have. Whether it’s for clothing, a new car, even groceries — I am not a fan. It’s not that I don’t like spending the money, that’s not the problem. The problem is that I ‘man shop’. Now let’s be clear what that means. It doesn’t mean I shop FOR men — not that there’s anything wrong with that — but that I shop like a man. Which is to say, I know what I want; I know where to find it; I go to that store (and that store only), buy what I want and leave. On average I probably spend twice as much time driving to and from the store as I do actually in it. I didn’t realize how many every day household items we take for granted — until I got my own place, that is, and didn’t have a corkscrew. Or a coffee pot. Or a strainer. Among many other things. With so many items to purchase when you’re setting up an entire condo from scratch — even a 625-square-foot one — you just can’t go to one store and get everything you need. Or can you? Nobody has absolutely everything, right? Although kudos to Walmart for trying. I mean, a doormat is a doormat, right? Who cares what store it came from?! Besides, can you see me in Bed Bath & Beyond? Or HomeSense? Me neither. I mean you’re talking about a dude who has remote control toy trucks on display in his home instead of plants. (I do
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have three tomato plants that I have raised from seeds, and am very proud of, out on my balcony.) Not only do I shop ‘guy style’, but I also think ‘guy think’. Which means I didn’t think of things like a garbage can for the bathroom. Or a toothbrush holder. Or a broom. I did, however, make sure to have a full set of barbeque tools, shot glasses and extra ice cube trays. Much of it from Dollarama. And I couldn’t resist that funky, palm tree-ish multi-coloured floor lamp at Walmart, or the Disney-themed 3-D table placemats. Thank goodness for the kindness of friends and family who gave me a leather sofa and loveseat, dining room table and chairs, even cookware and cutlery. I literally had none of it. Lucky for me that I am in a condo, or I’d have had to buy a bunch more stuff too. Like a lawnmower, shovels, rakes, trees, a fence, a snow shovel, etc. And then, even worse, you have to do all the work that you bought those things for. Me, now that I have everything I need for my place, my toughest job is deciding whether to barbecue first and then go for a rollerblade — or the other way around. CL
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ADVERTISERS INDEX | 
Annex Minto Communities page 7
Legacy Park Brad Remington Homes page 62
ARRIVE at Redstone Way Partners page 56
Mark 101 Shane Multi-family page 37
ARRIVE at Sage Meadows Partners page 56
Mahogany Hopewell Residential page 15
Axis in Walden Rockford page 52
Nude Battistella Developments page 33
Dallas 54 Q Construction Management front cover, pages 12-14
Park Point Qualex-Landmark pages 10-11
Gatestone Remington Developments page 60
Q Condominiums Morrison Homes Multi-Family pages 24-25
Holland Park Excel Homes page 50
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Radius Bucci page 4
Sage Hill Park Brad Remington Homes back cover Sanderson Ridge Sanderson Properties page 54 Scarboro 17 Bow Developments page 42 The Fifth Arlington Street Investments page 19 Trinity Hills page 2 The Guardian Hon Developments page 29 The Timbers Grablecraft Homes page 38
The Windsor Brittania Block LP page 20 Verve FRAM+Slokker Developments page 63 Verona Trico Homes page 43 Viridian Trico Homes page 43 Walden Place Cardel Lifestyles page 3 Westman Village Jayman BUILT page 58 ZEN Redstone Avalon Master Builder page 46
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