Edmonton New Home & Condo Living - September 2014 by Source Media Group

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 1

2 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 3

4 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

contents s e p t e m be r 2014

v o l u m e 6 i ss u e 5 4

Features

8 Home and renovation show Phase into fall with fantastic ideas, new products and expert advice

10 Finalists announced

2014 CHBA – Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing to be handed out at Jasper conference

13 Giving back

Commitment to community a priority of CHBA – Edmonton Region Community profile

16 West side story

Hawks Ridge is soaring ahead with a flock of home options, styles and price points for buyers

design & decor

19 Better basements

Lower levels don’t mean lower design standards

What’s New?

21 Show home parades Tales from the condo zone

30 Home is where the heart is items

6 Editor’s Message 26 Maps

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 5

editor’s message

Summer fun No matter how nice a summer we’ve had this year, and no matter how much I love my job, I still look forward to my annual summer vacation in Kelowna. One of the things I like to do, when I’m not laying by the pool reading a murder mystery or soaking up some rays at Gyro Beach, is pick up the local real estate magazines and see what’s up. In Kelowna, what’s up is the price of a new home. In fact, you might be surprised to know that the price of the average new home in the heart of the Central Okanagan is about the same as it is here. And it would be a great place to live if, and it’s a big if, you could find a job that paid you the same as what you can make here in Alberta. And then there’s that pesky seven per cent provincial sales tax; the Sunshine Tax, as it’s often referred to. Anyways, while I was gone the irrepressible Joy Van Marck did double duty, covering as many industry events and show home parades as she could to make up for the absence of my Around Town column. You can follow her travels starting on page 21. In addition, we also check out how many Edmonton builders are finalists in the CHBA – Alberta Awards, preview the upcoming Home & Renovation Show, journey out to Walton Developments’ Hawks Ridge and bring back design diva Rosalyn Lazaruk for the fall season. I may have missed my Around Town deadline, but I did get back just in time to receive the latest housing start data from CMHC, and see that the Edmonton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) was trending at 13,185 units in July compared to 13,081 in June. The trend is a six month moving average which is sort of a guesstimate at where we’ll be by end of year. As far as the actual numbers go — see chart below — July 2014 total starts were up just slightly from last year’s levels. Overall, on a year-to-date basis, however, 2014 is still lagging way behind last year’s totals mainly due to a couple of large multi-family projects that inflated 2013 numbers. Single family home starts, on the other hand, are actually up. Edmonton CMA Housing Starts So there you have it. 2013 2014 July Single detached 542 686 Edmonton’s still growing, July Multi-family 540 440 and it will probably keep July total 1,082 1,126 growing for some time January-July Single detached 3,342 3,623 to come. Just like our January-July Multi-family 5,706 3,793 readership; thanks for being January-June Total 9,048 7,416 part of it!

@EdmHomeandCondo

EdmontonHomeandCondoLiving

6 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

Canadian Home Builders’ Association

PUBLI S HER

Source Media Group

info@sourcemediagroup.ca Ass o c i a t e PUBLI S HER / E d i t o r

Jim Zang

jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRE C TOR

Jean Faye Rodriguez

jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca GRAPHI C DE S IGN e r S

Dave Macaulay

dave.maucaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca

Megan Sereda

megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca production administrator

Colleen Leier

colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca Editorial

Stephanie Dubois, Rosalyn Lazaruk, Pamela Roth, Joy Van Marck, Shelley Williamson d i r e c t o r o f S ALE S

Norma Robertson

norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca A d v e r t i s i n g S ALE S

Jennifer Mills

jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca DI S TRIBUTED BY

Source Media Group, Media Classified I SS N 1918 - 4 4 6 8 PRINTED IN C ANADA

© Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the express 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.

New 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. New 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.

Source media group 207, 5809 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0J9 403.532.3101

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 7

feature

Home and Ren Phase into fall with fantastic ideas, new products and expert advice By Stephanie Dubois

s the weather cools and people head back indoors, fall becomes the perfect time for many homeowners to renovate and redecorate, making the Home and Renovation Show in Edmonton a great starting point. From home décor to landscaping, the show hosted at the Edmonton Expo Centre will offer homeowners the best look into upcoming trends and insider tips. “There are two seasons that focus on home renovation and homebuilding. Spring season, of course, is a busy time for everyone. Then you live through the summer and notice everything outside of the house because you’re not inside as much and then you realize there’s some updating that can happen and that’s why this fall show is so important in the fall season,” says Rick Young, show producer. He adds that homeowners looking at upgrading items related to seasonal change like windows or heating and cooling systems often need to start planning these home upgrades in the fall. “If you’re thinking of upgrading in October, it takes time to plan. Busy contractors typically slow down in the fall so the home show provides a great meeting place for contractors, suppliers, developers, builders, renovators to go face-to-face with thousands of homeowners. It’s an intersection,” he says. Presented by the Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region, the show brings around 150 exhibitors together under one roof, making it a great one-stopshop for homeowners over the three days, according to organizers. Approximately 8,000 attend the threeday event, a number that has steadily grown over the last 31 years of the show. This year’s edition of the show also features two guest speakers: Jim Caruk and Cobi Ladner. Cobi Ladner, owner of cobistyle, will speak at the Edmonton Home and Renovation Show.

8 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

feature

novation Show Considered to be a “reno rebel” by But how people go about Young, Caruk will share some of his personalizing their homes can vary expert advice with the Edmonton from province to province, says crowd after working in his field for Ladner. 30 years. As a “HGTV renovation “There’s definitely a palette that specialist and master contractor,” runs from the Atlantic to the Pacific.” Caruk’s unique way of “telling it In the east, proprietors aren’t afraid like it is” is sure to wow audiences, to use colour, but travelling to the according to the show’s website. Prairies, things become more natural “He will cover off the categories of in the home, a reflection of both the home improvement and relationships landscape and heritage, says Ladner. with contractors,” says Young. “I always joke when I go to Calgary Kicking off the show’s and Edmonton that there’s so much presentations is Ladner, who is brown.” well-known in the industry for her In British Columbia, an Asian ‘decorating for lifestyle’ experience, influence can be one of the reasons which is complimented by her former the interior palettes become more experience as the editor of Canadian colourful, with styles also becoming House & Home magazine. more contemporary. Jim Caruk is one of two speakers set “She is a wealth of information and “It’s really interesting that our to address the local audience at the tips,” says Young. country has so many looks,” she says. Edmonton Home and Renovation Show. Ladner, who also has her cobistyle Ladner and Caruk will both speak products on sale at Sears department stores, says a lot has changed twice during the show’s duration. since she first started in the industry when it comes to trends but Whether homeowners are looking to change their floors or also colour and pattern usage and textiles. change their wall colours, experts can point show guests in the She says the home décor industry has evolved so individuals — right direction at the Home and Renovation show in Edmonton not just experts — can search for great decorating items. next month. n “When it comes to personalizing your space, it used to be a hunt for goods but now we all have access to unique items. It’s almost harder because you can go so many directions,” she says. But change is good, says Ladner, who has noticed more homeowners turning to colour to give their homes some spice, an Hours: Friday, October 3, 2 p.m.- 9 p.m. evolution from the classic neutrals that many homeowners decided Saturday, October 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. to play safe with for so many years. Sunday, October 5, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. “I’m seeing a lot of complex colours like wine, teal, burgundy,” she Admission: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors/students, says. free for children 12 and under The former editor says colours and pattern are the best way to Location: Edmonton Expo Centre individualize your home, even if you are looking to resell. Website: www.yeghomeshow.ca “I always encourage people to personalize their homes. Textiles, mementos and art are the easiest ways,” says Ladner.

Home Show Fast Facts

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 9

feature

Finalists announced Company

Model

City

Single Family Under $245,000 Homes by Avi Tristan Edmonton ReidBuilt Homes Sage Calgary UrbanAge Homes D18-Modern Edmonton Single Family $245,000 - $260,000 Daytona Homes Scion Edmonton Falcon Homes Cove Sylvan Lake Rococo Homes Cottonwood Spruce Grove Single Family $260,000 - $290,000 Daytona Homes Concorde Edmonton Jayman Renew Calgary White Eagle Homes Willow Edmonton Single Family $290,000 - $310,000 Caliber Master Builder Elmwood Custom Edmonton Parkwood Master Builder Avalon Edmonton San Rufo Homes Anthony St. Albert Single Family $310,000 - $340,000 Ashcroft Master Builder Griffin Lethbridge Brookfield Residential Belvedere Calgary Vesta Properties Brighton Airdrie Single Family $340,000 - $370,000 Ashcroft Master Builder Marpole II Lethbridge Falcon Homes Brighton Sylvan Lake San Rufo Homes Nicholas II St. Albert Single Family $370,000 - $410,000 Pacesetter Homes Gabriel Edmonton Stepper Custom Homes Conrad Calgary White Eagle Homes Sandstone Edmonton Single Family $410,000 - $490,000 Estata Developments Mardaloop I Calgary Vesta Properties Ashley Airdrie Vicky’s Homes Cruz Edmonton Single Family $490,000 - $600,000 San Rufo Homes Kaitlyn St. Albert UrbanAge Homes Copperwood Edmonton Vicky’s Homes Brooke Edmonton Brad-Mar Homes Signature Homes Van Manna Homes Albi Homes Albi Homes Perry Signature Homes

Estate Home $600,000 - $800,000 Elbow Valley West Residence Sedona II Campbell Residence Estate Home $800,000 - $1,000,000 Elgin Estates Residence Sorano Chelsea

Estate Home $1,000,000 - $1,750,000 Albi Homes Monticino 4 Perry Signature Homes Augusta Sorento Custom Homes Ridgewood Empire Custom Homes Empire Custom Homes Marco Antonio Homes

Estate Home Over $1,750,000 Cedar Estates Trophy House Platinum

10 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

he Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta (CHBA – Alberta) has announced the 69 finalists for the Awards of Excellence in Housing, presented by RBC Royal Bank. “Many things have changed since the first province-wide housing awards competition was held 30 years ago” says Stephen Amonson, President, CHBA – Alberta. Back in 1984 the awards focused on affordable housing with a $39,000 cap on construction costs for single family homes. Today’s awards celebrate the full range of housing options — starting with homes under $245,000 without lot or GST right up to estate homes that top $1,750,000. The best multi-family, green homes, community developments and renovations will also be honoured.” A record 417 entries were submitted for judging by 156 industry members. Winners in the 23 individual categories plus three prestigious Builder of the Year Awards will be announced September 19 at BUILD 2014 in Jasper. The Calgary Region leads this year’s competition with 32 finalists, followed closely by the Edmonton Region at 29, and four for both Central Alberta and Lethbridge. In total, 45 companies are in the running for an award. Two companies have a combined total of six homes among the

Calgary Lethbridge Calgary Calgary Calgary Edmonton

Calgary Edmonton Red Deer Calgary Calgary Sturgeon County

feature

2014 CHBA – Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing to be handed out at Jasper conference finalists: Albi Homes/Albi Renova and Homes by Avi/Avi Urban. Two builders have three finalists and another 14 companies have double finalists. The highlight of the event is the announcement of the Builder of the Year Awards for the best overall scores in the competition. CHBA – Alberta will present awards to the top multi-family and small-volume builders and the Ralph Scurfield Award to the top large-volume builder. The finalists will be revealed at the awards ceremony. “We are delighted to see record participation in the awards and the broad range of companies chosen as finalists. Our industry has come a long way since 1984 when we built about 7,300 new homes — almost all for single families. Over the years consumer demand has shifted. Now we’re building more than 36,000 homes a year but almost half are duplexes, townhomes and apartments. Whatever their needs, buyers will find outstanding choices by visiting the show homes in their community,” says Jim Rivait, CEO, CHBA – Alberta. CHBA – Alberta is also thrilled to announce the finalists for the Safety Leadership Awards. Eight companies are finalists for the awards sponsored by ATCO Gas. The awards will also be presented at BUILD 2014, CHBA – Alberta’s annual conference. n

Company

Avi Urban Homes by Avi Sterling Homes

Model

Multi-family Townhome or Duplex Under $300,000 Edison - Scarlet Tristan Sensation

City

Calgary Edmonton Edmonton

Multi-family Townhome or Duplex $300,000 - $400,000 Avonlea Master Builder Genesis ReidBuilt Homes Opus

Lethbridge Calgary

White Eagle Homes

Edmonton

Emerald

Multi-family Townhome or Duplex Over $400,000 Blok Home Development & Design Kensington Trio Homes by Avi JV3

Calgary Calgary

Jayman

Calgary

Avi Urban Qualex-Landmark Rohit Group of Companies

Edgewater Villa Multi-family Apartment Under $325,000 Sawyer Silverado Calla Vantage

Calgary Calgary Edmonton

Multi-family Apartment Over $325,000 Modern Oasis Red Deer Calla Calgary St. John’s Tenth St. - Unit 412 Calgary Community Development Brookfield Residential Auburn Bay Calgary Heritage Pointe Properties Artesia Calgary Hopewell Residential Management Mahogany Calgary Green Home Avi Urban Hornell Calgary Landmark Group of Builders Emerald II Edmonton Landmark Group of Builders Mendelssohn II Edmonton Renovation Under $200,000 Albi Renova Ranchlands Renovation Calgary Aquarian Renovations Blue Quill Residence Edmonton Ashton Luxury Living Shaganappi Estates Renovation Calgary Renovation $200,000 - $500,000 Albi Renova Arbour Lake Renovation Calgary Albi Renova Rurral Renovation Calgary Kon-Strux Developments Cliff Bungalow Project Calgary Renovation Over $500,000 Ackard Contractors Saskatchewan Drive Residence Edmonton Ackard Contractors Valleyview Residence Edmonton Alair Renovations Sunhill Estates Residence Edmonton Safety Leadership Awards A&B Concrete Pumping Edmonton All Weather Windows Alberta Avonlea Master Builder Lethbridge Broadview Homes Calgary Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Central Alberta Daytona Homes Edmonton Qualico Edmonton Stepper Custom Homes Calgary Abbey Master Builder Qualex-Landmark Streetside Developments

A] Landmark Homes - Emerald II; B] Abbey Master Build er - Modern Oasis; C] Alair Renovations - Sunhill Estates; D] Homes by Avi - Tristan; E] Perry Signature Homes - Augusta; F] White Eagle - Emerald S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 11

12 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

feature

Giving back Commitment to community a priority of CHBA – Edmonton Region By Pamela Roth

hen Perry Homes president Bill Davidson first heard about a charity project being launched by the Canadian Home Builders Association (CHBA) Edmonton Region, he and his partner wasted no time jumping on board. “We wanted to take a leading role in ensuring that we supported it initially. We also wanted to be one of the leaders in supporting its current endeavor as well,” says Davidson. “It’s about trying to do something worthwhile as an association and as a group of business leaders in Edmonton.” Charitable giving has always been a major priority of the CHBA – Edmonton region, so when its members recognized two key housing-related problems in the area — a shortage of non-profit housing (approximately 3,000 people are on a waiting list for affordable housing in the city) and Wes Gunderson a shortage of homebuilder trades — they decided to do something about it. In 2006, a formal charity fund was established — the Edmonton Region Homebuilder Charity Funds (ERHC). During that year, the CHBA – Edmonton region teamed up with the Inner City Housing Society to begin working on Home Base — a 26-unit housing project for single, economically dependent, physically or mentally disabled adults who qualify for the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH).

The goal was to raise $300,000 over a three-year period to commit to the housing project, which would be run by the Edmonton Inner City Housing Society. The ERHC also pledged to raise a further $300,000 over three years to provide homebuilder trade scholarships. ERHC chairman Wes Gunderson knew the project would have its challenges. There was a significant amount of lobbying by members to help get the project through, he says, followed by matching funds from the government and acquiring sponsorship money. Three years later in January 2010, the facility opened its doors at 97 Street and 122 Avenue with rents capped at no more than $500. “Their generosity makes it possible for someone like myself to have a nice home, a safe home,” says Jackie, a Home Base tenant. “I’m not on a street or in a homeless shelter.” When Gunderson toured the finished facility and met some of the tenants, the impact of the ERHC’s work really hit home. “It was fantastic. Just to know you made a difference in someone’s life, it’s a great feeling,” says Gunderson, vice president of finance for Lincolnberg Master Builder. “It gives them an opportunity to continue to have a life. When you compare that ($500) to the rental landscape today, your whole pay cheque would be consumed by rent.”

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 1 3

feature

The ERHC now has more than 70 builders on board and is in the midst of fundraising for its next project — an 18-unit non-profit apartment complex located at 66 Street and 128 Avenue that will also assist those living on AISH. Gunderson expects the project will also have its challenges. Fundraising began this year with more than $100,000 already raised thus far. The goal is to raise $400,000 — in which $200,000 would fund the housing initiative and $200,000 would be added to the trades endowment to increase the number of scholarships. The ERHC is currently in the process of securing land for the property before the rest of the planning can officially get underway. “A few of the details have to fall into place before we can start talking about when it’s going to open,” says Gunderson, who was quite involved during the first

1 4 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

round of fundraising with ERHC co-founder Larry Anderson. “The next generation had to step up and take this over. I looked at that as a challenge to do it. I saw what we did the last time, so it was sort of a no brainer to step up and try to continue this.” Through its partnership with NAIT, the ERHC has built an endowment worth $335,000 that funds six scholarships annually. To date, the ERHC has helped 36 trades with their education. Visit www.erhc.ca for more information about the ERHC. n

The ERHC now has more that 70 builders on board and is in the midst of fundraising for its next project...

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 15

community profile

West side story Hawks Ridge is soaring ahead with a flock of home options, styles and price points for buyers By Shelley Williamson

t may be a challenge to find a new-home community that offers a sense of serenity and peace for its residents, in a location close to all the creature comforts of Edmonton’s west side.A challenge, but not impossible. Case in point: Hawks Ridge at Big Lake. The master-planned community by Walton Development and Management LP (Walton) is now nearing the release of its second phase of development. And that means even more good news for home buyers, says Jill Curtis, marketing co-ordinator for Walton. “We are getting lots of positive comments about living in this community,” says Curtis. “People seem genuinely excited to be part of this community, residents really love it.” With front-drive homes priced in the $420,000s and semi-detached homes from the $360,000s, there’s plenty to love about coming home to Hawks Ridge. “The home builders offer different floor plans and finishes, and some have homes ready for quick-possession. All four builders are well-known names who ascribe to the vision of the area.” In addition to elegant homes by Morrison Homes, Montorio Homes, ReidBuilt Homes, and Sabal Homes crafted in styles from mountain vernacular to arts and crafts, and semi-detached addresses by Sabal, natural amenities abound in the community, thanks to some careful planning for the 135-acre community on Walton’s part. Sitting pretty on Big Lake, this unprecedented amenity is impressive in size — spanning a massive 105 acres. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will adore being next to Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park, which is recognized as “An Important Bird Area” by IBA Canada

16 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

for its breadth of shorebirds and waterfowl. The IBA program is an international conservation initiative coordinated by BirdLife International, whose Canadian co-partners are Bird Studies Canada and Nature Canada. “It’s also a very walkable neighbourhood. There are lots of pathways throughout that interact with the community and commercial areas nearby,” notes Curtis. “And something that home buyers appreciate is escaping to Hawks Ridge at the end of the day. It’s peaceful, yet Costco is only six minutes away.” Among the community’s green features are bio swales to filter runoff and a water barrel program for all Hawks Ridge homes. Each residence is given a barrel to collect water for planting and watering lawns. Construction is progressing well this summer, both to the community’s access road, 215 Street, including a passage under the road to keep the abundance of area wildlife — including moose, deer and smaller animals — safe as they cross the road. “It’s exciting for us to construct this wildlife crossing called Hawks Ridge Pass as part of the overall environmental and ecological

community profile

considerations we have taken into account in Hawks Ridge,” says Curtis. Despite the progression to Stage 2 of the community, a few choice home sites remain in some of the best parts of the first phase of Hawks Ridge, notes Curtis, citing those backing on school and park space. But perhaps the best-kept secret of Hawks Ridge is that the area is set in Edmonton’s coveted west. “This is truly a west Edmonton destination for buyers,” says Curtis. Peak hour transit and excellent vehicle access via Anthony Henday and the Yellowhead Trail interchange only add to the flock of appealing features in Hawks Ridge. Meanwhile, commercial and retail development is slated for a destination that’s even closer for residents by next year — at Yellowhead Trail and 215 Street. To get to Hawks Ridge, follow Yellowhead Trail (Trans-Canada Highway) west of Anthony Henday Drive, turn north on Winterburn Road/215 Street and head west on Hawks Ridge Boulevard N.W. n

Fast Facts Community: Hawks Ridge at Big Lake Developer: Walton Development and Management LP Builders: Morrison Homes, Montorio Homes, ReidBuilt Homes and Sabal Homes Price: Semi-detached homes from the $360,000s; single-family homes with front-attached garages from the $420,000s Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays from noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.hawksridge.ca Photos courtesy Walton Developments

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 17

18 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

DESign & DÉcor

Better basements Lower levels don’t mean lower design standards By Rosalyn Lazaruk

or many new home buyers, an unfinished basement is just a fact of life. However, a basement isn’t just storage, it’s a design opportunity waiting to be taken advantage of!

Lower Levels

We are so fortunate where we live to have basements in our home; the unfortunate thing is that so many of our lower levels are under utilized. So many times it becomes a junk zone that is disorganized and lacks any sort of order within its layout. The square footage we can add to our living spaces by defining areas and creating functional zones in the basement can relieve clutter and chaos from other parts of our home. If you look at what areas of your main or upper floor are exploding at the seams this will give you a good idea of what you need to dedicate space to on your lower level. It may be a craft area, a play zone, additional storage, a rumpus room, or a relaxing retreat space.

Create Defined Spaces

Once you decide on what it is you want to use the basement for sketch out the space on graph paper and drawn in defined zones. If you have existing furniture you ant to use in the space this will help you lay things out to ensure you have enough room for each area and ensure that flow from one to another is not obstructed.

Store Your Stuff

Let There Be Light

So often lower levels are dark and feel cramped because of lack of proper lighting. When finishing the space choose light wall colors and paint the ceiling the same or a slightly lighter shade. Installing pot lights will give you the best lighting throughout the overall space, but be sure to consider task and ambient lighting in each defined zone as well.

Divide and Conquer

Certain areas may not be for everyone and if you do not have walls and doors to keep the space private consider using dividers. Curtain panels hung on a track system are a great way to add texture to a room and keep spaces dived. If the area is smaller screens and floating bookshelves can also do the trick.

Kids Will Play

If one of your designated areas is a play zone then get the kids involved in planning the space. They know how they use the area and will hopefully take more pride in keeping it clean if they feel like it is there own! Some comfortable seating, like oversized bean bag chairs will give the kids somewhere to flop down to read or drag a seat over to the family room for game or movie night. Check out Lazy Bag Paris for some amazing modern takes on the beanbag! www.lazybagparis.ca n

Most basements when they are finished have clean walls and not a lot of storage. Think about creating ‘built ins’ using IKEA. There are several different systems so you can customize them for your space needs. Having doors and drawers will reduce the clutter and keep things organized.

Designer Rosalyn Lazaruk established her 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. The frequent Home Show presenter 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. S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 19

2 0 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

what’s new? with Joy Van Marck

Laurel Crossing

Springate in Spruce Grove

Take an amazing race through Laurel Crossing on Sunday, September 14 from noon to 4 p.m., in celebration of 11 new show homes opening in the community’s newest phases. Visit incredible new single family and duplex show homes, while experiencing the sights and sounds of countries around the world. Come for great food, music, and to enter to win a draw for a $1,000 travel voucher or tickets to an Edmonton Oilers game. Those looking for a single family home can visit show homes with attached garages built by Landmark Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes and Tristate Signature Homes. Pacesetter Homes is also building single family homes with a rear lane in the community. Duplexes are being built by Pacesetter Homes and Sterling Homes, and Connect Home, while townhomes are available by Streetside Developments and Sterling Homes. Laurel Crossing residents enjoy green spaces, winding trails, a community lake, and a newly completed park and playground. Conveniently located in south Edmonton just off 34th Street and 16A Avenue, Laurel Crossing has quick access to Anthony Henday Drive and Whitemud Drive. The community is close to all amenities, schools bus routes, professional services, shopping and the new Meadows Recreation Centre opening later this year.

Springate, a master planned Qualico community in Spruce Grove, has plenty of grassy parks, a community lake with walking trails and is just minutes from the Tri-Leisure Centre offering year round recreational activities. Sterling Homes and Alquinn Homes have just opened new showhomes with exciting floor plans with options available to meet lifestyle needs and the pocketbook too. The Telquivst, by Sterling, has 2,091 square-feet and features a large foyer, main floor laundry and walk-through pantry. Upstairs is a bonus room, two bedrooms and master bedroom with his and hers separate large walk in closets plus a very luxurious ensuite. Alquinn Homes presents the Nolan, a 2,003-square-foot home, featuring a gorgeous gourmet kitchen, a culinary delight for the chef in the family. A convenient walk through pantry and customized island with table will be appreciated. The upper level hosts two bedrooms, the owner’s suite with generous ensuite, bonus room, cozy office space and laundry. Alquinn Homes and Sterling Homes are also building duplex homes in Springate. You can find them by going north on Jennifer Heil Way then turn west on Grove Drive and south onto Spring Gate; the show homes are straight ahead.

Walker Summit On Saturday, September 6, Walker Summit, a United community, announces the grand opening of their new duplex models with some family fun and a slice of pizza. Visit the duplex show homes built by Montorio Homes and Morrison Homes featuring Interesting designs offering originality and style to the new home owner.

With easy access to Ellerslie Road and Anthony Henday, everything you need is conveniently located nearby with South Edmonton Common, Southgate Centre, and Millwoods Towne Centre. To find Walker Summit and these beautiful show homes go south of Ellerslie Road on Watt Blvd turn right on Watt Promenade and follow the signs.

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 21

WHAT’S NEW?

Jazz in the Park at Village at Gresbach On Saturday, September 13, you are invited to experience a little jazz in the park. A jazz band will entertain at the opening of Central Hill Park in the Village at Griesbach from noon to 5 p.m. A family picnic will be held for guests including hotdogs, refreshments and tasty desserts. Get your picture drawn by cartoonist Bill Mackay for a keepsake. From detached garage executive or family homes and attached garage models to duplexes, townhomes and condos there is a home for every lifestyle and budget. Award winning builders include, Coventry Homes, Dream Homes by Krisner, Homes by Avi, Impact Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Slokker West and Carrington Communities. Village at Griesbach features four lakes, a 24 acre central park, a children’s playground and a new K-9 School. Canada Lands Company has protected, preserved and integrated mature trees, urban forests and vast green spaces into an innovative “urban village” design. It’s easy to find by 97 Street and turn west on 137 Avenue, turn north on Pegasus Boulevard. Go straight and you will come to the park.

Family friendly McLaughlin McLaughlin, a Melcor community in Spruce Grove, held a family fun day on August 16. You may have missed the event but the true treasure is this vibrant community with tree lined paths, an abundance of green space, playgrounds and the scenic natural beauty of Dog Creek. McLaughlin offers stylish duplexes, move in ready townhomes and spacious single family homes with double front attached garages by wellrespected builders such as Bedrock Homes and Pacesetter Homes. Whether you are a first time buyer just starting out or a growing family looking to move up, you will find what meets your lifestyle needs in the family-friendly community of McLaughlin Visit the community and the show homes of McLaughlin in Spruce Grove, just 10 minutes west of Edmonton. Go west on Parkland Highway (Hwy 16A) turn north on Jennifer Heil Way to West Grove Drive and follow the signs.

Aspen Trails

Tamarack Common

Aspen Trails in Sherwood Park welcomes three new single family double front attached garage show homes by Landmark Homes, Rohit Homes and Daytona Homes Master Builder. Join in on the opening festivities on Saturday, September 13, from noon to 5 p.m. with a hot dog, beverages and the ever popular bounce castle for the kids. Daytona Homes Master Builder and Rohit Homes are also building duplex style homes. There are still existing show homes to view on Armitage Crescent by Coventry Homes, Homes by Avi, Marcson Homes and Park Royal Homes. Aspen Trails, nestled between Clover Bar Road and Sherwood Drive north of Lakeland Drive has plenty of green space, close to all amenities with shops and businesses along Clover Bar Road as well as the variety of amenities at the Emerald Hills Centre where The Strathcona Community Hospital is located. Aspen Trails will be a walkable community with trails connecting to parks and playgrounds throughout the community with links to the Heritage Trail System. You can find the new show home parade by taking Clover Bar Road and turning west onto Lakeland Drive, then north into Aspen Trails on Axbridge Gate.

Tamarack Common, another Qualico community, is celebrating the grand opening of its 14 new show homes with a taste of India. On Sunday, September 7, from noon to 4 p.m., come taste delicious Indian food, watch Bollywood dancers and get free henna or temporary tattoos while visiting the show homes. Constructed by three well-known builders, there are homes for a variety of lifestyles and budgets. Sterling Homes offers single family homes with attached garages, duplex homes with attached garages, as well as townhomes. Pacesetter Homes, is also building single family homes with front attached garages as well as rear laned duplex homes. Parkwood Master Builder features duplex homes with front attached garage and single family homes with front attached garages. Located in southeast Edmonton on 17 Street and 23 Avenue, Tamarack Common has many great amenities in and around the community. Located close to trails and Mill Creek Ravine, a large park and playground are centered in the heart of the community. The brand new Meadows Community Recreation Centre, scheduled to open later this year, is located directly across the street from the community.

2 2 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

WHAT’S NEW?

Sabal Homes presents $20,000 with Stylbration

Left to right: Micah Dueck, Regional Sales Manager, Andrew Stevenson, Senior Manager, Sales, Michael Borges, Ella, Adalyn and Amber Borges, Winners, Vu Nguyen, Area Manager, McConachie Garage and Wayne Bulitz, VP of Operations

Sabal Homes celebrates their 20th Anniversary Stylebration in a big, big way! On August 11 they presented a cheque for $20,000 to Michael and Amber Borges at the Sabal Garage Show Home in the beautiful community of McConachie. Michael and Amber recently purchased their second Sabal home in McConachie. The Borges’ were very pleased to receive the phone call announcing they had just won Sabal Homes’ 20th Anniversary Grand Prize. “We’re very excited and definitely appreciative. It is our second home we are building with Sabal and this is going to go along way. Thank you,” said Amber Borges while holding daughter Adalyn as three-yearold Ella helped Dad, Michael carry the cheque to the car. Sabal Homes have 16 beautiful show homes to view in Edmonton and are looking forward to the next 20 years of building “uncommonly stylish” homes. Visit www.sabalhomes.com for more information.

Good news in Newcastle Mattamy in Colonial Estates, Beaumont On Sunday, September 21, Newcastle, a Qualico community, invites you to their show home grand opening event. This community features a beautifully landscaped lake with walking trails and is mere blocks from great shopping, restaurants and all the amenities of Edmonton's flourishing North side. Four well known quality builders — Sterling Homes, ReidBuilt Homes, Coventry Homes and Pacesetter Homes — present single family homes with front double attached garages. Coventry Homes also feature duplex homes with rear detached garage, Sterling homes and ReidBuilt Homes offer duplex homes with front attached garages and be sure to check out the rear laned single family homes by Pacesetter Homes. Conveniently located just south of Anthony Henday on 127th Street and Rapperswill Drive, Newcastle is waiting for you. Drop in on the 21st, enjoy the festivities and after visiting the show homes enjoy a few peaceful minutes by the lake.

On Saturday, July 26, Mattamy Homes, for the first time in the Edmonton region, celebrated the opening of two elegantly designed show homes. Mattamy Homes offers single family homes ranging in size from 1,480 to 2,681 square-feet, with twocar garage or three-car tandem garage options in the mature golf course community of Coloniale Estates in Beaumont. The Walnut, a contemporary two-storey home with 2,550 squarefeet, features a welcoming porch, open great room, kitchen and dining room. The upper level boasts a luxurious owner’s suite with two other bedrooms and convenient upper floor laundry The Hickory, a traditional two storey home with 2,111 square-feet, has a large front foyer, a spacious great room with coffered ceiling and oversized kitchen corner pantry. Two bedrooms plus owner’s retreat and laundry are located on the upper level. The homes are located on the east side of Coloniale Estates. Just take Township Road 510 east of 50 Street, then turn right on Range Road 240 and follow the show home banners. If you prefer to get acquainted with the neighbourhood then turn onto Coloniale Way off 50 Street then take a left at Reichert Drive. Follow Reichert Drive until you see the show home banners. n

Joy Van Marck has been a fixture on the local new housing scene for more than 25 years, working for both industry publications and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region. When it comes to knowing who is developing or building what, and where, nobody knows more than Joy. S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 3

2 4 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

| Advertising Feature |

UDI – Edmonton Region Building communities together through promoting wise, efficient and productive urban growth

verything the Urban Development Institute-Edmonton Region (UDI-ER) does, they do for you, the homebuyer. They take part in countless actions that trickle down to affect the affordability of your home. UDI-ER represents developer interests at various levels of government, offer special guest speakers to industry members, and work with home builders and commercial property owners to help bring you better communities. These activities take part for the benefit of the land development industry, which you the homebuyer are a major stakeholder. When you’re talking about the land development industry, the consumer’s the end of the line. Every single action that happens in the process before you even get involved, affects the final purchase price of your home.

Edmonton’s communities. For that reason, their commitment to the cause is genuine. And there’s no one more committed than Rick Preston Executive Director of the UDI-Edmonton Region. Preston, who heads up the local UDI-ER office under the direction of a 10 member, volunteer board of directors, believes the Capital Region land development and housing market is well-positioned for the future. But he’s also been around long enough to know that things can change in an instant (does 2009 ring a bell?). In an industry where long term planning is a necessity, decisions made now can have consequences years down the road. “We have an educational job to do,” he says. “We need to raise awareness of some of the issues surrounding land development. For example, who pays for what various services to be brought to new developments?” Majority of the public is unaware of the imposed financial obligaSo who is UDI-ER? UDI-Edmonton Region is a non-profit asso- tion the land development industry takes on in residential or commercial developciation representing the development ment. Preston goes on to say, “this is our industry. Their 180+ members include job as an organization to raise awareness at residential, industrial and commercial what we provide in developing raw land development companies and compli— which ultimately ends up in the price of mentary professionals such as planners, a new home.” surveyors, architects, engineers, contracThroughout the Edmonton Region, tors, lawyers, financial managers, municiUDI-ER plays a strategic role in planning palities and utility companies. for development whether it’s in the On a more personal level, they’re people downtown, mature areas, or the new just like you; living, working and playing in

suburban areas of the region. For them, meeting the needs and demands of the marketplace through innovation and creativity are the cornerstones of providing places for people to work, live and play. UDI-ER also engages in productive relationships with various municipal governments and specific key departments within those governments, something Preston says is absolutely necessary to “have an environment that is conducive to growth.” That’s important now, more than ever, for a lot of different reasons. High employment and wages, increasing in-migration, and stable interest rates; plus high rents and low apartment vacancies; are all combining into a perfect storm of increased demand for new homes which exert upward pressure on housing costs. Luckily for Edmontonians, “We’ve got a very good council,” says Preston. Right now, says Preston “infrastructure is probably the greatest challenge due to costs. Costs which eventually get passed on to the consumer and affect affordability of new homes.” That’s where UDI-ER comes in, working with government and developers, bringing the parties together to anticipate challenges and proactively draft a co-operative response that’s a win-win-win situation for municipalities, companies and ultimately the homebuyer. n

Just the facts •

A study by Will Dunning Inc., an independent economic research firm, estimated the value of residential construction in the Edmonton region to be approximately $5.6 billion in 2012. This resulted in the creation of 17,200 person years of employment, the equivalent of 573 separate 30-year careers.

•

UDI-ER estimates the remaining suburban neighbourhoods in Edmonton will require about 25 years to complete, including around 185,000 housing units.

•

Based on government imposed charges and land taxes, Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation estimates that residential construction in Edmonton will generate approximately $8.2 billion in revenues over the next 25 years.

•

UDI-ER estimates 775 hectares of commercial development to support housing in Edmonton suburbs will boost combined total economic value from both residential and commercial development to more than $149 billion over the next 25 years.

For more information on UDI-ER and the land development industry visit www.udiedmonton.com S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 25

CITY OF EDMONTON MAP

HOME PROPERTIES 1. Ambleside in Windermere 2. Langdale in Windermere 3. Glenridding 4. Upper Windermere 5. Keswick on the River 6. Windermere Ridge 7. Windermere Grande 8. Creekwood Chapelle 9. Windermere South 10. Chappelle Gardens 11. One at Windermere 12. Ambleside South 13. Ellerslie Heights 14. Lake Summerside 15. Callaghan 16. Rutherford Heights 17. Walker Lakes North 18. Willow Haven 19. Walker Lakes Station 20. Allard 21. Ravines of Richford 22. Callaghan in Heritage Valley 23. The Orchards at Ellerslie 24. Royal Oaks 25. Charlesworth 26. Mapleridge & Oakridge 27. Tamarack 28. Laurel 29. Laurel Crossing 30. Maple Crest 31. Willow Haven 32. Tamarack Common 33. Lakeview 34. McConachie 35. McConachie Landing 36. Cy Becker 37. Village at Schonsee 38. College Woods at Lakeview 39. Terraces at Schonsee 40. Vita Crystallina Nera 41. Manning Village 42. Fraser River Park 43. Castlebrook 44. Hawks Ridge at Big Lake 45. Village at Griesbach 46. Trumpeter by Big Lake 47. Newcastle 48. Morningside 49. Tuscany Hills 50. Palisades 51. Legacy Pointe 52. Starling at Big Lake 53. Hudson Park 54. Woodhaven-Edgemont 55. Wedgewood 56. Properties of Donsdale 57. River Pointe at Cameron Heights 58. Hampton Terrace 59. Edgemont 60. Copperwood 61. Cameron Heights 62. Hampton Pointe 63. Granville 64. Secord

CONDO PROPERTIES 1. Elements Glenridding 2. Ion in Ambleside 3. Village at Langdale 4. L’attitude Studios 5. The Signature 6. Windermere Mansions/Waters 7. Elements at Windermere 8. The Leger 9. South Terwillegar 10. Ravine Point at Mactaggart Ridge 11. Magrath Green 12. Waterstone in Mactaggart Mains 13. Sparrow Landing at Larch Park 14. Rutherford Landing 15. Callaghan Ravines 16. South Callaghan Townhomes 17. Creekwood Chappelle/Landing 18. Callaghan Landing 19. Elan 20. E’scapes 21. Regency at Windermere 22. Charlesworth 23. Southwinds 24. Walker Lake Landing 25. Elements Hamptons 26. Elements at Laurel Crossing 27. Trails of Millcreek Estates 28. Urban Village on Whyte 29. Aspen Meadows 30. Southern Springs 31. The Edge in Ellerslie 32. Mirra 33. Shorewinds 34. Station Pointe 35. Northshore 36. Brintnell Summit 37. Clareview Vistas 38. The Avenue at Hermitage 39. Air Harbour 40. Lakeview Terrace 41. Elements at McConachie 42. Elements at Hermitage 43. Village at Griesbach

44. Albany Trails 45. Aviva 46. Victory Lane/Point/Park 47. Upper Carlton 48. Bellwether Park 49. Silhouette at Carlton 50. McCrae Estates 51. Village at Trumpeter 52. Legacy Pointe 53. Starling at Big Lake 54. Elements at Albany 55. Caernarvon Keep 56. Juno 57. Californian Parkland 58. Jasper Gates 59. Secord Corner 60. South Hamptons 61. Jade 62. Glastonbury Estates 63. The Vanier 64. Glenora Skyline 65. Stafford Greens 66. Mill Creek Park 67. Bentley 68. Urban Village 69. The University Brownstones 70. Studio off Whyte 71. Vistas Estates 72. Fox 73. Symphony 74. Alta Vista 75. Icon 76. Encore 77. Serenity 78. Studio ED 79. Meridian Plaza 80. Pearl 81. Quest 82. High Street District Properties 83. Edmontonian Sky Garden 84. Ultima 85. Jasper House 86. Azure

46 51

53 52

44 48

59 64

57 63 65 62 58 59 62 60

54 82

2 6 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

78 81 77 80

76 72 84 75

74 79

86 73 5

INNER CITY

CITY OF EDMONTON MAP 49 43

51 52

40 38

54 45

40 33

35 39

41 39 34

50 47 49

41 37

50 45 56 46 43

55 53

42 38

58 63

66 70

69 26 56 57 27 30

5 61

32 28

11 7

29 6

4 2

1 3

13 31 25 18

21 10 8

15 16 22 20

14 17 23

19 24 S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 27

EDMONTON AND AREA MAP

NEW HOMES 6

1. Regency Heights Estates in Kingswood 2. Lacombe Park Estates 3. North Ridge 4. Erin Ridge 5. Upper Manor Pointe 6. The Club & Residences of River’s Gate 7. Tuscany Hills/Upper Tuscany 8. Pinnacle Ridge Estates

2 3

3 2 1

CONDOS 1. Sage Gardens 2. Citadel Village 3. Botanica 4. Tenor on the River

1 ST. ALBERT

CONDOS 1. Maple Brooke Villas

2 MORINVILLE 4

9 10

2 1

12 7

5 6 1

1. Hilldowns 2. Vanderbuilt Common 3. Spruce Village 4. Parkland Village 5. Hawthrone at Heatherglen 6. Springate at Sprice Ridge 7. Greenbury 8. Hills of Twin Lakes 9. Deer Park Estates 10. Kenton Village 11. The Woods at Kenton 12. Prescott

NEW HOMES

5 7

CONDOS

1. Windsor Estates 2. King Street on Park 3. Century Gates

5 SPRUCE GROVE 7

NEW HOMES

5 4

1 6

1. The Brickyard at Old Town 2. Genesis on the Lakes 3. Lake Westerra 4. Silverstone 5. Spring Lake Ranch 6. Southcreek 7. The Estates at Waters Edge 8. Hills of Twin Lakes 9. Willows End

2 3

CONDOS 1. Barth & Gosset Manor 2. Willows End 3. Westerra Manor

9 2 3 2

7 STONY PLAIN 2 8 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

8 LEDUC

EDMONTON AND AREA MAP 6

NEW HOMES 1. Southpointe 2. Southfort Ridge 3. Southfort Meadows 4. Southfort Estates 5. Forest Ridge in West Park 6. West Woodlands 7. Sienna

CONDOS

1. Walnut Grove

CONDOS

1. Riverside Point

3 GIBBONS

5 2

4 FORT SASKATCHEWAN

NEW HOMES

8 1

1 6

1. Aspen Trails/Emerald Hills 2. Foxboro 3. Ardrosson Heights 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Summerwood

10 7 3 2

4 9

6 2

6 SHERWOOD PARK

9 NEW HOMES 1. Meadowview 2. Tribute 3. Windrose 4. Suntree 5. Southfork 6. Robinson

CONDOS

6 2

CONDOS 1. Princeton Court 2. Creekside Village in Summerwood 3. Element Lofts & Flats 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Centre in the Park 6. Evolve Lakeland Ridge 7. Elements Summerwood Park 8. Eton Park Villas 9. Windsor Park 10. Estates at Sunview Lane

1. Windrose 2. The Springs at Bridgeport 3. Royal West Homes 4. Suntree Pointe 5. The Rushes of Southfork 6. Southfork Street Towns

NEW HOMES

1. Coloniale Estates 2. Place Chaleureuse 3. Triomphe Estates 4. Dansereau Meadows 5. Ruisseau 6. Royal Oaks

CONDOS

1 3 2

1. Goudreau Heights 2. Montrose Estates

9 BEAUMONT S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 9

Feature | Tales from the condo zone Got an interesting Condo Tale to tell? Email us at jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca

Home is where the heart is Story by Jim Zang Illustration by Lama Azhari

few years back, my Dad had a heart attack. Turns out it wasn’t the first he’d had, just the first we’d found out about, because it put him in the hospital and they had to find next of kin. My brother has had my Dad’s power of attorney for a few years, he is a lawyer, after all, so his name was in the system and he got the call. Not only is my brother my Dad’s lawyer, but also his landlord. He bought a condo in Vancouver, because that’s where Dad wanted to live, and let him stay there. After the heart scare it was determined bypass surgery was necessary, and soon, so us kids took turns flying out and checking in on Dad for a couple of days every week until the big day. Lucky me, as the oldest, I got to be there the day of his actual open heart sugery. WestJet has so many flights, and I’m flying carry-on, so I’m literally at the airport in Calgary, on my plane and touching down in Vancouver in about an hour and a half. Sure beats that 12 hour drive I’ve done so often. I’ve never been to the condo before. Dad’s always come to Calgary to visit us, usually during Stampede. Turns out, it’s a pretty nice place. Not big, about 600 square-feet, with two small bedrooms and a stacked washer/dryer set in its own closet. The living room is comfortable, with a huge picture window, the kind my Dad loves to sit in front of, and a small balcony off to the side. The kitchen is another story. It’s absolutely the smallest kitchen nook I have ever seen. Ever. Anywhere. Of course, when all you really ever cook is oatmeal, how much kitchen do you need?

3 0 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4

The building itself is in good shape, quite sharp looking actually, with a small gated courtyard. The location, smack in the middle of Kitsilano, walking distance to Jericho Beach and the Yacht Club, is perfect. There’s all kinds of boutique stores and coffee shops in the area and the bus to UBC stops just a block over. The trees are in bud and flowers in bloom and it’s only March. I’m starting to see what he likes about living here. Inside, he’s got the place decorated early cowboy, unlike any other condo in trendy Kits I’m sure. There’s a photo of his horses, Chipper and Miracle. There’s a photo collage with stars like John Wayne and Humphrey Bogart and the like, with a photo of my Dad literally cut and pasted strategically onto the page. I guess that’s how they did it before photoshop. There’s his hockey and football trophies, and we won a lot of them. All the kids wanted to play for Mr. Zang’s team. And not just because we won, but because we had fun, and free Mr. Soft Drink pops after ever game. There’s the engraved platter my Dad got from his hockey team one year. That was the first year I didn’t play for him. He signed up to coach and then I made the team above that level, for the first time ever. There’s his photos of our family. My sister and her two kids. My brother and his girlfriend. My wife and our two kids. And some photos of Disneyland, of course. My Dad loves Disneyland. In fact, when he dies he wants us to scatter his ashes on Tom Sawyer Island. “Sure, Dad,” I said as they wheeled him into surgery. “But what will we do with that great condo?” “You’re right,” he said. “See you in a few hours.” n

S e p t e mb e r 2 01 4 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 31