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C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
CONTENTS DECEMBER 2019 | VOLUME 15 ISSUE 240
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COVER FEATURE 10 | Argyle’s style
Avi Urban’s second development in University District boasts customization in condos FOCUS ON 8 | Kiddy Christmas Help Santa along with these Christmas gift ideas for the kids CONDO PROFILE 14 | The belle of Belmont Beauty and affordability brings Belwood Park success in Belmont COMMUNITY 17 | Auburn Bay sunset Iconic cottage lake community approaches build out LIFESTYLE 20 | Happiness is… Finding the perfect lifestyle fit in Canmore
20 COLUMNS 27 | Ask Maria by Maria Bartolotti 29 | Around Town by Pepper Rodriguez
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ITEMS 6 | Editor’s Message 30 | Ad Index
STYLE 23 | Yule love it! Keep the style and spirit of the season with these Christmas tree alternatives
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BEST OF THE SEASON TO ALL! First of all, Happy Holidays to you and yours! Looks like we’re about to put the wrap on 2019, and maybe we didn’t get everything we wanted out of this year (federal elections, Flames early exit from last season’s playoffs, pipelines, etc…) and you don’t need a genius to tell you that challenges will continue in Calgary for the next year. There’s always the positive side of things though. For one thing, the city remains on the Top 10 list of most livable cities in the world (No. 5 in 2019, slipping a point from last year but still the highest ranking city in North America in the list). It feels good to be at the top, doesn’t it? There’s also the projected lowering of interest rates in 2020, as the national housing market continues to rally in the first half of the year, and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) says home sales will gain momentum through 2021. Its recent report also says home prices will rebound from 2019 levels and that home starts may not gain strength but they will at least stabilize. Our cover feature for this issue is a reflection of this positivity. The launch of Argyle at University District is just the kind of positive news people like to hear. This new condo development by Avi Urban is actually its second in this booming community just off the University of Calgary campus. The first one, August, was a big hit and Argyle — judging from the feedback it received during its VIP launch event — is on its way to replicate the feat. We just love what West Campus Development is doing in bringing University District along, and you’ll be hearing more about it in our future issues. We also have StreetSide Development’s Belwood Park in Belmont, which continues to make huge strides in bringing affordably stylish townhomes in this up-and-coming community in the developing West Macleod area. It offers first-time homebuyers and downsizers spacious NEXT MONTH: living at affordable prices in a location that one can Bonus Room Design easily set roots in. It is the Christmas issue, so we have our in-house STYLE guru, Christina Loc, looking at options on decorating your home for the Holidays if you don’t have space for a full-size Christmas tree. She has some brilliant ideas of what you can use as a practical substitute and still convey the meaning of the season. Meanwhile, our Focus On photo feature gives you ideas on what to kids may be getting from Old Saint Nick’s bag this Christmas — best of all, they are all from local Calgary stores. “Buy local” is a sentiment that resounds — wouldn’t you rather your money go to supporting the community? So, so long 2019, here’s to a better 2020. See you all next year.
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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 EDITORIAL
Maria Bartolotti, Christina Loc, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY
Jean Faye Rodriguez ADVERTISING SALES
Brandi Holmes brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca Richard MacQuarrie richard.macquarrie@sourcemediagroup.ca Norma Robertson norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSUE 240 • 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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FOCUS ON |
Help Santa along with these Christmas gift ideas for the kids
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KIDDY CHRISTMAS BY PORTIA YIP
IT’S THAT TIME of year again where the holiday season is upon us. Whether or not you’ve already fallen for the Christmas spirit or festive cheer, there’s much to love and plan for during this magical time of year. Still haven’t settled on your gift buying list? No need to fret as these local stores are stocked with the best activities, toys, and adorable gifts for kids of all ages. CL
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7 [ 1 ] Hape Street Surfer Kick Scooter, $98.99 at Castle Toys. [ 2 ] Playmobil Family Fun: Aquarium, $84.99 at Castle Toys. [ 3 ] Schleich Horse Stall, $39.99 at The Discovery Hut. [ 4 ] Madd Mattr Quantum Pack Modelling Dough, $19.99 at The Discovery Hut. [ 5 ] Litehawk Lil’ Tom Remote Control Buggy, $49.99 at The Discovery Hut. [ 6 ] Grimm’s Element Rainbow, $28 - 48 at Purr Petite [ 7 ] Candylab Woodie and Camper Wood Cars, $42 - 52 at Purr Petite. [ 8 ] Maileg Mum & Dad in Cigar Box, $82 at Purr Petite. [ 9 ] Melissa & Doug Multi-Level Wood Dollhouse, $199.99 at Castle Toys. [ 10 ] Hape Shake & Match Shape Sorter, $29.99 at The Discovery Hut. [ 11 ] Moulin Roty Voyage D’Olga Fox Pull-along, $48 at Purr Petite. [ 12 ] Hoberman Switch Pitch Ball, $11.99 at Castle Toys.
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ARGYLE’S STYLE
Avi Urban’s second development in University District boasts customization in condos
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vi Urban has long been one of Calgary’s most fashion-forward multi-family builders with a score of the most innovative, contemporary inner-city and suburban condos and townhomes built over the last decade. Now comes its most distinctive development yet: Argyle at University District. Argyle is Avi Urban’s second development in this unique community rising next door to the University of Calgary campus. August, which is already being constructed, has been a runaway hit and Argyle looks to build on this success with a heretofore unheard of level of customization available to buyers. “August was launched in March 2018, and we’ve had just about 80 sales since, which is pretty good considering the headwinds of a slow economy,” says Charron Ungar, CEO at C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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Homes by Avi Group of Companies. “This just goes to show that people believe in the vision for University District.” Ungar, speaking at the VIP launch event for Argyle, believes that this sequel to August will do just as well if not better, and add another important element in realizing the vision for University District. “Argyle will bring further diversity in the community and build on what we had found to be successful in August.” They are off to a great start, as the launch generated a ton of interest for this new six-storey condo building that is going up on a prime location on University District. Argyle will have 129 apartment-style condos sitting atop a 30,000-square-foot C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
retail podium, across from the 1.2 hectare (three-acre) Central Park that is also now under construction. It is going to be steps away from cinemas, a grocery store and more retail establishments that are soon to open. Argyle’s retail podium is actually twice the size of the one in August, giving residents tremendous access to amenities. “It will be a vibrant, energetic and connected environment that residents will have instant access to,” he adds. Argyle offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos ranging from 500 to 1,150 square-feet and starting in the $280,000s. “There are two- and three-bedroom plus den options,” says Avi Urban marketing coordinator, Kyla Cottom. “Most exciting is the unparalleled customization in multi-family that we now offer,” she adds. Rather than limit buyers to a preselected interior finishing options, “buyers will be welcomed into our award-winning, 6,000-square-foot selections centre to work with a professional Interior Designer who will guide them through selecting their finishing’s to personalize their home and make it a reflection of their style and lifestyle.”
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
Buyers do have the option to choose from Argyle’s professionally selected palettes, “however the sky is the limit when it comes to features, thanks to the option to customize their home at our award winning Selections Centre.” Avi Urban has also partnered with Virtuo, a home-moving solutions company, to give buyers “as seamless and stress-free” moving day as possible, says Cottom. In Argyle, residents can expect a life of stylish substance and convenience. Cottom says buyers will have the innate ability to enjoy a lock-and-leave lifestyle, easy access to 12-kilometres of interconnected pathways, and 40 acres of open space, including what promises to be a beautifully manicured Central Park, plus offleash dog parks and playgrounds. University District is just outside the University of Calgary’s main campus, making it an ideal residence option for faculty and students. It is also a short drive for employees of the Foothills Medical Centre and McMahon Stadium, and downtown is less than 20 minutes away. Major amenities are ready to open soon within the community itself, including a Save-On-Foods grocery store. Retailers like Market Wines, Analog Coffee, Freshii, Scotiabank, Pet Planet, Curious Hair Skin Body, Denim & Smith Barbershops and Press’d Sandwich Shop will be part of the first wave of commercial establishments opening here next year. “Avi Urban is so proud of both August and Argyle at University District. The team has truly designed such amazing mixeduse buildings situated on one of the best corners in the entire community,” Ungar says. “University District is one of the most progressive urban communities Calgary has to offer, and with August situated immediately next door to the amazing future Alt Hotel and surrounded by amazing shops and services, our homeowners
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will undoubtedly be spoiled by the convenience of it all.” Both Argyle and August are being sold at the University District Discovery Centre, where a show suite for Argyle is now open. Visit them for more information. Possessions for Argyle are slated for summer 2022 while possessions for August will commence in summer, 2020. n
FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: University District PROJECT: Argyle at University District DEVELOPER: Avi Urban STYLE: Apartment style condos SIZE: 500 sq. ft to 1,150 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $280,000s DISCOVERY CENTRE: 4410 University Avenue, N.W. HOURS: Tuesday to Friday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.aviurban.com
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THE BELLE OF BELMONT Beauty and affordability brings Belwood Park success in Belmont
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BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
All images are of the Avenue show suite.
tylishly functional, and affordably practical: Belwood Park rings all the bells for first-time buyers and downsizers and has homes and a location that fit the wants and needs of young families as well. Ever since its launch in September, Belwood Park in the young southeast community of Belmont has enjoyed strong sales, as buyers are drawn to its well-thought out two- and three-bedroom floorplans that check a lot of boxes for a wide range of lifestyles. “First-time buyers love Belwood Park for the style, quality and practicality it offers that instills pride of ownership; while downsizers love it for the low-maintenance, lock-andleave lifestyle,” says StreetSide Developments area manager Ron Palmer. “And of course, the young community of Belmont gives everyone a chance to put down roots and grow with the neighbourhood.” With prices starting from the mid $280,000s plus GST, Belwood Park townhomes are the perfect way of living affordably and comfortably. StreetSide Developments always delivers with their well-priced designs that combine lifestyle needs and wants and this is exactly what their three-storey townhomes bring. By offering larger living spaces with drive-under garages at affordable prices, Belwood Park’s two- and three-bedroom townhomes allow homebuyers to enjoy all the comforts of living in a single-family home with the unbeatable affordability and maintenance-free living that only a multi-family home can offer. “Belwood Park takes our bestselling townhome plans and elevates them with feedback from our happy homeowners,” Palmer says. The Avenue 14 is a 1,153-square-foot two-bedroom townhome with drive-under garage. It features an open concept design on the main level and a large kitchen with flush counter breakfast bar and pantry. “The Avenue with its two-master bedroom design was a definite hit in our Evanston Park community,” Palmer says. While Boulevard 16 is a 1,398-square-foot three-bedroom townhome with two-and-a-half bathrooms and a drive-under garage that has been Belwood Park’s bestseller. “Young professionals, downsizers and even young families seem to all gravitate towards this model, because of its spaciousness and affordability,” Palmer says. “It draws young families too because it’s an easy way to begin earning equity and raise a family in such a promising community.”
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CONDO PROFILE |
All images are of the Boulevard show suite.
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The Boulevard has a corner walk-in pantry and a third bedroom. This home also features a master bedroom with full ensuite and a main bath. Both designs have convenient upper floor laundry, lots of storage and spacious bedrooms. Belwood Park townhomes feature Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, three choices of cabinet colours, tile flooring and designer lighting packages. Two colour collections are available and some designer upgrades including denim blue cabinets, upgraded large hexagon tile and quartz countertops. “Special attention was paid to ensure the main living area was functional and maximized for living space,” Palmer says.” He also mentions that this is a particularly opportune time for buyers as we have launched our Home for the holidays promotion which offers huge savings. Belwood Park is centred around a professionally-designed central park located in Belmont, a young, up-and-coming community with a bright future ahead. Belmont is a 280-acre community located south of Silverado on Sheriff King Street and west of Macleod Trail between 194 Avenue and 210th Avenue. It was the first new community to launch west of Macleod Trail — an area of untapped growth potential that has since boomed with the introduction of even more new communities. But Belmont started it all and has now grown to fulfil plenty of its potential. There are parks and pathways available for residents to use, including an out-of-this-world playground that families from the area have fallen in love with. There are commercial establishments just down the road, and with the completion of the 194 Avenue S.E. extension west of Macleod Trail, it is more accessible than ever. Belwood Park mirrors the jubilant, invigorating energy of this community, as these townhomes cater to just about any lifestyle that would find Belmont attractive. “Our homes are designed to match a variety of lifestyles from the first time homeowner to couples just starting out, and even downsizers. These homes are perfect for anyone looking to get out of renting or those looking for maintenance-free living,” Palmer says. “Belwood Park is a place for your family to get the most out of life. Stroll around the nearby green spaces, visit the farmers market, and have a backyard barbecue with the neighbours — all on the same day,” he adds. CL
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FA S T FAC TS COMMUNITY: Belmont PROJECT: Belwood Park BUILDER: StreetSide Developments DEVELOPER: Anthem United STYLE: Three-storey townhomes with driveunder garage SIZE: Two-bedroom plans at 1,153 sq. ft., and three-bedroom plans at 1,398 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $280,000s PRESENTATION CENTRE: 896, 850 Belmont Dr. S.E. DIRECTIONS: Take Macleod Trail and head west on 194 Ave. S.E. and follow the signs HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sunday and holidays 12 to 5 p.m. Closed Fridays WEBSITE: www.belwoodpark.com
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AUBURN BAY SUNSET Iconic cottage lake community approaches build out BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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elishing the fantastic sunsets across the placid surface of Auburn Bay’s iconic 43-acre lake is one of the simpler pleasures of living in this vibrant southeast community. That opportunity to enjoy this bliss in a brand new home is fast dwindling though, as after 15 years, the community is close to build out. The 900-acre master-planned southeast community
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developed by Brookfield Residential is about 95 per cent complete, says Jason Palacsko, Brookfield Residential’s Vice-President, Calgary Communities. In fact, Brookfield Residential’s multi-family arm just broke ground for the final condo building in its Regatta condo and townhome complex, effectively marking the beginning of the end of construction in Auburn Bay.
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A wide array of community amenities is already in place for residents to enjoy, including the 14,000-square-foot Auburn House activities centre, a 13-acre private beach and park with facilities for year-round enjoyment. Palacsko adds that there are only three builders left with active developments in Auburn Bay: Morrison Homes, Logel Homes and Brookfield Residential. “Morrison Homes has their final phase in Auburn Bay with estate home models starting in the mid $600,000s; Logel Homes are selling condos in their Auburn Rise complex starting from the mid $100,000s; and Brookfield is selling condos in their Regatta complex starting from the mid $100,000s. Regatta’s last building just broke ground in September.” Brookfield Residential’s Director of Multi-Family Homes, Ryan Moon, led the groundbreaking ceremonies for Regatta’s last condo building. “We expect to be completely finished in the next 18 months or so,” he says. There are 70 units in the last of three Regatta apartment condo buildings and 39 have already been sold. Regatta also has a limited number of townhomes available with 50 per cent of current inventory sold out. Condo units are from the $200,000s and are available for either quick
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possessions or to mid-2020. Townhomes are from the low $300,000s. Auburn Bay launched in 2004 amid great excitement for the four-season lake cottage lifestyle it offers. There are over 4,500 private households in Auburn Bay, according to city Census there is about 14,000 people calling this community home, Palacsko says. A wide array of community amenities is already in place for residents to enjoy, including the 14,000-square-foot Auburn House activities centre, a 13-acre private beach and park with facilities for year-round enjoyment. There are multiple schools in the community either fully running or under construction, he adds. Miles of pathways and parks, and the popular Auburn Station retail centre with a grocery, gas station, Tim Hortons, and a neighbourhood pub are proving to be the social and cultural glue that brings the community together. But its crowning glory remains to be the 43-acre lake. “Auburn Bay delivers an exceptional experience for residents. When we discuss ‘livability’ at Brookfield really Auburn Bay is likely one of our most livable communities. The lake and surrounding beach and park provided an instant hub for residents to connect,” Palacsko says. The Home Owners Association provides a full spectrum of programming and events that brings people together through all season of life in Auburn Bay. From the beginning, Brookfield Residential had planned to offer as wide a variety of home styles as possible that Palacsko says was key to attracting a diverse population and has provided for a great living experience. “As the community grew we stayed true to our vision and soon came other amenities such as parks, shops and services, as well as schools and more,” he adds. Brookfield Residential also developed the next-door community of Seton, which in itself is drawing praise as the template for C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
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Regatta by Brookfield Residential
FA S T FAC TS DEVELOPER: Brookfield Residential THE HOMES OF AUBURN BAY AUBURN RISE: Apartment style condos BUILDER: Logel Homes STARTING PRICE: Mid $100,000s REGATTA : Apartment style condos and townhomes BUILDER: Brookfield Residential STARTING PRICE: Low $200,000s ESTATE BUILDER: Morrison Homes STARTING PRICE: From $1.6 million HOURS: Contact each builder for hours. But usually Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays 12 to 5 p.m WEBSITE: liveauburnbay.com
the modern urban community. “Even as we created Seton to the south of Auburn Bay, we knew how much the new south urban district would benefit our residents in Auburn Bay with the South Health Campus as well as new businesses and employment opportunities and the YMCA within walking distance,” Palacsko says. C A LG A R Y H O M E L I V I N G . C O M
“Having all these things close by as well as areas within the community for people to gather and socialize and build community created a great sense of belonging for residents and overall the quality of life in Auburn Bay has always been high.” With the established amenities provided within Auburn Bay, purchasers can have the peace of mind knowing that they will not have to wait for the community to develop to the maturity this community provides. Customers can take advantage of all the services and lifestyle options provided within Auburn Bay, while there are limited opportunities remaining for building new. He adds that the recently launched First Time home Buyer Incentive Program by the federal government does provide the perfect opportunity for young families to buy their first home now. “With the program providing an additional 10 per cent towards the down payment (interest free), buyers have an easier time qualifying for their mortgage (with lower High Ratio mortgage fees), and a lower borrowing amount levered to qualify for the mortgage stress test introduced in January of 2018. Auburn Bay has a wide spectrum of homes that fall within the price parameters outlined within the Government program for first time buyers. Combine this with all of established amenities, parks, schools, shopping and transportation options that a buyer could ask for; Auburn Bay is a natural choice!” CL CO N D O L I V I N G D ECEM B ER 2019
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HAPPINESS IS… Finding the perfect lifestyle fit in Canmore
BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
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love to hike, bike and golf, but the lively and dynamic social scene of the town, its incredible views, and the friendliness of the people themselves only added to the heady tonic. John and Paula enjoyed hours-long hikes across the town that would take them from Millennial Park to Rail Bridge over the Bow River all the while meeting friends and acquaintances they have made in town. “There is just so much to do in town,” John says. “You can go to Elevation Place (recreational centre) and do a bit of wall climbing or some swimming, bike on the Legacy Trail to Banff, hike, golf, it’s all right here. Or Paula and I can just stay at home and follow the sun’s arc across our living room from rising in
P H OTOS BY P E P P E R RO D R I G U E Z
Their first home here cost around $750,000 and the one they just bought is at $1 million-plus; John is confident that real estate values in Canmore will only increase.
t is said you can’t buy happiness, but buying a home in Canmore comes pretty close. That’s what John and Paula Greer and their children found out when they moved to the picturesque western Alberta town some five years ago. The Greers lived in a posh mountain resort town near Montreal where they could indulge their passion for skiing with little trouble. Canmore reminded John of this town but with even more upside, and when his career brought him out west he knew that the Gateway to the Rockies was the only place where he wanted to live. Making the decision even easier was finding a home in Spring Creek Mountain Village, the ambitious mixed use development just off downtown Canmore, which in many ways embodies the spirit of the town itself. For John, it wasn’t only the skiing opportunities in the area that Canmore had in abundance, it was the year round recreational prospects it offered, too. Avid sports enthusiasts, the Greers
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P H O T O C O U R T E S Y T H E G R E E R F A M I L Y.
the morning till it sets.” The Greers bookend Spring Creek’s story it seems as they are also Paula agrees. “Moving to Canmore and buying a new unit in the latest apartment condo building to go up in Spring Creek where we have met so many Spring Creek, the Jack Pine Lodge. John says they will be moving in later this year to a 1,850-square-foot great new friends and outdoor activities has totally enhanced our families lives,” she says. two-bedroom-plus-den in the new building when it is ready for occupancy. Living in Spring Creek puts them right at “This is our idea of downsizing,” John says amused, as they move in to a the centre of the action, it’s a bigger apartment after their two kids have left the nest. But not very far; short walk to the lively down- their son, Jordan, lives in neighbouring Three Sisters, and their daughter, town Canmore scene and enjoy Sydney, is studying at the University of Calgary. the varied dining and drinking Their first home here cost around $750,000 and the one they just bought establishments in its growing is at $1 million-plus; John is confident that real estate values in Canmore commercial areas. will only increase. John and Paula bought a Sales statistics released at the end of April from the Calgary Real Estate Board, (CREB) bear this out. It shows that year to date sales in the 1,300-square-foot three-bedroom Bighorn region which includes Canmore, Exshaw, Ghost Lake, Harvey apartment in Spring Creek’s first apartment building, Glacier Rock, Heights, increased by 9.7 percent from April last year. Listing increased and John says he was quite taken by 8.2 per cent and Canmore just recorded its largest residential land by the vision of Spring Creek’s sale ever at $6 million. For the first quarter of 2019, there was an 11 per cent rise in total resdeveloper, Frank Kernick. idential sales compared to the first quarter in 2018 according to Ross “I knew what he had planned for Spring Creek was special, and Jansen, sales director for Spring Creek, Canmore, who tracks local sales buying here was the best decision statistics for just Canmore. “Spring Creek is the preferred address in Canmore. From 2013 right to I think I could have ever made,” now in 2019, sales for our condos and townhomes have been consistent, he says.
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The Greer family (from left) Sydney, John, Paula and Jordan.
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John and Paula bought a 1,300-square-foot three-bedroom apartment in Spring Creek’s first apartment building, Glacier Rock, and John says he was quite taken by the vision of Spring Creek’s developer, Frank Kernick.
says Jansen, “We have seen steady price growth for our new lodges and resale homes in Spring Creek are keeping pace.” The promise that Canmore holds has always been as a haven for city-weary denizens looking for some respite from the hurly burly, and the town’s fresh mountain air and soothing views of the Rockies has always been the tonic against the daily grind. Spring Creek takes this promise seriously. It makes the best of its 70-acre site bordered by two spring-fed creeks just off Main Street in Canmore. It is comprised of mountain lodge condominiums, the Origins active living +65 residence, villas, estate home sites and vacation suites. It recently opened the Malcolm Hotel to thoroughly transform this former dairy farm and RV park and set the tone for the future growth of this scenic Alberta town. “To my mind, it’s less profit-driven than any other development I’ve seen. Spring Creek has never been development for development’s sake, and the vision for Spring Creek Mountain Village remains to be the vision
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for Canmore itself,” John says. Extraordinary care was taken to preserve the alpine flavour of Spring Creek’s design — from the very first building to its last. Indeed, the Hardi-board siding, river rock and cedar accents and beautifully landscaped grounds present a vision of a comfy mountain lodge and a relaxing retreat. To illustrate the developer’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area, Kernick even scaled back the height of some of the buildings to ensure that everyone can benefit from the impeccable mountain views the location offers. The new Jack Pine Lodge continues the tradition as it combines contemporary styling with traditional Rocky Mountain building materials like timber, glass and stone. Generous condo floor plans are designed for the comfort of you and your guests and to make entertaining easy. It is this commitment to the community, as well as quality, that has shielded Spring Creek Mountain Village from the worst of the recession in 2008 and 2014, when all but the sturdiest and most financially-sound resort properties took a big tumble. The major flooding of 2013 only served to show the resilient, can-do spirit of Albertans that John says he most admires. “This is the kind of community I want to live in and be a part of,” he says. “We can’t wait to move in to the new apartment, but truth is the town of Canmore is our home.” CL
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YULE LOVE IT! Keep the style and spirit of the season with these Christmas tree alternatives BY CHRISTINA LOC
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ooking to enhance, freshen or liven up your Christmas décor this holiday season? While the beautifully decorated evergreen Christmas tree will always be symbolic of Christmas, perhaps your space is a bit snug or you would like to extend your holiday decorating in to other areas of the home and want to try new things. Putting your creative juices in to decking the halls with boughs of holly can be a lot of fun and quite rewarding, especially when the end result leaves many admiring and enjoying your work. Curating a festive look doesn’t have to be complicated, nor does it have to break the bank. Consider a few of these options in place of the traditional Christmas tree or use them to further enhance your décor with these simple ideas:
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DESIGN A WALL TREE. Whether you are tight for space or have walls that need holiday dressing, there are many materials you can create your wall tree with. Materials include washi tape, garland, tinsel, felt, yarn, paper, fresh boughs and wood (such as birch poles or reclaimed wood). The key to a successful wall tree is to mimic the triangular shape of a Christmas tree. This can be achieved by running washi tape or garland just on the outside perimeter to create a silhouette. Trim a full piece of felt in to the shape of a tree. Tinsel or yarn can be ran up and down or zigzagged across. Cut different colours of paper in to unique shapes and lay them together in a pattern that represents a tree. Fresh boughs and wood can be laid horizontally with shorter pieces at the top gradually getting longer towards the bottom. Once you have formed the tree, use string lights, ornaments and other decorative items to enhance the wall tree. Don’t forget to place a star or some sort of tree topper to make it really pop. And, thank goodness for removable 3M wall tape!
» Make it an evening with family and friends for a DIY night. This tree started out as a tomato cage and then mesh and ribbon was added to it.
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STYLE | A
B
C
A ] Turn an area of your home in to a festive space by incorporating a few holiday ideas like washi tape on the wall, trees made of ornaments with other holiday décor. B ] Add sprigs to vases through out the home to carry that festive feeling all around. C ] There are many alternative trees available on the market that are different from the traditional cedar or pine tree. D ] Start the holiday a couple of weeks early with arrangements around the house filled with Christmas greens and ornaments. Closer to Christmas Day, add fresh flowers if desired.
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MINI TREES ARE ADORABLE. Fresh or faux, mini trees look impressive on counters, mantles and tables. Fresh lemon-lime cypress trees not only look unique with their bright chartreuse colour but also emit a nice citrus scent. Other cute mini trees include cedar, pine, rosemary or boxwood. Keep them bare or string them with lights. Dazzle with ornaments. The choice is yours. Purchase or DIY other decorative trees. Instead of fresh or faux trees, there are many other decorative trees in retail shops made from metal, glass, ceramic and natural materials like birch and pine cones. Get inspired and make your own tree using a tomato cage or cone-shaped foam to glue or weave unique materials to it. Things like tulle, ribbon, burlap, fabric, ornaments, pom-poms and candy are all great options. USE FRESH BOUGHS AROUND THE HOUSE. This is one of my favourite ways to get the house looking festive. Fresh boughs smell great and are the perfect way to unify holiday décor throughout the home. How do I achieve this? I start with a few larger fresh bough arrangements that I will place on the island, dining table and coffee table. Smaller arrangements will be set on bathroom counters, night stands, side tables and shelves. Ornaments are optional. Some years, my bough arrangements are very natural looking with just boughs themselves in a pot or vase. Other years, I will spray glitter and dress them up with ornaments and then closer to Christmas Day, I have the option of adding fresh flowers to them. The beauty of these arrangements is they can last for months. If you decide to dress them for the holidays, you could easily pull out the décor and keep the boughs for another few weeks. Just remember to change out the water every few days and then replacing it with fresh water. With a few sprigs left over, I add a sprig here and there to clear hurricane vessels and candle holders, incorporate them in to table top displays, hang
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them from light fixtures, the stairway and use them as dressing on presents. The only thing to keep in mind is if the boughs are sitting in water, it can last up to months. However, when adding a sprig here and there without water, it is best to wait until closer to Christmas so the boughs will look fresh on Christmas Day. Add holiday decor to existing plants around the house. With plants being ever so popular, a great way to work your houseplants in to your holiday décor is to add fresh boughs, pine cones, holiday picks, ribbon and ornaments to them. I like to place these items grouped together on top of the soil peaking out of the pot for impact. Wrapping ribbon around the pot can also make it look festive.
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D HANG ORNAMENTS FROM A TWIG. For a minimalist yet an attention grabber look, incorporate twigs in to your decor. They can be small enough to set on a table or taller to sit on the floor. Keep them natural or spray paint them a flat, metallic or glittery colour. Dress them up, dress them down. Hang them from the ceiling, lay them across a flat surface or stand them up inside a pot or vase. They look great any way you situate them. ORNAMENTS HAVE MULTIPLE USES. Place fresh boughs at the base of a bowl or cloche and pile on the ornaments. Ornaments do not have to only hang from a tree. Get creative with the placement of ornaments by hanging them on chandeliers, door knobs and wreaths. Glue them together in the shape of a tree or topiary. I love tablescapes! Now that you have everything you need to decorate Christmas, why not put a grouping together to make it just that much more impactful! A tablescape is the placement of objects grouped together in a thought-out and artful way to create a meaningful display. It’s like a landscape for your table. You can create them on any surface including tables, buffet, mantles or shelves. For example, curate a sweet treats buffet bar. With all the holiday baking, candies and choc-
olate, surely there will be a treat to satisfy any sweet tooth. Use cake stands and cookie jars. Incorporate all the décor mentioned above along with candles and other favourite holiday trinkets to create a delicious and delightful dessert tablescape. Christmas is a magical time. Regardless the size of your home or whether you have room for a full-sized tree, there are so many other ways to still make it look festive. Make this year the year you outdo and impress yourself as well as your guests. CL
Incorporate your plants in to your holiday décor by adding sprigs of green, ornaments and other festive accessories.
The Whoville tree has been a whimsical way to add that bit of Christmas greens and fresh scent it brings to the home.
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THE SELF-MANAGEMENT OPTION
ASK MARIA
By Maria Bartolotti
Self-managing condo boards have pitfalls, but can be pretty rewarding too (SECOND OF A TWO-APART SERIES)
Q:
Desr Maria; we are a small townhome condominium of 20 units, at our last board meeting we discussed self-managing our condo. Can you tell us some key factors to consider if we choose to move in that direction?
A:
I always caution a Board who wants to self-manage their condo. It’s not that it can’t be done, its that it can be a lot of work. If you do not have the time, dedication, discipline or the tools to self manage your condominium then your setting yourself up for failure. Managing a condominium can come with numerous challenges including residents who may not see eye-to-eye with your method of management and no matter what you do, say or not say-haters will be haters and can make all your efforts difficult. Tough skin in this business is essential. Here is the continuation of my conversation with Jack, a president of a self-managed condo corporation, from the October 2019 issue of Condo Living. ROLE OF THE DIRECTORS: It’s important that Directors be active and involved when they serve on the Board and more so as a self managed entity. You must be willing to devote the time needed to manage the corporation. Members who cannot devote the time should not be considering a self-management option. A self-managed Board will play many
roles including the role of the management company. As such, it is crucial that you establish a board that has certain traits to help self manage your condo community. Example; electing someone who has an accounting or bookkeeping background, someone who is really good at writing and can draft minutes, and someone who is strong, fair, a good communicator and would make a good president. Don’t forget to implement a strategic plan if a member of the board such as the treasure or president moves from the condo or resigns their position. After all, people move on so be prepared. BOARD MEETINGS: Don’t go long periods of time without meeting or checking in with each other. Set regular times to meet as a board to carry out the business of the condo corporation. You cannot effectively self manage the condo corporation without meeting and reviewing the needs of the corporation. So many times, I’ve seen this crucial step overlooked, it serves no one and can cause more harm then good to your condo. TECHNOLOGY: Has advance and improved in the last few years making it easier for self managed
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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boards to communicate with their residents and bring transparency in everything they do. Now a days you can send emails, notifications, track and monitor requests and provide document management with a click of a button. Don’t be afraid to bring in tools to help simplify your role as a Board. Most importantly know that you are not alone. Reach out to the professionals in the industry when you need it. Be it maintenance for your condo, an Insurance broker or in need of legal or management advice. We’re all in it together and we’re here to help YOU succeed! 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 D ECEM B ER 2019
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ADVERTISERS INDEX |  Argyle at University District Avi Urban front cover, pages 10-12
The Gatest II Remington Developments page 31
Legacy Park II Brad Remington Homes back cover
Trico Homes page 4 Walden Place Cardel Lifestyles page 3
Sage Hill Park Brad Remington Homes page 28
Zen Riverstone Avalon Master Builder page 26
Sanderson Ridge on Fish Creek Park page 2 The Calais Remington Developments page 7
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AROUND TOWN
UNIVERSITY DISTRICT BREAKS GROUND FOR CENTRAL PARK
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est Campus Development Trust, the developers of University District, held the groundbreaking of its Central Park even as it announced the coming of the next wave of retailers that will be setting up shop in this distinctive new northwest neighbourhood. The three-acre Central Park will be the heart of University District and a four-season gathering place for social events, activities and everyday life. University District’s Central Park will feature a winter skating rink with a cooling system, a staging area for concerts, picnic area with tables and barbecue pits, a water fountain feature, interactive play feature for all ages, patio space, public washroom and showers for bike commuters, public plaza and underground parking. For the sake of comparison, University District’s Central Park will be roughly the same size as Calgary’s Shaw Millennium Park.
“From the start, we have envisioned University District as a gathering place for people of all ages to interact, live and play,” says James Robertson, President and CEO of West Campus Development Trust. “We are in the third year of turning our ambitious vision into reality, and this groundbreaking is an important milestone. In addition to starting the construction of Central Park, we want to celebrate our many residential projects currently under development and a variety of retail, entertainment and service retailers who are preparing to open in 2020.” West Campus Development Trust also revealed that Staples, Pet Planet and Clever Daycare will be joining University District as retailers. There are currently more than 1,000 residential units under construction in University District, with a variety of retailers slated to open in the summer of 2020, including Save-On-Foods, Analog Coffee, Freshii, Scotiabank, Pet Planet, Curious Hair Skin Body, Denim & Smith Barbershops, Press’d Sandwich Shop and Market Wines. Later in 2020, OEB Breakfast Co., YYC Cycle, Orangetheory, University District Dental, Five Guys and UC Noodles & BBQ will be open for business. Cineplex VIP Cinemas and Clever Daycare are scheduled to open in 2021.
By Pepper Rodriguez
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TRICO HOMES SELECTS NEW PRESIDENT
rico Homes announces the selection of Michael Brown as the new president of the renowned award-winning homebuilder. Brown takes over the helm from the retiring Tom Chisolm, Trico Homes CEO and Founder Wayne Chiu says in a statement. “As many of you already know, Trico Homes will be saying goodbye to its President Tom Chisholm at the end of this year. Tom will be retiring and moving back the US to be closer to his family. I would like to thank Tom for his contributions and recognize the accomplishments he’s made during his time as President of Trico Homes,” Chiu says. Michael Brown “I am also very pleased to announce that Michael Brown will be joining our team as President for Trico Homes in January 2020,” he adds. Brown has served as the CEO of the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) for the last eight years, and had been instrumental in the successful development of East Village and setting the stage for the broader River’s District Plan. “I’m really looking forward to being part of the Trico Homes team. Eleanor and Wayne have created something very special beyond homebuilding. Trico is a community builder that creates life changing moments for Calgarians and I can’t wait to contribute and share my experiences with this highly engaged group of people.” Brown says.
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CANMORE’S SPRING CREEK CONTINUES TO BOOM
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he master-planned community of Spring Creek in Canmore continues its astonishing growth as it announces the launch of its eighth residential condo development: The Tamarack. The Tamarack is the fourth condo building to come to market at Spring Creek in three years. With 80 condominium suites, this four-storey building will be the community’s largest to date and at full build out the value is more than $50 million. What sets The Tamarack apart is its designation as a Tourist Home, which allows it to be used as either a permanent residence or for short-term stays. Homes without this designation and rented for terms shorter than 30 days may face a fine starting at $2,500, says the Town of Canmore. The Tamarack will blend contemporary elements with rustic, timeless mountain architecture, it offers floor plans ranging from 720 to 2,331 square-feet. This includes both single and two-storey formats, with one, two, and three-bedroom orientations. CL For more information, visit www.springcreekrealestate.ca.
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