Loving Airdrie Living - May 2015

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contents

CIT Y OUTLOOK

4 The more the merrier Airdrie’s population growth is good for business COVER FE ATURE

6 Bayside Estates is a winner for ReidBuilt Homes

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ReidBuilt Homes wins for Bayside Estates show home at 2014 SAM awards

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DE VELOPER FE ATURE S

8 Top of the town More than just the view sets HillCrest community apart BUILDER FE ATURE S

10 Royal treatment Homes by Avi give buyers plenty of options to truly customize their homes

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CONDO FE ATURE

14 Come home to Brookside

12 The easy choice McKee Homes offers a variety of homes to choose from in Airdrie

Merge Developments’ latest townhomes wow in Baysprings

16 Wants and needs

SPORTS FE ATURE

Trico Homes’ Ridgeway show home satisfies

20 The swing of things The hot spots for golf in Airdrie

18 Stylishly innovative Innovations by Jayman give King’s Heights a contemporary edge

DEPARTMENT

23 City of Airdrie map PUBLISHER •

Source Media Group

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER • EDITOR •

Jim Zang

Pepper Rodriguez

ART DIRECTOR •

Jean Faye Rodriguez

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS •

Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR •

Colleen Leier

Aaliya Essa, Alicia Paton-Courtois, David Shepherd CONTRIBUTORS •

ADVERTISING SALES • ACCOUNTING •

Cindy Marks

Donna Roberts

Loving Airdrie Living® is published bi-annually and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and Airdrie. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission from the publishers. Copyright 2013 Source Media Group Corp. All rights reserved. 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.

Contact: Source Media Group, 207 - 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9.

E-mail info@sourcemediagroup.ca; Tel 403.532.3101; Fax 403.532.3109; Toll free 1.888.932.3101; Printed in Canada. Distributed

by Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group. PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Source Media Group, 207 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9.

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city outlook

The more the mer Airdrie’s population growth

T PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF AIRDRIE. WWW.AIRDRIE.CA

City of Airdrie, aerial view

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he City of Airdrie is bigger and better than ever. In fact, Airdrie continues to surpass its growth from previous years, with new residents flocking to the city — and buying homes — almost every day.

Airdrie’s 2014 census pegged the population at 54,891 residents, an incredible 10.76 per cent increase from the previous year. And, despite an expected ‘moderation’ in the market, growth is expected to continue albeit at slightly lower levels.

“With growth comes opportunities,” says Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown. “We have opportunities with this growth to be more fully sustainable. With new businesses that are coming here to Airdrie, there are better employment opportunities, and it helps to keep our residents here,” he adds. There were a total of 3,325 business licenses permitted in 2014.

With any population increase there is, of course, a corresponding increase in the housing market, both new and re-sale. “At the moment Airdrie is doing very well,” says Brown. “Activity in the housing market is very good and very solid.”

Construction in new communities is still going strong, says Brown. “Mattamy Homes has their next phase coming up in Southwinds in Windsong community, we have developments in Bayside community, and in King’s Heights community,” says Mayor Brown. “And we have new plans for a neighbourhood in the southwest corner of the city that have just been submitted through Brookfield,” he adds.

Another new community Midtown by Apex has also been approved by the city, which will include 600 units with a variety of homes including single and multi-family options, spread across 80 acres.

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is good for business During 2014 there were a total of 1,500 new home starts, with the slight majority (799) being single-family starts. In addition, work was started on 338 semi-detached and townhomes, while there were 369 starts for apartment style condos.

The average price for a single-family home was a very affordable $427,881, while multi-family homes were selling for a very affordable $257,195.

“Airdrie is on pace with building compared to the first two months of 2014,” says Paul Schulz, City Manager for Airdrie. “But, in speaking with the building community, we expect that may change as we move further into the year.”

“In 2009 Airdrie saw a population increase of over 11 per cent,” he says.

“We are not sure what will happen in 2015. Airdrie Economic Development is currently doing its biennial business satisfaction survey which will examine how local businesses perceive the current economy, and how they are feeling moving forward,” he adds.

The resale market in Airdrie is also continuing to roll along steadily, with the sale of 98 homes this past February, for example, putting it above average for both the five and 10 year averages for that month. With plenty of inventory, stable pricing and low interest rates, prospective homebuyers remain interested in both new and resale properties. The average

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re-sale single-family home price in February ranged from $385,752 to $399,835.

Airdrie’s infrastructure is also expanding to meet residents’ needs.

“We are working towards getting a new 24-hour urgent care centre,” says Brown, “with a mix of different doctors, specialists, and potentially a hospice.” In fact, he says, there is already a proposal in to the provincial government for this project.

A new library is also on the horizon, he says, and “We are hoping to have the ground breaking ceremony very soon.”

There are also two new much-needed schools in the works. Cooper’s Crossing will have a K to grade six Elementary School, and Ravenswood will have a new middle school with grades seven to nine.

“Airdrie will also have two new hotels, and there are 400 new businesses in Airdrie from 2014,” says Mayor Brown. “In Bayside there’s a second phase of commercial development, King’s Heights there is new commercial bays going in, Cooper’s Village that’s a whole new shopping area going in.”

Because, no matter what the state of the oil industry or the economy, living in Airdrie comes with so many benefits. Whether you’re going to work in town or commute to Calgary; whether you’re single or a family; whether you are looking for a new home or resale; a house or a condo; whatever your lifestyle, Airdrie is a great place to call home.

Like to travel? You’re actually closer to YYC living here in Airdrie than most residents of Calgary itself. And with new projects either being developed or coming soon, Airdrie offers its residents a wide array of amenities right here in town.

“Almost 100 per cent of people agree that the quality of life in Airdrie is excellent,” says Brown, again referring to the 2014 census report.

It’s a pretty ringing endorsement — like asking for a reference and getting more than 50,000 of them — from the people who know best.

Airdrie residents love living in Airdrie, a close-knit community that still has that small town feel, and they’re proud of it. Just ask them. n NEW HOME LIVING SPECIAL SECTION

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PHOTO COURTESY HOPEWELL RESIDENTAL

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cover feature R E I D B U I LT H O M E S

Bayside Estates is a winner for ReidBuilt Homes

ReidBuilt Homes wins for Bayside Estates show home at 2014 SAM awards

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Pepper Rodriguez

The great room is a terrific vantage point from where you can watch Bayside’s serene waterway meander through the neighbourhood.

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he award-winning tradition at ReidBuilt Homes is alive and well, and getting even stronger, as its Rockyview 2 show home in Bayside Estates won at the 2014 Canadian Home Builders Association – Calgary Region SAM Awards.

The Rockyview 2 took home the prize for Best New Home in the $375,000 to $424,999 category. The Aydon 2 model also in Airdrie’s Bayside Estates was also nominated this year, and ReidBuilt only narrowly missed repeating last year’s feat when they won for home models in Kincora and Chestermere.

But regardless of any outcome, the ultimate winners are ReidBuilt’s buyers.

“This just shows our commitment in building top-calibre homes that our buyers benefit from in several ways, including retaining a high resale value,” says ReidBuilt sales and marketing coordinator Janis Doherty.

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Known for its top-level quality of homes created with elegant craftsmanship, easy functionality of floor plans and luxurious affordability, ReidBuilt Homes is a clear favourite among homebuyers and industry insiders.

They have clearly left an impression in the popular southwest community of Bayside Estates in Airdrie, where their Rockyview 2 show home has astounded with its effortless grace and charm.

The 2,182-square-foot show home easily blends the needs of a family home with Airdrie’s quaint small town feel but with a modern take on elegance.

Right from the start the home grabs the

eye with its elegant architecture with beautiful stonework and a covered verandah.

“It has majestic curb appeal,” says co-area manager Lynn Abrams.

“The natural light that flows through the home is just incredible. The Rockyview 2 is probably the brightest show home that we have ever had,” says Abrams.

The show home uses natural colours and materials to give a relaxing feel, inside and out, and uses finishes — including hardwood flooring and quartz countertops- that give a sense of sophistication. But the overall design flow is attuned to the functional needs of the family.

The open riser staircase gives the whole main floor a contemporary design punch that works brilliantly with the openconcept main floor. The kitchen features contrasting white tiles and walnut cabinets, and floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace in the spacious formal living room adds to the ambience of the main floor.

The great room, in fact, is a terrific vantage point from where you can watch Bayside’s serene waterway meander through the neighbourhood. The show home actually backs onto the Bayside’s winding canals. “It sits on a walkout lot and owners will have direct access to the water ways,” Abrams adds. “There are several more walkout lots available in Bayside Estates.”

The Rockyview 2’s second floor is equally superb, exemplified by the luxurious animal comfort of the master bedroom and a lavish five-piece attached ensuite with spacious walk-in closet. The upstairs laundry room speaks to the functionality of the home with convenient built-in shelving

and folding area. Vaulted ceilings in the master bedroom and bonus room add to the executive lifestyle feel of the home.

Abrams says most of the buyers have been Calgary families looking for move-up homes, but Airdrie residents are also getting in on the action. ReidBuilt offers over 20 styles of move-up homes in Bayside Estates all with double attached front garage, with three or even four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths.

Most are two-storey homes but bungalows are also available. A 1,731-square-foot home here starts from $451,500, Abrams says.

“Bayside Estates is an amenity-rich community with a brand new high school that just opened up that is just around the corner, Chinook Winds Park is a pleasant spot to spend the afternoons, and you have miles of walkways along the canals to enjoy nature just outside your door,” she adds.

The Rockyview 2 show home starts at $526,396.03 for the lot and GST also and the show home itself is $730,000.

To visit ReidBuilt’s Rockyview 2 show home in Bayside’s fifth phase head to Bayside Drive. Show home hours are from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday and noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. n

The Rockyview 2 show home uses natural colours and materials to give a relaxing feel, inside and out, and uses finishes — including hardwood flooring and quartz countertops- that give a sense of sophistication. But the overall design flow is attuned to the functional needs of the family.

For more information visit www.reidbuilthomes.com

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developer feature APEX DE VELOPMENTS

Top of the town

More than just the view sets HillCrest community apart n By

Aaliya Essa

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ith preserving nature as its keystone, HillCrest community by Apex Developments creates the perfect harmony, where the natural landscape is still very much the main focal point.

An impressive stone tower and gatehouse stand at the entrance to HillCrest, welcoming homeowners to a community that is both family-friendly and elegant.

“Hillcrest has been very well-received in Airdrie because of its extensive landscaping, and gorgeous entry feature, in addition to its upscale architecture, that gives the community an estate feel,” says Susan Henderson, Senior Development Manager for Apex.

HillCrest offers residents a variety of homes and builders to choose from too, she says. “Builders include Excel Homes, Shane Homes, and Trico Homes. There are single-family and multi-family homes available, where buyers have the option to find a home that best suits their budget and lifestyle.

“Single-family homes are starting from mid$400,000s, while townhomes are starting from around the low $300,000s.”

Excel Homes has a variety of townhomes to choose from, ranging from 1,330 to 1,623 square-feet. Each townhome includes three-bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and have walkout and backing out onto the pond layout options. There are also a variety of singlefamily homes by Excel, Shane and Trico.

“Hillcrest is located on Airdrie’s highest point and offers views of the prairies to the south and the Rockies to the west,” says Henderson.

HillCrest encompasses a total of 58.4 hectares, located in the southwest corner of Airdrie. Residents here will certainly appreciate the attention to detail Apex is known for, and they’ve done it again, designing a community that is built along the natural lines of the hills, and is very much a part of the landscape that surrounds it.

There’s a great variety of amenities located nearby, making it a quick trip to the grocery store, to CrossIron Mills, or even a work out at Genesis Recreation Centre.

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Homeowners here have the opportunity to enjoy that outdoor lifestyle, with parks and pathways; you could enjoy riding bikes in the summer, or even a little cross-country skiing in the winter, no matter what season there is a variety of outdoor activities to choose from.

Plus, with easy access to Queen Elizabeth Highway, residents here have a simple commute to Calgary, making that much more alluring to buyers who work in that city.

It’s a unique community, HillCrest is, where folks are able to live in harmony with the natural topography of the land. That’s because Apex has created a community that is centered on preserving the natural beauty of the land. n

HillCrest community is built along the natural lines of the hills, and is very much a part of the landscape that surrounds it.

For more information visit www.hillcrestairdrie.com

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builder feature H O M E S BY AV I

Royal treatment

Homes by Avi give buyers plenty of options to truly customize their homes n By

Aaliya Essa

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ooking for a home that you can personalize?

That you can grow into, and see your self actually living in for a while?

If so, then Homes By Avi’s Mason or Hawthorne show homes in the community of King’s Heights is the perfect option for you.

“Both the Mason and the Hawthorne have a variety of pre-planned options that allow our buyers to personalize their home,” says Laurel Lapointe, marketing manager for Homes by Avi. “The most unique feature of the Mason is the ability to have an expanded tandem triple car garage, as is displayed in the show home. It is a great way to have the extra space in the garage without the extra cost of a larger lot.”

This space could be used for a third vehicle or for storage, you could keep your bikes, tools, or even sporting equipment here, and if you prefer more space on the main floor, you could choose to use that area as a flex room or office.

“With the Hawthorne, the option that garners the most attention is the master bedroom ensuite. The large walk-in shower, bathtub and his and her sinks really speak to couples. Plus the large walk-in closet that opens into the laundry room provides space for both of their wardrobes,” says Lapointe.

The Mason model ranges from 1,976 to 2,072 squarefeet in size, while the Hawthorne is an even more spacious 2,134 to 2,412 square-feet.

“Buyers love the options that come with each of the show home floor plans. They both showcase a good use of space and flow on the main floor. They enjoy the variety of floor plans available from Homes by Avi, that can be personalized to each individual buyers tastes,” she says.

The Mason show home starts from around $465,000 to $485,000, while the Hawthorne is priced to start at $490,000 to $560,000, including GST. Another great feature that sets these homes apart is the community. “King’s Heights is well located for individuals that commute into Calgary or other surrounding communities, with easy access to Highway 2

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and Stoney Trail,” says Lapointe. “Plus the Kingsview Market is conveniently located within the community and Sierra Springs, Airdrie’s largest commercial district, is a short drive away,” she adds.

King’s Heights is beautifully landscaped and will have over 27 acres of greens space once complete.

Current residents enjoy walking on the many pathways and take full advantage of all the parks with their families. A brand new K – 5 school has been approved for King’s Heights and is set to open the fall of 2016, which is ideal for young families with children.

Homes by Avi provides their buyers with homes that meet their needs, now and in the long term, which really makes the home buying experience easier. “At Homes by Avi we strive to guide the customer through the entire home buying process. We are happy to answer all their questions and want building a new home to be a stress-free, exciting experience,” says Lapointe. n

The Mason model ranges from 1,976 to 2,072 square-feet in size. Show home starts from around $465,000 to $485,000.

For more information visit www.homesbyavi.com

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builder feature MCKEE HOMES

The easy choice

McKee Homes offers a variety of homes to choose from in Airdrie n By

Aaliya Essa

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ack of choice isn’t a problem if you’re looking for a home in Airdrie, thanks to McKee Homes.

With six show homes to tour, compare and contrast in Airdrie, McKee provides their buyers with an abundance of options, making it possible to actually see the differences each home has in certain details.

Whether it’s size or location, they have homes in a variety styles in some of the most prestigious Airdrie communities to suit every buyers’ needs.

“McKee Homes has been building in Airdrie for over 27 years,” says Heather Yates, New Home Sales Manager for McKee Homes. “Because of this we are able to offer our clients many options when it comes to choosing their perfect home. Currently we have six different show homes throughout the City of Airdrie, giving clients the ability to tour Airdrie and be able to see and feel different models.”

The homes they can currently build range from a 1,260-square-foot two-storey models, going all the way up to an almost unlimited square footage for estate homes, and bungalows, as well.

McKee Homes has designs to satisfy the wants and needs of everyone; from the first-time homeowner, to move-up and estate homes, to downsizers. With singlefamily homes starting from around $375,000 including GST, “McKee Homes has a wide selection of lots and homes throughout Airdrie,” says Yates, “and are able to offer a wide range of prices that will meet most budgets.

“We are currently building in Bayside Estates, Canals Landing, Coopers Crossing, Heron’s Pointe, and Ravenswood,” she says. “These are all family-friendly communities with differing levels of schools within walking distance and each community offers parks, pathways, and easy access to amenities.”

McKee Homes caters to a wide range of buyers, from first-time homeowners, to families wanting to move into a larger home, and empty nester alike who have retired and are looking for a simpler lifestyle.

For buyers looking to get in sooner than later, McKee Homes also has a great selection of spec homes

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that are currently under construction. “We have homes ready for immediate possession and more under construction with possessions through Spring, Summer and Fall that are professionally designed by our in house design team” says Yates.

“Buyers are very excited that they are able to customize their home when building with McKee Homes. We have been voted Airdrie’s favourite Builder six years in a row,” she adds.

This certainly is no surprise, as McKee Homes is a local builder, which has built its company on customer satisfaction, and providing their buyers with excellent homes — that are built to last. n

McKee Homes has designs to satisfy the wants and needs of everyone; from the firsttime homeowner, to move-up and estate homes, to downsizers.

For more information visit www.mckeehomes.com

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condo feature B R O O K S I D E AT B A Y S P R I N G S

Come home to Brookside Merge Developments’ latest townhomes wow in Baysprings n By

Pepper Rodriguez

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ll the features of single-family living in an affordable multi-family package — that has been the biggest appeal of Merge Developments’ Brookside at Baysprings townhomes. But its enduring appeal goes deeper than that.

With soaring home prices in Calgary, Airdrie has become a welcome beacon of affordability for homebuyers, and its big city amenities coupled with its inherent small town spirit is a much-appreciate plus. And then there’s the complete lifestyle offered at Brookside at Baysprings, and deciding which city to live in becomes an even more obvious choice.

Located on the southwest corner of Airdrie, Brookside at Baysprings appeals to a broad range of buyers who are drawn to this growing city just north of Calgary. “Our townhomes have everything first-time homebuyers or downsizers can wish for in a home.

They will appreciate that everything on their wish list for a home is included in the design,” says Merge Developments President Rick Spooner.

“First time homebuyers may have a modest budget, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy all the comforts of a well designed, well appointed home,” he adds.

“Downsizers likewise appreciate that these townhomes have a distinct feel of a single-family home.”

The 57-townhome development offers the Slate and Tyndall models, each with three upper floor options to fit the buyers’ needs. Both are available in two-masterbedroom, three-bedroom and three-bedroom with bonus room options. They all come with two-and-a-half baths, double detached rear garages with paved rear lane, and option for basement development that many young families and couples, as well as active seniors want in a home.

“There is plenty of functionality in the design, there is no shortage of storage spaces which many growing families need, and having the option to place the kitchen in the middle of the home or at its back to suit the buyers’ needs has been a popular feature,” says area manager Barb McKinnon. “They also get the freedom of their own private fenced backyard, which is always a welcome feature for pet lovers.”

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Quality finishings and excellent craftsmanship come standard with a Merge Developments home, Spooner adds. “Each of these homes also comes with a layout that offers an abundance of natural light.”

Big central islands are featured in both the Tyndall and the Slate to double both as functional workstations for the resident chef, and as a handy gathering spot for parties. They also serve as a practical setting for quick meals for the busy family. Upstairs laundries are standard in both models, which are among the most requested features in single-family homes.

Brookside at Baysprings starts at a very reasonable $356,000.

Merge Developments also offers StoneKeep at King’s Heights on the opposite end of Yankee Valley Boulevard that offers two-storey townhomes, and single-level flats from the $230,000s. n

There is no shortage of storage spaces which many growing families need, and having the option to place the kitchen in the middle of the home or at its back to suit the buyers’ needs has been a popular feature.

For more information visit www.brooksideatbaysprings.com

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builder feature TRICO HOMES

Wants and needs Trico Homes’ Ridgeway show home satisfies n By

Aaliya Essa

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aslow’s hierarchy may have pointed out the purely scientific differences between wants and needs, but Trico Homes has gone ahead and solved them with their Ridgeway show home in Airdrie.

The Ridgeway is designed to add convenience to buyers’ lives, by creating a floor plan that combines form and function while allowing for more space in the areas where buyers want and need it most.

“Our Ridgeway model has a very deep garage over 30-feet deep,” says Daniel Cryderman, sales area manager for Trico Homes, “which allows for extra storage and usage, which people love.”

The home itself has a “very functional design,” he says. “With great use of space and numerous options available to suit your family.”

This show home measures in at 2,172 square-feet, and can be made larger with various options, says Cryderman. There are three bedrooms, with the rear-facing master suite in one corner of the upper floor, and the two secondary bedrooms being separated by a full bath. This attention to lifestyle details in the Ridgeway ensures all members of the family can have their very own private space to call their own.

The large open-concept kitchen, with a huge central island, is ideal for any busy family meal or social gathering. It’s great to be able to still be part of the conversation while preparing a meal, with all the storage, prep and cooking space you could ask for.

The bonus room continues the dual themes of spaciousness and practicality in the home. On the upper level, it’s perfect for spending time together as a family or for the kids to have a place to hang out with their friends.

With a price point starting from the low $500,000s, “The Ridgeway has been incredibly popular, and has sold very well in Airdrie,” says Cryderman.

This home is popular with a variety of buyers too, he says, especially young families looking to buy their first home, and families looking to a move up into a larger home.

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Of course it doesn’t hurt to be in a fantastic location.

Living in Hillcrest is another big draw for buyers, says Cryderman. “Hillcrest is a smaller community, in a great location for access to, and from, Airdrie, downtown Calgary, Calgary International Airport, CrossIron Mills shopping mall, as well as the mountains,” he says. Not to mention the impressive variety of amenities, recreational centres, golf courses, grocery stores, schools, shopping and dining options available in the City of Airdrie itself.

Trico Homes is known for innovative design, quality craftsmanship, and customer service, and that’s all apparent here in Hillcrest.

The Ridgeway is an excellent example of how Trico Homes strives to continue to meet and surpass their buyers wants and needs.

“Our pricing, quality, and service set us apart,” says Cryderman. “We have been voted the Homestars Builder of the Year (a website where customers can rank and review their builders). This points to a customer belief that Trico Homes builds homes with pride, that are crafted to enhance the lives of our customers and the communities they live in.” n

The large openconcept kitchen, with a huge central island, is ideal for any busy family meal or social gathering.

It’s great to be able to still be part of the conversation while preparing a meal, with all the storage, prep and cooking space you could ask for.

For more information visit www.tricohomes.com

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builder feature I N N O V AT I O N S B Y J A Y M A N

Stylishly innovative

Innovations by Jayman give King’s Heights a contemporary edge n By

Alicia Paton-Courtois

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heir name is the essence of their design philosophy, and Innovations by Jayman proves it yet again with the functionality and style of their new show homes in King’s Heights.

The family-friendly community in southeast Airdrie is where Innovations by Jayman unveiled their new model, The Verge, a 2,405-square-foot four-bedroom home that sparkles with new design ideas. While perennial favourite, The Nitro, was given a design twist that ensures this 1,938-square-foot home will even be a bigger hit. Both prove, without a doubt, that Innovations by Jayman does not rest on its laurels.

“Innovation is in our blood, even popular homes like The Nitro still get tweaked when we see something that can be improved on,” says area manager Jeff Mitchell.

Both are attached double garage homes that embody the single-family lifestyle with their contemporary design and flair.

The Verge is crafted to exemplify comfortable family living with a fresh outlook.

Jayman’s Chef’s Fit kitchen designed as an L-shaped peninsula offers a raised eating bar along with a central island that can be utilized for prepping food, as well as other miscellaneous tasks.

“Whether you’re entertaining with plenty of guests, or just for the family, the design with the built-in kitchen appliances maximizes the use and enjoyment of the kitchen,” says Mitchell.

Quartz counter tops give a sophisticated look to the space, while the engineered hardwood flooring all through the main floor complements the modern feel.

Jayman has utilized the space in the upstairs floor amazingly well. Not only

The Verge is crafted to exemplify comfortable family living with a fresh outlook. Jayman’s Chef Fit kitchen designed as an L-shaped peninsula offers a raised eating bar along with a central island that can be utilized for prepping food, as well as other miscellaneous tasks.

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are there four bedrooms, but two full bathrooms, laundry room and even a bonus room separating the owners’ suite from the bedrooms.

The owners’ suite includes a five-piece ensuite with his-and-hers vanities back to back, as well as walk-in closets.

“Larger families appreciate the privacy it offers to all members. The bonus room in the middle of the second floor separates the parents’ room from the kids’ to give them the space they need from each other, but also provides a terrific spot for the family to gather for movie nights,” Mitchell says.

The Nitro is a timeless design that has been among Innovations by Jayman’s top sellers since the beginning.

Now, it hopes to get an even better response after the addition of its added central bonus room.

“It has the benefit of large windows, a lot of space and incredibly high ceilings. With one of the bedrooms at the front of the house, it functions well for an older child or a teen. Or can easily accommodate two twin beds for younger siblings” Mitchell says.

Impeccable design and the sophisticated atmosphere give The Nitro its noticeable star appeal among the other homes. “It has a very modern feel, and true to form The Nitro is lead-

ing our sales in King’s Heights,” Mitchell says.

Customers can build The Verge starting from the $500,000 including lot and GST. The very nicely appointed show home is listed for $629,900, including a fully developed basement. While The Nitro is at $450,000 with the show home itself going for $494,900 including the basement, Mitchell says.

“King’s Heights is the ideal neighbourhood in Airdrie. It is conveniently located for commuters and allows for easy access to everything that this City has to offer. The community itself is beautifully landscaped with masses of green space, parks and pathways. The amenity-rich Kingsview Market is within walking distance, so there’s really plenty for families to love here,” he points out. n

The Nitro is a timeless design that has been among Innovations by Jayman’s top sellers since the beginning.

For more information visit www.jayman.com

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sports feature

The swing of things The hot spots for golf in Airdrie n By

David Shepherd Collicutt Golf Course

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pring is here, and foursomes are teeing off. While there’s plenty of challenging holes in the Airdrie area, three courses stand out: Woodside Golf Course, Apple Creek Golf Course, and the Collicutt Siding Golf Club.

The oldest of the three, Woodside Golf Course opened in 1989. Designed by Bill Robinson, the course features four sets of tees on each of its 18 holes. Play from the blacks and you’re looking at a 6,070-yard course, while the silvers will shrink the course to 4,433 yards — perfect for inexperienced players.

Chris McNicol, Director of Operations at Woodside, believes it’s the quality greens that make Woodside a must-play. “We are renowned for the best green conditions in the Calgary area. They’re quite receptive, very fast, and have some very subtle breaks.”

Golfers face water on 14 of the 18 holes — including the fifth hole, a risk/reward par 4. “Number five is our signature hole,” says McNicol. “Depending on the player and the tee box, it’s a par 4 that if you take it over the water, especially as a longer hitter, you can drive the green.” And if you don’t get all of your drive? Splash.

Woodside opened on March 27. You can play 18 holes with a cart for $70 on weekdays, or $80 on weekends and holidays. McNicol

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promises a few extra surprises for golfers.

“We’re creating a new experience this year that’s quite a bit different. I don’t want to elaborate because I want it to be a surprise, so come out and try it!”

From the oldest of the three courses to the newest, the Apple Creek Golf Course has only been open for two years. Designed by Bill and Lola Skauge, Apple Creek features 18 holes with 4 sets of tees on each hole. The back set puts the course length at 7,017 yards, with the front set a reasonable 5,036 yards.

But what’s special, claims General Manager Bob Choma, is the design. “The two nines are designed in figure eights, and we’ve put a snack shack in the middle of the course. A golfer will go by it five times in a round of golf.”

Apple Creek’s greens are push-up style

and they’re on the smaller size. A creek meanders through the course, bringing water into play on 16 of the 18 holes. One of the signature holes is number 15, Choma says. “Number 15 is a par three with an island tee box. It goes over the lake, and it stretches from 139 yards to 223 yards.”

Apple Creek is currently preparing to start construction on an 18,000-square-foot clubhouse. While this season’s opening date is still in question, rates are expected to be between $40$45 for 18 holes, depending on the day. A power cart is mandatory on weekends, and comes in at $16 per person.

The home for prairie golf, Collicutt Siding Golf Club began construction on the front nine in 1994, opening in ‘95. Construction began on the back nine in 2003. When asked who designed the course, General Manager Lyndon King chuckles.

“The front nine? A bunch of farmers, really.”

Collicutt has 18 holes, with five sets of tees on each hole.

The fifth set is new, says King. “We’ve implemented a kids tee — there’s no teebox, they just play on the fairway between 100 and 150 yards out.” Golfers playing from the back tees are looking at a 6,843-yard course, while those playing off the reds will be hitting at 5,448 yards.

“We have two different nines,” says King. “A parkland nine and a links nine.” Greens vary across the course, with the greens on the back nine being larger than the front nine.

While there is no official signature hole, there are a few local favourites, King says. “Lots of people like hole number six, which is a par 5 with an island green. Number 14, a par 3 that crosses the creek right beside the clubhouse stands out.”

He grins. “Number 15 eats a lot of people up. It’s a par 5 that crosses the creek twice.”

Golfers can play a full 18 at Collicutt for $39 Monday through Thursday, or $45 on weekends. Power carts are available for $15. The course is already open for the season. n

Apple Creek Golf Course NEW HOME LIVING SPECIAL SECTION

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city of airdrie map

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