��
4
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
contents I S S U E 1 7 • FA L L 2 0 1 6
department 6 EDITOR’S NOTE
expressions 8
��
art scene
THE COLOURS OF AUTUMN. Calgary’s arts scene is spotlighted in our photo feature of some of the city’s most intriguing art galleries
38
in the cellar
FALL COMFORT. Get comfy with some international spirits for autumn
editor’s choice 10 UNIQUE BY NATURE Steve and Linda’s home in Tuxedo is a testament to their all-consuming passions
community spotlight 16 ALL GOOD THINGS Dressage Silverado pulls out all the stops as it approaches build out
innovations 21
custom design
�� ON THE COVER: From the earliest days, the cave has been a refuge, a place of warm comfort, and cave paintings have shown how our ancestors decorated their homes. Today’s man-cave — usually found in basements — is not much different, in that they usually are where the animal comforts of life are found. Steve and Linda’s home in Tuxedo take this concept to a whole new level with the custom-made geek chic feel of their lower level den. In fact, Steve’s madefrom-scratch ethos permeates the entire home. Cover photo by Jeff Cruz.
MOVING THE MCGILLIVRAYS New show combines Scott’s two favourite things: family and renovations
24
architecturally yours
MAKING THEIR MARK Hindle Architects bring new urban sensibilities to the inner-city
26
8
eye on custom homes
MONTGOMERY COMES OF AGE Some find it hard to believe, but Montgomery may be the next hit infill community
�6 FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
5
editor’s message
Geek chic
Among my group of friends, I’m pretty much the acknowledged king of nerds, the guy with the biggest collection of comic books and other esoteric pop culture stuff. I’m the one who goes to all those comic and toy expos, flea markets and garage sales in the hopes of snagging that rare collectible. But that was before I met Steve, the owner of the customized home in Tuxedo that we feature as the the Editor’s Choice of this issue. And let me tell you, my hoard of superhero stuff is an insignificant candle compared to the flame-thrower glory that is Steve’s collection. For one thing, my home wasn’t designed to accommodate my hobby as Steve and Linda’s home, that they graciously allowed us to photograph and talk about extensively, is. For another, he custom crafted his own home himself, I bought off the rack, or as it were. His home is the Bat Cave, mine is Alfred’s butler pantry. Steve had designed his home specifically to be a shrine of sorts to his many, colourful passions: movies — including posters and props — cars, and his Ducatti motorbike. And Linda, of course, for whom he designed a secret wine room, a veranda off the master bedroom, and their gorgeous master bath. The level of customization that he has done in his home is beyond any I’ve seen, and he did it all largely by himself. It’s a truly unique home that deserves coverage in DOMUS. And Jeff Cruz’s photography captures the utter uniqueness of the home, he says it was a difficult shoot given the home’s unconventional structure, but Jeff is a consummate professional and is as passionate about his craft as Steve is in his. Just check out the story on page 10. Speaking of consummate professionals, we also feature HGTV star Scott McGillivray and Jesse Hindle Architects in this issue. Jim Zang did a Q&A with Scott, the star of the new HGTV series Moving The McGillivrays, which gives us a peek into his design process and personal life that he kindly shares with us. I also got to talk to Jesse Hindle, a rising architectural star in Calgary who co-founded Hindle Architects with his wife, Laura. Within a few short years, their firm has become synonymous with upscale townhome and single-family home designs, as well as attainable home projects. They are also involved in the architectural design of the future Currie community. We also shine a light on the naturally endowed community of Dressage Silverado in the southwest, which is approaching build out and has just opened their new, spectacularly fabulous show home parade for their final phase. At DOMUS, there is no disguising our love for the multi-million dollar homes, and want to help all we can in finding your dream home. And be it a custom-made dream home or a builder-designed condo, townhome or single-family home — the choices for upscale living are endless in Calgary.
PUBLISHER |
Source Media Group
info@sourcemediagroup.ca ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER |
Jim Zang
jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITOR |
Pepper Rodriguez
pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRECTOR |
Jean Faye Rodriguez
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER |
Dave Macaulay
dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER |
Vivian Zhang
vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL
Shelley Boettcher, Aaliya Essa, Richard White, Jim Zang PHOTOGRAPHY
Jeff Cruz, Dave Macaulay, Don Molyneaux, Richard White ADVERTISING SALES
Heather Dougall heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca
Andrea Glowatsky andrea.glowatsky@sourcemediagroup.ca
James Pearce james.pearce@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING |
Norma Robertson
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca
VOL 5 ISSUE 17 • ISSN 1929-4581 (PRINT) ISSN 1929-459X (ONLINE) © 2016 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. DOMUS™ is published four times per annum with copies available for distribution at select locations. DOMUS™ accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. Source Media Group Corp., 6109 - 6th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 1L9; Tel 403.532.3101 Toll free 1.888.932.3101; www.sourcemediagroup.ca
6
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
art scene
THE COLOURS OF AUTUMN n BY AALIYA ESSA
“Autumn Leaves”
“Above it All”
➤
Since 2001, literally thousands of collectors from around the world have added one or more of Alexei Butirskiy images to their collections. What has caused this immediate and enthusiastic reception? As Aristotle once said, “Art not only imitates nature, but also completes its deficiencies.” Editions Gallery
Tara Higgins has a full background in the arts. She has studied painting in Oxford, England; Venice, Italy; Amsterdam, Holland; and Worcester, Massachusetts, USA. At Clark University in the States she received her BA in theatre set design and scenic painting. Gibson Fine Art
“Enigma” He has no mentors. There is nowhere to go to learn his art. No one teaches his technique. Sculptor Bill Mack works in such a rare art form that coming up with a name to describe it has been only slightly less arduous than creating the art itself. Editions Gallery 8
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
➤
art scene
“Elpis”
“Combattant”
➤
Carl White was born in Liverpool, England in 1969, and studied painting, drawing and graphic design at the Alberta College of Art & Design in Calgary. Known for his contemporary take on classical or Romantic subjects and techniques, White’s work has been featured in many solo and group exhibitions across Canada for over 20 years. Christine Klassen Gallery
Jean-Louis Émond lives and works in Montreal as a multi-disciplinary artist. He attended the University of Quebec in Montreal in 1987, where he received a degree in Fine Arts, specializing in sculpture. His work can be found in many private, public and corporate collections in Montreal and Toronto, including that of Thomas More, and Loto Quebec. Christine Klassen Gallery
“Olivia”
➤
Nano Lopez was born October 31, 1955, in Bogota, Colombia. He was recognized early in his life for his artistic talent when he was awarded first place in a municipal school drawing contest at the age of five. By high school, he was making serious copies of the Masters including Michelangelo’s sculptures and paintings. Editions Gallery
“Rainy Night” Sarah Kidner is a Canadian oil painter born in 1964. Growing up in Toronto, Sarah was exposed to and inspired by many great art exhibitions from the Group of Seven to the French Impressionists. At the University of Toronto she studied history and philosophy. A love of skiing, hiking and travelling drew Sarah to Banff in 1987. Gibson Fine Art
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
9
editor’s choice
UNIQUE BY NATURE Steve and Linda’s home in Tuxedo is a testament to their all-consuming passions n STORY BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF CRUZ
10
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
“U
nique” is a word that nowadays has been bandied around to describe something special or rare, or even out of the ordinary, but those aren’t exactly what the word means. Unique literally means one-of-a-kind, there’s nothing else in the world like it; and if that word ever applied to any home, it has to be Steve and Linda’s truly remarkable, custom-made project of passion. »
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
11
It’s well and fine to have a luxurious, custom-built home that suits your particular needs; but when the vision for the home stems from a deep-seated passion, that’s what leads to the creation of something that is truly your own. Steve, working on a lot in the northeast community of Tuxedo Park, brought his dream to life one brick at a time. Some say it’s a fevered dream that this movie enthusiast and pop culture aficionado conjured with a plan that starts from a pool room on the main floor and a dedicated home theatre below it. “I knew when I started planning for this home was that I wanted lots of colour for the walls and ceilings, a pool room and a home theatre, and everything else branched out from that,” Steve tells DOMUS. The single-family detached garage home has about 3,600 square-feet of livable space — divided into 1,300 square-feet in the main floor, 1,020 square-feet in the one-bedroom suite upstairs, and the 1,250-square-foot studio/theatre room/wine cellar/entertainment area downstairs, with six fireplaces throughout.
12
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
It is hard to pin down the look of the home in one style because it shifts from room to room. One moment you’re in a sleek, ultra modern kitchen, then you’re in a sunny and chic office, then there’s the transitional feel of the living room. And in all of these are art pieces and mementos of Steve’s all consuming passions — from a stained glass ode to his Ducati 999 motorbike (the actual bike is also displayed downstairs), Star Wars and Star Trek memorabilia, assorted diecast cars and planes, and a ’57 Bel Air car couch — and that’s just in the main floor. “He left a couple of spots for me to fill with my own collections,” Linda says wryly. “He also built me a secret room with a trick latch for my wine collection, and we share a workspace downstairs. But by and large, this house is Steve’s baby.” »
editor’s choice
“I knew when I started planning for this home was that I wanted lots of colour for the walls and ceilings, a pool room and a home theatre, and everything else branched out from that.”
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
13
editor’s choice
Steve and Linda are both very private people and live pretty much off the grid and they requested not to be photographed for this article. But if you want a mental picture, think of them as middle age versions of Big Bang Theory’s Leonard and Penny. Linda, instead of being a Cheesecake Factory waitress, has her own flourishing media planning and buying company. And Steve, although far from being the nerdy, experimental physicist of the TV sitcom is a brick-and-mortar guy with a Leonard’s romantic heart. “Steve styled the exterior and the layout of the house himself, and when I first saw the blueprints, the full bath upstairs only had one sink, but the next time I saw it when we started going out he had changed it to two,” Linda recalls with a smile. The cozy upstairs layout was designed just for the two of them, a vaulted ceiling grand master bedroom opens to a veranda, a serene space where Linda loves to have her “wine o’clock” time and of course Steve built her a wine cellar just for that. The luxurious master ensuite has an insane amount of glass blocks, more insane when you think that Steve did the majority of the backbreaking work himself. Steve — a bricklayer by profession — does take pride in the workmanship that went into the home, which he started in 2005 and moved in to in 2010; it is by no means finished. There are still some things here and there that he’s in the middle of constructing — like a sheltered outdoor barbecue with roll-up weather proof steel shutters, and a gigantic outdoor fireplace adorned with gargoyles. “I’m planning to raise the hot tub onto a deck out there too, someday,” he adds. Even with his bad back, Steve was very much hands on in the building of the home; 20,000 individual pieces of brick were used for the exterior
14
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
and interior, and when you see the load-bearing all-stone wall that spans the entire three levels of the home inside, your jaw just drops from the sheer enormity and scale of the labour involved in it. Steve says he had an immense amount of help from contractor friends. They are both very meticulous and like to plan everything well in advance. For example, Steve ordered dozens more than what he needed of a particular refrigerator door handle that he liked and which he used for his kitchen drawers. “You’ll never know when you need to replace one and you’ll be sore out of luck when you find out they don’t produce it anymore,” he explains. Everything in the home is state-of-the-art – or it was when they installed it. The home is wired for sound and everything from the temperature to the stereo is controlled through hardwired touch screens located in strategic spots along the home. “When we installed these, they were a decent system, but that was before the iPads came around,” says Steve, lamenting the speed that technology has evolved and overtook even his most well laid plans. The four-seat, 9.2-channel surround-sound, 110-inch wide-screen projector home theatre is the crowning glory of the home. It’s a groovy set-up, the ultimate home feature for a movie
fanatic like Steve, and watching movies here is as immersive as it’s going to get without having to buy a ticket. It’s also adorned by back-lit poster boxes with the latest movie posters — at the time of the interview he had posters of “Suicide Squad” and “Captain America: Civil War” months before those movies came out. He has hundreds of movie posters on file in neatly arranged drawers further into the basement development. It doesn’t end there; there are tons of movie memorabilia displayed in what has got to be a fanboy’s dream display cases. He has light saber replicas, Hellboy’s gun, Xwing fighter models, Han Solo’s blaster, and so much more it’s virtually a movie prop museum. And like a museum, the curated display materials rotate. “I have many more items in storage,” Steve says, who says he started collecting comic books when he was young and the obsession only grew from that. Cost was almost secondary in the pursuit of his dream and Steve would rather not discuss that, besides, it’s not like he will be selling the home anytime soon. “We do have the home and its contents heavily insured, but I don’t think I can build anything close to this again, or would want to,” he says. It is — after all — unique. D
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
15
ALL GOOD THINGS Dressage Silverado pulls out all the stops as it approaches build out
F
rom the start, Dressage Silverado has always been special. Inspired by the existing landscape,
Speaking of amenities, more are in store for the community itself, including two new
spectacular views and the historical significance of
schools. Slated to open in the fall of 2017 are
Spruce Meadows, this southwest community has
the K-4 Silverado Elementary School and a
been a big hit not only for its developer, Qualico
yet-to-be-named K-9 Catholic school.
Communities, but for the hundreds of residents who now call it home. But like all good things, Dressage Silverado is
The developer is also completing 194 Avenue S.W. to connect to Range Road 14, which will open a new access point to the
coming to an end, and the final phase has just been
community, and relieve traffic pressure from
released with new show homes from Baywest Homes
Sheriff King Street.
and NuVista Homes. Baywest and Augusta Homes are still available in the previous phase (Phase 4), but Dressage is already 75 per cent completed with only 71 lots left. “People want to live here because it is a largely established community,” says Emilie Kittell, marketing and communications assistant at Qualico Communities. “We still have some of the most prestigious lots available in southwest Calgary, and we’re close to all of the amenities that make everyday life easy.”
16
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
community spotlight
(ABOVE) “Dressage area backs right on to Radio Tower creek and Spruce Meadows, so you’ve got beautiful views of the mountains,” Kittell says. “It’s a really gorgeous part of Calgary.” It is also minutes away are Fish Creek Provincial Park, and a short drive down to Kananaskis Country and endless, pristine parklands. (LEFT) Dressage Silverado offers a host of home options, including move-up homes from the $550,000s, semi-estate-homes from the $700,000s and estate homes starting in the $1.05 million. A new multi-family project is also in the works. (OPPOSITE PAGE) Dressage Silverado is an already established community that families will readily enjoy with lots of playgrounds for kids and their parents alike. “We have plenty of families wanting to live here, because of its closeness to nature and the many recreational opportunities available to them in the community,” Kittell says. (LEFT) She adds that the new school developments have certainly attracted new families to the community, with lots still available right across from the school site. Kittel also points out that the homes offered by their builders are all well suited to the needs of families.
»
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
17
community spotlight
(RIGHT) NuVista Homes’ new 2,512-square-foot Bentley II show home in Dressage is a fine example of the family-friendly plans that that the builder is known for. It is a truly outstanding home with a contemporary design and many added features, including a main floor flex room and an upper floor bonus room. There is also a computer centre for yourself or the kids.
18
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
(ABOVE) Baywest Homes’ 2,673-square-foot Shiloh II packs in all the fun style and functional practicality of a well-designed family home. The triple car tandem garage embodies the design’s studious practicality, as it offers room for a family’s future growth. (LEFT) Hunter House by StreetSide Developments evokes images of picturesque old world charm. Replete with design indulgences, this collection of 92 estate townhomes and stacked bungalows offers unique structure, striking counterpoints and elegant detailing. (RIGHT) Dressage boasts a host of already exiting amenities, including the new shops and services right on the corner of 194 Avenue and Sheriff King Street. It is also just a short distance to the sprawling Shawnessy commercial centre, the Somerset LRT station. “All the amenities of big-city living are minutes away: theatres, financial institutions, libraries, and medical clinics,” says Kittell. D
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
19
custom design
MOVING THE
McGILLIVRAYS New show combines Scott’s two favourite things: family and renovations n STORY BY JIM ZANG
�
008 was a big year for Scott McGillivray. He got married in June, and his hit TV series, Income Property, aired on HGTV Canada in September, followed by HGTV U.S. in January 2009.
Indeed, most people know McGillivray for his TV work; first on Debbie Travis’ Facelift and From the Ground Up with Debbie Travis. Then on his own show, Income Property — winner of the 2013, 2014, and 2015 Canadian Screen Award, Best Lifestyle Program or Series presented by The Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television (ACCT) — and numerous others like Holiday Battle on the Block, All American Handyman Challenge with Mike Holmes and also as a judge in Canada’s Handyman Challenge. But the charming TV host with the great hair and perfect smile is much more than just an expert builder/renovator. In real life, the 38-year-old Torontonian is a husband, father, business owner, investor, speaker, teacher and author. His columns have appeared in many newspapers across the country, he launched his “Lifetime Wealth Academy” real estate course in 2010, and in 2014 he published his first home improvement book, “How to Add Value to Your Home”. Right behind husband and father, however, “first and foremost,” he says, “I was and still am a real estate investor”. In fact, his career in real estate began before the B. Comm. honours graduate was enrolled at the University of Guelph. What began as a school class project turned into a passion that would see Scott, at age 21, use student loans to purchase and renovate his first rental property. By the time he was 23, he owned five properties. And today, let’s just say he’s still keeping busy, with dozens of investments and a new show, Moving the McGillivrays, that premieres on HGTV Canada September 25th at 9 p.m. ET. »
Scott McGillivray
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
21
custom design
DOMUS was lucky enough to be able to send Scott some questions, and you can tell by his answers that he put a lot of thought and time into responding — which we appreciate very much. The result is a Q & A session that sees the always accommodating McGillivray in typical good humour, poking fun at his brother, and opening up to us about who he is and how he got where he is now. Certainly he’s one of my wife’s favourite TV hosts, and I think she’s actually a little jealous that I got to do this. Oh well, she’ll just have to read the following interview like the rest of you. When and where were you born? Scott McGillivray: I was born in Toronto on April 7, 1978. Where were you raised, ie. where do you consider your childhood home? SM: I grew up in Leaside, a neighbourhood in the North East area of downtown Toronto. My family and I moved to a suburb North of the city, Richmond Hill when I was nine. Do you have any brothers or sisters? Older or younger? SM: Both! I have an older brother named Andrew, he’s five years older than me, basically ancient. My sister Erin is 16 months younger than me. I am a quintessential middle child. What’s the first job you ever had? SM: Well, I had a paper route as a kid and then I worked at a garden centre when I was in the 7th grade, so about 12 or 13 years old. What was your first vehicle? What do you drive now? SM: She was a beautiful 1994 blue Ford Escort, I got her when I was 21 years old. Now I drive a black Ford F-150, equally as beautiful. Where is home now? Home now is just outside of Toronto, and also Fort Myers, Florida. Although, I unfortunately don’t get to spend nearly enough time at our home in Florida. What kind of house do you live in? SM: Our new house is a beautiful chateaustyle home with transitional design inside. Very open concept with lots of room for entertaining our friends and family. A great outdoor space, fully furnished basement with a bar and theatre area. Sabrina and I bought our first home when we were engaged and we found a good deal in a modest neighborhood, but as our family grew our need for a bigger space did as well.
22
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
When and how did you meet your spouse? SM: When I was in my mid-twenties I went on a vacation to Cuba with some buddies and we met on a beach down there. It was my last day there and her first day. It was all a bit wild how it worked out, since we lived so close together. We dated for about four years before getting married. How long have you been married? SM: We were married on June 21st in 2008 so we’ve been married just over eight years now. Do you have children, if so names and ages SM: Yes, I have two incredible little girls, Myah who is four years old and Layla is two. They are at such a great age right now, learning about the world and asking a ton of questions about how things work. How do you spend your ‘down’ time? Any particular hobbies or places you like to holiday? SM: I wish I had more ‘down’ time. I am starting to forget how it is that I like to spend my time! Working on this house is absorbing a ton of my time, but I do love to hang out with my girls in our garden and we just went camping for the first time, which was awesome! How did you get into construction? SM: I’ve always had a passion for building things. Up north at our cottage while I was growing up, I would spend my summers messing around with building stuff there. Being on job sites, I would collect and gather scraps to mess around with and completing minor renovations. I was always the kid who everyone around the neighbourhood would hire to help them do any work needed around their house which just sort of developed into something greater. Do you have any formal design or construction training? SM: Well I graduated from the University of Guelph with an honours degree in Commerce, so that is my most formal degree, however, I am a licensed contractor! I did that certification after University, when I was about 26 years old. I don’t have formal design training per say, but it comes with the territory and years and years of experience.
When did you first get the idea to do a TV show? SM: An old friend of mine started working at a production company in the city and they were looking for talent for commercials. She started getting me a lot of gigs right away — commercials, photo shoots, it was good money and on one of the sets, someone inquired about what I did and when I mentioned that I was big into construction and renovation I was asked to meet Debbie Travis. What did you do for a living before that? SM: I was and still am a real estate investor, first and foremost. When did Income Property start? SM: The first television program I appeared on was ‘Debbie Travis’ Facelift’ and it was on the set of that that someone caught wind that I was big into real estate investing and they liked that idea and asked me if they could send a camera crew to find out what that was like. At the time I was helping a buddy of mine put an income suite in his home and they were really excited about the project and that’s how ‘Income Property’ was born. How many episodes have you done? SM: 140 + episodes over 11 seasons on HGTV and DiY Network as award winning host and executive producer. What’s your favourite thing about doing that show? SM: Oh, definitely changing people’s lives for the better. Helping struggling homeowners into profitable property owners. You get to take individuals who are struggling to find ways to make ends meet and show them the possibilities that are in front of them and the outcome is always the best part. You were recently on the Home To Win show with other HGTV celebs. Who is the most like how they seem on TV? Who is the most different from their TV persona? SM: The great thing about HGTV is that everyone can be themselves. We’re all on this network because we offer some form of real world expertise
to audiences, but we’re just regular people so I wouldn’t say that anyone has a TV persona that is different from their real life persona. Please don’t tell Bryan (Bauemler) I said anything nice about him.
The McGillivrays (from left) Layla, Sabrina, Myah and Scott.
Tell us in your own words about your next TV project, Moving the McGillivrays? When does it air? SM: I am so anxious for the new show to premiere, it is unlike anything I have ever done before in that it is so personal to me. It’s a 10 part series on HGTV this Fall about the trials of tribulations of moving my family. Definitely a new beast for me, opening up my family and getting a lot more up close and personal with the cameras. I’m also excited to share the journey we went on helping another family build their dream home. We worked with Habitat for Humanity and that piece of this experience was rewarding and very important to me. Our readers are mostly people looking for new homes, or looking for renovation ideas for their existing home, but not necessarily to sell it. What would you say is the most cost effective (best) way for people to add value to their home? SM: That’s a very loaded question and one that I spend a lot of time talking about, but the first go-to I suggest is to go for a fresh coat of paint, it can really liven up a place and give it a fresh breath of air. Adding new floors will also add a good chunk of value. Another big one is updating the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of any home. Were you really in a boy band? SM: I don’t want to talk about it…. (Yes! I was in a group called “Next Element” in the late 90s/early 2000’s, I swear I was tricked into it). D FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
23
architecturally yours
MAKING THEIR MARK Hindle Architects bring new urban sensibilities to the inner-city n STORY BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
I
t started out as a favour for a friend, but the thriving practice Hindle Architects has going is no accident. Jesse Hindle and his wife, Laura Alvey-Hindle, were settled in their life and work in London, England, when one of Jesse’s friends asked him to design a new home for his young family in Calgary.
“He mentioned many years back that he would hire us to design a house for him. But we were living in London when he finally got in touch. In the end we decided to return to Calgary to start a family and practice,” Jesse says. And it’s a decision they have not regretted. Since returning to Calgary in 2011 (Laura grew up in the city, and is a sixth generation Calgarian), Hindle Architects has been one of the busiest architecture firms in the city. They have partnered with Brookfield Residential for the design of two funky inner-city developments: Altadore 36 and The Henry in Parkdale; the interior design of nine floors for TELUS in the landmark TELUS Sky tower; a series of inner-city custom homes and a new facility for the Westside King’s Church. Hindle Architects has also been hired as the architectural advisors to Canada Lands Company for the redevelopment of Calgary’s former military grounds, Currie Barracks, into a vibrant new mixed-use community. It isn’t just the high-profile projects that inspire Hindle Architects, they’re also designing a 50-unit townhouse development for Partners
24
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
Development Group and Attainable Homes Calgary Corporation in Bowness. “We are incredibly proud to be working with Partners and Attainable Homes. We believe that good design should be accessible to everyone.” Jesse and Laura have always had a passion for great design, which they believe is critical in the development of great cities. “We’ve always believed that great design, in all forms, is an indicator of a sophisticated city,” Jesse says. And for them it all starts with creating compelling architecture. The House on Lassiter Court, which brought them back to Calgary, is a prime example of how they feel a home is not only designed to fulfill a functional role for its owners, but how it reacts to its environment. Located within an established inner-city community in the southwest, the site features a flowering apple tree in the front, and a perimeter of mature spruce trees in the rear yard. “The geometric and spatial arrangement of the home responds to the irregularity of the site while preserving the site’s existing trees,” Jesse says. The three-level, 5,500-square-foot three-bedroom family home with developed basement is designed to maximize the amount of natural sunlight that
P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y D O N M O LY N E A U X
comes into the home. Even on cloudy days you don’t have to turn on the lights. “The organization of the plan and section offers connectivity and variation while large expanses of glazing promote a seamless flow between inside and out,” he adds. Generous north facing clerestory windows allow light to penetrate deep into all levels of the home, filling the living spaces with natural light from the expansive Alberta sky. The Henry townhomes in Parkdale, is one of two developments Hindle Architects is developing with Brookfield Residential, offers an update on inner-city living. The brick exterior speaks to the neighbourhood’s historic buildings, lending a touch of style and class to the established community. “The scheme incorporates a rich material palette, inspired by the historic red brick homes of the Parkdale community,” Jesse says. The existing alley to the north of the development will be rejuvenated to become an activated laneway and will encourage increased pedestrian and bicycle connectivity between the existing community and the Bow River regional pathway. “All living spaces include generous glazing which provides an abundance of natural daylight and fresh air,” he adds. “The development is capped by a series of private rooftop patios, offering all residents access to spectacular views of the Bow River and downtown Calgary.” Hindle Architects involvement in the redevelopment of the former Currie Barracks gives Hindle Architects the broadest canvas to help inform the city’s architecture. They’ve been brought on as architectural advisors to support Canada Lands Company’s vision of new urbanism to this strategically located 195-acres parcel of land near the juncture of Glenmore Trail and Crowchild Trail in the southwest. “Our role at Currie gives us the opportunity to encourage great architectural design on a much larger scale, as the assignment involves developing architectural design guidelines for CLC. It’s really interesting for us to be involved in such a significant piece of Calgary’s urban evolution,” says Jesse. Jesse says that the best results come from the balance between their inspired clients and the talented team at Hindle Architects. “We are fortunate to have clients that are committed to raising the bar, and to work every day with a talented and dedicated team that strives to create a better city.” D
The Hindle Architects team. Back row, L to R: Rob Machida, Travis Davidson, Alex Pendray, Alexander Grill-Donovan, Andrew Siddall, Amber Lafontaine Front row, L to R: Ron Choe, Laura Alvey-Hindle, Jesse Hindle “We are fortunate to have clients that are committed to raising the bar, and to work every day with a talented and dedicated team that strives to create a better city.”
MIDDLE PHOTOS FROM TOP The House on Lassiter Court is a prime example of how they feel a home is not only designed to fulfill a functional role for its owners, but how it reacts to its environment. The 50-unit townhouse development for Partners Development Group and Attainable Homes Calgary Corporation in Bowness. The Henry townhomes in Parkdale, is one of two developments Hindle Architects is developing with Brookfield Residential.
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
25
eye on custom homes
MONTGOMERY COMES OF AGE Some find it hard to believe, but Montgomery may be the next hit infill community n BY RICHARD WHITE
M Astrid and Trevor at the park across from their future home.
26
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
illion dollar homes in Montgomery? No way! That may have been the typical reaction to such an idea in the past, but things are slowly changing for this secluded riverside community. For many years, Calgary urbanists have been touting Montgomery as Calgary’s next new upscale inner-city infill community in the northwest. This would seem logical as Calgary’s luxury infill craze has been moving steadily westwardly along the Bow River escarpment — from Crescent Heights to St. Andrew’s Heights with the next community being Montgomery. Yet somehow the transformation hasn’t happened as quickly as some might have thought. All of the ingredients for a vibrant inner-city 21st century community are there — Bow River, Shouldice Park, a Main Street, an old neighbourhood shopping mall anchored by a Safeway, Market Mall and major employment centers (University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital), as well as great access to downtown. Who could ask for anything more?
That is exactly what Astrid and Trevor, a professional couple in their 30s were thinking when they decided to build their dream home on Montalban Drive. For most Calgarians, their image of Montgomery is based on driving through the tired 16th Avenue Motel Village as you exit and enter the city. However, the upper Montgomery streets on the north side of the highway offer outstanding views. When it comes to Calgary’s “view streets” Montalban Drive is a hidden gem. Montalban Drive is hot! Over four years of living in Montgomery, Astrid and Trevor have fallen in love with the community and location. When they decided to build their custom dream home, after looking at 60 different homes around the city, they decided to stay in Montgomery. Astrid exclaims, “while some of the homes were amazing, we kept circling back to the fact we loved our neighbourhood so much.” They were well aware of the Montalban Drive’s view, as it became a popular spot for their walks. “We always thought it would be an amazing place to build our dream home,” smiles Trevor. “Then last summer, we noticed a lot for sale! We didn’t act fast enough and the lot was sold before we could make an offer. Not too long thereafter, another lot went up for sale. This time we acted fast, made an offer, but were outbid. In October, another lot went up for sale and Lady Luck was on our side — within a week we had closed the sale — and we couldn’t be happier with the lot we ended up getting.”
Astrid adds, “We love how Montalban Drive street faces a lovely dog park so we have wide open space right in front of us. We have a direct view of the mountains, which is something we have both wanted for a long time. It’s a quiet street and has a lovely sense of community, which we have already experienced just as lot owners.
Getting Approvals Like many Calgarians building infill homes, Astrid and Trevor had no idea what to expect with the City’s approval process. “In short, it has taken much longer than we could have ever anticipated and we would have liked a little more transparency into the process,” says Trevor. “There is a lot of information that is publically available in the form of community guidelines and while these are not bylaws, the City definitely takes them into consideration and so familiarize yourself with the norms of your neighbourhood” advises Astrid. “Do not think that you’ll be the ones to get away with the loophole! The odds are stacked against you. Try and avoid all shades of gray no matter what advice you get,” adds Trevor. For example, they both really wanted an under drive garage at the front of the house as the slope of the property lends itself well to it. Unfortunately, this was not well received by the community association and subsequently, the City. This resulted in major revisions to the design, which added cost and delayed approval.
P H OTO S BY R I C H A R D W H I T E
Choosing a Custom Home Builder After an exhaustive research on custom homebuilders, they choose Blumer Homes. They were both impressed with how Steve Blumer structures his layout based on highlighting or maximizing the synergies between light, space and the site. “He understands ‘how’ and more importantly ‘why’ designing around these features is so important to the experience of the home. While he is designing and building a house, it was obvious to us he understands it will be our dream home,” says Trevor. Both emphasize working with a small boutique builder provides incredible customization for your design/needs/vision. Like many first time custom homebuyers, Astrid and Trevor sometime had difficulty articulating what they wanted. That’s where Rosanne Fleury, Blumer’s designer proved to be an invaluable resource. When it comes to Dream Home With A Dream View Calgary’s “view Astrid and Trevor’s custom a two-storey modern home with a third floor streets” Montalban rooftop deck (aka retreat) offering outstanding views of the Bow River Drive is a hidden valley and mountains. With its horizontal emphasis and minimalist gem. lines and details, but with warm materials and colors it is what they call “West Coast modern.” The interior design is oriented towards the front (south) where the views are. This is in contrast to the typical custom home which has the principle living space at the back of the home for both privacy and access to the rear yard. Their formal living room at the back of the home was designed with their grand piano as the centrepiece. As well, the kitchen in most luxury infills is situated nearer to or at the back, in this home it’s centrally placed adjacent to the front family room so even when working in the kitchen, you have a spectacular view through the expansive south-facing windows. n Richard White has The master bedroom is also situated at the front rather than the been a freelance writer back, allowing Astrid and Trevor to awaken to an incredible view. for over 20 years, focusing on urban living and Even the basement guest suite offers an expansive view.
Last Word Both Astrid and Trevor agree, “The hardest part was balancing size versus need versus value. At the end of the day, it’s your project, your money and your time. You have to make lots of tough decisions.” D
travel. Read his blogs at everydaytourist.ca or follow him on twitter @everydaytourist. He can be reached by email at richardlw@shaw.ca.
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
27
A DV E RT I SI NG F E AT U R E : H E I L IG H T
Heilight of the night Home-grown talent brings new way to illuminate the home
A
s fall approaches and days grow shorter, a standout home deserves to be seen day or night. Your home’s curb appeal will never be lost in the shadows, as Calgary’s own Heilight outdoor lighting company offers a new way to give your home a nighttime glow. The advent of LED has dramatically changed the lighting world, but it is how Heilight uses this technology that enables this familyrun local company to offer some of the most eye-catching light displays for the home. Heilight’s aluminum profile lighting system can expertly outline every corner and cranny of any home with LED lighting, and there are hundreds of different colour combinations and functions to choose from. Heilight’s proprietor, Wyatt Heisler, says exterior home lighting isn’t just for Christmas anymore. “What we offer are very much all-season outdoor profile lighting for your home. You can program it to light up for any special occasion, like Canada Day or even for when your favourite hockey team wins,” he says. Heilight offers professional installation of permanent decorative
28
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
LED lighting. “We have spent countless hours researching and developing a product that will enhance the look of your business or home,” Heisler says. “What we have is our original design and we hold the distribution rights,” he says. Their track lighting system are weatherproof and sturdy enough to withstand Alberta’s harsh climate. “We use manufactured aircraft-grade aluminum and polycarbonate lens that allows homeowners to have lighting year round for all occasions and for ambiance.” A simple one-time installation is all that’s needed to enjoy the light show year-round. “Our LED profile lighting eliminates the risks involved in climbing up and down ladders to install or take down Christmas lights. You never even have to change the bulbs ever again.”
A DV E RT I SI NG F E AT U R E
Heilight LED systems have zero maintenance costs, programmable colours and patterns, economical and sustainable consuming only 4.8W per meter. It’s also discreet, hidden within the folds and contours of the home so it does not look out of place in the daylight. “There are hundreds of different colour combinations and functions, including solid colours,” Heisler says. “You can also control the brightness of the lights. It can be easily programmed to have special effects, like light chasing and flashing effects. We are also currently working on a smart phone app so you can control your lights from your smart phone.” With the Heilight system, it will be easy to celebrate your favourite sports teams, birthday parties, backyard parties other holidays such as Halloween, St Patrick’s Day and Valentines’ Day. “Many people use them daily on a white function to give your house a show home glow,” he adds. Heilight has indoor application as well. “We can use our LED track system for under counter lighting, accent lighting to bulkheads, bars theatre rooms and much more.” Installation is easy enough — and although it can differ depending on the size of the home — it usually takes one to two days to install. “We can be used to suit almost any kind of exterior material, including vinyl siding, Hardie board and stucco.” Heisler says Heilight is a small, familyrun company that currently consists of five employees (himself included). “We have been operating for approximately seven years. We offer the professional installation of permanent decretive LED lighting. We have spent countless hours researching and developing a product that will enhance the look of your business or home.” An original Calgary-developed product, Heilight will lead the way in home lighting innovation for years to come. For more information about Heilight, interested parties can visit www.heilight.ca or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/ heilights. n
Check out our ad on page 30 and scan with Layar APP to see a Heilight home in action.
We are also currently working on a smart phone app so you can control your lights from your smart phone. FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
29
30
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
31
SERVICE EXPERTS Designing HVAC for healthy homes
L
ast edition of DOMUS, readers were introduced to Les Smith at Service Experts. Les talked about a few of the things Service Experts is doing, and one of the things they’re definitely doing right is offering full HVAC services to designers and contractors right at their fingertips. With heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality custom designed right from the planning stage, it’s like preventative medicine for your home’s health. Following Les’ article came more questions from readers, so DOMUS called Les up again for this edition and asked him a few other things we thought our readers might be interested in. Q: My homebuyer clients and I are at the planning stage. We have questions about different HVAC options. How can we get advice?
“We’re happy to help on any size project.”
32
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
PHOTO BY DAVE MACAULAY
A DV E RT I SI NG F E AT U R E | SE RV IC E E X PE RT S
Les Smith, the general contractor at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
SERVICE EXPERTS: Part of the work I do at
Service Experts is to do on-site consultations. I’m happy to meet with designers and contractors to work through a job. When I’ve done that I will make a written quote so that the job can be costed accurately. Q: The renovation I’m designing right now won’t need a lot of HVAC work. Can we still use you? SERVICE EXPERTS: Of course. We’re happy to help on any size project. Our goal is to become your trade of choice, which means we need to support you whether the job is big or small. Q: The house I’m working on has an old furnace. What should I be aware of before starting the renovation? What is a good brand? And how much should I expect to spend? SERVICE EXPERTS: One of the most important things to remember is eventually the equipment in the house is going to have to be replaced. New HVAC equipment has different venting requirements than the older models. Typically we are not using chimneys anymore and we are direct venting the equipment out a side wall. This requires that
A DV E RT I SI NG F E AT U R E | SE RV IC E E X PE RT S
that we have access to the exterior of the house before drywall ceilings are put in place. You could have an upset homeowner if a year or two down the road we have to tear out parts of the ceiling to change out a dead furnace. There are many great manufacturers out there. Some of the biggest are Trane, Lennox and Carrier. The price can range greatly depending on the model of the furnace, the amount of labour required to install and who installs it. The price can vary from a few thousand to over $10,000 with the average being in the $4,000-$6,000 range.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SERVICE EXPERTS
Q: I’m renovating a home and my clients want to put in the best central air conditioning unit possible. What do you recommend? SERVICE EXPERTS: There are a few things to keep in mind when researching air conditioners. The first is location. Where do you want to have the outdoor unit sit? You are required to have a fourfoot access on one side of your house “free and clear” so that emergency services can access the backyard. The second is noise. Are there any windows nearby or is it sitting next to the patio? The sound level of an air conditioner ranges from 65 decibels (70 decibels being normal conversation at three feet distance) to 79 decibels (a vacuum cleaner at 10 feet). Finally there is the energy efficiency. We all want to be as green as possible, but in our northern climate there just aren’t that many days that cooling is needed. A mid-range air conditioner is all you probably will need. We always have the greenest products available, but the energy savings won’t offset the extra cost of the high end A/C.
Our goal is to become your trade of choice, which means we need to support you whether the job is big or small SERVICE EXPERTS: In a forced air system, both the heating
and cooling draw air through a filter. These filters are typically one-inch in width. The ratings on the filters are usually MERV ratings, MPR or FPR. Simply put the higher the number, the smaller the particle that is screened out. Some builders are now installing a five-inch wide filter. These filters have a higher rating than the one-inch, but are more expensive. Finally, there are specialty filter sets that have powered components to provide the best cleaning of all types of particles and compounds. These systems are normally over $1,000 installed, but if they have severe allergies they can be a sanity saver.
Q: My customers, who own a 600-square-foot condo, are concerned that it gets very hot. Do you have a small air conditioner that will work for me? SERVICE EXPERTS: Let me first start with a caution. Part of the air conditioning system sits outside. Since this is common property you should get a written letter from the condominium board before moving forward. Aside from that, there are two paths we can take. If the condo has forced-air heating we can install a standard, albeit small, air conditioner into the unit. If not, there is a product called a mini-split that provides from one to four indoor units for room-by-room cooling.
Q: Do my clients need a humidifier or a dehumidifier? SERVICE EXPERTS: By building code all homes that have a new furnace require a humidifier. During the winter here, it is not uncommon for the inside humidity to drop below 15 per cent. The brand new hardwood floors can have significant gaps without adequate humidity. There are a few of different options including by-pass and steam humidifying depending on the customer’s needs and the size of the home.
Q: As home design consultants we regularly work with people who have a lot of dust and pollen allergies, especially in spring. How do I make sure the air in their home is as clean as possible?
Q: Do you do work on projects larger than residential? SERVICE EXPERTS: Our expertise is with single homes, attached or detached, condominiums and townhomes. n
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
33
A DV E RT I SI NG F E AT U R E | OKO T OK S FOR D L I NC OL N
THRILL OF THE
NEW
Okotoks Ford Lincoln unveils 2017 line-ups
T
here’s something about a new car smell that gets everyone excited, and it’s a thrill that Okotoks Ford Lincoln understands well. With the brand new features and same top quality throughout Ford and Lincoln lines, the new car smell isn’t the only thing to look forward to, as Okotoks’ most-trusted car dealership unveils its 2017 models. Consider the 2017 Lincoln line of cars, CUVs and SUVs. “Every Lincoln is either all-new or thouroughly redesigned for 2017. They are comparable to the Audi and Mercedes Benz models and Lincoln’s quality, luxury and price equation is tough to beat,” says Rick Cherrington, General Manager. First up, is the redesigned 2017 Lincoln MKZ sedan; favoured by empty-nesters and young professionals alike. Now available with a new 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 good for 400 horsepower, it’s pound-for-pound the most powerful Lincoln on the road. If you’re looking for refined power with responsive steering housed in a great-handling sedan, then the MKZ should be on your list. “It gives the ultimate driving experience,” Cherrington says. Then there’s the Lincoln Continental featuring all-new luxury,
performance and technology. According to Cherrington, the 2017 Continental “is the most advanced vehicle Lincoln’s ever built.” Available in 2.7L or 3.0L Turbocharged V6 engines, the Continental has the power and style to outclass even the most expensive imports. “It totally redefines luxury cars and it’s available for a test drive this fall,” Cherrington says. Not to be left behind, Ford also has an impressive line-up of new cars for 2017, offering what customers want: fuel economy, technology, safety and outstanding performance. Buyers will fall in love with Ford’s innovative design, including dramatic interiors and stunning exteriors. For 2017, the ever-popular Ford Escape offers three engine choices: a standard 2.5L I4, the highly-efficient 1.5L EcoBoost, and the higherperformance 2.0L Twin-Scroll EcoBoost engine. Both EcoBoost engines feature Auto Start-Stop technology. And now, thanks to this year’s increased 61.7L fuel tank capacity, buyers get to enjoy more time on the road and spend less time at the pump. Speaking of fuel efficiency, look no further than the redesigned Fusion. With three models to choose from, it has a style and a budget that will fit any lifestyle.
2017 FORD FUSION
2017 LINCOLN MKZ
36
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
A DV E RT I SI NG F E AT U R E | OKO T OK S FOR D L I NC OL N
2017 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL
The newly designed 2017 Fusion is more stunning than ever. With striking features you never even knew you wanted, like the rotary gear shift dial that replaces the traditional gear shifter and makes for a more open cabin — it also makes it easier to reach what’s important to you: your morning coffee, for instance. Or the distinctive newly designed grille with available new LED headlights. What would an article about Ford be without mentioning F-Series? It’s the truck that defines the word “truck”. In 2015, the F-150 was totally re-imagined for the twenty-first century with a militarygrade aluminum body and bed, delivering improved performance and fuel economy. With literally millions of different ways to spec one, a customer can have an F-150 purpose-built for work, play or equipped
to rival the finest in luxury vehicles. For 2017, the bestselling F-150 is joined by the all-new, aluminumbodied Super Duty series of heavyduty trucks giving Okotoks Ford the most-advanced, state-of-the-art line of trucks in the business. State-of-the-art is par for the course at Okotoks Ford Lincoln. Operating as part of the Wood Automotive Group owned by principal, Gerry Wood, Okotoks Ford prides itself on total customer satisfaction. As owner of some of the largest dealerships in Western Canada, Gerry Wood has never lost sight of the importance of personal service and a fair deal. “Top-notch, friendly customer service is our biggest advantage, you can say we have small town values with a big-city selection,” says
2017 FORD ESCAPE
2017 FORD MUSTANG
Cherrington. “We’d love to show everyone what that means.” If you’re interested in seeing all the vehicles 2017 has to offer or want to get an unbelievable deal on a remaining 2016 model, head down to the Okotoks Ford at 4 Westland Road, or call 403-917-0244 to set up an appointment. n
2017 FORD F350 LARIAT
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
37
in the cellar
FALL COMFORT Get comfy with some international spirits for autumn n BY SHELLEY BOETTCHER
G
o to Denmark, and you’ll often hear a great word: hygge. Pronounced kind of like “hoooog-uh,” it more or less means “cozy” and the idea behind it typically involves friends, family, candles and a bottle or two to share. It’s the perfect word for what I love to do in fall and winter in Calgary. Invite some friends over. Light a few candles. Make food — it doesn’t have to be fancy — and open a good bottle. With that in mind, here are a few suggestions for your next gathering. And, as the Danes would also add, skål!
Suntory, Toki (Japan) A key difference between Japanese whisky and scotch is that Japanese whiskies are all about the blends. This example from Suntory is blended for the North American market and has only recently been released in Canada. It has notes of sweet cherry, toffee and a hint of citrus. Drink neat, or try it with soda for a fresh spin on a classic cocktail. About $60.
Ardbeg, Corryvreckan (Islay, Scotland) The Gulf of Corryvreckan is a stretch of ocean off Scotland’s West Coast; it is also home to the world’s third-largest whirlpool, a scary but fascinating natural phenomenon, which has inspired legends, daredevils and yes, even scotch whisky throughout the years. Ardbeg has been producing scotch whisky since 1815. The Corryvreckan has notes of salt, maple, cinnamon, iodine and orange peel, with a mighty long finish. Unforgettable. About $115.
n Shelley Boettcher is the national weekend wine columnist for CBC Radio and the author of three books about wine. Contact her at drinkwithme.com or on Twitter @shelley_wine. 38
• D O M U S • FA L L 2 01 6
Krug, Grande Cuvee (Champagne, France) There are Champagnes, and then there are Champagnes. Krug is in that latter category, a name that is known simply by its record of excellence and history. The current Grande Cuvee is no exception. A blend of more than 120 wines from a decade or more, this beautifully balanced Champagne has notes of brioche, toasted almonds, honey and flowers. Exquisite. About $250.
Giusti Wine, 2009 Umberto I (Veneto, Italy) The founder of Giusti Construction in Calgary, Joe Giusti never forgot the country where he was born and, a few years ago, returned to Italy to buy a vineyard. Then another. And another. Now he splits his time between Canada and Italy, where he owns the impressive Giusti winery and estate. Umberto Primo is named after Giusti’s grandfather, who was a huge inspiration for the young Giusti. A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this red wine is big, rich and intense, with blackcurrant and flower aromas and flavours of mocha, blueberries and more blackcurrant. About $100. D
FA L L 2 01 6 • D O M U S •
39