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THE EYES OF A CHILD
My 7-year-old niece from L.A. stayed with us last month for a short visit. Our own daughter is a young adult now, so you can say I’m a little out of practice on how to entertain kids and keep them busy. I reverted to my old school ways and brought her to our neighbourhood playground, which I’ve seen to be a popular spot among children in the community. And I wasn’t disappointed, she had a blast! She tells me they didn’t have anything quite like this in their part of the City of Angels. I also heard from friends about the fantastic new playgrounds in some of the newer communities in the city, and so I brought her with me the next time I did my show home/show suite tours. And, boy, was it ever worth it. These new playgrounds aren’t just your seesaw and swing sets, but rather quite the product of imagination (and a considerable investment to developers, I assume). Many are installed even before the community is fully developed — some, even during the initial stages. Most land developers (even some multifamily communities) realize the importance of bringing in these kinds of amenities to bring in the young families, but I was surprised that condo communities like Westman Village and the University District had their own — and both are already very popular among residents. You can read all about my playground exploits in the feature I was inspired to write inside. Speaking of inspired, the Ivy townhomes by Brookfield Residential in the aforementioned University District is attracting a whole lot of attention these days. Offering single-family lifestyle in a contemporary, connective community setting, these inspired townhomes offer an impeccable lifestyle for a wide range of buyers. Find out more in our cover feature. There is more to love in the historic inner-city NEXT MONTH: community of Inglewood these days, as AVLI on Calgary Home + Design Show Atlantic prepares to welcome its first residents. The developer, Greenview Developments, took pains to make sure that this modern, seven-storey condo building fit in with the bohemian vibe of Inglewood, as the commercial base of this mixed-use building will add to the dynamic social and cultural scene of the area. Then there is the Guardian, which is plain for all to see, as they are the tallest residential towers in all of Calgary. It is also one of the hottest and you can find out why inside. Our own Maria Bartolotti gives us a heads’ up on the latest developments in the new Condominium Property Regulations and what’s happening in its implementation, while Portia Yip shows us the new and amazing accents to style up your bathroom. I tell you, this job going around Calgary’s new communities does have its perks. Finding out about the latest developments that chart the cities growth is just one of them, now finding out about these new playgrounds is a definite plus.
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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, Christina Loc, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY
Jean Faye Rodriguez ADVERTISING SALES
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 236 • 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 1,400 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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CONTENTS
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AUGUST 2019 | VOLUME 15 ISSUE 236
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12 COVER FEATURE 8 | The Ivy: in a league of its own Brookfield Residential’s Ivy townhomes in University District offer the right fit
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FOCUS ON 6 | Making a splash Style the bathroom to create a more relaxing environment CONDO PROFILES 12 | AVLI rises AVLI on Atlantic reaches milestone moment as residents prepare to move in 14 | Heights of aspiration The Guardian is even more desirable with The Rivers revitalization plan
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22 DESIGNER SERIES 17 | An informative style Getting design information straight from their buyers allows Mattamy Homes to create distinctive show homes IN THE CITY 22 | Serious fun Developers race to include fun amenities in new communities
COLUMNS 27 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez 29 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti
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ITEMS 4 | Editor’s Message 30 | Ad Index
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MAKING A SPLASH
Style the bathroom to create a more relaxing environment
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BY PORTIA YIP
WHEN DECORATING YOUR home, a little goes a long way especially for your bathrooms or powder rooms. Add a splash of colour with candles and wall art or pamper yourself with functional pieces that make a statement and double as décor. Keeping things clean doesn’t mean sacrificing on style either since there’s plenty of potential to spruce up these essential and practical spaces. Lucky for us, it’s easier than ever to find a few contemporary or timeless accessories to create a relaxing, spa-worthy ambience. CL
7 [ 1 ] Scented Pillar Candle, $12.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 2 ] Water & Soap Hamper, $24.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 3 ] Coqui Coqui Reed Diffuser, $225 at Lemonceillo Home & Gift. [ 4 ] Ribbed Bath Towel, $14.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 5 ] Julia Knight’s Classic Covered Canister, $80 at Lemonceillo Home & Gift. [ 6 ] Driftwood and Glass Candle Holder, $49.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 7 ] Lacava Solid Surface Bathroom Stool, $490 at Serenity Bath Boutique. [ 8 ] Coqui Coqui Candle, $95 at Lemonceillo Home & Gift. [ 9 ] Foursteel Decorative Radiators, $4,000 – $5,000 at Serenity Bath Boutique. [ 10 ] Striped Storage Basket, $10.49 – $13.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 11 ] Cinier Designer Wall Art Towel Warmers, $7,000 – $10,000 at Serenity Bath Boutique. C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
THE IVY: IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN Brookfield Residential’s Ivy townhomes in University District offer the right fit
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n intelligent, impeccable lifestyle, attuned to the needs of a modern world are right at the fingertips in The Ivy townhomes in University District. This vibrant, new master-planned community of University District in the northwest has attracted a wide and varied range of homebuyers. Many are eager to live its promised lifestyle of ease and convenience and connection, and The Ivy townhomes by Brookfield Residential adds the attraction of living in a singlefamily-style home in the mix. “Being a townhome project, The Ivy is truly the closest to singlefamily living in the University District. You get your own private garage (as opposed to a parkade), your own front door and more living and storage space than many of the apartment condotype homes in the community,” says Justin Castelino, Brookfield
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Residential Marketing Manager. This 127-townhome Ivy development is a game-changer with architecturallyprogressive homes within this dynamic new community that was designed to be a connected, complete and “mindfullymade” place to live, work, shop, dine and visit. The Ivy offers modern townhome options to a wide range of buyers who will benefit from its terrific location in this forward-thinking, 200-acre community that is part of the University of Calgary campus. Everything about The Ivy is about a modern, connected lifestyle — from its eye-catching exteriors to interiors dressed up in a fashionable contemporary style. Each townhome comes with large windows and a mix of concrete and metal siding, private concrete balconies on select units with glass/aluminum railing creating a special curbside appeal. That appeal has resounded among buyers and the Ivy is almost two-thirds sold, he adds. “This goes to show that
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“We have great residents who are extremely proud of where they live. Neighbours have become friends and they are excited to see their new community come together.”
we are meeting the demand for rightsized homes in a community that will deliver great amenities within walking distance.” There is still a good selection of models to choose from at The Ivy, Castelino assures, with two- and three-bedroom models from the $490,000s to the $770,000s. The Ivy though is just the first of two offerings from Brookfield Residential in University District, as it has also elegant, highly exclusive single-level homes in their new Capella.
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“Our two projects- Ivy and Capella — complement each other very well. The Ivy offers a more traditional townhome, compared to the estate singlelevel residences at Capella. While both appeal to downsizers, there are differences between the two in size, price, layout, availability and more. Ultimately, we are providing exceptional choice in University District,” Castelino says. Residents have started moving into The Ivy, which began possessions last summer and quick possession homes are also now available. “There is an incredible sense of belonging at The Ivy,” he adds. “We have great residents who are extremely proud of where they live. Neighbours have become friends and they are excited to see their new community come together.” Still available at The Ivy is the Viridian, which offers just over 1,300 squarefeet of living space and starts in the $490,000s including GST. There is also Olivine that has almost 1,600 square-feet and starts in the $550,000s including GST. “These popular two-bedroom homes come with a private garage, open concept main-floor and each bedroom has their own bathroom — making them
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
FAST FACTS DEVELOPMENT: The Ivy BUILDER: Brookfield Residential COMMUNITY: University District STYLE: Row townhomes SIZE: From 1,200 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $490,000s including GST DISCOVERY CENTRE: 4410 University Ave., N.W. HOURS: Tuesday to Friday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.theivycalgary.com a great choice for someone looking to bring in a roommate, or parents with a kid going to the University of Calgary,” Castelino observes. The high-end standard features are also proving attractive to buyers, and these include Bosch stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops in kitchen and ensuite, and dual vanities in the ensuite. Nine-foot ceilings in second and third floors are included, as are hardwood flooring on the main level, premium carpet in the upper level and tile in bathrooms and laundry. “We have show suites of both of these home, so people can walk through the finished product,” he adds. The Ivy perfectly complements the vision for University District as a dynamic, unique community designed with the lifestyle of residents in front of mind. University District is located on the western edge of the main campus and sandwiched between the Alberta Children’s Hospital and Foothills Hospital. It will have 6,000 residential multi-family units on build out. It will have a lively commercial and entertainment district of its own with anchor tenants that include Save-On Foods, Alt Hotel and Cineplex Cinemas already signed on and expected to open by 2020. Asides from its outstanding, amenityrich location, University District is also a leader in sustainable practices. It is only the third community development in Canada to receive LEED®-ND certification — the highest level of sustainability excellence in energy and water consumption, recycling, connectivity and walkability. The other two are in Victoria and Vancouver where the 2010 Olympic athlete village was certified. The Ivy itself is a BuiltGreen Gold Certified, which shows a commitment to environmental
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stewardship through the design and building process and another way it complements the entire University District vision. The Ivy appeals to a broad range of buyers including health professionals looking for access to the nearby hospitals; young families looking for an urban environment; and empty nesters who have lived in the surrounding communities for a long time and are now looking to downsize to a more manageable home size. “The lifestyle will allow for residents to be in an urban setting, with restaurants, coffee shops, arts, fitness and so much more all within walking distance,” Castelino says. “Pathways, ponds, dog parks and other outdoor gathering places will be found throughout the community.” n
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AVLI RISES
AVLI on Atlantic reaches milestone moment as residents prepare to move in BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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xcitement is at a high in the historic community of Inglewood, as the landmark AVLI on Atlantic condo development prepares to welcome its first residents. Handing over the keys to their buyers’ new homes is a major accomplishment for any developer at any time, but this goes double these days of a more challenging economy. The developer, Greenview Developments, attributes a big part of AVLI on Atlantic’s success on its prime location in the historic inner-city community of Inglewood. “It’s a really unique location that’s close to the downtown, with plenty of amenities already available for residents to enjoy right outside their doorstep,” Greenview Developments president Brian Kernick tells Condo Living. “We are now at about 80 per cent sold, and our first residents should be moving in later this summer,” Kernick adds.
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The seven-storey, $36 million condominium adds an iconic touch to historic 9th Avenue — formerly Atlantic Avenue — and the mixeduse development’s street-frontage adds to an already lively and dynamic social and cultural scene of the area. The stylish condo project will feature a $5 million retail space at its base. AVLI homeowners and Inglewood residents will have a range of new shops to enjoy with the five retail units AVLI will provide on its ground floor. “To fit with Inglewood’s artistic background, AVLI on Atlantic needed to be a work of art itself,” Kernick says. AVLI on Atlantic hits a new architectural standard for Inglewood, offering eclectic modern living across the street from restaurants like The Nash, grocery store Bite, and several pubs and craft breweries. The developers also actively take part in retaining this bohemian vibe of Inglewood and had sponsored a private art competition to create an artistic legacy for AVLI condominium owners and Inglewood residents to enjoy. Submissions were reviewed by an expert panel of artists, architects, and community members, and three finalists have been chosen. The winner will be announced later this summer too. “All of the applications that we received were outstanding, another sign of the strength and talent of the Art Community in Alberta,” Kernick says. “Thank you to all of the committee members and artists that have taken the time to contribute to creating an artistic legacy for the community.” Homes in AVLI range in price from the mid $300,000s C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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to over $1 million. The majority of AVLI‘s floor plans are custom for each home and range in size from 545 to 2,200 square-feet. The development offers a unique mix of one and two bedroom units (plus den) and offers four live work homes and seven penthouse suites. “The larger units have proven to be the most popular, so far. We have even reworked unit sizes to accommodate some of our residents needs for more condo space,” Kernick says. He points out that AVLI was planned to be a 65-unit building but is now just 61 after accommodating buyers’ requests for larger units. “We knocked down a few walls.” Formerly known as Brewery Flats, Inglewood was established in 1911 and is home to historical buildings, such as Fort Calgary, which was built in 1875, and the Garry Theatre, presently known as the Ironwood Stage and Grill was built in the 1930’s. An emerging art district, Inglewood houses a number of art galleries and studios including one of the largest privately funded art galleries in Calgary, the Esker Foundation. Inglewood’s community is a balanced combination of inner city living with close access to Calgary’s downtown core and East Village mixed scenic trails adjacent to the rivers and premier nature reserves. AVLI itself shares in the history of Inglewood, and is located on the former site of the CarStar auto body shop. Retiring business owners, Penny and Chris Stathonikos, wanted to leave behind a legacy for their family and the Inglewood community with AVLI. In Greek, avli means courtyard or a public gathering space for people to meet, similar to squares found in Europe. AVLI’s concept is a perfect match for Inglewood’s vibrant, art inspired scene. C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Inglewood PROJECTS: AVLI on Atlantic DEVELOPER: Greenview Developments STYLE: Apartment-style condominiums and townhomes SIZE: From 500 to over 1,200 sq. ft. PRICE: Starting in the mid $300,000s SALES CENTRE: 1012 9 Ave SE HOURS: Monday to Thursday, noon to 6 p.m. Weekends, noon to 5 p.m. Closed Friday and holidays WEBSITE: www.avlicondos.ca The neighbourhood, established in 1875, was recently voted as the best community in Canada by The Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP). “Inglewood is experiencing growth and revitalization on an unprecedented scale, making AVLI a very attractive address,” Kernick says. CL CO N D O L I V I N G AU G US T 2019
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FIRST MOVER ADVANTAGE The Guardian is even more desirable with The Rivers District revitalization plan BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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hose lucky enough to call The Guardian towers home have even more reasons to be thankful of their choice. Those wanting to will now have to act
more quickly. For one thing, the twin spires crowning Victoria Park continues to be a hot seller, recently selling all of the 25 residences specially released in a collection earlier this spring. For another, a multi-million dollar revitalization project for Victoria Park will undoubtedly generate greater interest in this historic neighbourhood just east of downtown. Victoria Park has been earmarked for a $150 million, 10-year revitalization project that will amplify growth in the community and mirror the success of neighbouring East Village. The redevelopment is headed by Calgary Municipal Land Corporation(CMLC), the same City of Calgary entity behind neighbouring East Village’s success. Ernest Hon, Director of Sales and Marketing for Hon Developments, the visionary developers of The Guardian towers, couldn’t be happier. “The east side of the city core has seen tremendous new development over the last few years and The Guardian’s location is a perfect vantage point to experience the revitalization of Victoria Park,” says Hon. “The stunning New Central Library and National Music Centre are both recently completed and are inspiring new additions to the area.” It’s exactly how Hon Towers planned Calgary’s tallest residential towers. “The Guardian is a catalyst of change in Victoria Park
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and has been instrumental in kick-starting the renaissance of this historic neighbourhood,” he explains. “The two buildings, now complete and ready for move-in, are part of one of the first major developments here, and a sure sign of things to come.” The Rivers District Master Plan will revitalize the infrastructure and streetscape in the neighbourhood, accelerating its transition into an urban, live, work, and play community. Creative agencies have converted many of the historic warehouses into their studios and have transformed Victoria Park into a hub of innovative businesses, vibrant restaurants and cafes. CMLC also envisions an incredible investment in civic and cultural infrastructure in the district — event centre/arena facility and expanded convention space — as key elements in our vision for an east-end Cultural and Entertainment District. All of this investment in the public realm will see exciting additions such as public art, enhanced transportation connectivity, and upgraded parks and open spaces. All this development in the community no doubt fuelled the recent surge in demand at The Guardian. “We released a collection of 25 homes this spring that sold out in a single day. There were even a number of people who lined up and waited overnight to reserve their new home,” Hon says. “The project is now 75 per cent sold out.” Hon believes homebuyers in the market today are “savvy and knows that now is the opportunity that they have been waiting for to purchase and to invest in a neighbourhood poised for redevelopment.” With current pricing promotions in place, one-bedrooms are very competitively priced from the low $200,000s, and two-bedrooms start in the mid $300,000s. Together with these dramatic savings, The Guardian’s extensive list of in-house amenities, and superbly designed suites makes it an absolute win for any homebuyer. The suites thoughtfully maximize square footage into functional living space, with no wasted space in hallways or dark interior rooms. Each functional area brings in abundant natural light through floor to ceiling windows, and generously sized balconies lets residents take in the spectacular sweeping views from their homes Homeowners will appreciate the sleek modern design and understated high quality finishes throughout the home. Kitchens come C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
outfitted with imported-from-Italy cabinets, which invisibly integrate all appliances and are thoughtfully designed with function in mind. Professional-grade induction cooktops are a chef’s dream, as with the easy to clean polished quartz countertops and sheet glass backsplashes. All residents at The Guardian also have access to an incredible variety of inhouse amenities including a commercially equipped gym, concierge service in the lobby, a workshop for DIY projects, a well-appointed 1,350 square-foot resident’s lounge, and an outdoor garden terrace. The striking 44-storey steel and glass towers are an impressive addition to the city skyline. At grade is a mixed-use podium of amenities, retail spaces, and a coffee shop that all contribute to the vibrant streetscape. It’s possible to get a gourmet breakfast and handcrafted coffee right in the building, before the short walk to downtown for work. As a plus, the bicycle track runs right by The Guardian, making it more pleasant than ever to hop on for a ride anywhere in the Beltline. Homeowners are welcomed home by a stylish double height lobby and friendly round-theclock concierge and security staff. Units come with one, two, or no parking stalls. “To make purchasing options even more flexible for homebuyers, we offer the option to rent a parking stall so that if their needs changed, The Guardian can adapt to them,” Hon says. “A parking stall adds to the cost for a homebuyer, so there’s a lot of cost savings if they don’t need one.” With dramatic price savings today and massive investment in the neighbourhood on the way. CL
FA S T FAC TS PROJECT: The Guardian COMMUNITY: Victoria Park DEVELOPER: Hon Developments STYLE: High-rise condominiums SIZE: From 441 square-feet PRICE: Starting from the low $200,000s SALES CENTRE: 456 – 12 Avenue S.E. in the Victoria Park Bungalow Schoolhouse HOURS: Monday to Thursday noon to 6 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.theguardiancalgary.com CO N D O L I V I N G AU G US T 2019
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AN INFORMATIVE STYLE WRITTEN BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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nowing what buyers want in a home is half the battle, and in this regard Mattamy Homes has a distinctive edge and it shows in the way they design their show homes. Show homes form a representation of the ideal home imagined by designers and interior decorators, but when you get your ideas straight from the buyers then you get the best depiction of the wants and needs of the market. Christine Woltman, Mattamy Homes’ Design Studio Manager, is part of the home builder and land developer’s team that comes up with the look and feel of all their show homes and she provides critical input on what buyers want in their homes.
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Getting design information straight from their buyers allows Mattamy Homes to create distinctive show homes “I’ve worked as part of Mattamy’s design studio for 12 years, talking directly with our customers on what finishes they want in their home,” Christine says. This experience and insight has been invaluable in coming up with the look for both of Mattamy’s multi-family and single-family show homes. Her job helping Mattamy home buyers make their decisions to finalize the look of their home enables Christine to see the on-coming trends and popular choices. This allows her to use this information in coming up with the most impactful design elements for their show homes. For example, Mattamy was among the first to clue in on the popularity of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring and stone countertops, which are now used in the majority of their show homes. “Everybody loves to visit show homes, sometimes just to get design ideas, and Mattamy show homes always shows visitors the most interesting and most in-demand finishes that many didn’t even know they need in their own home,” Christine says.
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DESIGNER SERIES | The show home for the 1,319-square-foot rear-attached garage Madison townhome in Yorkville shows well with its optional luxury vinyl plank flooring, quartz countertops and dark Thermafoil cabinetry. “Our show homes are the perfect way to introduce buyers to features they didn’t know they wanted,” Christine says. The Madison comes together nicely with a more masculine touch aimed at attracting a single professional or downsizing couple. “Decorating a show home is very much a team effort. Our marketing team provides us with a buyer profile for the home, the design team chooses the hard finishes that will appeal to that demographic, and Arrow Design helps finalize the look,” Christine says.
The big, curved island with quartz countertops in the Soho show home is one of the most popular features in Mattamy Homes’ Urban Townhomes in Yorkville. “One of the things people love about quartz countertops are that they are so low maintenance, it’s non-porous and doesn’t require any sealant,” Christine says.
The 1,449-square-foot, three-bedroom Soho is popular among young families and couples. “It’s stylish and practical at the same time, with lots of storage spaces. The full height kitchen cabinetry goes well with the optional chimney style hood fan that adds to the contemporary look of the home,” Christine says.
The upstairs laundry of the Soho is tucked nicely away with frosted glass French doors. The spacious landing at the top of the stairs can be turned into a quiet study as the show home is able to tell.
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| DESIGNER SERIES The 1,386-sqaure-foot Melrose end unit includes a balcony, a rarity among tonwhomes. “We try to maximize space in all our Urban Townhome designs,” Christine says. Buyers get to talk directly with Christine when they buy their Mattamy home and she can guide them through their finishing selections. “We meet at the Mattamy Design Studio and pick out their finishes.”
The Melrose’s kitchen displays stylishness and functionality in spades. The underlit cabinetry brings attention to the full height backsplash. “The kitchen backsplash is usually the trickiest part in the design selection process. There’s a lot that can affect it — like the grout and the lighting — but we cover all that and more in the consultation process.”
Mattamy’s master planned community of Yorkville offers Urban Townhomes with attached double car garages in Brownstone Colonial, and Georgian Colonial inspired architectural styles. The extensive use of brick exteriors and Hardie board siding gives them a stylish punch, not to mention an unmatched sturdiness. Visit the show homes on the corner Sherriff King Rd. and 194th Ave. S.W. Visit www.mattamyhomes.com for information on prices and hours. CL
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IN THE CITY |
SERIOUS FUN
Developers race to include fun amenities in new communities
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ommunity playgrounds these days aren’t just some random collection of swing sets and seesaws in an open green space; today these so-called tot lots can be as elaborate and imaginative and colourful as anything from Little Nemo’s dreamland. That reference may be lost to some Gen Xers and Millennials, but the Baby Boomers that grew up with the Winsor McCay comic strip may recognize elements from the enchanted dreamscape of Slumberland come to life in some of the new kids’ playgrounds in Calgary’s young communities. Monkey bars that kids don’t only swing from but can twist and turn around in, imaginative jungle gyms of all sorts of shape and colour that challenge creativity, rubberized mats instead of gravel and sand that reduce the risk of scraped knees and elbows. The common refrain from grown-ups: “where were all these when we were growing up?” That’s not all, there are also skate parks and water spray parks that have become almost ubiquitous in these dynamic new communities. Humans don’t get all the fun either, as including dog parks as part of in-community amenities have become increasingly popular as well. Developers recognize the need to bring in these amenities — sometimes even ahead of the actual community — to attract the young families that look for just these kinds of family-friendly features that allows them to connect to the community and their neighbours and get the kids (and pets) to burn off some extra energy at the same time. Anthem United’s Belmont community in the southeast has one of the most engaging
WRITTEN AND PHOTOS BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
Belmont
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University District
and elaborate kids’ playgrounds around, a collection of custom monkey bars and jungle gyms and other climbing frames set amidst colourful, rubberized hilly mounds. Children young and old can spend hours of fun navigating the maze of fun constructs — including a mini-rock climbing slide! The 17,685-square-foot playground is already an active and popular attraction in the community that is still in its first stages of building. The massive playground is divided into two sections: one is for children ages two- to five-years-old with items like a periscope, wiggle ladder, tic-tac-toe panel and a toddler swing. Another section is for ages up to 12-year-olds includes a wobble pod, a bow ladder, and a hemisphere climber. Anthem also included an accessible and sensory play area. This includes a ‘crazy dome,’ ‘rain sound wheel’ and a ‘marble panel.’ A lot more is planned for Belmont, which will have some 2,000 homes on build-out, including an elementary school, a City of Calgary recreational centre, storm pond and another playground. Everything young families could want. “Often it can take several years for community amenities to
be built but it was important to us at Anthem to open this park at the time the first residents started moving in,” says Paul Douglas, Director, Land Development at Anthem United. “Every homeowner has a place to come together, meet their neighbours and start fully enjoying the community right from the beginning.” Mattamy Homes spent a lot of money to build the modern skate park at their Carrington community in the north, and it along with the contemporary sculptures has become not only a well-loved attraction for kids, but a defining feature for the young community. The skate park was up and running even before sales officially launched for the community in the fall of 2017. Carrington residents also get to enjoy Greenway Park, a lushly landscaped area that includes this skate park, a playground, half basketball court and
» Carrington - Mattamy
Redstone
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P H OTO CO U RTE S Y H A R M O N Y D E V ELO PM ENTS
IN THE CITY |
Harmony’s Adventure Zone
direct access to the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway regional pathway system. The Greenway is a 138-kilometre urban green corridor that winds through the entire eastern boundary of Carrington, connecting several new communities. “Moving into a new home is one of the most exciting experiences in people’s lives,” says Joe Case, Mattamy Homes’ director, land development. “You’ve planned your home where your family is going live meticulously for months, if not years, and it’s now immaculate and just the way you imagined. We want people to feel the same way about the community that they move into and we believe that having parks before people is one the keys pieces in making sure that happens.” Carrington’s skate park, in particular, has been so well received that Mattamy is repeating the feat in their new community of Yorkville in the south. Redstone by Qualico Communities in the northeast has its very popular Participark playground that caters to both young and old. It has a lively and engaging playground set (in red, of course) that uses colourful pour-in-place recycled tire flooring, a climber with tall slides, overhead features, balance beam, surf board, standing spinner. There is an adult fitness park within sight of the playground, too. And the whole area is connected to the same Greenway regional pathway system. Taking the concept of play area even further is Bordeaux Developments and their much-anticipated Adventure Zone in its exciting lake community of Harmony just west of Calgary. The Harmony Adventure Zone will be a significant amenity to complement the future Beach Club in this community that already includes as one of its main attractions a 140-acre lake. Just imagine the recreational opportunities all these can afford a family — and not just for those that reside in Harmony. “The Adventure zone is a significant amenity for the community that ties in the active living component of Harmony,” says Ryan Hall, VP Marketing & Communications, Bordeaux Developments. “We will have conventional playgrounds throughout Harmony but this is a destina-
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tion zone for all of Springbank. We want to contribute something that is unique to the region which is a park for all ages and a place for people to come and enjoy.” Harmony’s Adventure Zone will have a beach volleyball court, a skating ribbon, All Wheel Flow Plaza, All Wheel Pump Track, Crossfit/ Ninja/Obstacle fitness and climbing features, an elevated lookout and toboggan hill and even a Dog Adventure Park/Dog Run. And that’s just phase one. Construction on this multi-stage project is expected to begin summer 2019, with the entire park projected to be completed in three years (2021). It’s not just the single-family communities that are installing playground zones, some multi-family developments are putting in these features to complete the full lifestyle offerings they have. Westman Village included a big play set in the middle of this innovative multi-family complex that is already replete with entertainment amenities not to mention Mahogany Lake that it backs onto. It’s not all about kids either, as evidenced by the dog parks at University District. Its north urban dog park is already open and has been a popular destination for dog owners in the area. Residents already also have access to the north pond and pathway system that opened last year. There will be a second dog park planned for the southern portion of this vibrant multi-family community in the northwest. What all of these show is that it’s a great time to be a kid with all these new community playgrounds right at your doorstep. CL
Westman Village
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HOPEWELL STARTS NEW NORTHWEST LAKE COMMUNITY
algary’s newest lake community has been approved — Arbour Lake West, by Hopewell Residential. Located in northwest Calgary, the 43-acre community is just minutes from Arbour Lake, Crowfoot Crossing and Crowfoot LRT, and is the city’s first opportunity for brand new northwest lake living of this scale in nearly two decades. Arbour Lake West has been in the making for several years, finally getting approval on June 17, 2019. “Discussions began on the purchase of the land in May 2016 and ultimately closed in April 2017,” says Brett Friesen, Hopewell Vice President, Development and Multi-Family. “In October 2016, the Arbour Lake Residents Association
voted to accept the community’s future homeowners into the Association, and the Land Use application was approved by City Council on June 17, 2019.” “Arbour Lake West completes the Arbour Lake community that’s been 30-plus years in the making. It offers new Brett Friesen opportunities for purchasing homes in a quadrant of the city with high demand but with no new housing supply available,” notes Friesen. “Hopewell is the first to introduce new homes in this area of the city for some time — and it’s Calgary’s last chance to buy a new home in this extremely desirable community.”
AROUND TOWN
By Pepper Rodriguez
Arbour Lake West
With sales starting this fall, the Hopewell-exclusive development will feature contemporary condos, townhomes and front-attached garage homes. At full build-out, Arbour Lake West will include 139 front-garage homes and more than 650 stylish condos and spacious attachedgarage townhomes. Many of the homes will also have stunning west-facing mountain views.
Q RISING
Q
Condominiums in Sage Hill Quarter was always meant to be a groundbreaking development, and now it has literally broken ground. On June 18, almost a year to the date
(from left) Kim Roberts and Jason McIlwain of Real Estate Group ATB Corporate Financial Services; Doug Porozni , Ronmor Developers Inc.; Rob Kennedy , and Glenn Morrison of Morrison Homes Multi-Family; and Jay German , Ronmor Developers Inc.
that sales launched, Q in Sage Hill Quarter finally began construction and this bodes well for those who have already purchased as well as those who have expressed interest.
“This is an important milestone as people can now have certainty that the project is moving forward and they can start planning their move,” says Robert Toth, marketing lead at Morrison Homes Multi-Family. “Buyers can now know that within 18-20 months that the first building in the project will be complete and they can take possession. This provides people with some certainty and the ability to make those important lifestyle decisions like when to move, how much longer to rent, what sort of mortgage I would be able to qualify for.” Q — developed by Morrison Homes Multi-Family — offers one- and two-bedroom suites from 564 to 908 square-feet. CL
Visit the sales centre at 67 Sage Berry Way N.W. or go to the website www.myqcondo.ca for more information. C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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GOVERNMENT PUTS PHASE 11 ON HOLD
ASK MARIA
By Maria Bartolotti
New government delays Phase 11 amendments to Condominium Property Act
n June 27, 2019, the Provincial Government issued a surprise announcement to delay the implementation of Phase II of the Amendments to the Condominium Property Act and Regulations and called for a “red tape review” which many in the industry supports. Stakeholders in the condominium sector have recently told Service Alberta they are concerned that new condominium regulations scheduled to come into place this summer will cause a significant administrative burden. The regulations were originally scheduled to come into effect on July 1, 2019. However, the Government is pausing those regulations from coming into force until they can review them, meet with stakeholders, and determine if adjustments need to be made to strike the right balance without increasing red tape and administrative burdens. Those consultations will take place in the summer of 2019, with a new date of release for January 1, 2020. This pause supports government efforts to reduce red tape to ensure regulatory processes are necessary, effective, efficient and proportional to the outcomes they are trying to achieve. According to a Service Alberta press release, the regulations passed by the previous government in fall 2018 were “identified by multiple stakeholders — beginning during consultations and continu-
P H OTO CO U RTE S Y TO U R I SM C A LG A RY
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ing until now with a petition — as adding red tape.” Hence, it felt this review was needed. “Since becoming minister, I have been approached by stakeholders who felt overlooked by the previous government around their concerns that the proposed changes would add administrative burdens on boards and managers,” says Nate Glubish, Minister of Service Alberta. “We take these concerns seriously and we are not afraid to take bold and decisive action in the interests of Albertans.” The government says it will meet with key stakeholders over the next few months to find out if these new regulations constitute an excessive administrative burden or challenge for condo boards, owners,
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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corporations and others involved in the condominium industry. Any adjustments to those regulations will be considered only after the summer’s review has taken place, the press release added. Could this be the positive change we in the Condominium Industry are looking for? We’re keeping our fingers crossed! To learn more visit www.alberta.ca/condominium-consultation.aspx. Until next time … CL
Maria Bartolotti
ACCI, FCCI is the ownermanager of New Concept Management Inc. She has developed a strong reputation for rendering timely and efficient services to the condominium industry. Maria believes that her company’s success hinges on her hands-on approach to condominium management as well as maintaining open lines of communications with her clientele. Maria is actively involved in her industry. For more information, visit www.newconceptmanagement.com CO N D O L I V I N G AU G US T 2019
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ADVERTISERS INDEX |  AVLI on Atlantic Greenview Developments Buss Marketing page 25 Good Win at Belmont Anthem United page 28 Holland Park Excel Homes page 16 Legacy Commons Trico Homes page 21 Nolan Park Cardel Lifestyles page 3 Park Point Qualex-Landmark page 11 Q Condos in Sage Hill Quarter Morrison Homes page 2
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Sage Hill Park Brad Remington Homes page 30, back cover Sanderson Ridge page 26 The Calais Remington Developments page 20 The Ivy Brookfield Residential front cover, page 8-10 The Gates II Remington Developments page 31 Wentworth Pointe Trico Homes page 21 Zen in Redstone Avalon Master Builder page 30
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