Condo Living - April 2019 by Source Media Group

CONTENTS

APRIL 2019 | VOLUME 15 ISSUE 232

16 COVER FEATURE 12 | Turning villa living on its head

Calais introduces lofted villas in Quarry Park FOCUS ON 10 | Gardening helper Perfect landscaping tools to tackle any size yard today

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CONDO PROFILES 16 | The Matrix is loaded Matrix in Mission oﬀers easy, stylish way to homeownership

STYLE 42 | Furnish the outdoors Patios are your own private oasis; give it a personal ﬂavour

20 | Excitement at Exchange Fish Creek Exchange’s success reaﬃrms Graywood Developments faith in Calgary

COLUMNS 47 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez 49 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 51 | Condoscapes by Richard White 53 | Real Estate Insider by Mario Toneguzzi

24 | Within reach Attainable Homes launches ﬁrst development under its own brand 28 | Get in the Nude Nude by Battistella marks a new way for urban living in the West Beltline

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COMMUNITY PROFILE 32 | Live the life in Mahogany Mahogany’s year-round fun-ﬁlled, family-oriented lifestyle beckons DESIGNER SERIES 35 | Dream space Capella design creates dreamy living spaces LIFESTYLE 38 | A stay-cation lifestyle 38 | A Cherishing the small town, lake resort feel of Westman Village

ITEMS 8 | Editor’s Message 54 | Ad Index

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE |

SPRING INTO ACTION

Spring is just around the corner… or so I keep telling myself. The brutal winter seems to be petering out but there’s this nasty chill in the weather still that’s knocked me out for a bit. I can’t even remember the last time I took a sick day. Oh well, happens to every one I suppose. The month kicked off interestingly enough with the 9th Home Owner Mark of Excellence (H.O.M.E.) Awards celebrating those companies who have achieved exceptional customer experience scores throughout 2018, as rated by their clients. It was a great time to go and catch up with industry friends and also celebrate the relationship between companies and their clients. Speaking of celebrating, there’s a whole lot of celebration going on at Quarry Park these days, as Remington Development Group gets ready for the release of their Calais bungalow villas in this riverside community. We’re also excited to tell everyone about the new Attainable Homes development in Martindale, it is the first time that the nonprofit organization is releasing a development under their own banner and it promises to be both affordable and sustainable with solar panel arrays as standard. Then there’s the Matrix in Mission that not only has some of the most modern condo styles in the most desirable inner-city neighbourhoods, but also has a terrific financing package that makes it real easy for firsttime homebuyers to afford their home. Nude by Battistella is also turning a lot of heads with their “small space, big life” campaign that touts the appeal of maximum lifestyle with a minimum of fuss. Then we have Fish Creek Exchange, the first development in Calgary by Toronto-based Graywood Developments NEXT MONTH: that has been so successful they are already The barbecue issue unfurling a second one in Kensington. Lake life in Mahogany just keeps getting better and our look at the new develpments in this successful Hopewell Residential community in the southeast gives a deeper insight on what’s going on here. Our STYLE guru Christina Loc lays out a fashionable way to make the most of your private outdoor space and enjoy the summers more. While Portia Yip turns her sights on what gardening tools are best for your needs in her Focus On photo feature. We sure hope everyone’s doing better than I have been the past few days, I know losing an hour of sleep for Daylight Savings time doesn’t help, but I think we’re through the worse of the wintry weather at least.

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca

PUBLISHER |

EDITOR | Pepper Rodriguez pepper@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, Christina Loc, Mario Toneguzzi, Richard White, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY

Christina Loc, 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 232 • ISSN 1918-4409 ©2019 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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Gardening helper

Perfect landscaping tools to tackle any size yard today

BY PORTIA YIP

MOTHER NATURE THREW another cold, long Alberta winter at us, but it’s about time to switch gears. Take advantage of our short spring months and get your garden or yard primped and primed ahead of time. The right tools and equipment can literally take the weight off your shoulders. So get ready and trade in those aches and pains, for your favourite cold beverage or two, because these handy supplies will take on the brunt of the work. CL

7 [ 1 ] HSA25 STIHL Hedge Clippers, $169.95 at Alberta Forest & Garden. [ 2 ] Haws Watering Can, $44.99 at Cobblestone Garden Centre. [ 3 ] STIHL Homescapers Series Lithium Ion Blower, $259.95 at greengate Garden Centres. [ 4 ] Felco Swiss Made F2 Professional Bypass Pruners, $76 at greengate Garden Centres. [ 5 ] FSA56 STIHL Trimmer, $279.95 at Alberta Forest & Garden. [ 6 ] Garden Boots Honeysuckle Design 1883 by Briars and the William Morris Gallery, $88 at greengate Garden Centres. [ 7 ] BGA56 STIHL Blower, $279.95 at Alberta Forest & Garden. [ 8 ] Pine Brush Memory Foam Kneeler Pad, $38 at greengate Garden Centres. [ 9 ] RMA460 STIHL Lawnmower, $699.95 at Alberta Forest & Garden. [ 10 ] 2 kg Nurseryland Overseeder with Microclover, $29.99 at Cobblestone Garden Centre. [ 11 ] Dramm Turret Sprinkler, $54.99 at Cobblestone Garden Centre. C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M

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Turning villa living on its head Calais introduces lofted villas in Quarry Park

here’s no question that Quarry Park has turned out to be one of Calgary’s best master-built communities where people can live, work and play. The community offers homebuyers a wide range of new home options, including luxury apartment-style condos, boutique townhomes, and now villas. On Saturday, April 6th, Remington Development Corporation will host the sales launch for The Calais villas at their prestigious presentation gallery at 350 Quarry Park Blvd SE between 12 and 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to find out more about this one-ofa-kind offering. The Calais villas are main-floor living at its finest and will hit a sweet spot in the growing market for Calgary’s baby boomer crowd who are looking to downsize. “Everything you need for daily living is on the main floor — master bedroom with sophisticated ensuite, massive kitchen designed to entertain, private den and double attached garage all complete with in-floor heating. In addition, two outdoor patios maximize the owners’ enjoyment of the outdoors,”

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says Remington Development’s Angie Herback. “Plus, with no stairs to deal with from the outside or from the garage, space and accessibility are

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optimized. We are referring to them as ‘Arizona style homes’,” she adds, “as they resemble the designs found in that area.” However there is one remarkable difference to The Calais from the usual bungalow-style villas seen here in Calgary; “we are literally turning villa living on its head, instead of a basement we have a bonus loft area above grade with an abundance of light.” she explains. The developed loft gives owners the flexibility of extra living space to fit their lifestyle, providing a bonus room, full bathroom, and the option of two additional bedrooms. “This makes it suitable for families with older kids, grandparents who wish to have room for

visiting grandchildren, or for those requiring a live-in care giver” Herback says. The Calais villas appeal to the downsizing crowd, who are looking for a no-maintenance condo lifestyle but with a larger and more luxurious design than a typical condo provides. Buyers are also thinking ahead and looking for somewhere they can live in for their foreseeable future. “The Calais lofted villas are particularly suited for aging-in-place and allow buyers to make a proactive lifestyle choice.” There are four floor plans to choose from, all featuring an open-concept design that is luxurious and extremely functional. Living room ceilings soar to 18 feet with equally large windows that add to the grand feel of each home. Upscale finishes have been professionally chosen by Holland Design, including hardwood flooring, quartz countertops, an exquisite tiled fireplace and sophisticated appliances. Early buyers are able to customize their home from the Classic, Contemporary, and Cutting Edge finishing packages. Consisting of 24 villas, The Calais project is located along Quarry Way and within steps of the river pathway system. Ranging in size from 1,285 to 1,465 square-feet on the main floor, and with an additional 800-square-feet in the loft. The villas are currently under construction and possessions are expected in Fall 2019.

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MAIN FLOOR

LOFT UPGRADE LOFT STANDARD

Prices range from $595,000 to $795,000 (plus GST). Seven units have already been sold pre-launch. “There is a strong demand for villas in Calgary, add to that our location which is a short drive to the inner-city, plus our vibrant, active and amenity-rich riverside community, we believe The Calais is going to be extremely popular,” Herback says. The community of Quarry Park has played a major role in the success of Remington Development’s previous multi-family developments here. The key has always been the fantastic location of Quarry Park; easy access to Glenmore and Deerfoot Trails, excellent transit options, and plenty of pathways to get around. Quarry Park provides a modern, urban live-play-work community, and a nature-rich oasis. There are tons of amenities within the community, including the Remington YMCA and all the recreational opportunities it offers and The Market at Quarry Park with its array of shops, restaurants and services. Of course, its location along the Bow River and nature reserve, the architectural character and variety of residential offerings, and the strong sense of community makes this one of the most desirable communities in the city. Remington has just a handful of ‘immediate possession homes’ in Quarry Park remaining: Champagne, the flagship luxury condo development is down to the final penthouse; The Gates has just one two-bedroom builder suite; and the Gatestone townhomes have only a couple of two- and three-bedroom homes. Coming up next for Remington is phase 2 of The Gates project, “A 32 unit condo building featuring one, two and three bedroom apartments. Located on Quarry Gate, this project is scheduled to launch summer 2019,” Herback says. n

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FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: Quarry Park PROJECT: The Calais villas DEVELOPER: Remington Development Corporation STYLE: Lofted villas with double attached garages SIZE: From 1,285 to 1,465 sq. ft. main floor plus 800 sq. ft. loft PRICE: From $595,000 to $795,000 plus GST ADDRESS: Presentation Gallery 350 Quarry Park Boulevard S.E. HOURS: Monday – Thursday 128pm; Friday – Sunday & holidays 12-5pm DIRECTIONS: From north, take Glenmore Trail east turn right at 18 Street, and turn right onto Quarry Park Blvd S.E. From south, take Deerfoot Trail north until exit 241. Turn onto 24 St S.E. and turn left onto 18 St. S.E. Turn left onto Quarry Park Blvd S.E. WEBSITE: www.calaisvillas.ca

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THE MATRIX IS LOADED U

Matrix in Mission offers easy, stylish way to homeownership BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

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nlike the one that Neo wanted to escape from, this Matrix is one where everyone will want to live in. And more admirably, can afford to own in. Located in the vibrant, trendy inner-city community of Mission, the Matrix promises a stylish, active, recreationally-oriented urban lifestyle with its sleek, modern look and spacious, functional floor plans. But even more appealing is the staggered down payment solution that its developers have devised to open a path for homebuyers with good credit ratings to achieve their homeownership dream. Calvin Buss, president of Buss Marketing, which is leading the sales and marketing efforts for Matrix C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M

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in Mission, tells Condo Living that coming up with the money for the down payment has always been the biggest roadblock for many young buyers looking to own their first home. “That’s why we have come up with a new set of down payment and mortgage incentives at the Matrix in Mission,” he says. “If you have a good credit rating, our bank can lend you the five per cent deposit with zero dollars up front and payments spread over 24 month,” he says. “And to protect buyers from mortgage rate rises, the Matrix is arranging 24-and 36-month interest rate holds to all buyers. Interest-only mortgages are also available, offering 37 per cent reductions in monthly mortgage payment. I don’t think anything like this has been offered in the inner-city before, it’s an exclusive deal you can only get C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M

at Matrix in Mission right now.” Matrix is a $25 million, five-storey, 67-unit condominium project in the heart of Calgary’s historic Mission neighbourhood. It’s the latest development headed by Harold Sicherman, who has a 20-year track record of development in Mission. Matrix in Mission is actually a follow up to his very successful — and all but sold-out — The District condos. “It’s right across the road from Matrix, and we’re confident that people will see in this new development the same appealing characteristics and features that had made The District so successful,” Buss says. Buss says their own market research pointed out what buyers want and Matrix is designed to meet those aspirations. “Condo buyers in the inner-city want a walkable lifestyle, to have a sense of living in the community. And Mission offers that in spades.” Matrix will go up just off the juncture of 4th Street and 17th Avenue S.W. — two of Calgary’s most popular main streets. The address at 320 – 19 Avenue Southwest is prime for mixing lifestyle and convenience, boasting a walk score of 96 and a bike score of 100. Residents in Mission can walk to an average of 18 coffee shops, bars and restaurants in just five minutes. “We’re also just a few blocks away from the Repsol Sports Centre, river pathways and bike lanes, which fits those with active lifestyles,” Buss says. “We don’t need to build those gyms and weight rooms in the building, because they are readily available in the neighbourhood, and which ultimately saves residents tons in condo fees.” He also points out that plenty of their buyers have been women. “Women love Mission, the buyers I’ve spoken with say they feel they totally safe

Located in the vibrant, trendy inner-city community of Mission, the Matrix promises a stylish, active, recreationally-oriented urban lifestyle with its sleek, modern look and spacious, functional floor plans.

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in this community, and that they are able to take their dogs for a walk without having to worry about their safety. Matrix, of course, is a pet-friendly building.” The upscale level of finish Matrix itself offers is another feature buyers are excited about, as Buss says these features are not normally seen in this price range. Twelve of the units are listed under the $299,990 mark, making them particularly attractive for first-time buyers who desire inner city living. The top floor is designed to have a penthouse feel, with those units topping out at $471,350. “And with the financing we offer, it makes it relatively cheaper to own than to rent a similar unit in the inner-city.” Matrix offers five floor plans, with one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom units ranging from 612 to 868 square-feet. Each home has been designed with thought to providing intelligent space, highlighted by nine foot ceilings. “The city views you get from this vantage point are simply amazing,” Buss says. Sales began last month and interest has been very high. “We are on the part of Mission that was not affected by overland flooding in 2013,” he points out. “The developers, particularly

“THE CITY VIEWS YOU GET FROM THIS VANTAGE POINT ARE SIMPLY AMAZING.”

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Harold Sicherman, have plenty of experience building in Mission and are prepared for all of the contingencies and challenges of building this near to the river, which allows them to meet construction deadlines and keep costs down.” CL

FA S T FAC TS PROJECT: Matrix in Mission COMMUNITY: Mission DEVELOPER: Mission 19 Ltd and Gravity Architecture STYLE: One-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom apartment condos SIZE: From 612 to 868 sq. ft. PRICE: Starting from below $300,000s ADDRESS: 320 – 19 Avenue S.W. SALES CENTRE: 117 – 17 Avenue S.E. HOURS: Monday to Wednesday: 1p.m. to 6:30p.m. Weekends: Noon to 5:00p.m. WEBSITE: www.matrixliving.ca

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Excitement at Exc BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

raywood Developments had no doubt that their first venture in Calgary would be a success and Fish Creek Exchange has not disappointed. This collection of townhomes and apartment-style condos on the edge of Fish Creek Park is enjoying robust sales, and the Toronto-based developer is so impressed that they are gearing up the launch of a follow-up development this spring. Patrick Briscoe, Vice President, Development project management for Graywood Developments, tells Condo Living that sales have been strong at Fish Creek Exchange as buyers love the lifestyle it affords living next to Calgary’s largest urban park and the second largest urban park in Canada. “Building 1 will soon be sold out and we are now over 60 per cent sold in Building 2. We’ve launched our final two blocks of townhomes in Site 1, which will be the last chance to buy with quick possessions. Overall, the site is 75 per cent sold,” Briscoe tells Condo Living. He says the success isn’t a surprise as buyers are excited about owning in the “last great Fish Creek address” and first possessions will start this spring.

“We have seen many people from the surrounding communities in the southwest. Our purchasers love the area and amenities that they have grown accustomed to and therefore do not want to leave the conveniences around Fish Creek Park.” Fish Creek Exchange is a 24-acre multi-family development located just off James Mckevitt Road and Macleod Trail S.W. Site 1 consists of two five-storey wood frame build-

“We have seen many people from the surrounding communities in the southwest. Our purchasers love the area ...” 20 |

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Fish Creek Exchange’s success reaffirms Graywood Developments faith in Calgary

ings with 100 apartment-style condos and 42 townhomes. Apartment suites range in size from 600 – 1,205 square-feet. They start from $230,900 including GST. Townhomes are 16- to 25-foot models with two or three bedrooms starting at 1,235 square-feet. There are three models with a variety of layout options, design selections, and upgrades to choose from. These are double garage models starting from $417,900, including GST.

The response has been clear from buyers, Fish Creek Exchange’s combination of established neighbourhood conveniences and the quietude of natural park settings has been a resounding success. So much so that the Graywood team has been hard at work preparing for the second phase of condos and townhomes as demand surges. “The biggest amenity is Fish Creek Park. Much of the recreation draw is to the park for hiking, biking, nature walks… those types of activities,” says Briscoe. But easy transportation access is a close second when it comes to the location’s appeal, as it’s proximity to everyday amenities like schools, shops, groceries, and entertainment provides ease to everyday life. Nestled in a residential community, surrounded by single-family homes, Fish Creek Exchange is uniquely situated to boast both a quiet and peaceful corner of the city while enjoying the convenience of Fish Creek Lacombe C-Train Station and Macleod Trail just steps away. It’s close to Macleod Trail for C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M

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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Shawnee Park PROJECT: Fish Creek Exchange BUILDER: Graywood Developments STYLE: Condos and Townhomes SIZE: 600 – 1,655 sq ft. PRICE: Condos $230,900 – $481,900 | Townhomes – $417,900 – $546,900 SALES CENTRE: 99 Shawnee Common S.W. HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 12 – 6 P.M. | Weekends & Holidays, Noon – 5 P.M. | Closed Fridays WEBSITE: https://fishcreekexchange.ca access but far enough away that you’re not bothered by traffic noise,” says Briscoe. He adds that since the community surrounding Shawnee Slopes has been there for 30 – 40 years, residents will benefit from living in a well-established community. “All of the essentials like schools and grocery stores are already here,” he adds. Fish Creek Exchange’s award-winning design is encapsulated in the two show suites available to view in their Presentation Centre at 99 Shawnee Common S.W. “Fish Creek Exchange has exceeded our expectations, sales have been very strong and traffic to the Fish Creek Exchange project has been steady since its launch. We believe that having proven locations for multi-family sites that are close to transit with high value amenities like Fish Creek Park available and providing top quality homes will always meet the needs of any purchaser.” This success has prompted Graywood Developments to greenlight its next project: The Theodore in Kensington.

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“Speaking of sites with great access to amenities, we are currently gearing up for an anticipated spring launch of The Theodore this year,” Briscoe says. “The building will be apartment condos in Kensington steps away from the Kensington/Sunnyside LRT station. We are extremely excited about the launch and feel like we are providing one of the best locations in the community for discerning purchasers CL

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WITHIN REACH Attainable Homes launches first development under its own brand BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

ttainable and sustainable — those aren’t just buzz words in Reach Martindale, the new townhome development from Attainable Homes Calgary, which promises to bring affordability and environmental sustainability under one roof. Attainable Homes Calgary (AHC) marks its 10th anniversary with the launch of Reach Martindale, the non-profit social enterprise’s first development to be built under its banner. “Reach Martindale represents a significant milestone for AHC. This is the first time we’ve purchased land on our own, as well as the first time we’re leading our own development,” says Jennifer McCarron, Director of Marketing & Communications at Attainable Homes Calgary. The 116-townhome community in this fully established northeast neighbourhood offers homes that suit a wide variety of lifestyles — “from singles to families that need

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five bedrooms,” McCarron says. Not only will they be affordable with price points starting from $144,900 including net GST, but they will all also feature a comprehensively designed array of solar panels that helps in keeping home energy costs down. “Individual home heating and electricity will be supplied with support of this solar panel network. Excess energy produced by our project will be supplied back to the electrical network. We expect the full solar power array to result in an energy cost savings for our customers,” she adds.

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AHC is a non-profit organization that makes homeownership accessible for middle-income Calgarians. AHC utilizes its innovative financial assistance program to help renters who can’t afford a down payment realize their dream of owning a beautiful, quality built, energy-efficient home in one of many local, amenity-rich AHC partnered communities. It was created by The City of Calgary in 2009, to help fill a gap in the housing continuum. “Former Mayor Dave Bronconnier and Councillor Brian Pincott noticed that renters weren’t moving into homeownership because of the down payment barrier,” McCarron says. “We remove that barrier by providing an interest-free down payment loan. Homebuyers can live in their home as long as they want. When they choose to exit the program or sell their home, they pay the interest-free loan back and share a portion of the home’s appreciation with the program to help pay-it-forward to more moderate-income Calgarians.”

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“Normally, in our program, when people come to us to buy a home, they’re buying inventory that we’ve purchased from our builder partners.” In the past decade, AHC has been paving the way for Calgarians to affordably own their home. They have provided nearly 1,000 homes for their clients in 28 developments across 21 communities all over the city. They currently have 80 homes available in existing developments, and Reach Martindale will provide 116 more homes. Reach Martindale, however, marks a departure from AHC’s previous business model of catering only to program participants. “Normally, in our program, when people come to us to buy a home, they’re buying inventory that we’ve purchased from our builder partners,” says Terra Davidson, Director of Sales. “Those homes are dedicated to program participants. In this development, we own the full site. So, in Reach Martindale, these

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CONDO PROFILE | Davidson says Reach Martindale townhomes come with features and finishes that buyers look for in a home these days. Laminate flooring along the main floor and low-pile carpet in the bedrooms, and quartz countertops are among the standard features. AHC paid particular attention to the “green” features of Reach Martindale that starts with the solar panel array, but does not end there. “We’re focused on creating a really tight building envelope with these homes. Because we’re using renewables to generate electricity, including electric heat, we will need less electricity thanks to the efficiency of these homes,” she points out. The insulation is superior in helping to reduce cold spots. These homes are blower-door tested during the construction process to find air leaks so they can be sealed up properly. “Of course, because the homes are well sealed, we ensure excellent indoor air quality by including HRVs, or heat recovery ventilators, in the design. These homes will all be EnerGuide tested and buyers will receive EnerGuide labels to indicate the efficiency of the homes are available to absolutely anyone who wants to live in this vibrant home. So, we’re not just saying these homes community. Our only requirement is that at least half of our sales are to are efficient, it’s third-party tested according program participants.” to EnerGuide standards.” Reach Martindale collects row townhomes and single-level stacked Davidson adds that buyers are coming from townhomes called garden suites. “On the small end, we have stacked a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, differtownhomes starting at a cozy 509 square-feet with one bedroom, one ent age groups, some single parents, young bathroom at a very affordable price point of $144,900 including net GST. couples, some young families, some with adult Our largest stacked home is 1,403 square-feet with three bedrooms and- children and some with multi-generations of two-and-a-half bathrooms for $271,900 including net GST,” Davidson says. family. “Clearly Reach Martindale is showing “In our row townhomes, the smallest home is 1,159 square-feet with that it has something for everyone.” CL two bedrooms and two bathrooms for $259,900 including net GST. The largest row townhome is 1,317 square-feet with three bedrooms and two F A S T F A C T S and a half bathrooms for $292,900 including net GST. Basements can be developed giving owners up to two bedrooms and one full bathroom PROJECT: Reach Martindale COMMUNITY: Martindale for an extra cost of $23,500 plus GST.” Construction for Reach Martindale is in full swing with first possessions DEVELOPER: Attainable Homes Calgary beginning in spring 2019. “We will hold a grand opening on April 6 and STYLE: Row townhomes and stacked garden 7. Sales are already underway and the reception has been incredible. We started with a VIP launch in September… and in October we hosted a suites large public event in the parking lot of the Genesis Centre. At both events, SIZE: From 509 sq. ft. we had line-ups. We haven’t seen line-ups in a few years. So, we know PRICE: Starting at $144,900 including net GST that Calgarians agree with us that we have something very special here.” ADDRESS: 7451 Falconridge Blvd N.E. Their location in the heart of Martindale is, indeed, special. “We love this location as it is packed with nearby amenities that our residents Immediately adjacent to The Genesis Centre can already use. You can’t get much closer to the Genesis Centre, which HOURS: Grand Opening Saturday & Sunday includes the Saddletowne YMCA and the City Public Library! It’s prac- April 6th & 7th tically next door, within a short 5-10 minute walk.” Starting April 22nd Monday to Thursday 2 – Reach Martindale will be one of the most walkable and transit-oriented in the city with the Saddletowne C-train station, groceries, restaurants, 8p.m. / Friday to Sunday Noon to 5p.m. WEBSITE: www.reachmartindale.com schools and centres of faith all nearby.

“WE LOVE THIS LOCATION AS IT IS PACKED WITH NEARBY AMENITIES THAT OUR RESIDENTS CAN ALREADY USE.”

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GET IN THE NU

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UDE

Nude by Battistella marks a new way for urban living in the West Beltline BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

uying in a condo tower, especially in the pre-construction phase, is an act of faith. It is a two-year wait — at the very least — before you get to move in and enjoy the life that attracted you there in the first place. But with Battistella Development you can be confident that this faith will be rewarded. As it approaches 40 years in business this year, Battistella Development is embarking on its newest high-rise tower, Nude in the West Beltline, its 13th multi-family development since 1992 when it launched Connaught Gardens. Led by brothers, Paul and Simon Battistella, the Calgary-based developer has built some of the most architecturally distinctive multi-family developments in the inner-city, all of them “place-making” landmarks in their communities. “Battistella has gained a reputation for the thoughtful, well-designed condo towers and townhomes that have become landmarks in their respective communities,” says Battistella Development’s Chris Pollen. “The difference with us, is that we know Calgary intimately, all of our developments — all exclusively in the inner-city — were specifically designed to fit the neighbourhoods they are going up in.” Each one adds to the flavour of the community, bringing life — literally and figuratively — to the landscape. Some of its most recent successes, Pixel and LIDO in Kensington, have added to the trendy vibrancy of the area, while INK in East Village brings a much needed affordability in one of the hippest, most dynamic communities in the downtown. And now comes Nude, which will be the first high-rise tower to be built in the West Beltline in some time. “We’re from Calgary, and we have an intimate understanding of the city, all our buildings are designed to take into account what it takes to live

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here, what is needed to cope with our weather and the challenges of building in a specific location. We also build just one building at a time so that we can focus all our energy and expertise on that single development,” Pollen says. “People have faith in the Battistella name.” Nude follows all the precepts of the Battistella method. It is a 177-suite, 18-storey tower in the West Beltline that espouses a minimalist lifestyle that is all about living life to the fullest. What Nude ultimately presents is a new way of looking at urban living. A life that pares down to the essentials that enables residents to live to the fullest. “Nude is about a home that you own and not a home that owns you, a smaller space for a bigger life,” Pollen says. Nude was designed from the inside out. “We started with the people who are going to call this building home, and created floorplans that reflected their lives — linear kitchens mean larger living spaces, custom millwork means bigger bedrooms, and large balconies mean sweeping city views and privacy from neighbours,” he says. The result is a highly elegant yet simple building and a lasting addition to our city’s skyline in the form of a proclamation for individuality. Suite sizes range from 400 to 800 square-feet and have room for all the things that bring value to your life — and nothing that doesn’t. Nude’s studio, one-bed, one-bed-plus-den, and two-bedroom plans are a minimalist’s haven. But don’t mistake them for cold, industrial-style apartments. “Minimalist isn’t being cold or austere or not keeping any material things, it’s about keeping only what is essential in our life,” Pollen says. “This is what we want to accomplish with Nude: Freedom to live your life the way you want. It is about editing and curating your own life. Imagine how liberating life can be if you didn’t have

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“Nude is perfect for someone who is looking to downsize down the road and the two or three years it will take to build Nude will give them time to get ready for this eventuality. The same is true with new homebuyers, the one thing they are assured of is the quality of a Battistella home.”

Nude suites start from the $190,000s and half of the development is priced under $300,000. It is the most affordable new downtown condo in Calgary. “The savings you can make in your mortgage payments allows you to live a bigger life. It is about making intentional choices and living a life of urban mobility.” Like its predecessors, Nude also calls attention to itself with the timeless architecture that will make it to spend all your money paying for your home, or in owning a car. It is stand out in the neighbourhood. It will feature a corrugated metal cladding material about editing and curating your own life.” The suites exhibit Battistella’s signature touches including the glazed along with glass and steel and a distinctive concrete floors and exposed ducts along the tall ceilings. “There’s a lot coloured light band at the top. “For Nude our that our buyers have come to expect from a Battistella development, and architectural inspiration came from buildings Nude comes through.” that have stood the test of time. Buildings that The micro-suite designs of Nude were carried over from their hit INK were built 20 or 30 years ago but look like condos in East Village. “We just have a lot more of them this time,” Pollen they could have been completed yesterday. says. “The studios were our most popular floorplan in INK, and they now The common theme we found was simplicity make up over 40 per cent of Nude,” he says. — basic geometric forms, simple materials and “In a way, Nude is the evolution of what we learned with INK. With Nude repetition that create a sense of order. These we have refined the floorplans based on the feedback we received from are the themes that define the architecture our buyers and prospects. Titled underground parking will be offered of Nude,” Pollen says. and customers will have the option to choose whether they would like a “Nude by Battistella is laying its foundation stall or not. We are very confident that making parking optional aligns purposefully in West Beltline to help buyers with the growing trend we have seen in Calgary’s inner-city, where many create a life free from excess so they can focus buyers may wish to not own a car.” on what really matters,” he adds. “With all The community of West Beltline certainly allows for this kind of life. your essentials close to home, you’ll want to “It’s urban life at your doorstep. We are near public transport and bike be the first to know all you can about this new lanes, Co-op grocery is just down the road where you can get fresh pro- condo development.” CL duce daily, you can walk or bike to and from work downtown, and we are only three blocks away from 17th Avenue and all its trendy pubs, diners, F A S T F A C T S and restaurants. There’s no shortage of shops, restaurants and parks to PROJECT: NUDE by Battistella experience — all moments away.” Pollen says. Pollen thinks Nude’s rooftop garden will be the most popular spot in COMMUNITY: West Beltline the whole building. “It creates an environment where residents can get DEVELOPER: Battistella Developments to know their neighbours. We will also have a resident coordinator who STYLE: 177 apartment style condos can arrange for parties and other activities among residents, which our SIZE: 400-800 sq. ft. buyers love.” He says that downsizers, those looking for their first home and those PRICE: From the $190,000s who want to experience the urban lifestyle make up their demographic. ADDRESS: 1315 14th Ave. S.W. (on-site “Nude is perfect for someone who is looking to downsize down the road presentation centre opening soon) and the two or three years it will take to build Nude will give them time to get ready for this eventuality. The same is true with new homebuyers, WEBSITE: For hours and to register, go to the one thing they are assured of is the quality of a Battistella home.” www.battistella.ca/Nude

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Live the life in Mahogany BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

hrough the long, hot summers to the cool, crisp winters, life in Mahogany remains as enjoyable as a day on the beach with the four-season fun that Calgary’s largest lake community offers. Now, there are even more opportunities to live in this multiple-award-winning community, as its developer — Hopewell Residential — announces the opening of several new show homes starting this spring. “Calgary’s favourite lake community of Mahogany is thrilled to be opening a number of new show homes in 2019,” says Hopewell Residential senior marketing manager, Nicole McLaws. “This includes a spring parade of show homes, with brand new paired homes by Hopewell Residential; laned homes by Hopewell, Excel Homes and Jayman BUILT; and front-garage homes by Hopewell, Excel and Jayman.” The new show homes further prove Mahogany’s vaunted reputation for offering some of the widest selection of homes in Calgary. Every kind of housing option is available in this popular southeast community — from some of the most affordable apartment-style condos in the city, to the most opulent lakefront estate homes on Mahogany Island, and everything else in between. Mahogany also gathers some of the most renowned home builders in the city, including Hopewell Residential, Calbridge Homes, Excel Homes, Morrison Homes, Jayman BUILT, and Homes by Avi. Section 23 Developments came in last year and their executive paired homes have been a remarkable hit. “Mahogany continues to be Calgary’s best-selling new com-

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Mahogany’s year-round fun-ﬁlled, family-oriented lifestyle beckons

munity, with a home and price point for everyone,” McLaws says. The Westman Village complex of condos and townhomes and Sandgate Condos by Hopewell Residential offer multi-family options. “First-time buyers love the condos, and Jayman BUILT’s Westman Village also features rental condos. Downsizers can find a condo or bungalow that they love, while families, couples and singles all have a wealth of choice in Mahogany. There truly is a home and price for everyone — and even better, there’s Mahogany’s unparalleled collection of amenities for everyone to enjoy,” McLaws says.

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MAHOGANY’S COLLECTION OF HOMES AND THEIR BUILDERS BOULEVARD COLLECTION (FROM THE $190,000S): • Sandgate condos by Hopewell Residential from the $190,000s • Westman Village condos from the $230,000s • Hopewell Paired Homes from the $330,000s Mahogany is now home to more than 14,000 residents, all of whom love the community’s unbeatable year-round lake lifestyle, McLaws says. “The community continues to grow, with new lots and phases being released regularly, along with new gathering spaces, retailers and parks opening as the community progresses.” Now, less than 10 years since the first shovel broke ground, Mahogany has blossomed into a multi-faceted community with an enviable list of already-existing amenities, not the least of which is the 63-acre lake, a 21-acre beach area and a 22,000-square-foot stateof-the-art beach club crowning it off. Its active lake lifestyle is very much taken to heart by everyone who lives here. “Mahogany residents young and old absolutely love its four-season lake lifestyle. There’s skating, hockey, tobogganing and plenty of programs and events all winter long, while summer is ideal for paddleboarding, swimming, wetland strolling, playground enjoyment and more,” she points out. There is also a wide range of shops and services that makes life a breeze — from the Sobeys grocery, to preschools, medical services, restaurants, coffee shops, kids’ activities and more, there’s an amenity for everyone in Mahogany. Mahogany opened its K-6 Catholic school last year, and there are a couple of preschools within the community. “A new school is in the works, with additional school sites planned throughout the community. More shopping and services are also on the horizon, with the Urban Village planned to expand over the coming years,” McLaws says. Even more than all that is the immediate sense of belonging and community that residents get from the first time they move in. “You feel an immediate sense of community when visiting Mahogany,” she says. “Mahogany’s Homeowners’ Association does an amazing job of bringing residents together through year-round educational and recreational programs, and the result is a tight-knit, inclusive community that’s truly unique in Calgary.” CL

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LAKELAND COLLECTION (FROM THE $360,000S) • Laned Homes from the $360,000s from Hopewell Residential, Jayman BUILT and Excel Homes. • Single Front-Attached Garage Homes from the low-$400,000s from Hopewell Residential • Double Front-Attached Garage Homes from the $490,000s by Excel Homes, Hopewell Residential and Jayman BUILT. RESERVE COLLECTION (FROM THE $700,000S) • Lakeside Estate starts in the $700,000s from Homes by Avi, Calbridge Homes and Morrison Homes. • Executive Paired Homes from Section23 Developments start from $490,000s. ISLAND COLLECTION • Exclusive executive estate homes. Call for details. Visit www.mahoganyliving.com for more information.

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DREAM SPACE

CHLOE LEUNG

Capella design creates dreamy living spaces WRITTEN BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

t takes tons of creativity and imagination to come up with a distinctive look for a show suite that would grab the attention of possible homebuyers; it takes a lot more to accomplish this goal within the confines of a limited space. Brookfield Residential’s new show suite for its Capella condos in the University District’s Discovery Centre is a triumph of effortless creativity that captures the beauty and sophistication of stately and spacious condominium living in a few square-feet of space. Designed by Brookfield Residential’s showhome coordinator, Chloe Leung, the Capella show suite captures the feel of a spacious, luxurious home — a designing feat that is nothing short of stunning considering the

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limited space she had to work with. Notice the furniture, nothing is small scale as can be expected in most condos. Even the massive eight-seater dining table looks right at home in this confined space. That table can even be expanded further to add a couple more seats. But this is nothing out of the ordinary for Chloe, who despite her youthful appearance has worked in the Calgary design industry for years, and is accustomed to defining living spaces through her creativity. “I travel extensively and get a lot of my inspiration from places I’ve visited. Restaurants are also a huge source of inspiration to me seeing how their design can make customers feel immediately at home.” Capella offers apartment-style condos and executive single-level residences. Chloe created a fashionable kitchen vignette for the apartment-style condos, but it is the full suite she designed with admirable deftness and precision that brings to bear the full effects of a luxuriously grand single-level residence. It showcases the vision for glamourous living that Capella is all about.

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Capella’s show suite for its single-level residences illustrates beautifully that downsizing may mean scaling down on living space, but not in luxury. Customized full-height cabinetry with under-cabinet lighting and matching granite along the backsplash, kitchen counter and island give it a polished, sophisticated look. The waterfall design of the island brings the entire room together. “The island is so massive that I had a bit of a problem sourcing a granite slab big enough to fit it in the colour I wanted,” Chloe says.

Pops of elegant black also serve to enhance the sense of sophistication in the Capella show suite. Silgranit doublebowl undermount sinks are among the lavish standards in Capella’s single-level residences.

Sleek and sensual black taps in the master bath raise its spa-like ambience. Buyers of Capella’s single-level residences can customize the finish of their home with the assistance of an interior designer at The Brookfield Studio, creating a home that truly represents their tastes and desires.

The Capella show suite has a golden aura about it, emphasized by the champagne bronze hardware Chloe uses for pulls and accents. Notice how the theme continues throughout the room from the legs of the bar stools to the paintings she chose. “We commissioned a local artist for those paintings, it brings class and culture to the space and goes a long way in letting buyers know how they can personalize the look of their suites here.”

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| DESIGNER SERIES The wood elements of the cabinetry, the engineered hardwood flooring, and even the 12foot dining table, appeals to older and younger generations alike. “The older generation like it for the sense of nostalgia it brings, while the younger generation like it for its modern, Scandinavian feel,” Chloe says. Tall ceilings and the big bank of windows that the majority of Capella suites get, enhances the sense of luxury.

The 10-milimetre glass shower is a definite high point in the standard design of the single-level residences that starts from $668,900 (plus GST). Ensuite showers have tiled bases and surrounds adding to the sense of grandeur.

The ensuite showcases a MAAX freestanding tub with deck-mount fourpiece Roman tub fixture. “I wanted to make the buyer feel that they can get the same aspects of living in Capella as they did in their single-family homes,” she says. Visit the Capella show suite at the University District Discovery Centre at 4410 University Ave N.W. Or go to capella.brookfieldresidential.com for more information. CL

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A stay-cation lifestyle

Cherishing the small town, lake resort feel of Westman Village

BY DARLENE CASTEN PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX

ometimes less is more — way more. For Sarah downsizing meant gaining an entire village - a village with a gym, swimming pool, restaurants, coffee bar and a beach lifestyle. Jayman BUILT has created an unparalleled multi-family living concept on the shores of Mahogany Lake. Westman Village is virtually a micro-town on the shores of this southeast lake community, with rental apartments, condominiums, luxury condominiums, a 55+ building and an assisted living facility. It is all tied together by the Village Centre — a three-storey amenities building accessible to all the residential buildings through the underground parkade or glass overhead walkway. Inside the Village Centre is a swimming pool with slide, gym, yoga/ spin studio, cooking demonstration room, woodworking shop, theatre, wine cellar with dining area, party room with pool tables bar and televisions, craft studio, botanical garden and outdoor terrace. Besides having all of her daily needs and then some on her doorstep, Sarah also has her family and career all within the confines of Westman Village. Sarah’s parents were the first to move into the development’s

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leased apartment building, Lyric, followed by her brother (and former roommate), who bought in the Calligraphy I building. That prompted Sarah to look seriously at downsizing from her Jayman BUILT townhome. As a Jayman employee, she was well aware of the unique project and says it was the right timing because she was contemplating simplifying her life by living in a single-floor apartment-style condo. She purchased a 711-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment with a den and says it has been a great move for her lifestyle. “The cleaning here is great,” she laughs. The move also allowed her to update her surroundings. She chose a light, bright and airy look for her apartment with soft grey laminate flooring, all white walls and cabinets and a modern white hexagon backsplash. Dark grey granite countertops ground the light colour palette in the kitchen and washroom. Over-height ceilings add to the roomy feel of the open-concept living space. A bright, C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M

| LIFESTYLE

royal blue will be her accent colour, she says including custom-made drapery for her patio sliding door that looks out onto Mahogany Lake. A job opportunity within the company in the sales office has her working only a few floors away from her apartment. Sarah says she loves being able to simply ride the elevator to her job or can take a 5-minute walk to spend time with her parents and brother. When she feels like ‘getting out’ she doesn’t have far to go, which she appreciates. The library and concierge are her favourite features of Westman Village. When she’s in the mood to socialize and meet her neighbours, Sarah says there is always someone in Village Centre to chat with. “Everyone is very friendly, whether you are here or the Village Centre,” she says. The development has a resort feel that lends itself to good vibes, says Sarah. There is always something going on, she adds. “I’ve partaken in a couple of art classes — painting ceramics,” she says. The avid reader said the library has saved her night before. “I’ve found some good books in there,” she says. “One night I finished a book and thought now what am I going to do tonight? I went over to the Village Centre and found a book.” She’s also spent some time in the glassed-in tropical garden with a good book. Having a concierge comes in handy, particularly when she first moved in and was making more online purchases, she adds. The deliveries are left with the concierge and the homeowner is notified it has arrived. Having 24-hour security is another plus

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because, she says it gives peace of mind when she is out walking her five-year-old Shih Tzu, Koach. “Late at night, if I take Koach for a walk I know I’m safe on my own,” she says. Sarah is looking forward to warmer days when she and Koach will be able to walk along the promenade around the lakes, which is within view of her large patio. She also envisions time spent out there on a comfortable chaise lounge, reading a Jodi Picoult book. The non-enthusiastic cook is also thrilled about the opening of a healthy fast food spot in the commercial street of Westman Village. “I cannot wait to go to Chopped Leaf,” she says. Twenty retailers have opened or are in the process of setting up shop. An Anolog Coffee and Mode Fitness Studio are located in the Village Centre. Diner Deluxe is opening its third Calgary location, serving up their locally sourced breakfast and lunch menu, and Chairman’s Steakhouse will offer fine dining in the Village’s centrally-located retail street. The practical things of life are also available — a pharmacy, dental office and a high-end liquor store with a selection of wine, craft beer and spirits are also open or opening in Westman Village. For more information about future phases of Westman Village, visit w w w.westmanvillage.com CL Sarah and her five-year-old Shih Tzu,

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FURNISH THE OUTDOORS Patios are your own private oasis; give it a personal flavour

BY CHRISTINA LOC

ABOVE Throw in an umbrella for those super hot sunny days and attach the Luna Umbrella Light and Bluetooth Speaker by Treasure Garden to provide extra lighting while allowing you to listen to your tunes. Umbrella is also from Treasure Garden called the Starlux AKZ Plus Cantilever and are both available at Wicker Land.

RIGHT Look for heavy duty outdoor furniture. At Patioline, they carry marine grade steel that won’t rust and teak that will weather nicely outdoors. Shown here is the Equinox Bistro Table by Barlow Tyrie.

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FURNITURE FOR LOUNGING AND DINING. When it comes to selecting outdoor furniture pieces, like any space, it is important to select the right scale and style of furniture for your lifestyle needs. Consider how you will utilize your patio and go in with a cohesive plan. If you are on a budget, it is better to have a full concept of what you would like your space to look like in the long run so you can invest in the proper pieces in stages rather than trying to piece together a mishmash of things. For a smaller patio, like in a condo, choose two comfortable lounging chairs. Add a small bistro table for meals plus a storage bench to store your cushions and throws while using it as extra seating or somewhere to put your feet up. If you have a big deck, you will want to outfit it with a full outdoor dining and lounging set. For the in-between ten-by-ten foot deck, you may want to invest in a comfortable outdoor sectional or sofa and chairs to pair with a chat table. A chat table is higher than a coffee table height but shorter than a dining table height. This way, you can have the best of both worlds by having an all-in-one area where you can lounge and eat while still making room for the barbecue. Tip: At Patioline — Outdoor Forever Furniture, a retail store in Calgary, they emphasize the importance of looking for heavier duty outdoor C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y PAT I O N L I N E

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atio season is finally just around the corner. Now is the time to begin creating an oasis that will provide you with those precious hours of outdoor enjoyment. Whether you are craving that bit of fresh air with your morning coffee or an evening under the stars spent with family and friends, regardless of your patio size — big or small — curating the perfect outdoor living space requires you to consider the following must-haves:

ADD SOME GREENERY TO YOUR PATIO. Plants have a soothing effect and can really enhance your mood. Fill empty corners with plants, run them along the perimeter of your railing for privacy, hang them from your walls or roof and place them on tables. Tip: Succulents, herbs, grasses and cedar look great on a patio. For a touch of colour, low-maintenance flowering plants like Calibrachoa, BlackEyed Susan Vine, Geranium and Bacopa are beautiful in pots. LIGHT UP YOUR WORLD. Lighting is an essential part of design. Creating that bit of glow can be achieved through layering a wide range of products. Use hurricanes and lanterns to house wick or LED candles; hang string and LED strip lights; plug in outdoor lamps and stake solar powered lights in to your pots to highlight your plants. Also available on the market are LED planter pots, outdoor chairs and tables that light up. Tip: Make sure to use outdoor certified cords and light bulbs.

CRANK UP THE HEAT. Extend your time on the patio by using standing or wall mounted infrared heaters to keep warm. The crew at Wicker Land explains, “infrared heaters are a great source of heat since heat is directed at what it is aimed at and not the air so even when there is a breeze, the heat stays put”. Fire tables are also another great source of heat (as well as light) and according to Patioline, “more and more people are doing fire tables in their lounge and dining area”. For condos, compact table top fire pit or bowls are a great addition. Tip: Visit outdoor specialty stores like Wicker Land and Patioline to get advice from the experts. They can help you determine what product is suitable for you and what is required. Things to consider would include whether you will need a gas line, 220v power or if a portable propane tank or 110v power will suffice. The patio should be treated as an extension of your home. You want it to be entertaining, inviting and comfortable. As such, attention to detail is just as important on your patio or deck as it is inside your home. Don’t let it be a mirage. Start transforming your patio in to an oasis so that you can fully enjoy and appreciate the beautiful summer months ahead. CL

ABOVE Plants have a soothing effect. Fill empty corners with plants, run them along the perimeter or roof and place them on tables. Featured here is the Sion collection by E9 Luxury Living. They have modular lounging pieces that are only 30” deep yet sit nicely. Great for balconies. Available at Patioline.

LEFT The Aura ComfortPlus Infrared Heater provides is designed to warm people and objects without heating the air in between. This heater can be used all year round as it is weather proof and can be left outside.

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furniture. They carry marine grade steel that won’t rust and teak that will weather nicely outdoors. For high wind areas, especially in high-rise condo units, they also suggest looking for patio furniture that have Velcro or ties to secure the cushions.

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The Aura MW Series Wall Mount Infrared is designed to warm people and objects without heating the air in between. This heater can be used all year round as it is weather proof and can be left outside.

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LEFT Outdoor living has become such a big category that the possibilities are endless. The Zen fire table by O.W. Lee sits at chat table height giving you the best of both worlds by having an all-in-one area to lounge and dine. Available at Wicker Land.

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RIGHT Liven up your space by adding texture, colour and pattern with rugs, toss cushions and throws.

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| A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E |

AMENITY-RICH RADIUS CONDOS WELCOME FIRST RESIDENTS

ucci Developments’ latest building — Radius in Bridgeland is ready for residents! With an abundance of in-house amenity spaces, nothing has been left to be desired. A total of 16,000 square-feet of shared space with separate studios for yoga/ barre, spin, weight and cardio training makes up almost half of the amenity space in the building. All equipment is state of the art — which means residents no longer have to pay for an off-site gym membership. Radius also takes care of the less obvious, everyday needs, such as online grocery deliveries. A common pantry called the ‘SPUD’ room allows residents to order groceries online at SPUD.ca and have them delivered straight to Radius any day of the week. Also equipped with a concierge service, any type of package delivery will never be missed. The community of Bridgeland itself plays a key role in Radius’ complete lifestyle package. The location is extremely unique and is park side in a quiet neighbourhood while still being close to all major arteries in the city. Radius is also only a five-minute walk to the Bridgeland CTrain stations and the RiverWalk pathway system at the Bow River. There is absolutely no need to compromise on anything living at Radius. Bucci Developments thought of everything when

Spin room

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designing Radius. Every home has heated underground parking, additional storage lockers, air- conditioning and private balconies with a gas line. We also can’t forget about the sprawling 8,000 square-feet roof top patio that is sure to be the most popular spot in the building. Radius offers a mix of plans ranging from 618 square-feet to over 1,500 square-feet, with the majority of homes being Junior two-bedroom twobathroom plans; start at $360,000. With only 30 per cent of Radius homes remaining, visit the Radius building for a tour to see the stylish functional sophistication theses homes and amenities have to offer for yourself. Visit bucci.com/radius for more informations. Connect with our sales team to learn more 403.225.0023. n

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AROUND TOWN

AFFORDABLE LUXURY COMES TO CHESTERMERE LAKE

kylar Homes to bring 58 new townhome residences to Chestermere Chestermere, AB — An $11 million townhome project launches today in Chestermere’s Lake District. Located at 248 Kinniburgh Blvd., Skylar Homes will provide a much-needed influx of affordable homes to the City of Chestermere. Only 22 kilometres east of downtown Calgary, Skylar Townhomes in Chestermere offers residents a year-round, luxury cottage lifestyle at an affordable

By Pepper Rodriguez

price point. With homes ranging between $289,000 and $369,000, owners can enjoy close proximity to beaches and boating, while enjoying a short commute to Calgary. “Based on our research, we saw a demand for more affordable housing in the Chestermere area,” said Peter Cheung, president of Alture Properties “We set out to build something that millennials and first-time home buyers can afford while benefiting from the lifestyle that Chestermere has to offer.” Developed by Alture Properties and designed by BCW Architects, Skylar Townhomes are comprised of three-storey attached row townhomes. They range in size from 1,240 to 1,700 square feet and come in three different layouts with 2.5 bathrooms in both the two-bedroom and

three-bedroom options. End units feature a double garage and interior units have a single garage. Skylar Townhomes feature spacious, open floor plans, nine-foot ceilings and sound-dampened construction and materials to minimize sound transfer between units. Kitchens and bathrooms in Skylar Townhomes feature quartz countertops and each home is equipped with stainless steel Whirlpool kitchen appliances and Samsung washer and dryers. 2018 City of Chestermere census data shows a young city where home ownership is the norm, with 84.7 per cent of its 20,732 residents under the age of 60 and more than 85% of residents owning their homes. 74% of homes in Chestermere are single detached and 16.8% are duplex or townhouses.

WINNERS OF 2019 CUSTOMERINSIGHT HOME OWNER MARK OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

t was a big night for Calgary home builders as CustomerInsight handed out the 2019 Home Owner Mark of Excellence Awards. Cedarglen Homes won big nabbing trophies in the Builder of Choice single-Family and Multi-Family category. While Cardel Lifestyle won their fifth straight customer award. Here’s the list of Calgary winners:

Now in its 9th year, the Home Owner Mark of Excellence (H.O.M.E.) Awards celebrate those companies who have achieved exceptional customer experience scores throughout 2018, as rated by their clients. Two builder reviews are used, (1 month

post-possession and 13 months post-possession), and includes criteria such as product and service satisfaction, process/procedures Logel Homes’ Brayden and Tim Logel (from left) accept their fifth and follow-through straight customer experience award. on promises made and fulfilled to customers. CL

Best Customer Experience Calgary Single Family (small volume) — Lupi Luxury Homes Best Customer Experience Calgary Single Family (medium volume) — McKee Homes Best Customer Experience Calgary Single Family (large volume)— Stepper Homes Best Customer Experience Calgary Multi-Family (small volume) — StreeSide Developments (Calgary) Best Customer Experience Calgary Multi-Family (large volume) — Logel Homes Builder of Choice Single-Family (medium volume) — Broadview Homes Builder of Choice Single-Family (large volume) — Cedarglen Homes Builder of Choice Multi-Family (large volume) — Cedarglen Homes

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StreetSide’s Ian Macdonald and Richard Daley are all smiles after taking their award. CO N D O L I V I N G A PR I L 2019

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RESOLVING ETHICAL DILEMMAS

ASK MARIA

By Maria Bartolotti

Putting in place a Code of Ethics helps condo boards resolve disputes

Desr Maria; How important is it for an elected Officer or Director to maintain confidentiality of Board decisions?

Very important is the correct answer. We need only look at the current political scandals in Canada and the U.S. to see how important it is to conform to a code of ethics. Boards have an obligation to act honestly and in good faith and in the best interest of the condominium corporation. If the board chooses not to follow the standard of care, this can put the condominium corporation in a position of liability. In addition, the board of directors must exercise care, diligence and skill that a prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances. In other words, not putting the condominium corporation in harms way and always acting with prudence

when making decisions. Once elected, the condominium board of directors have specific and critical duties that they must adhere to. These duties are listed in the condominium corporation bylaws. It’s important for board members to understand and be familiar with the bylaws, since they will be held accountable to them and the owners. It’s also recommended that boards implement a Code of Ethics that can be signed by all members of the board. A Code of Ethics will set clear and precise guidelines that members of the board can follow, and it will help set the framework of how to handle conflicts within their condominium community. For example: if a director has a relative they want to hire to complete a certain project at the condominium or in the insistence where a director is in breach of a bylaw. The Code of Ethics can help

determine the best course of action to address that particular situation. It can be overwhelming and time consuming for a board to create a code of ethics. So let me help set you in the right direction. New Concept Management Inc. recommends some, if not all of the following to be included in your code of ethics. • Honesty and Good Faith • Care, Diligence and Skill • Conflict of Interest • Confidentiality • Good Conduct • Education • Abuse of Proxies • Support • Defamation • Minimize Conflict • Performance of Duties • Scope of Authority • Agreement • Unsanctioned Board Meetings When you as a board create your code of ethics, be sure to define in detail and set the parameters for each of the codes. This way, there is clear understanding behind the meaning of the rules. Also, don’t forget to sign and date your code of ethics. Until next time … CL

Maria Bartolotti

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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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 A PR I L 2019

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BMO CENTRE EXPANSION?

CONDOSCAPES By Richard White

If we build it, will they come?

hat if a new arena, expanded BMO Centre and expanded/renovated Arts Commons don’t attract billions of dollars in private sector projects (fancy new hotels, dozens of funky condos and a street full of bars and restaurants) like the Ernst Young (EY) Report says they might? I don’t want to put a kibosh on everyone’s enthusiasm that CMLC can magically redevelop Stampede Park and Victoria Park (SVP) by adding 8,000 new residents and 4 million square feet of mixed use development. After all, that is what they did with East Village after several failed attempts by others for revitalization. But, I want to add some caution to the debate. The 66-page EY Report basically says if the City, Province and Feds spend money on these three mega projects it will create jobs and attract significant private investment. However, would we just be cannibalizing development that would have happened at other sites nearby — further west in the Beltline, Inglewood, and yes, maybe even East Village? What new events will be attracted to the new arena — oops — I mean “events centre?” I expected to see a long list of events that don’t come to Calgary because

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the Saddledome is inadequate. Give me a list. Please! The EY Report says since Edmonton, Columbus, Denver and Nashville all have created successful new sports & entertainment districts, so can Calgary. In each of these cities, the new facilities created a new cluster of attractions at a new site. Calgary’s plan is very different in that it involves expanding existing facilities and moving the arena one block. There is no new hub. How does moving the arena one block become a game changer for the redevelopment of area? Are there examples of cities trying to create new sports & entertainment districts that have failed? Hamilton? Quebec City? And, what impact will the SVP mega makeover have on future development in East Village? The vision is almost identical to East Village’s — create two major attractions and surround them with new public spaces, improved streetscapes, residential and hotel towers. Shouldn’t we finish East Village before we start a new one? In fact, there are signs that East Village’s redevelopment is slowing down, as Bosa Developments has taken down the cranes that were supposed to build Arris two condo towers above the 200,000 square foot retail development. Is this a red flag that things are not as rosy in East Village as they once were? Will SVP compete with East Village for future private investments? The fiscal success of East Village is in large part due to a last minute change in the boundaries of The Rivers district to include The Bow — a mega tax paying office tower. The taxes paid by The Bow

ensured the Community Revitalization Levy would be fiscally viable. There is no Bow Tower project for SVP. It takes a lot of condos to pay the taxes of one mega office tower. Is there a private developer on the sidelines interested in building a new mixed-use hotel, residential, retail complex if we get a new arena? If so, please let them come forward. I doubt the expansion and renovations of Art Commons will attract any new private investment. I am hopeful the expanded BMO center will attract a hotel or two. LAST WORD Calgary currently has a huge cash flow problem. It now receives $192 million less in annual taxes from downtown offices and has no idea how to replace it without increasing taxes to the small business or residential taxpayers. That’s a whopping $1.9 billion dollars shortfall over the next 10 years. And the same time, Calgary is currently on the hook for $1.6 billion as its share of the $4.7 billion first phase of the Green Line and will probably need another billion as its share to complete the project in the late 2020s. While excited by the plans for the redevelopment of Stampede Park and Victoria Park and Arts Commons — all long overdue — my enthusiasm it tempered by my belief the City is not in a position to take on any more mega million dollar projects at this time. 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 A PR I L 2019

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ECONOMY MATTERS

Calgary’s real estate market not out of the woods yet

he biggest thing that impacts a real estate market is the economy. And there’s no doubt that the Calgary economy in recent years has pulled the real estate market down with it. Sales in the existing home market are down substantially from a few years ago and prices have followed while the inventory level of homes for sale is elevated. Activity for new home construction is also way off the pace it was a few years back. This is all really not surprising when you consider what has happened to the city’s economy. The downward spiral began in the latter half of 2014 when oil prices collapsed. And when something of that nature takes place in the city’s bread and butter industry — the oil and gas sector — you can rest assured that there will be a fallout. That took place in 2015 and 2016 as the economy technically plunged to a recession in both years. Thousands of jobs were lost in the oilpatch, which really is a key driver for the real estate industry. The pace of people moving to the city looking for work fell considerably. Yes, the economy has rebounded since those dark economic days and actually seen growth in 2017 and 2018 with more on the

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horizon this year. But we’re definitely not out of the woods yet. The economic recovery is slow and cautious with many issues in the oilpatch, particularly market access, weighing on people’s minds — both for business owners and consumers. That is one of the key factors impacting the real estate market as it moves forward into 2019. So what can we expect for the economy? Most experts have predicted continued and cautious growth for the city’s economy in the range of two per cent. Earlier this year, the Calgary Chamber hosted a panel discussion with several experts talking about the upcoming provincial election in Alberta and the current economic landscape. The news about the economy was sobering. “It’s about halfway back roughly to where it was before the recession started,” said Trevor Tombe, Associate Professor in the Department of Economics and Research Fellow in the School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary. “That’s a big gap that still remains. To give a sense of scale, the recession shrank Alberta’s economy by about $75 billion just between 2014 and 2016. That’s over $20,000 per adult in Alberta. “The scale of the recession was massive — 130,000 job losses from when the recession started to when it ended in late 2016. So to say that it’s come halfway back from such a big shock, there’s still a long way to go.” But what’s chilling these days is the mood of people. From people on the street to the corporate offices in the downtown skyscrapers, there is a negativity in the air

REAL ESTATE INSIDER

By Mario Toneguzzi

about the economy — signalling that we’re not out of the woods yet. Peter Tertzakian, Executive Director of the ARC Energy Research Institute and a well-known expert on the energy sector, was also one of the panelists at the Chamber event and he said the mood in the industry today is one of frustration and anger. “But I also have the sense now as I bump into people on the Plus 15s and talk to people, it’s a sense of exhaustion — in cases capitulation. These are not healthy symptoms for what has traditionally been an incredibly entrepreneurial (city). By definition, entrepreneurs are resilient. We have a 110-year history here of entrepreneurism in this province. I’ve been in it for more than 30 years and I can tell you this one’s hard. I’ve seen four serious ups and downs. This one is really taking prisoners,” he said. Want some more sobering thoughts? The energy industry expert said Calgary has come into 2019 “feeling beaten up” and it’s going to take most of the year “to heal the wounds.” 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 A PR I L 2019

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