contents M ay 2 013
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vo l ume 5 i ssue 3 9
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COVER FEATURE
community Profile
8 The shining
22 It takes a village
Natural beauty stars in Melcor’s Aurora
Revamped military base steeped in architecture, history and awards
Show Home Profile
City connection
community
11 Not-so-hidden gem
26 Making it personal
The Emerald glimmers in Ambleside in Windermere
Condo Profile
Design & DÉcor
15 Carrington’s castle
Devon’s new developments have drawing power
31 Fresh finds in design
A few of my favourite things this season
Feature
Market view
18 Tales from
38 Time ticking away
Waterstone winning with buyers seeking quality and location
the condo zone
I never thought it would happen to me...
15
for first-time home buyers
items
6 Editor’s Message 33 Around Town 34 Maps 37 Ad Index
M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 5
editor’s message
May your home dreams come true We introduce a new series this month, Tales from the Condo Zone, by Associate Publisher Jim Zang, featuring some funny fodder about living in condominiums. Check out the first instalment on page 18.
P U B LI S H E R
Source Media Group
info@sourcemediagroup.ca Assoc i a te P U B LI S H E R
The cover story sheds some light on an up-and-coming community by Melcor Developments in the southeast themed after the Northern Lights, complete with an entrance feature that resembles the natural night sky phenomenon. Edmonton Home and Condo Living also salutes Awards of Excellence winners in this issue. Check out small-volume Builder of the Year Kimberley Homes’ stunning
Jim Zang
jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca E d i tor
Shelley Williamson shelley.williamson@sourcemediagroup.ca A R T DI R E C T O R
Jean Faye Rodriguez
Emerald show home, a castle in the southwest by
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca
Carrington Communities, and a former northeast
G R A P HI C D E S IGNer S
brownfield getting a new lease on life by Canada
lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca
Lama Azhari
Dave Macaulay
Lands Company as a vibrant new community in
dave.maucaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
the city’s northeast.
Megan Sereda
megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca
Rosalyn Lazaruk doles out her always-welcome
pro d uct i o n a d m i n i str a tor
expert advice this month on her favourite trends
Colleen Leier
for the season, including adding a touch of
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca
bling and bringing some art to your walls. And
E d i tor i a l
Wesley Gunderson, Kate Hamilton, Rosalyn Lazaruk, Rusti Lehay, Shelley Williamson, Jim Zang
of course, Wes Gunderson offers his usual sage words in Market View, this time urging new homebuyers to get in the game while rates are still
p h oto g r a p h y
Kate Hamilton, Rusti Lehay, Shelley Williamson
affordable for first-timers. Time is just about up for those of you looking to get a ticket for this year’s Big Sisters Dream Home Lotto, and support the Big Brothers Big Sisters and Boys and Girls Club’s many programs for kids through its annual fundraiser. For details about this year’s winning home in Balmoral Estates in Sherwood Park, which will be drawn for May 17, plus the latest in industry news, turn to my Around Town column. And our satellite series is back after a hiatus with a feature on one of Edmonton’s bedroom communities: Devon. Rusti Lehay outlines the scores of homebuying options and other well-kept secrets about the town, including an interview with the mayor.
d i rector of S AL E S
Norma Robertson norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca A d vert i s i n g S AL E S
Jennifer Mills
jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca A C C O U N T ING
Donna Roberts
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DI S T R I B U T E D B Y
Source Media Group, Media Classified I SS N 1918 - 4 4 6 8 PRINTED IN C ANADA
Shelley Williamson Editor shelley.williamson@sourcemediagroup.ca
Copyright 2013 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group Corp. 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.
Edmonton Home & Condo Living™ is published 12 times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Edmonton and area. One-year subscriptions are available for $12 in Canada, $48 internationally. Edmonton Home & Condo Living™ accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: enleditor@ sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request.
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| Advertising cover Feature |
Natural beauty stars in Melcor’s Aurora
The shining community T
aking its name from the Latin for a natural light display in the sky (think: aurora borealis), Melcor Developments was mindful to stay true to Aurora’s roots. The 100-acre community now in its second phase of development south of Ellerslie on 66 Street brings buyers the best of both worlds — a bright, new neighbourhood that feels like it’s always been there. And when complete, that will include a mix of single-family homes with attached front garages or rear-detached garages, to duplexes, and eventually townhomes and condos. “Aurora is the type of place for everyone because we are offering just about every type of housing,” says Andre Banks, project manager at Melcor Developments, Edmonton South. New in Aurora is the completion of its much-anticipated entry feature, which, through a combination of LED lights, will mimic the Northern lights at night. “We have come to be known as the shining community,” says Banks. “The whole theme (for Aurora) is the night sky.”
8 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3
The developer has also taken care to set aside one of the green spaces for a pocket park that will be space themed for the kids, with a plaza for parents to sit and watch children at play on the equipment. To further bolster the space and planetary theme, an event is planned for May 25 from noon to 5 p.m. in the community, featuring a moving planetarium and speakers from the Telus World of Science, notes Banks. In terms of housing, Coventry and Bedrock Homes will soon be building duplexes, the latter of which will alternate between attached and rear-detached garages, the latter which can mean more light up front in homes and fewer neighbours than with front-attach garage plans. Lincolnberg is also crafting single-family rear-detached garage homes (or RPL as they are commonly called) from the mid$300,000s. Banks says a new builder is also joining the coveted crew of those offering homes in the area, and will be offering single-family RPL homes alongside Lincolnberg.“Trend Homes is going to be debuting in our neighbourhoods,” he says. “We are thrilled to have these guys coming in.” Meanwhile, new single-family show homes will open this
| Advertising cover Feature |
Residents may find themselves sharing the area with some wild neighbours.
summer by builders Landmark Homes, Parkwood Master Builder, Coventry Homes and Bedrock Homes, who are crafting move-up abodes with front-attached garages, including some backing onto area amenities such as a pond. The pond, created in tandem with the University of Alberta, will get its finishing landscaping touches this summer says Banks. Three fountains — which will also be illuminated — add some interest to the water, while a “meandering system” will keep the stormwater running cleaner through natural attenuation. Multi-use pathways also meander through the area, and will hook up to the other Walker area branches, thanks to an agreement between Melcor and two other developers of neighbouring communities, says Banks. Residents may find themselves sharing the area with some wild neighbours. “We have lots of geese that consider Aurora home,” explains Banks.
Townhomes and condominiums will follow the current single-family and duplex homes in the community, though builders have yet to be announced. “It’s a neighbourhood that can support everybody,” says Banks. Families with young children will love the pocket park set to open fully this summer or fall for the wee ones, while school-age kids will appreciate two Edmonton Public Schools nearby, one in Summerside and the other to the north of Ellerslie Road. Shopping and services are also close, whether at South Common or Ellerslie, or a future retail and commercial site slated for 50 Street and Ellerslie Road. Masonry, lots of tree plantings, strong architectural controls, and details like LED streetlights throughout the area keep property value high — and interference with stargazing at a minimum in Aurora. “We are talking about being able to see the stars; those orange lights just don’t work,” says Banks. n
Fast Facts Area: Aurora Developer: Melcor Developments Builders: Landmark Homes, Lincolnberg Homes, Coventry Homes, Parkwood Master Builder, Bedrock Homes, and introducing Trend Homes Price: Single-family homes from the mid-$300,000s, duplex homes from the low $300,000s Location: South of Ellerslie Road on 66 Street Hours: Monday to Thursday 3 to 8 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.auroraedmonton.ca M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 9
show home profile
Not-sohidden gem The Emerald glimmers in Ambleside in Windermere Story and photos by Shelley Williamson
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f it’s not broken, don’t fix it. That is a principle that can be applied to Kimberley Homes’ shiny new Ambleside in Windermere show home, which as it turns out, is the same model it replaces: the Emerald. “I would say the Emerald is one of our best-selling models,” says Amie Brown Azambuja, Kimberley Homes’ area manager. The 2,334-square-foot two-storey gem is a favourite with those looking to move up from around the city and other professionals new to Edmonton alike, she adds. From first sights of the gleaming kitchen and two-storey great room designed for entertaining, to a massive mudroom hosting plenty of space for unloading gear and laundry, it’s easy to fall in love with the stunning two-storey design. Practicality and panache are on the menu for the main floor’s spaces.
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M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 11
show home profile
“The pantry has direct access from the mudroom and has a location for a freezer,” explains Brown Azambuja. “It really is a good plan for families.” Kimberley is not only winning with its homebuyers, it seems, but the company was also named 2013 Builder of the Year, smallvolume, in the Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region’s (CHBA – ER) Awards of Excellence for the fourth time in the last five years. Brown Azambuja credits the builder’s success with developing a reputation of quality and the trend for buyers to repeat their business with Kimberley homes. “Most of our customers are referrals or repeat customers,” she says. The Emerald’s upstairs is awash in not just bathroom space for everyone, but it also shines in terms of sleeping, playing and movieviewing areas. Moms and dads get an enviable ensuite, complete with a double sink, oversize shower and soaker tub sized for two, along with a separate water closet — all standards with Kimberley, notes Brown Azambuja.
The Emerald’s upstairs is awash in not just bathroom space for everyone, but it also shines in terms of sleeping, playing and movie-viewing areas. 12 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3
show home profile
Kids net their own full bath on the second level and are also sure to feel they have enough elbow room away from parents to stretch out, with a generous 10-foot-by-13-foot and 10-foot-by-14foot bedroom, each with its own walk-in closet. “They are not your typical nine-foot-by-nine-foot (bedrooms),” she says. An upstairs media room is the ideal spot for family movies or having friends over. Buyers of the Emerald model have the choice of three different categories of flexibility, to give buyers options of leaving the home as per the plan, adding a few custom details, or dressing it to the nines. Such is the case with each Kimberley home model, says Brown Azambuja, noting many of the standard features may be considered upgrades with some builders. The area is winning people over as much as the home itself. “I think the proximity to the river valley is something people appreciate and the fact that it’s surrounded by other properties,” says Brown Azambuja. While schools are a close commute already, residents of the neighbourhood should soon have education even closer to front doors. “We hope the Windermere area will be the next area in terms of need to get a school according to the Edmonton Public School website it should be up next,” says Brown Azambuja. Just east of Terwillegar Drive and not far from Anthony Henday Drive, access in and out of the community is quick, as is the trip to nearby amenities from movies and shopping to dining and services at the new retail development, the Currents. Leisure is also a stone’s throw, or a golf swing, away, with Windermere Golf Course and Jagare Ridge Golf Course both a short jaunt away, for example. “The southwest has always been and is the place to buy, because properties hold their value so well,” says Brown Azambuja. n
...access in and out of the community is quick, as is the trip to nearby amenities... Fast Facts Builder: Kimberley Homes Model: The Emerald Style: Two-storey, three-bedroom Size: 2,334 sq. ft. Address: 3695 Allen Dr. in Ambleside Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.buildwithkimberley.ca M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 1 3
condo profile
Carrington’s castle Waterstone winning with buyers seeking quality and location Story and photos by Shelley Williamson
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riving up to the Waterstone by Carrington Communities feels more like approaching a castle or historic hotel than a new apartment condominium in southwest Edmonton. “The exterior is something that draws people in. It was influenced by the (Fairmont) Banff Springs Hotel,” explains Jeremy Cleary, project sales manager for the Waterstone. “It is Carrington’s most prestigious building to date.” Now 70 per cent sold in its second of two buildings, a visit to the MacTaggart Mains site quickly reveals why the project’s flagship building won the 2013 Award of Excellence from the CHBA – Edmonton for best multi-family apartment building.
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M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 15
condo profile
Despite just 30 per cent of the building being still available, choice aplenty remains in home designs for would-be residents.
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Three brand new show suites are now open in the second building to give potential owners a taste of what living at Waterstone is really like, in sizes ranging from 1,033- to 1,270-square-feet. Despite just 30 per cent of the building being still available, choice aplenty remains in home designs for would-be residents. “There’s quite a variety,” says Cleary. “We have 25 floor plans in total.” One-bedroom-and-den, two-bedroom and two-bedroom-and-den floor plans are among choices of available suites, at prices that may surprise — starting at just $279,000.
The location on Maynard Way just off Rabbit Hill Road near a plethora of shopping and services, nestled in a coveted residential area, seems to be a big draw for buyers. “I think what always appeals to people is the location. It’s an expensive neighbourhood and before this, there just wasn’t a project like this available,” explains Cleary. “Everybody agrees; it’s one of a kind.” Within the building, a fitness facility, guest suite for visiting out-of-towners, and even a party room that is available for use by residents with a kitchen, bathroom and billiards area, are added perks with a suite purchase. That appeals to the empty-nest set, who have so far been most attracted to the project, Cleary says. “The majority of people walking in are downsizers. They’re looking for a condo but they don’t want to downsize their lifestyle.” The condo aspect fits in with the Baby Boomer who wants to travel, without the worry of a home’s upkeep while they’re gone, he says. But young professionals have also shown interest in the condominium, especially the one-bedroom-andden plans, Cleary adds. Buyers looking to close on
condo profile
their new address without the wait of new construction times will appreciate the project is within a few months of completion, including landscaping around the courtyard and grounds to further add to its curb appeal. “People are surprised by what’s included,” notes Cleary, adding hardwood floors, granite countertops, nine- and 10-foot ceilings, double sinks in bathrooms, choices of stain hues on cabinets and stainless appliances are a few of the finishing details that come standard in every Waterstone suite. “The thing that really sets us apart is the individually controlled heating and cooling in suites,” adds Cleary. The project also overlooks a manmade lake and features walkways to access trails around it. For more information about where Carrington or its single-family builder arm, Bedrock Homes, builds, visit www.carrington.ca n
The project also overlooks a manmade lake and features walkways to access trails around it.
Fast Facts Builder: Project: Style:
Carrington Communities The Waterstone One-bedroom-and-den, two-bedroom and two-bedroom-and-den apartment condos Size: Suites range from 900 sq. ft. to 1,500 sq. ft. Price: One-bedroom-and-dens from $279,000, two-bedrooms from the low $300,000s, and two-bedroom-and-den suites from the $380,000s Hours: Monday to Thursday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays, noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.carrington.ca M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 17
Feature
Tales from the cond I never thought it would happen to me... By Jim Zang
There are strange things done in condominium By those who toil on the board; The alpha males tell their manly tales And the women won’t be ignored; Yes, these meeting nights have seen some sights, But the queerest I ever did see Was when the condo manager asked “who’s the prez?” And everyone answered “Me”. (With a tip of the hat to Canadian poet, Robert Service)
18 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3
I
f you’ve lived in a condo, or know someone who has, then you’ve probably either seen or heard your fair share of amusing (and maybe some not so amusing) stories about living in a condominium. Being in charge of Edmonton Home and Condo Living magazine for the past several years, I’ve heard a few good ones myself. And, of course, a couple of my key industry contacts who have their own condo management companies have heard and seen it all. The names have been changed to protect the guilty, and my sources wish to remain anonymous for both professional and personal reasons, but the stories are, for the most part true. So, without further ado, here it is, our very first edition of “Tales From the Condo Zone”. “Where do I start?” says my female condo manager friend. “How about with the condo resident who got caught throwing snowballs at his neighbour’s windows? In full view of the windows of literally dozens of other residents, all of whom recognized him.” Nope, probably not a Mensa candidate. “Or”, she says, “how about the lady who insists that the hallways in her condo are haunted and wants to do an exorcism?”
Feature
do zone
Illustration by Ainsley Ashby-Snyder
No word on if the ghost has a black pompadour haircut and was crooning Love Me Tender but, if you see him, call the Enquirer. “Another time,” she says, “I got a call about a woman who was sun tanning nude on her deck when the window washers arrived at her building.” No sure how her tan turned out, but rumour has it her windows were extra clean. And those are just the stories that are fit to print! From my old university buddy who now runs his own condo management company comes the ubiquitous “snakes in a condo” story. Seems somebody was sitting in their living room when, out of the corner of their eye, they see something slither across the floor. Step one: jump up onto the couch. Step two: call the condo board. Step three: climb higher onto the couch. Of course, when the call comes in, it’s a doozy. It’s a maneater, for sure. Maybe the size of the snake in the movie Anaconda. At least a 10-footer. The fellow resident accused bringing the snake in? He just
came back from overseas and, gosh darn it, he doesn’t know how it got into his luggage and then escaped once at home in his condo. The truth, says my buddy, lies somewhere in between. It’s a corn snake. Harmless, unless you’re a mouse. It’s maybe two-feet long from tip to tip. And he knows exactly who brought it in and when, because it’s all on video. I guess that’s why some condos have bylaws about what kind of pets they allow you to move in with, as can be attested to by another friend whose serpentine roommate, Monty, was the reason his recent attempted condo purchase fell through. Note to animal lovers: check the bylaws first, before you pay for a home inspection. Another friend, who is the president of her condo board, tells of being awoken every day at 7 a.m. by a flock of pigeons on her deck. They were noisy and left her deck covered in what she describes as “pigeon love”. “Rats with wings”, is how she refers to them. A glance across the back alley into the pigeon coop in the yard of the single-family home across the way left no doubt as to where the birds were coming from. So it was obvious the whole flock wouldn’t be flying south or anything anytime soon. After attempts at shooing them away by yelling and throwing things failed, she called her condo management company for their advice. They called an exterminator who, in turn, suggested the best solution
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M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 19
Feature was likely a steady hand and a good BB gun. “You might save a little on grocery bills that way too,” he said. Funny, if you’re not a bird lover, but not a practical inner-city solution. Perhaps the oddest thing to happen, though, she says, was the time a young couple tried to smuggle their newborn into their age restricted (21-plus) condo building. “I don’t know if they thought none of us would notice she wasn’t pregnant anymore or that their baby wouldn’t cry or whatever. I just don’t get that one. I mean, how long did they think they could keep their baby a secret?” Of course the birth announcement in the daily paper, car seat, grocery bags full of baby food and Pampers were dead giveaways. Not to mention the squirming, wriggling bulge under mom’s coat every time she went out or came home. Says my friend, “I guess they really loved that condo.” Another friend who is the president of his condo board — yes, I seem to know a lot of them — tells the story of a “condo within a condo”. Seems an immigrant family from Hong Kong purchased a unit in a row-housing style townhome. At first, he says, it was just the nuclear family: mom, dad and a couple of kids. Soon, though, he noticed an older couple coming and going. And then another family. And another. And another. What had
2 0 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3
There are strange things done in the midnight sun By the men who moil for gold; The Arctic trails have their secret tales That would make your blood run cold; The Northern Lights have seen queer sights, But the queerest they ever did see Was that night on the marge of Lake Lebarge I cremated Sam McGee Excerpt from The Cremation of Sam McGee, by Robert Service.
happened, he says, is that the townhomes were all connected in the attic — they weren’t partitioned off — and, while other folks were off at work during the day, these would-be condo developers went ahead and turned the entire attic space from one end of the building to the other into living units. Needless to say the proper authorities (condo board and condo management company) were called in, the people evicted, and the units disassembled. But, you’ve got to admit, it’s still kind of funny. Believe it, or not. What about you? What would your condo walls say if they could talk? Tell us your funny condo story and we might just publish it. Send your email addressed to our editor, Shelley Williamson, at shelley.williamson@sourcemediagroup.ca. n
community profile
It takes a Village Story by Kate Hamilton | Photos courtesy Canada Lands Company
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reat location, inspired architecture, impressive amenities and a unique military theme are just some of the many features that have homebuyers talking about The Village of Griesbach. The community picked up the award for best subdivision at the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Edmonton Region (CHBAER)’s Awards of Excellence last month, and it’s not hard to see why. Set on 618 acres of land just 12 minutes north of downtown, this established community has a proud legacy and plenty of character. “It’s unusual for a north Edmonton community to receive an award, but this is not your typical Greenfield project,” says Marvin Neumann, director of real estate for Canada Lands Company. “The site was formerly an army base.” It’s a community with a history that starts with the progressive closure of the Griesbach Barracks, which took place in the late ’90s. When the land title was transferred to Canada Lands Company in 2003, planning approvals were already in place and residential development in Griesbach commenced immediately. Now, 10 years later, about half of the land parcel has been given a new lease on life. Upon ultimate build-out, which is expected by 2023, the 2 2 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3
community will be home to nearly 13,000 Edmontonians. The Village at Griesbach features a mixture of residential uses, from single-family homes to duplexes, townhouses and four-storey apartment condos. Unique zoning, neo-traditional architecture, and a predominance of rear-lane homes provide an emphasis on interesting, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes. “There are multi-family units scattered throughout the site, they’re not confined to one corner, and we’ve done that on purpose to create more of a community feel,” says Neumann. “And I think we have the best builders in the city.” Coventry Homes, Dream Homes by Krisner, Greenboro Homes, Homes by Avi, Impact Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Abbey Lane Homes and Christenson Developments are the builders working with Canada Lands Company towards the end goal, with turn-key ready single-family homes, complete with landscaping, garage and fencing, starting from the mid$350,000s. But it’s not just about the houses. The community looks great overall, which is a quality that was also recognized with an Award of Excellence, for best development – landscaping and amenities.
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community profile
Revamped military base steeped in architecture, history and awards
Multi-family housing will be dispersed throughout the community
Front-drive single-family home with double-attached garage by Homes by Avi M ay 2 01 3  E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 3
Community profile
“We spend a lot of time and effort on the landscaping and there’s a lot of focus on walkability,” says Neumann, adding that there are multiple access points to green spaces and trails throughout the community. In addition to the usual suspects — parks, ponds, playgrounds and trails — the folks behind the scenes have paid huge attention to detail, and much of that goes back to the site’s military ties. “There’s a huge component of historic legacy,” says Neumann. “We’re trying to make this a really unique neighbourhood.” He says the early stages of development included the refurbishment of about 80 old private military quarters (PMQs), and the street names and community amenities are all based on historic military figures and events. For example, Patricia Lake is named after local regiment Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), Frezenberg Avenue commemorates battle honours the PPCLI received during the First World War, and Gault Boulevard recognizes Andrew Hamilton Gault, the founder of the PPCLI. Once complete, the entrance to Flanders Field Park (located on McCrae Avenue in honour of the poem’s author, Lt. Col. John McCrae) will feature a plaque bearing an inscription of In Flanders Fields, steel structures to symbolize the trenches of WWI, and maybe someday even a field of poppies. “We have several plaques and storyboards out on site to share the history, and it all goes back to getting people out of their vehicles, getting out and walking, having a sense of place and a sense of community for the people that live here,” says Neumann. Community gardens, a toboggan hill and a hilltop lookout in the heart of Central Hill Park (with a view to downtown) all increase the outdoor appeal for residents and visitors to Griesbach. Thousands of families from all walks of life have already made Griesbach their home. “We have some military families, professionals who work downtown, Fort McMurray workers, a wide range of homebuyers because of the variety of housing types,” says Neumann, adding that the brand new K-9 Major General Griesbach School is a big draw since schools are in short supply in many new Edmonton communities. Located on 97 Street and 137 Avenue, the area is serviced by ETS bus routes, and, in a decade or so, the LRT will have two stops on the doorstep. A walkable commercial site will soon service the area too, but all in keeping with a certain ambience. “Griesbach’s about neighbourhood conveniences. The focus is towards community, not big box stores,” says Neumann. “And now’s the time to buy,” he says, adding the demand for homes in Griesbach has been strong but he expects the community’s popularity will grow as development progresses. “I think it could get crazy here.” n
“There’s a huge component of historic legacy, we’re trying to make this a really unique neighbourhood.” 2 4 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3
Much of the community ornamentation in Griesbach honours the site’s military ties
Fast Facts Area: The Village at Griesbach Developer: Canada Lands Company Builders: Coventry Homes, Dream Homes by Krisner, Greenboro Homes, Homes by Avi, Impact Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Abbey Lane Homes and Christenson Developments Styles: Apartment condos, duplex homes, singlefamily homes, adult villas and executive homes Prices: From the $350,000s Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2p.m. to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays, noon to 5 p.m. Location: 97 Street and 137 Avenue Web: www.villageatgriesbach.com
cit y co n n ectio n : D evo n
Making it personal Devon’s new developments have drawing power Story and photos by Rusti Lehay
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rom the builders to the mayor, Devon casts its spell on you to make it home. Sharon Bzdel, Bzdel Enterprises Ltd., lives in Devon because, “it’s personal. I wasn’t planning on living here.” Certain it is the up and coming Albertan suburban community and place to live, Bzdel enjoys the fantastic walking
paths. “When I bring people into the paths with the river on two sides and ravines on three sides, they say it’s like being in the mountains.” Those ravines are a key component of Qualico Communities Developments in Devon’s southeast corner. “The Ravines of Devon is one of our nicest pieces of land out of all our communities,” says Camille Garcia, Qualico Communities marketing co-ordinator. Flanked by environmental reserve it has Washout Creek and Battery Creek on either side and established trees surrounding the lots. The greenery is akin to Thoreau’s hideaway, yet the Ravines of Devon homeowners can access all amenities within minutes from their palatial homes on the large 42- to 48-foot building pockets. (The average single family Edmonton building pocket is 26 – 28 feet wide.)
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Another rarity particular to the Ravines of Devon: Qualico keeps their lots open to the public. Garcia says, “We don’t have a select builder group, so anyone can buy a lot and choose their own builder. You rarely have that luxury in Edmonton. You have to go with the builders who own the lots.” Choose Bzdel, and you have a woman builder building homes for women. She admits, “I’m fussy. I aggravate my workers.” Bzdel’s self-professed pickiness shows. Bank inspectors have never seen such attention to detail, she says. If someone wants to find something wrong with her homes, “they have to dig. I build each house as if it’s me moving in.” You have 10 chances left to buy a lot, hire a builder of your choice and move into Qualico’s Ravines of Devon. If you are feeling drawn to Devon and want something smaller, you can try Fairfax Lane
Condos closer to downtown, developed by Alldritt Land Corporation LP. Developing both residential and commercial in Devon over 40 years, Alldritt has a few units and residential lots available now. Alldritt is revitalizing the downtown mall with a complete facelift and adding the commercial development, SouthPort Common. The future plan is to do a mixed-use development by 2018 with condos over the retail fitting in with the mayor’s plan to maintain the downtown core’s vitality. Watch for Alldritt to develop a quarter section of land for residential use across the highway. The highway presents complexity, says Mayor Anita Fisher. “Everything has to go under to prepare for the first house and all future development.” Fisher must consider the wetland ecosystem. “The wetlands add another ‘little’ bit of complexity to an already complex issue,” she says. Pondering further, she wonders, “How do you avoid transportation redundancies yet still plan for future external roads and keep Devon’s current main arteries and internal routes intact?” This big-picture, forward-thinking council is one reason that Qualico Communities, developing in Devon since 2006, likes building here. “The Town’s enthusiasm toward development has made for a partnership type of relationship,” says Garcia. “It gives us the opportunity to offer unique and different product types.” Looking forward to continued success, Qualico can be sure those 10 lots will be snapped up. They are already working towards approving plans to offer more residential land in Devon — clearly a community to watch.
The mayor bears watching too. Passionate for her town, yet as a teen, she was less than happy about leaving Edmonton. Now Fisher says, “I call it home and that isn’t going to change.” Well aware people want homes close to their kids’ schools and their employment nodes, Fisher says, “Devon was the first, though not formally identified as such, Primary Growth Area (PGA) and that comes with a price — increased density.” Those new communities will aspire to maximum density reducing the footprint and negating urban sprawl. Residents of Devon for 15 years, Karl and Lorraine Poschner enjoy the dense proximity of everything including their two adult children and families who settled nearby. “We’re all within six blocks. We can head out in any direction, avoid the city and walk these trails.” Like the Poschners, the mayor says, “the majority move here because of family or friends or they grew up here or return to raise their families. Our average age is 34 and average income is $50,000 higher than the provincial average.” Now she also hears people moved because of the “Bike Town” branding, or easy access to all the outdoor opportunities. To Fisher, the growth plan is all about Devon fitting into the big picture and add to the picture what her residents want for their community. She has adopted her favourite piece of advice from a planner: “Decide what kind of community you want to be and be prepared to stand up for it.” You can believe she will continue to spend her days “making Devon a great place to live” and she will stand up for what you want your town to be. n
“We don’t have a select builder group, so anyone can buy a lot and choose their own builder.”
M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 27
cit y co n n ectio n : D evo n
What makes Devon so special Mayor Anita Fisher replies, “that is a very long list.” The biggest draw might be location. It is only 20 minutes to West Edmonton Mall, South Edmonton Common or Leduc. The easy access to provincial highway networks and only 10 minutes to the Edmonton International Airport is ideal. “Devon is surrounded on three sides by the North Saskatchewan River. Our river valley is absolutely spectacular with year-round recreational opportunities.” Minutes from doorsteps, residents can camp, golf, boat, hike, swim, run, canoe, cross country ski, toboggan, bird watch and Bike Town Alberta is a great place to cycle on 26 km of the community’s paved and unpaved trails. The town already lists 32 major events for 2013. The month’s dozens of choices indicate a vibrant town with something for each one of its 6,361 people. Choose from Zumba, Cards, Aqua-size, Zookinesis (a senior exercise program) — the list goes on and on. There are many other recreational facilities to enjoy and top notch schools (three public, one Catholic and one Christian) which also offer many extra-curricular activities. The award-winning high school band has created an outstanding reputation both locally and internationally. Devon residents can utilize the newly renovated hospital, many other health services or join the many vibrant
Mayor Anita Fisher
community groups and organizations. “Our biggest asset is our community spirit and pride,” Fisher says. There’s always something fun and exciting to do in this beautiful small town with a focus on active lifestyles. n
There’s always something fun and exciting to do in this beautiful small town with a focus on active lifestyles. New Community
The Ravines of Devon
Developer
Builder
Type
Size Range
Price Range
Qualico Communities
Bzdel Enterprise Ltd.
Estate homes bi-level two-storey bungalow Two-storey walkouts double and triple car garages
1,700 – 2,400 sq. ft
$450,000 – $800,000
Divinity Custom Homes
Each home different Builds to buyer’s specs
1,700 – 2,000 sq. ft
$600,000 +
Alldritt Land Corporation LP
Alldrit Homes
Condos & two-storey townhomes
958 – 1,205 sq. ft
$269,900 – $274,900
Will build on open or available lots
Corona custom Projects Inc.
Single-family dwelling, single or double attached or detached
1,400 + sq. ft.
$$450,000 +
*Open to buyer’s choice of builder
Fairfax Lane Condos
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M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 9
DESign & DÉcor
Fresh finds in design A few of my favourite things this season By Rosalyn Lazaruk
I
often get asked what my favourite things are currently in design and décor and, believe it or not, it is often a difficult question to answer! As I have mentioned before, I am quite eclectic in my own taste and my own personal design style really is a little bit of everything. I suppose each season there are a few trends or fresh new ideas that stand out and I can’t wait to incorporate into my home!
ALL THAT GLITTERS
I have talked about gold being back for a few seasons now, and you can really see now that it is here to stay. I love mixing metals and all shades of gold. High Shine, matte, and tarnished antiqued, together or all alone, gold will add warmth to any space.
GET IN SHAPES
Geometric patterns are another trend that we have seen creeping into out homes over the last few seasons, but this time we are mixing them all together! Stripes, Keep the pieces hung close together, only giving a few honeycombs, and zigzags, all inches between, and as you layer you will see your space brought together can create a come to life with all of the things you love, and trust me, it will wonderful linear look. keep growing! The wonderful thing about all three of the trends I am leaning towards this season is how they all work well together. LIFE IMITATING ART I really think that is the key when incorporating different Seeing as I am so eclectic in design I love, love, love gallery walls! To me the technique trends into your home. Think about what you already have, is the greatest way to incorporate all of the the direction you want the space to go, and how everything art you love into one space. They can grow works together. I like tension in a space to create a wow factor and add and grow, from corner to corner and floor some personality. By adding a bit of gold, geometrics and an to ceiling. Mix and match frames, children’s creations, eclectic gallery wall of my favourite things, I think I am on my original artwork, pop art, stretched fabric, framed way to accomplishing just that! Happy Decorating! n wallpaper, mirrors — the list is endless.
Designer Rosalyn Lazaruk has been working in design and décor for seven years, and established her own business, Wicket Blue Interiors, in 2004. She has a broad repertoire in designing personal spaces within the home, as well as in implementing intriguing space and design concepts within the commercial setting. Rosalyn is devoted to developing and implementing unique design ideas that reflect the vision and individuality of her clients. To see more of Rosalyn’s design ideas visit www.wicketblue.com. M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 31
AROUND TOWN By Shelley Williamson
HOME Program offers a hand up for buyers Those who thought homebuying was out of reach have some help at their fingertips. The HOME Program is an educational and financial tool that sees builders, mortgage and real estate professionals educate lowto moderate-income would-be homeowners, through the Capital Region Housing Corporation and other partner organizations. The two-part educational sessions are six hours, and those who complete the full sessions may also have down-payment assistance available to them of up to $3,000, provided they qualify by having a household income of below $60,000. Program administrator Karen Sputek says the down-payment program was made possible through the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, who back in 2004 donated $50,000, which has been topped
up by participating realtors each year since — allowing more than $1.2 million in down payments for homebuyers in the program. “Our program is open to anyone purchasing their own home; the only stipulation is it has to be their primary residence,” says Sputek. To date, the not-for-profit program, which began as a pilot in 2001, includes about 350 volunteers province-wide including those from CMHC, RBC, Homes by Avi, Landmark Homes and Rohit, has assisted more than 1,000 people in buying a home and educated roughly 3,000. To register for the next sessions, which are free and slated for May 29 and June 1 at the Stanley Milner branch of Edmonton Public Library, visit www.thehomeprogram.ca.
Whole lotto chances to win Dreamers have a few days left to snap up their tickets for a chance to win grand in the Big Sisters Dream Home Lotto. The cut-off for tickets is May 1 at 11 p.m., with the grand-prize draw in the 25th annual lottery set for May 17. The top winner will come home to a 3,771-square-foot bungalow built by Avanti Homes and furnished by Christopher Clayton Furniture & Design House in Balmoral Estates in Sherwood Park. Features of the palatial $1.4-million prize include two lush levels, including an indoor/outdoor fireplace, designer KitchenCraft culinary space, walk-through pantry to the mudroom and attached garage, and a lower level family room, music area and wet bar. The three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home will come complete with landscaping courtesy of Salisbury Greenhouse. “It’s one of those homes where people feel like they could just pack their tooth-
brush and move in,” says Lana Tordoff, marketing manager for the Boys & Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters, who will benefit from the proceeds of the lottery. Tordoff says the annual lottery brings in about $1 million of its $6 million budget. The BGCBIGS last year served about 4,800 local kids through initiatives such as afterschool programs and in-school mentoring, explains Tordoff. Tickets, which were 80 per cent sold at press time, are $25 each or four for $60 and are available at www.bigbrothershomelottery.org.
City housing starts rise again Edmonton’s housing starts went up again in March, to the year’s highest to date at 13,709 units, according to the most recent stats from Canada Mortgage and Housing. “The trend in total housing starts moved up in March as a result of strong construction in both the single-detached and multi-family markets,” explains David Lan, CMHC’s senior market analyst for Edmonton. “Housing starts continue to be supported by employment growth, net migration, and low mortgage rates,” he says. To determine the data, CMHC uses a six-month moving average of the seasonally-adjusted annual rates (SAAR) of total starts, as a complement to the monthly housing starts and as a means to account for swings in estimates. According to the federal housing corporation, the standalone monthly SAAR was 14,863 units in March, compared to 13,624 in February. n M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 3 3
EDMONTON AND AREA MAP NEW HOMES 1. Northern Lights Estates 2. Erin Ridge 3. North Ridge 4. Tuscany Hills 5. The Crossing at River’s Edge 6. The Manors of Oakmont 7. Regency Heights Estates 8. Kingswood 9. Greystone Manor 10. Pinnacle Ridge Estates 11. Riverstone Pointe 12. The Banks of Sturgeon Valley
CONDOS 1. Lakeview Estates 2. Sierras of Inglewood 3. Grande- Mission Hill 4. Tenor
NEW HOMES 1. Stony Village 2. Brookview 3. Graybriar 4. The Fairways 5. Willow Park 6. Lake Westerra 7. Stellar Homes
CONDOS 1. Laredo On The Park 2. Station 33 3. Stony Village 4. Graywood Terrace 5. Cedar Brae 6. Urbia Place
NEW HOMES 1. Jesperdale 2. Stoneshire 3. Harvest Ridge 4. Deer Park Estates 5. Hilldowns 6. Spruce Village 7. Spruce Ridge 8. Hawthorne at Heatherglen 9. Springate at Spruce Ridge 10. Legacy Park 11. Lakewood
CONDOS 1. Parkland Village 2. Fairway Eight 3. Harvest Ridge 4. Nova Ridge Villas 5. Spruce Ridge Manor 6. The Pointe 7. Kingstreet on Park
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NEW HOMES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Village Champlain La Rose Grandin Park Close Notre Dame Estates The Lakes
NEW HOMES 1. Valley Pointe Estates 2. Forest Ridge in West Park 3. Westwood Trails 4. West Woodlands 5. Southfort 6. Southpointe 7. Sienna
CONDOS 1. Village Champlain 2. Maple Brooks Villas 3. La Rose
CONDOS 1. Riverview Estates 2. Fort Gardens 3. Walnut Grove
NEW HOMES 1. Strathcona Village 2. Aspen Trail 3. Summerwood 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Clarkdale Park 6. Foxboro 7. Willow Ridge/The Ridge 8. Sherwood Hill Estates 9. Balmoral Heights 10. Fountain Creek Estates 11. Sherwood Golf & Country Club Estates
CONDOS 1. Pallisades on the Ravine 2. Strathcona Village 3. Crystal Estates 4. Axxess 5. Summerwood Greens 6. Maple Ridge & Oak Ridge
NEW HOMES 1. Deer Valley 2. West Haven 3. Bridgeport 4. Aspen Creek 5. Suntree 6. Windrose 7. Southfork 8. Tribute 9. Meadowiew Park
CONDOS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Brooklands at Bridgeport Ravine Villas Urbia Manor Urbia Green The Springs at Bridgeport
NEW HOMES 1. Coloniale Estates 2. Montalet 3. Citadel Ridge 4. Eaglemont Heights 5. Montrose Estates 6. Westbrook 7. Four Seasons Estates 8. Goudreau Terrace 9. Triomphe Estates 10. Beaumont Lakes 11. Place Chaleureuse 12. Beau Val
CONDOS 1. Coventry Homes 2. The Village at Beaumont 3. Beausjour 4. Montrose View 5. Giselle Valley Manor
M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 35
CITY OF EDMONTON MAP
INNER CITY Legend Shopping Centre
Points of Interest
Hospitals
CONDO PROPERTIES
Colleges /Universities
NEW HOME LISTINGS
1. Aurora 2. Serenity 3. Axio Parkland 4. Mosaic Meadows Parkland 5. Windermere Village 6. Macewan Gardens 7. Sandstone at Walkers Lake Station 8. Aspen Meadows 9. Meridian Plaza 10. The Corners 11. Griesbach Wood II 12. Griesbach Wood III 13. Carlton Villas on the Lake 14. Trails of Millcreek 15. The University Brownstones 16. Century Park 17. Hollick Kenyon Pointe 18. Evergreen Community 19. Maple/Oak Ridge Community 20. The Esates of Upper Windermere 21. The Ion 22. Grand Scala 23. Heritage Landing 24. 12th Street Station 25. Mosaic Town Square 26. Mosaic Summerside 27. Axio in Parkland 28. Stone Pointe 29. Aspen Meadows 30. Walker Lake Landing 31. Rutherford Landing 32. Fox One 33. Fuzion
3 6 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M ay 2 01 3
1. Walker Lake Estates 2. Lewis Estates 3. Secord 4. Parkland 5 The Hamptons 6 Copperwood 7 South Hamptons 8. The Properties of Donsdale 9. Cameron Heights 10. Terwillegar Towne 11. South Terwillegar 12. Palisades 13. Upper Windermere 14. Windermere Ridge 15. Ambleside in Windermere 16 Rutherford 17. Callaghan 18. Walker Lakes Station 19. Lake Summerside 20. Ellerslie Heights 21. Tamarack 22. Griesbach 23. Fields of Summerside 24. Allard in Heritage Valley 25. Tuscany Hills 26. McConachie Landing 27. McConachie 28. Laurel 29. Ravines of Richford 30. Trumpeter at Big Lake 31. Axio Summerside 32. Touchmark 33. Hawks Ridge at Big Lake 34. Woodhaven – Edgemont
29
ADVERTISERS INDEX ATB Financial
Pages 18-19
www.atb.com Brookfield Homes
Page 29
Mosaic Townhomes www.buildwithbrookfield.com Carlisle Group
Page 21
Elements II www.elementscondos.ca Hunter Douglas
Page 30
www.hunterdouglas.ca Lincolnberg Homes
Page 2-3
www.lincolnberg.com Melcor Developments
Pages 7-9
Aurora www.auroraedmonton.com Melcor Developments
Page 14
Rosenthal www.liverosenthal.com Sabal
Page 39
Woodhaven www.sabalhomes.com Servus Credit Union www.servus.ca
Page 32
Tamani Communities
Page 10
Southfork Leduc www.southforkleduc.ca Walton Development
Page 25
Hawks Ridge www.hawksridge.ca Walton Development
Page 4
McConachie www.mcconachie.ca Walton Development
Page 40
Woodhaven www.woodhavenedgemont.com
M ay 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 37
market view by Wesley Gunderson
Time ticking away for first-time homebuyers When I speak with first time homebuyers, I get the sense that rising prices are limiting choices and pushing them out of the market. Albertans enjoy the most affordable housing in the country due to high incomes and low interest rates. Still, mandatory new home warranty changes, lumber prices and energy code changes are set to push more first-time buyers out of the market.
Mandatory new home warranty
The Alberta Government’s New Home Buyer Protection Act will come into effect this fall. And while increased protection for consumers seems like a good idea, it comes at a cost — it will likely triple or quadruple warranty cost for builders, an expense that will ultimately be passed on to buyers. The average homebuyer who does his or her homework and picks a reputable builder is likely to experience minor, if any, warranty issues. For this buyer these are added costs without any added value. This legislation was driven by the Penhorwood Condos in Ft. McMurray, found to be structurally unsafe and consequently condemned. While I empathize with owners’ situations, I am skeptical of a government mandated, one-size-fitsall solution, especially for once-in-a-lifetime-events. Here’s why: Alberta has had roughly 32,000 housing start over the last few years. If this new act added $1,500 in cost to each of those starts, that is about $48 million more in costs to consumers. Meanwhile, the Penhorwood owners need $35 million to rebuild, once. The $48 million, however, continues to get charged to consumers (at a 32,000 start level with the assumed
increase in cost of $1,500) in perpetuity. The real winners are the warranty and insurance companies.
Lumber, and specifically OSB, prices
A key element of wood-frame construction is oriented strand board (OSB), which provides sheathing for the roof, walls and floor. Over the past year, a sheet of OSB has gone from $5.99 to $15.99 — more than a 125 per cent increase. The main driver is a U.S. housing recovery increasing demand, which has affected other lumber prices, but not quite as dramatically as OSB. What this means is the cost to build a home today versus last year is thousands of dollars higher.
Energy code changes
Slated for adoption later this year or early in 2014 is the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB). This may make homes cheaper to operate, but increase the upfront costs to buyers. There are 245 changes that will improve efficiency requirements by 26 per cent over the old code. Homes built with the new NECB will be comparable to EnerGuide 80 or BuiltGreen gold-level homes. What this means is the cost to build homes with the NECB changes will be thousands of dollars higher. All these changes will continue to push prices and consequently push first-time homebuyers out of the market or limit their choices. My recommendation is to buy now and capture today’s savings while they last. n
Wesley Gunderson is Vice President of Finance for Growth Marketing an Edmonton based real estate consultancy firm providing integrated marketing services to its valued clients. Mr. Gunderson has been with the firm since 1997 and actively involved in economic and market research, marketing and product strategy as well as advertising and sales promotion. 3 8 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G M AY 2 01 3