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CONTENTS J A N U A R Y 2015 n V OL U M E 7 I S S U E 58
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46
FEATURES
9 Challenges and opportunities
City of Edmonton sees need for variety of housing
15 Ice dreams Skating on outdoor rinks still a part of Edmonton culture
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23 Hot spots
Where to get your party on in Edmonton
39 Edmonton
SHOPPING
30 Brew magic Single-cup coffee makers have become household essentials
Renovation Show
Expert advice and innovative products all under one roof
DESIGN & DÉCOR
33 Closet revolution Decluttering and adding colour puts a stylish spin on organization
SHOW HOME PROFILES
18 Yabba dabba doo!
BUILT GREEN® is the new norm for Bedrock Homes
20 Christmas cheer
37 Bringing the
bedroom to life
Accents and Good Cents campaign makes good sense
Brookfield Residential celebrates the season with Deck The Homes event CONDO PROFILE
12 Groovy pad, baby!
FOCUS ON
46 Tick tock
See time in a new and stylish way
New condos from Carrington give off a good Vibe COMMUNITY PROFILE
26 Where’s Walton? Developer’s new communities dot Edmonton Landscape
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ITEMS
Editor’s Message Around Town Whats New? Maps J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 5
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
New & improved Happy New Year! And welcome to the January 2015 edition of our new and improved Edmonton New Home & Condo Living magazine. We’re making some changes to the magazine, and you’ve probably noticed some of them already. We’ve added editorial pages, and it’s almost all lifestyle content — feature articles on the people, places and things that make Edmonton such a great place to live. From dining and entertainment, to sports and recreation, to business, shopping and interior decorating; we’ve added a wide range of articles because Edmontonians have a wide range of interests. Of course we’re still a new homes and condos magazine at heart, so rather than cut any of that content we simply added pages to the magazine. It’s a much more engaging product that we hope appeals to readers and (hopefully) advertisers. For example, in this edition we have our regular line-up of real estate stories — a condo profile on Vibe by Carrington, a home profile on Bedrock Homes green building practices, visits to some finely decorated Brookfield show homes, and a developer profile on Walton’s Edmonton communities — plus a couple of homeowner-related pieces such as a preview of the Home Renovation Show, Rosalyn Lazaruk’s design and décor column and a new interiors feature from David Crosson. Because it’s what you do with the interior that makes a house a home. On top of all that, though, we’ve got a great piece on where to go outdoor skating in Edmonton, as well as an article on the city’s ever-evolving nightlife scene. Another big feature article has Ann Sutherland talking to The City about things like development philosophy and land use planning. It’s all about delivering a product that better represents the diversity of Edmontonians lives. In the near future, we’ll be revising our map presentation also. Expanding and re-organizing the maps within the magazine are all part of the master plan to make the magazine even more reader-friendly. Thanks for reading!
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Correction Notice Some errors were made in last month’s article entitled “Making A Statement”. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. At Walton Development’s Hawks Ridge community, the wildlife will cross through the structure, under the road. When completed, it will look like a bridge on 215 Street from the streetview, but underneath is a complex design to provide wildlife an undisrupted and safe crossing. Hawks Ridge and three other neighbourhoods are part of the Big Lake Area Structure Plan, which guides the overall development of the area. At Hawks Ridge, an 84.5 acre environmental reserve includes storm water management facilities, a pathway system and boardwalk. Walton’s VITA at Crystallina Nera, meanwhile, has 15.7 acres of open space and storm ponds within the community — but there are no bioswales. Also in VITA at Crystallina Nera the home styles are Craftsman, Prairie, and Modern.
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EdmontonHomeandCondoLiving
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Canadian Home Builders’ Association
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.
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J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 7
AROUND TOWN By Jim Zang
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Start charts
climbed to 1,501 units in November, MHC reports total housing starts single-detached starts were recorded, up 33 per cent from 1,125 in the same in the Edmonton Census Metropol13 per cent higher than the 567 starts in month last year. Compared to Octoitan Area (CMA) were trending at 15,181 November 2013, but down from October’s 1,247 total, November starts were units in November compared to 14,664 ber’s 739 homes. up a full 20 per cent. in October. The trend is a six month Multi-family starts in the Edmonton Within the City of Edmonton, 641 moving average of the monthly seaCMA, which include semi-detached, sonally adjusted annual rates row, and apartment units, (SAAR) of total housing starts. checked in at 860 starts, Both the single-detached segup 302 starts (54 per cent) Housing Starts for Edmonton CMA ment and multi-family housing from last November. That’s November 2013 November 2014 Jan-Nov 2013 Jan-Nov 2014 starts showed significant gains also up 352 units from last Single-Detached 567 641 5,581 6,304 compared to both last month month. Multiples 558 860 7,881 6,482 and last year. Actual housing Year-to-date totals are still Total 1,125 1,501 13,462 12,786 starts in the Edmonton CMA lagging behind 2013. n
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FEATURE
CHALLENGES and OPPORTUNITIES City of Edmonton sees need for variety of housing By Ann Sutherland
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he latest municipal census puts Edmonton’s population at just under 878,000. In fact, the city’s population grew by 60,000 over the last two years — that’s the population of St. Albert moving into Edmonton. So, it’s no surprise that the new home industry is booming. We contacted the City of Edmonton, and spoke with Lisa Sobchyshyn from corporate communications to get answers to our burning questions regarding the state of land development, the new home industry, and Edmonton’s future. Here are her responses on behalf of the City.
NHCL: How much growth is Edmonton expecting over the next five, ten, and twenty years. LS: The City is expecting significant population growth over the coming years. In five years the population is expected to reach 980,000, in ten years it will be 1.1 million and in 20 years we are expected to reach 1.3 million. People who live here now will continue to raise families in Edmonton. We’re also expecting newcomers from across Canada, and the rest of the world, to call Edmonton home. We expect our strong economy, favourable quality of life, low unemployment, and relatively low cost of living will all fuel Edmonton’s attractiveness and population growth. Our growing population requires new homes. A diversity of
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FEATURE
housing types (single detached, semi-detached, row housing, secondary suites, garage and garden suites, apartments and so on) will be needed to meet the changing needs of our growing population. Over the past two years alone, the city added more than 60,000 people at a growth rate of 7.4 per cent and added over 10,000 new housing units in 2013.
NHCL: Where do Edmonton’s opportunities lie? LS: Edmonton has so many exciting opportunities. We’re situated geographically in the heart of a booming economic region fueled by natural resources. Our population is young, diverse and educated. While the region’s natural resources account for many of our jobs, our economy is diversifying through technology, innovation and our creative economy. Edmonton is a city of ‘do-ers’, from civic groups and organizations, to not-for-profits, to a vibrant small business community,
Blachford (the City Centre Airport land) is the most unique and transformational project happening in the Edmonton housing market. See artists renderings above. 10 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J A N U A R Y 2 015
to an energetic and empowering City Council, to our leading universities and colleges. The city’s greatest opportunities lie in its vibrant and diverse residents. The motor for Edmonton’s development is a strong energy sector, especially investment related to the oil sands. This sector propels service jobs which provide employment for a large proportion of Edmontonians. Unemployment rate in Edmonton is one of the lowest in Canada at 5.7 per cent. In addition to jobs, people are attracted to Edmonton for its quality of life, strong public education system, excellent post-secondary institutions, and health care system. The City also offers many leisure and naturerelated opportunities owing to its extensive natural area and park system. It is home longest stretch of connected urban parkland in North America. Edmonton is the northernmost city in North America. Its unique position makes it a service and activity hub for other remote towns and rural communities. Edmonton is also one of the youngest of Canada’s major cities, with a median age of 36. The population in Edmonton is young, with the majority in the 25–34 year age cohort.
NHCL: Does the City have any unique land development plans? LS: Blatchford (the City Centre Airport land) is the most unique and transformational project happening in the Edmonton housing market. Home to 30,000
FEATURE
people, Blatchford will have a significant impact on increasing population density in the centre of the city by being the first community in Edmonton with no single-family homes. Residents will live in a familyfriendly, walkable, inclusive community purposefully designed to achieve high social and environmental sustainability outcomes.
City has seen lots of innovative new forms of infill in recent years, and is currently working to make infill easier to do. Our recently completed ‘Edmonton’s Infill Roadmap’ sets us on a course to support more and better infill over the coming years.
NHCL: What priorities and commitments has the Edmonton made for home building?
LS: Edmonton has a bright future and is on its way to becoming a major magnet city in North America. Our people are our greatest asset. We are creative, innovative, creative, energetic, warm, dynamic and excited about the future of our city. Each and every day in our city new relationships are built, new ideas are sparked, and new opportunities emerge. Collectively, we are writing an exciting future for our city. n
LS: There are three main priorities for the City regarding home building. First is streamlining and automating processes to reduce the time and cost for approval processes. Second is to work with industry to ensure there is an adequate supply of planned and serviced lots to meet market demands. And thirdly, continuing to work with the industry and community groups to promote and increase opportunities for infill development.
NHCL: How do you view Edmonton’s future?
NHCL: What is the City’s position on infills? LS: Edmonton’s surge in population means that it will require new homes for many new residents. The City recognizes that supporting new homes in older neighbourhoods is a critical part of meeting the demand for new homes (in addition to new suburban home developments and higher density apartments in the core of the city). Residential infill supports the ongoing vitality of established neighbourhoods, makes good use of existing infrastructure and services, and can offer a diversity of housing types and options. The J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 11
CONDO PROFILE
New condos from Carrington give off a good Vibe
GROOVY PAD, BABY! By Ann Sutherland
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n exciting new condo development is taking shape in Edmonton’s downtown. Vibe, by prolific builder Carrington Communities, introduces a new innovative concept to our city — floor plans that are transformable, adaptable and customizable. Located on downtown’s northwest edge, the inspiration behind Vibe is the micro-condo concept, popular in mega cities like New York where space is a premium. A micro-condo is usually anything smaller than 300 square-feet and while Vibe doesn’t quite fit the micro-condo definition, the development includes several innovative ideas borrowed from small space design. With prices starting at $165,900, what the six-storey building brings is modern, urban, high end living in a smaller space that makes living downtown affordable. Riley Lagaden, Vibe’s sales manager, says that it’s a matter of using space differently and what you can get out of that space. The seventeen different floor plans include bachelor, one bedroom and two bedrooms and are between 377 and 974 square-feet. It seems that with Vibe you
...what the six-storey building brings is modern, urban, high end living in a smaller space that makes living downtown affordable.
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CONDO PROFILE
can get a lot out of smaller spaces. For one, the sliding wall system allows the owner to transform their space. Instead of doors, you have sliding walls that give you more options. Say you are having a large gathering and need more room. The solution is to slide open the wall that separates the bedroom and the living area and voilà, more space. Vibe even has a wall bed option so that you can hide the bed. “The suites are designed so that there are as few walls as possible,” says Lagaden. “But, the walls are there if you do need privacy, such as for the bedroom.” To create more space, Vibe has built up. Suites have ten-foot ceilings so that storage goes up, not out. The high ceilings also have an aesthetic purpose that gives an airy feel. Other space solutions include a kitchen island that can be expanded into a dining table. The fully retractable dining table is hidden in the island and sets up easily, adding another five feet to the already six-foot island.
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CONDO PROFILE
“The amenities are really an extension of living space. Plus, they are common spaces where you can get to know your neighbour.” Suites can be customized to the owner’s lifestyle. Vibe offers four ‘Lifestyle Module Options’. The Intellectual option has a built-in desk, a tech centre and extra overhead storage for office supplies. For those with an active lifestyle, the Athlete module has a built-in bike or gear rack plus lockers for equipment. The Artisan is for the food aficionado where an extended kitchen will delight the inner chef. For those who like fashion, the Fashionista module accommodates all your stylish finds, from shoes to accessories. The compact condos are packed with high-end features such as quartz countertops in the kitchen, stainless steel appliances, and stylish backsplashes. High gloss cabinets with hits of funky red or lime green, plus open exposed ceilings give the suites a decidedly contemporary look. Vibe wouldn’t be complete without building amenities from a two-storey fitness centre to a cyber café, a rooftop garden, a party room, and a workshop in the three-storey secure underground parkade. “The amenities are really an extension of living space,” says Lagaden. “Plus, they are common spaces where you can get to know your neighbour.” The neighbourhood itself is a great place to explore. Vibe is within walking distance to Oliver Square and the downtown core, plus transit, bike paths and the LRT are easily accessible. Vibe is under construction and it will be up to three years before residents can move in. “A lot of people really love the concept and all the amenities that come with the building,” says Lagaden. n
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Fast Facts Community: Queen Mary Park Developer: Carrington Communities Project: Vibe Condos Style: Apartment Size: 377 to 974 square feet Price: From $165,900 to $314,900 Location: 10620-116 Street NW Hours: Monday to Thursday 3-8 pm; Weekends and holidays 12-5 pm Web: www.vibecondos.com
FEATURE
ICE DREAMS Skating on outdoor rinks still a part of Edmonton culture By Pamela Roth
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hen the snow starts to fall and water turns to ice, not everyone in Edmonton is upset about the change in seasons. The arrival of winter means a number of outdoor activities will soon blossom, including one that involves a pair of blades. With a few hundred outdoor ice skating surfaces to choose from, there’s never a shortage of places to strap on your skates in Edmonton. Every winter, a portion of the grounds behind the Alberta Legislature transform into a large sheet of ice. The trees are draped with festive lights and music pumps from the speakers of a warming trailer. It’s the perfect place to spend a romantic evening, skating hand-in-hand with your sweetheart. John Hayes has been maintaining the ice at the legislature for 27 years. The 54-year-old gets up at 6 a.m. every day to sweep and flood the rink, and he doesn’t mind it one bit. “(I enjoy) the peace and quiet. There’s nobody around. I don’t mind being out at that time of the day in the winter time,” says Hayes, who believes the legislature is the best place in the city for an outdoor skate. The base of the ice is usually put down in November when there’s a long stretch of cold weather. Snow is collected from other rinks in the city to build the base, then flattened to about two to three inches thick. Crews start lightly flooding once it gets cold enough to build the ice, which is swept and flooded every day to keep the surface smooth.
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FEATURE
“There is nothing that beats it when temperatures are hovering around zero and you can skate out there all afternoon.”
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The city operates seven outdoor rinks — Castle Downs, William Hawrelak Park, City Hall, Victoria Park Oval, Jackie Parker Park, Mill Woods Campus Park and Rundle Park — which range in services and are free for public use. A warming trailer is located at William Hawrelak Park, while Victoria Park Oval, City Hall, and Castle Downs all have change rooms. Jackie Parker Park and Rundle Park both have a park pavilion. On a reasonably warm Saturday afternoon, William Hawrelak Park is often packed with families smiling and gliding across the frozen pond. At City Hall, the rink is so popular that there’s a limit on the number of skaters due to its size. The rink operates on a firstcome, first-serve basis between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30
FEATURE
p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Those who do not have their own skates don’t need to run out and buy a pair. Skates can be rented at some of the city-operated locations for $7 an hour, but the hours vary, so the service might not always be available. The city also has 100 storm water ponds that the public can skate on when conditions allow and community leagues operate another 120 rinks that come complete with boards and lights. Most of the community league rinks have a schedule, designating certain times as public skating, and are open to any community league members. The rinks in Mill Woods, Westmount, Crestwood and Beacon Heights are particularly popular, accord-
ing to Allan Bolstead, executive director of the federation of community leagues. Some communities have winter carnivals, skate races and various other activities all held on their beloved outdoor rink. “There is nothing that beats it when temperatures are hovering around zero and you can skate out there all afternoon and you wonder why you don’t get tired,” says Bolstead. “It’s just so refreshing. It beats the pants off being indoors when the weather is nice.” n
Victoria Park Oval, one of seven outdoor rinks operated by the city.
Northern Lake in Blatchford
“It’s just so refreshing. It beats the pants off being indoors when the weather is nice.” J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 17
SHOW HOME PROFILE
YABBA DABBA DOO!
BUILT GREEN® is the new norm for Bedrock Homes
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red Flintstone would be proud! In 2011, Bedrock Homes responded in a big way to demand for energy efficiency and green options for homeowners. After researching green building programs, they considered Built Green Canada their best option. When they started going through the checklists, they realized there was a lot they were already doing, but there was still work to do. The BUILT GREEN® programs are set up in two ways. The first allows builders to use pre-fabricated checklists towards bronze, silver,
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gold or platinum certification. The second allows builders to pick and choose points from within each of the seven areas of the program’s focus: energy efficiency, materials and methods, indoor air quality, ventilation, waste management, water management and business practices. As such, builders can produce sustainable homes through the program, whether they want to dive in and research each item to tailor their build or use checklists set up to put them at a certain certification. Kyle Beatty, Purchasing Manager at Bedrock Homes, was of the former mentality. Prior to enrolling homes in the program, Beatty went through the checklist point by point, met with tradespeople, and researched items that had the greatest green benefits for the lowest cost to clients. Since then, Bedrock Homes has completed 275 homes in the BUILT GREEN® program with the majority being Gold or Silver certification. Producing affordable homes is important to Bedrock Homes, and their partnership with Built Green Canada further enables affordability for homeowners after the home is sold. The BUILT GREEN® programs are designed not only to benefit the environment, but to lower on-going monthly costs to the homeowner. With less energy use there are fewer utility bills. With water efficient appliances, water bills decrease. The house is treated like a system, so features act on each other to a better overall result. For example, super-efficient
SHOW HOME PROFILE
appliances can go only so far to overall home energy efficiency. If your home has massive heat loss because it isn’t air tight, the appliances may help to balance your carbon footprint, but your home remains inefficient. There are many ways the BUILT GREEN® programs encourage sustainable homes. Beatty has found that low-flow toilets, triple-paned windows, and HRV systems are some of the best green features with great results. The triple-paned windows, for instance, have more than one job: they help with air tightness, noise pollution, and energy efficiency through less heat loss. It’s features like these that BUILT GREEN® builders, like Bedrock Homes, use to make their homes more comfortable and sustainable. “We are to the point where sustainable development should not be considered different or new; it is essential, and it needs to be the standard.” Beatty says he’s finding this is the mindset of his customers. He says that homeowners are past being excited about green features, as this is something they don’t consider a bonus, but rather necessary elements of a home. They’re asking
for specific features — like triple-paned windows — which means they’re doing their homework and ensuring that their builders are following through on their requirements. This is good news for everyone. Bedrock Homes is committed to giving back to the environment and their clients. They have a whole list of ways they’re giving back to customers even after their homes have been purchased! Gift certificates for a celebratory dinner, free moving service, and a catered house warming party are all part of buying a Bedrock home. Bedrock is also giving back to the community on a larger scale. In 2011, Bedrock founder, Ken Ferchoff created the Changing Futures Foundation. This Foundation is about recognizing the need for safe and affordable housing in Edmonton and avoiding the segregation of lower income families by creating balanced, diverse communities. This is a plan to help others help themselves, with the understanding that sometimes people need a hand up, not a hand out. Last summer, Changing Futures and the Terra Centre unveiled Project Touchdown. This is a safe, secure, and affordable housing solution for teen parents completing their education, while raising their children. The resulting four-plex is located in the Edmonton neighborhood of Montrose. The start of a promising future began on August 28, 2014, when the first four families moved into the Changing Futures Four-plex. With a strong focus on quality, affordability and cultural vitality, Bedrock Homes is about offering a lifestyle their clients and community can comfortably sustain. n
Homeowners are past being excited about green features, as this is something they don’t consider a bonus, but rather necessary elements of a home.
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SHOW HOME PROFILE
CHRISTMAS CHEER
Brookfield Residential celebrates the season with Deck The Homes event
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his Christmas season Brookfield Residential helped support six great causes to help share the joy and spirit of the holiday season with families across Edmonton. The Deck The Homes event featured 14 award-winning builder partners in all six of the Brookfield’s master-planned communities, bringing a touch of Christmas to the professionally designed show home parades. Each community represented Christmas in a unique way, showcasing the different themes of the holidays. Each community is also teamed up with a great charity. Show home visitors cast their vote on their favourite home, with that charity receiving a $1,000 donation from Brookfield Residential. (Winner not available at press time) For more information visit www.livebrookfield.com/edmonton-homes/ buying-a-home/deck-the-homes
Participating communities and charities included: • Coastal Christmas in Lake Summerside Supporting Kid’s Kottage • Nature Wonderland in The Orchards Supporting the Edmonton Community Foundation • Carnival Christmas in Paisley Supporting Christmas Bureau Edmonton • Traditional Christmas in Chappelle Gardens Supporting the Edmonton Food Bank • Glam Christmas in Edgemont Supporting YESS • Storybook Christmas in The Terrace Supporting Santas Anonymous n
Chappelle Gardens Look Master Builder, Mirage show home
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SHOW HOME PROFILE
The Orchards Jayman MasterBUILT, Lamont show home
Lake Summerside Pacesetter Homes, Madison E showhome
Paisley Coventry Homes, Calypso show home
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FEATURE
HOT SPOTS Where to get your party on in Edmonton By Stephanie Dubois
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asper Avenue, Whyte Avenue, 104 Street are all places that get tossed around as great areas to find a pub or liquored restaurant to hang out with old friends, and meet new ones. In fact, it used to be that Whyte Avenue and a few other pockets in the city were the only places to go watch the big game or dance the night away. Now, Edmonton’s nightlife has evolved into something larger and more dynamic, with growing pockets of different scenes and atmospheres, something that is a natural occurrence in most large cities. Yes, Edmonton, the times they are a changin’. Development in the city’s downtown core has spurred many of the emerging nightlife pockets, with housing development sparking a need for late-night eats southside. Angela Turner with Responsible Hospitality Edmonton says there isn’t just one place to go but that there are several “nodes” in the city, which collectively add to Edmonton’s nightlife. “I think nightlife is a big part of our economy and a big part of the way we socialize. It’s an important part not only because of the number of post-secondary students we have but because we are the gateway to the north and there’s a lot of workers coming in,” says Turner. And the numbers don’t lie, adds Turner. In 2007, there were 57,000 late-night seats with about 1,100 licensed venues. Fast-forward six years, there’s the same amount of licensed venues but the number of seats has risen to 104,000.
That number is only expected to boom, with city officials expecting another 10,000 seats added to downtown once the Rogers Place arena is completed. Chris Buyze, president of the Downtown Edmonton Community League, says downtown has already surpassed Whyte Avenue as the top place to hang out with friends late. “It depends on the kind of nightlife you’re looking for, there’s quite a bit of options downtown now. If you’re looking for a sports pub just to grab a beer or for a lounge experience, we have whisky bars and live music venues, it’s all over the place,” he says. “Certainly a lot of the events at the arena are going to happen in the evening. People are going to look for places to go before and after the events so I think we’re just going to see more places open.” Business owners and community members agree that the maturity of Edmonton will spark the supply and demand issue as more people flood into the city looking for clubs and bars. A growing number of post-secondary students has also put a high importance on establishments operating late, something many Edmontonians “underestimate” according to Turner. So where exactly are these pockets of after-dark excitement in the city? Here’s a breakdown of some of the more popular areas in Edmonton.
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FEATURE
WHYTE AVENUE
JASPER AVENUE
Whyte Avenue is undoubtedly still the most recommended place in the city to grab a drink for those visiting Edmonton or new to Alberta’s capital. Boutiques, great eats and club/pub hopping to grab a beer make Whyte Ave. the place to go for those of all ages. “Whyte Avenue is a great transition from the day to the night economy and I think that’s what people like about it. It’s just the right mix,” says Murray Davison with the Old Strathcona Business Association. Julio’s Barrio, a popular Mexican restaurant with the even more popular fishbowl drinks is a top spot on the Avenue for late night, with staples like Billard Club and The Old Strathcona Rack offering university students a great place to dance. Hudson’s Taphouse, Funky Buddha and The Pint just south of Whyte Avenue are also jammed pack on a Friday or Saturday night.
Arguably the focal point of the city’s downtown to both motorists and consumers, Jasper Avenue has changed its tune in recent years. Stronger pockets of late-night places have emerged, like the section near 105 Street is home to popular places like Redstar, Pub 1905 and the newest kid on the block, Rocky Mountain Icehouse. Heading further east, places like The Hat and Underground Tap and Grill accommodate the craft beer fans while Club XO is one of the newest nightclubs in Edmonton. The focal point of Jasper Avenue nightlife is no doubt on the corner of 109 Street. Home to Central Social Hall and to The Pint just up the street. Continuing down the strip, Buddy’s Pub, The Druid and On the Rocks have all been staples along the avenue for several years now, with each offering people a different atmosphere.
“Whyte Avenue is a great transition from the day to the night economy and I think that’s what people like about it. It’s just the right mix.” 2 4 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J A N U A R Y 2 015
RICE HOWARD WAY Not typically the first area suggested by Edmontonians, the street located just north of Jasper Avenue has quickly become the place to enjoy Happy Hour. “If I were to tell someone where to go grab a beer, I would say Rice Howard Way or 104 Street,” says Buyze. Often considered the area that caters to the mature crowd, several Edmonton businesses call the vicinity
FEATURE
home. Woodwork is both home to great food and even better cocktails, while others like Craft Beer Market and Hundred Bar and Kitchen offer delectable eats and drinks.
104 STREET In the heart of Edmonton’s ‘Warehouse District’ is the city’s quickest growing hub for nightlife. Much like Whyte Avenue but on a smaller scale, the 4th Street Promenade offers people a great transition from day to night with a grocery store, restaurants and places for live music. Further up the street is the Mercer Building. An eclectic mix of business call this historical building home, including the popular Mercer’s Tavern and Rostizado restaurant by the owners of Tres Carnales.
CALGARY TRAIL Surprisingly to some, a place on the list belongs to Calgary Trail. With businesses of all varieties, there are also several establishments along the strip like The Bothy Wine and Whisky bar and The Ranch — a staple for any young country fan. “There’s quite a concentration there,” says Turner.
WEST EDMONTON MALL West Edmonton Mall is the third largest entertainment district in the city and caters to those living just west of the downtown core. According to Turner, the most recent figures from 2012 state that there’s 6,000 licensed late night seats there inside the large shopping centre, with restaurants bringing the total to 11,350 seats, says Turner. BRBN Street holds the bulk of those seats thanks to its recent facelift. Chains like Hudson’s Taphouse and Grill, Earl’s and Sherlock Holmes are all frequented by a varied crowd looking for some fun. The Red Piano and 1st Round offer clients a unique experience as well. Outside of the mall Cactus Club provides a more upscale dining and lounge experience while Tilted Kilt and Boston Pizza across the street cater to sports fan. n
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COMMUNITY PROFILE
WHERE’S WALTON?
Developer’s new communities dot Edmonton landscape By Stephanie Dubois
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uilding successful communities in Edmonton is what Walton Development and Management L.P. (Walton) has been mastering for years, with no plans to stop anytime soon. The company has residential, industrial and multiuse developments located across North America. In Edmonton, several industrial and five residential communities are true to the company’s community style. “Walton takes a long-term approach to land planning and development. Industry-leading expertise in real
Walton communities are comprehensively designed in collaboration with partners and local stakeholders for the benefit of all community past present and future.
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estate investment, land planning and development, uniquely positions Walton to responsibly transition land into sustainable communities where people live, work and play,” explains the company’s website. Strong communities pertaining to future homeowners’ needs is also a major component of Walton’s work, it continues. Walton communities are comprehensively designed in collaboration with partners and local stakeholders for the benefit of all community past present and future. Walton’s goal is to build communities that will stand the test of time: hometowns for present and future generations. The North American company — headquartered in Alberta — boasts nearly 90,000 acres of land, including 22 development projects, making Walton one of North America’s premier land developers and asset managers. Jill Curtis, marketing coordinator for the company’s Western Canada branch, says building communities isn’t something that happens
COMMUNITY PROFILE
McConachie
overnight, with several elements at play when undertaking areas that buyers will one day call home. “The way we design communities has a lot of factors that include market condition, features of the lands, features of the site,” she explains. Curtis listed Walton’s community of Hawks Ridge as an example. Planning work was done in respect of a wildlife corridor found in that area, along with other special environmental alterations to traditional development practices including sustainable and natural bio-swales to filter and transport water through the community. “It takes years to build communities and Walton is collaborative in their approach. Walton has collaborated with environmental groups, the city, neighbouring stakeholders, with
other developers in the area and with our home builder partners,” says Curtis. There are currently five Edmonton residential communities under Walton’s title, all of them in different development status. McConachie is by far Walton’s most mature yet still very active community in Edmonton,” says Curtis. Boasting 350 acres, the northeast community was designed primarily for residential and commercial purposes. Construction of the community dates back to 2007, and nearly since inception, the community has ranked as one of the top ten communities in the city based on building permits. Currently, there are 650 single-family third party sales to date, with the plans calling for a total of 1,750 homes. Location, location, location is one of the ways McConachie has excelled, with quick access to the Anthony Henday Ring Road and local
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COMMUNITY PROFILE
Woodhaven-Edgemont
services, schools, retail centers and transit also accessible to homeowners in the area. Pairing the old with the new by the five local homebuilders creating in the neighborhood allows the area to be a “cohesive and stylish community.” Also in the northeast is VITA at Crystallina Nera, which opened in early 2014. VITA is Walton’s newest residential community, with Curtis describing the community as “fresh” and “urban.” The 84.4 acres of land will have an estimated 469 single-family lots once said and done. Inspired by The Lake District found in northern England, “the community features a modern interpretation of the traits of an English garden” reads Walton’s
Woodhaven-Edgemont
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Woodhaven-Edgemont is located on the Wedgewood ravine, offering residents a stunning area while being close to the Anthony Henday ring road. website. Modern, Colonial and and Prairie influences dominate development of community architectural guidelines, while gently rolling ground, bodies of water and fresh flowers add a creative touch to the area. Heading west, Walton’s Woodhaven-Edgemont community offers future homeowners close proximity to major transportation routes while still catering to closeness to essential services. Comprised of 198.8 acres of land, Woodhaven-Edgemont is located on the Wedgewood ravine, offering residents a stunning area while being close to the Anthony Henday ring road. When everything is said and done, Woodhaven will include approximately 650 single-family lots, two multi-family sites and 80 acres of open space. Four award-winning home builders are currently building properties in the area, in architectural styles reflecting Tudor, Craftsman and Heritage inspiration. Hawks Ridge at Big Lake is what the company considers to be “one of the most anticipated residential communities in Edmonton’s west end,” with the community specifically tailored to
COMMUNITY PROFILE
integrate the area’s natural setting as it is bordered by Big Lake and the Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park. Due to the environmental sensitivities in the area, Curtis emphasizes the need for Walton to examine plans to make sure environmental features were respected in the community when designing. A retained natural area of about 100 acres was left so wildlife can still continue to call the area home but that residents could enjoy it as well. “Hawks Ridge planning is about creating a coexistence between the natural community and the new residents,” she said. Found in the northwest part of the city, there are several main transportation routes to get to the community, including 215th Street and close proximity to the Anthony Henday ring road. Also located in the western part of Edmonton is Walton’s Henley Heights at Secord. The community has 77.4 acres of land, zoned for both residential and commercial use. Located in the Secord neighbourhood, Henley Heights at Secord is bordered to the north by Stony Plain Road, to the west by 231st Street (Edmonton’s city limit to the west), and to the east by the existing community of Secord, making it well situated. When finished, 424 lots will make up the community, residents
will have superb access to nearby retail and shopping centres, as well as schools. The community is set to open in early 2015, with a variety of product types to offer future owners. Walton isn’t stopping there. In 2016, the organization has plans to launch a community within the Horse Hill area structure plan, which will make them the first to launch in the new northeast development region. “We’re essentially creating Edmonton’s newest, next small town,” says Curtis, adding Walton owns 1,200 acres of land. As witnessed in Walton’s plans to expand to the Horse Hill area, the company will continue to meet Edmonton’s growing housing needs through tailored and well-designed communities. n
Hawks Ridge at Big Lake is what the company considers to be “one of the most anticipated residential communities in Edmonton’s west end.”
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SHOPPING
Brew magic
Single-cup coffee makers have become household essentials By Kathy McCormick
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t started in the 13th Century when one Ethiopian shepherd noticed that the goats he was tending were fond of the berries of a nearby tree — but then were so spirited they didn’t want to sleep at night. Today, more than 800 years later, we are still enjoying coffee, especially if we want to stay alert and ward of sleepiness. Or, just because. It’s not only coffee’s ability to heighten the senses and keep us alert, it’s a soothing beverage that’s known throughout the world for its robust flavour, its enticing aroma and its tantalizing taste. Coffee still reigns supreme, as anyone who has waited in long line-ups at Tim Horton’s or Starbucks can tell you. But it has also become the desired at-home beverage, whether to serve guests as a finale to a fine meal, as a headliner to start a conversation or as a morning ritual just
Suggested retail price for the Keurig® 2.0 series starts at $139.99
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starting the day with a cuppa java. While the variety and flavours of coffee have expanded exponentially, so have the ways to brew the perfect cup at home — and two particular companies have taken the brewing capabilities by storm, making it easier and much more personalized today. “We are finding our guests are gravitating towards single-serve brewers,” says Emily Vear, representing public relations at Target Canada. “The machines are compact, affordable, and have a wide variety of coffee and flavoured coffee, hot chocolate, and teas that are very convenient to make, as well as extremely fast for a freshly-brewed cup. You can brew into to-go cup, too.” Mary Higgins, representing London Drugs, agrees, noting that their stores carry not only every type of coffee machine, but a wide variety of coffees as well. “The biggest thing the last few years has been the single-serve coffee makers,” she says. “It really depends on the preferences people have — what types of coffee they want to serve, how many cups they will drink per day, whether the whole family drinks coffee, or just the individuals, whether they like the beans ground fresh or they simply want to brew it. There are
SHOPPING
Breville Café Venezia Espresso Maker – Stainless Steel
all the different options, but the single-serve offers the convenience and the ability to customize each cup.” At London Drugs, coffee makers can range from as low as $34.99 for a drip model, to $59.99 for a single-serve, and upwards of $179.99 for the espresso makers. Two of the most popular brands in the single-serve field are Keurig and Nespresso. “We believe coffee is, ultimately, an experience,” says Caroline Desvaux, brand manager with Nespresso Canada. “Whether shared or appreciated alone, the anticipation begins even before your system is turned on. It’s the artistry of the carefully-selected, roasted and blended beans, ground to perfection. It’s the innovation of the precision-crafted machinery that transforms those beans into a rich, dark and remarkable coffee.” Nespresso was founded on the simple idea to allow anyone to produce the perfect cup of espresso coffee on their own. ”Nespresso coffee machines offer both advanced innovation and simplicity,” Desvaux says. “Each of our machines uses state-of-the-art technologies to brew the capsules, known as Grands Crus.” Nespresso, espresso and other automatic drip coffee machines are for the heavy consumers, says Higgins, whose London Drugs stores carry all types of machines from the simple French press to the Breval and Delonghi espresso and cappuccino makers. The Keurig, on the other hand, is for those consumers looking for variety and customized coffees. “Since its advent in 1998, Keurig brewing system has revolutionized the way people consume their beverages
both at home and outside the home,” says Julie Pomerleau, marketing director for Keurig Canada Inc. “The unique technology behind the Keurig brand has disrupted consumer behavior and made quality coffee and other specialty beverages a staple option.” The company offers a wide range of premium coffees, teas and other beverages in a variety of formats, as well as the Keurig brewers. “Consumers can enjoy Keurig Canada products whether they are at home, at work, in a café-bistro, or other places,” says Pomerleau. Due to the busy nature of people’s lives today, “the single-serve machine helps people get their coffee the way they want it — and fast,” says Target’s Vear. Their stores now carry the latest Keurig model, the Keurig 2.0 brewers which offer single-cups and four-cup carafe brewing. The Keurig 2.0 is innovative, says Pomerleau. “It delivers everything consumers know and love about Keurig — and more — with game-changing performance and function, unprecedented beverage choice, simplicity, and convenience, as well as timeless design appeal.”
Bodum 8 cup French Press Coffeemaker – Black
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“Whether shared or appreciated alone, the anticipation begins even before your system is turned on. It’s the artistry of the carefully-selected, roasted and blended beans, ground to perfection.” J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 31
SHOPPING
Hamilton Beach Digital Coffeemaker – 12 Cup – Black/ Stainless Steel
More than 125 different varieties of coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and iced beverages from more than 20 brands are available. Over at Nespresso, “one of our most exciting new innovations is the VertuoLine system, which launched in 2014,” says Desvaux. “The VertuoLine revolutionizes the way coffee is brewed since, for the first-time ever, coffee lovers can experience largecup coffee (as well as authentic espresso) with crema. The silky, generous crema is the sign of a world-class coffee and represents unprecedented quality.” The company recently launched the Inissia, as well. “This is the perfect entry-level machine for new coffee lovers. Our most lightweight and compact coffee machine ever, it is inspired by fun, clever and highlyfunctional design objects, and is available in both a series of permanent colours like black, ruby red, and white, as well as some limited-edition versions like lime-yellow and blueberry blue.” The Keurig Rivo is an espresso machine that can also make lattes/cappuccinos and has a built-in milk frother.
“Coffee will continue to dominate the conversation,” says Desvaux. “But not necessarily in the way people expect. Consumers today are increasingly sophisticated in their knowledge of fine dining, so culinary professionals must create memorable experience to meet their growing expectations.” Nespresso has a program that helps top chefs and sommeliers guide their customers to the perfect cup, she says. “Our goal is to help consumers enjoy the perfect cup of coffee every time, whether at the city’s hottest restaurant or in their own home.” Pomerleau agrees: “What we see nowadays is the interest in the different tastes of coffee and the curiosity to explore new flavours. Over the last several years, single-serve has been the fastest-growing segment of the specialty coffee category. Concurrently, consumers are more frequently seeking to enjoy premium experiences and convenience of their own homes, including the consumption of specialty coffee.” Joe is here to stay. n
Java Data Coffee was discovered in Ethiopia in the 13th Century. Ethiopia is still one of the top producers of coffee today, but the leader is Brazil, followed by Columbia. The best conditions for coffee beans is in equatorial zones between 25 degrees N and 30 degrees S. It is grown in 50 countries today. It is best stored in an atmosphere that is devoid of air, moisture, heat, and light — in that order of importance. It’s best to use it within one- to two-weeks. It can be stored in an airtight bag in the freezer for up to one month, for optimum flavour retention.
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Nespresso Inissia – $149
FEATURE
Closet revolution De-cluttering and adding colour puts a stylish spin on organization By David Crosson
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s we are all painfully aware, it’s January. And with January comes resolutions — along with the attendant angst. Some resolutions, such as being more organized, are easier to keep than others — quitting smoking, for example — and since I’m a decorator and not a miracle worker I’m going to focus on the former rather than the latter. A great place to start when it comes to organizing your life is the closet. Now, one could argue that I don’t know much about the insides of closets but I actually do — I happen to have several in my home and they’ve been an excellent source of information and inspiration. Years ago there were very few options available when it came to closet organization, and what was available started with cheap and ugly and ended with expensive and lavish. The gulf between the two was enormous. Fortunately, things have changed dramatically in this sphere and supply not only serves demand but personal taste as well. I’m a big fan of colour but realize that not everyone shares this passion. If you’re hue-phobic but looking to strike out and try something bold and new, a closet is a great place to start. Given that it’s behind closed doors, this space offers closeted colourphiles an opportunity to experiment in a way that can remain a flirty little secret, if you so choose, while providing a respite from beige, beige and more beige. For a real kick, try painting the inside of yours a deep persimmon orange, a rakish teal or even a delicate shell pink reminiscent of a ballet slipper. Just bear in mind that if you do indulge in something bright and/or saturated, the wall colour
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FEATURE
will likely reflect back onto your clothes so make sure you pull proposed outfits out into a more neutral and well-lit space before actually getting dressed. A jolt of colour is only the start, however, as you can’t store a suit or hang a blouse in or on a perfect shade of peacock blue. If that were possible I’d be a closet wizard. No, great closets rely on more pedestrian things such as organization systems to make them (and, as a result, you) truly exceptional. In the war against clutter, The Container Store (www.containerstore.com) is a great resource for sensible storage solutions and, better still, ships their wares to Canada for click-commerce convenience. Whether you have a reachin closet with sliding doors, a walk-in wonderland or something in-between, the Elfa line they carry has a system designed just for you. Or, better still, one that you can design for yourself. They even offer freestanding options if you have concerns about structural stability or can’t bring yourself to
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drill holes in your freshly painted walls. Not only does the Container Store boast a number of infinitely configurable models to help you corral unruly garments and accessories, they also have smaller items designed to keep mess at a minimum. One product I love is their drop-front linen boxes. Slimly proportioned, stackable and stylish, this line offers peek-aboo treasure chests for everything from sweaters and shirts to shoes and random accessories. The various sizes are offered in a fetching neutral finish that will complement any closet décor even beige, if you are so inclined. Other good options for organization found locally include the customizable Configurations system from Rubbermaid (available through such big box stores as Wal-Mart and Home Depot) and a plethora of products from IKEA. I swear by their Svira hanging storage cubbies for making use of
Great closets rely on more pedestrian things such as organization systems to make them (and, as a result, you) truly exceptional. vertical space and am also a giant fan of their Pax wardrobes, which offer myriad options on the inside and a decent selection of door styles on the outside. If you have room, installing a series of Pax units cheek-by-jowl in a walk-in closet is the ultimate in affordable luxury and clutter-conquering. Finally, not to sound like Faye Dunaway in Mommie Dearest, but don’t get me started on wire hangers! Sure, they’re fine for transporting things from the dry cleaners but so are the flimsy plastic bags they put over your order. And you don’t keep those, do you? Once you get home, ditch those metal menaces in a bin (so you can take them back the next time you drop off cleaning) and put your garments on proper hangers: wooden, padded fabric or even plastic ones if they’re beefy enough. Your cleaner will thank you, your clothes will thank you and, honestly, so will I... As you know, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to getting organized but if the momentum carries you there’s no telling what you’ll accomplish in the new year. Besides, it’s not like you’re going to want to spend a lot of time outside in the coming weeks and months, are you? Happy purging! n TOP LEFT: Beautifully organized closet from Barbarian Design. LEFT: Drop-front linen boxes from The Container Store. Slimly proportioned, stackable and stylish, this line offers peek-a-boo treasure chests for everything from sweaters and shirts to shoes and random accessories. RIGHT: The PAX unit from IKEA helps keep this multi-use space organized. J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 35
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DESIGN & DÉCOR
Bringing the bedroom to life Accents and Good Cents campaign makes good sense By Rosalyn Lazaruk
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f you have read my previous articles or seen my work you will know that I am all about the save and splurge! I love helping people personalize their spaces with DIY projects and trading tips that help you get the look you want for less. Building a new home inevitably ends up with your costs higher than projected and sometimes rightfully so. Along the way you encounter places that you should splurge, and usually they pay off in the long run. Things like upgrading your kitchen countertops and backsplash, and changing out builder light fixtures will take your home from spec to custom. With not much room left in the budget for décor this is where we save! I recently worked in the community of Creekwood and two of their new show homes by Reid Built Homes and Connect Homes, on creating a design campaign, Accents and Good Cents. We turned builder basic bedrooms into fabulous spaces using simple tips and DIY projects.
POLKA DOT
Not sure you want to commit to wallpaper or painting a feature wall? Think vinyl! Custom sign shops will help you to create the image you want in the colour you choose at the fraction of the price and time!
PIN IT!
A great project to get the kids involved with! Using cork, fabric or scrapbook remnants create a space for your kids to pin it!
SILVER LINING
A basic dresser can become a unique piece simply by adding drawer liners and changing out hardware. Think outside the box... we lined the drawers with fun graphic wrapping paper!
TAKE ANOTHER LOOK
Using mirrors in a small space can be dual functional. Here it not only creates a small dressing corner with accessories at hand, but at this angle also makes the room feel larger.
OH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO DIY PROJECTS
Connect had a fabulous fuchsia upholstered headboard from F2 furnishings, used in a previous show home, so we incorporated that into the space and made it our jumping off point for our room.
SITTING PRETTY
A great floor pouf or cushion makes perfect sense in a kids room, a comfy place to sit and read or hang out with friends.
Bold and big artwork can be out of the budget in a kids space. Taking a second hand find and making it your own is a simple way to make a big statement!
TOSS IT!
Textiles are a fun way to bring a room together with pattern, colour & texture. The most novice sewer can make a cushion. For more information on Accents and Good Cents, the community of Creekwood or the individual projects visit my blog at www.wicketblue.com or www.liefeincreekwood.com n
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. J A N U A R Y 2 015 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 37
WHAT’S NEW? with Joy Van Marck
Triumph Windermere opens with elegance STREETSIDE DEVELOPMENTS, A Qualico company, recently held a grand opening for the beautiful Astaire show home in Triumph Windermere, an enclave of 24 amazing bungalows lining the street of Ainslie Court. Surrounded by green space, walking trails and a pond, these single family bungalows feature walkout basements, triple car garages and executive features throughout the interiors. The Astaire, with 1,447 square-feet of living space, features 10-foot ceilings, wideplank hand-scraped hardwood, granite countertops, and a chef’s dream kitchen. The spacious front foyer opens to the lower level stairway, kitchen and living room. The master bedroom with large windows has a walk-through ensuite with his and her sinks, numerous cabinets including a vanity tower, free standing oval tub and double glass shower. The ensuite flows into a generous walk-in closet and then to the convenient laundry room with single sink. The living room hosts an impressive floor to ceiling white quartz ledge stone wall treatment with gas fireplace and rich dark brown wood mantle coordinating with dark brown side towers accenting the contrasting tones. The walk-out lower level features a well-appointed entertainment room complete with bar, big screen T.V. and space for a games table. Expand your entertaining by stepping outside to a covered patio. A second bedroom, bath and exercise room (which could easily be a third bedroom or office space) completes the lower level. Decorated and designed with elegance and class in warm earth tones this home is not only what you are looking for but what you deserve. Visit Triumph Windermere at 1806 Ainslie Court, in Windermere, southwest Edmonton. 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. 3 8 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J A N U A R Y 2 015
FEATURE
Edmonton Renovation Show
Expert advice and innovative products all under one roof
By Pamela Roth
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hen the Christmas season is over and you’re wondering what to do with yourself in the depths of winter, look no further than the Edmonton Renovation Show to get the creative juices flowing. Now in its 20th year, the show inspires homeowners to tackle that project they’ve always dreamed of doing by offering tips on design, renovations or buying a home. The renovation show focuses mainly on renovations of course, but it will also include home and garden design companies as well. Approximately 200 exhibitors will be on hand to assist homeowners with whatever their heart’s desire. “We really want people to come down to the show and learn about planning for a successful renovation or learning how to budget for a renovation,” said Terri Higgins, show manager for Marketplace Events. “It really is a day out. January is always a cold month, so it’s just a great opportunity for people to be inspired, get outside and head down to the show.” The main stage is slated to have presentations with practical and innovative information from experts in the field such as Jamie Banfield of Banfield Design and Bryan Baeumler, the Gemini-award winning host of HGTV’s Leave it to Bryan, House of Bryan and Disaster DIY. Baeumler admits he has a problem sitting still. This year, the 40-year-old filmed a third season of his two hit HGTV shows while running the Baeumler Family Foundation for Kids and Baeumler Quality Construction, which builds 10 to 15 homes a year in the Toronto area, along with several renovations. Baeumler also finds the time to educate viewers across North America, doing about 15 to 20 speaking appearances every year. “I like to share with people information about their homes and what the real priorities are in renovating if they are planning on doing a renovation themselves
Bryan Baeumler
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FEATURE
Marketplace was eager to take on the renovation show when the opportunity presented itself. or plan to hire someone,” said Baeumler, noting his talks at home shows are mainly driven by audience questions. Most people want to know about efficiency and building information, like how to tell if a wall is load-bearing. Others want to know about Baeumler’s television shows and some of the worst renovations he’s ever seen. “The question I get asked a lot is when are you coming over?” Baeumler said. Learning the tricks of the trade from his father, Baeumler got into the handy man business at the age of 14 by doing clean ups and small renovations with a friend. He spent his summers helping build his family’s cottage from the ground up, and has been swinging hammers ever since. Nine years ago, Baeumler began his television career when he offered free construction labour to a show that was just in development. Two hundred and eighty episodes later, his television career is still going strong. “It’s a lot of fun,” said Baeumler. “One day I’m sure it’ll come to an end and I’ll have some peace and quiet on site with my tool belt and nails.” Construction has always been Baeumler’s passion. It’s why he gets up at 5 a.m. every day, often working 14 to 16 hours. His favourite part is problem solving, like trying to make an addition to an old home. He can’t imagine doing anything else. “I love getting out to the home shows. The people that are there are genuinely interested in renovating or currently embroiled in the renovation process, so they usually have some interesting questions,” said Baeumler, adding some of the most rewarding shows he’s done are for families that are lower income and in need of assistance. “When you have a big issue with your home and can’t tackle it (either financially or physically) it’s a big weight on your shoulders. To have a job where I get to take that weight off people’s shoulders, it’s very rewarding.” The renovation show will be run this year by Marketplace Events, which has been running the Edmonton Home and Garden show for 47 years. Due to the success of that show, Marketplace was eager to take on the renovation show when the opportunity presented itself. The company plans to launch a third show next fall — the Edmonton Fall Home Show. The Edmonton Renovation Show takes place January 23 to 25 at the Edmonton Expo Centre. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors. Children 12 and under are free. For more information visit edmontonrenovationshow.com n
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Jamie Banfield
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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
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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. Pacific Rise 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 87. Infiniti
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INNER CITY
CITY OF EDMONTON MAP 49 43
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EDMONTON AND AREA MAP
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NEW HOMES 6
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Regency Heights Estates in Kingswood Lacombe Park Estates North Ridge Erin Ridge Upper Manor Pointe The Club & Residences of River’s Gate Tuscany Hills/Upper Tuscany Pinnacle Ridge Estates
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CONDOS 1. Sage Gardens 2. Citadel Village 3. Botanica 4. Tenor on the River
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CONDOS 1. Maple Brooke Villas
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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
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NEW HOMES
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CONDOS
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1. Windsor Estates 2. King Street on Park 3. Century Gates
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CONDOS 1. Barth & Gosset Manor 2. Willows End 3. Westerra Manor
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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
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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
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1. Walnut Grove
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CONDOS
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1. Riverside Point
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1. Aspen Trails/Emerald Hills 2. Foxboro 3. Ardrosson Heights 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Summerwood
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9 NEW HOMES 1. Meadowview 2. Tribute 3. Windrose 4. Suntree 5. Southfork 6. Robinson
CONDOS
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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
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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
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1. Coloniale Estates 2. Place Chaleureuse 3. Triomphe Estates 4. Dansereau Meadows 5. Ruisseau 6. Royal Oaks
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CONDOS
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1. Goudreau Heights 2. Montrose Estates
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FOCUS ON
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Tick c tock t By Aaliya Essa
See time in a new and stylish way
MEASURING TIME HAS certainly come a long way, from sand moving through an hourglass, or even the position of the sun, accuracy was a little trivial back in the day. Now though, clocks have an entirely new identity, one that is accompanied by a variety of stylish faces that tells you the exact time. Wall clocks don’t just tell time, they can be an elegant way of informing a home’s personality as well. ■
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7 6 [1] Telephone Clock, $45.95 at Pier1 Imports. [2] Cupcoy Design Do-It-Yourself Chrome Ball Clock, $69.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond. [3] Karlsson 32-Inch DIY Grand Numbers Wall Clock, $89.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond. [4] Infinity Instruments Helix Wall Clock, $69.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond. [5] Antique Anchor Wall Clock, $39.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond. [6] Colourful Bicycle Clock, $49.95 at Pier1 Imports. Cupecoy Design Espresso Retro Wall Clock, $69.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond. [7] Telephone Booth Clock, $64.95 at Pier1 Imports. 4 6 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J A N U A R Y 2 015
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