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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 101 n May 2014
contents
12 cover feature
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Loving Copperfield living Hopewell’s Copperfield brings stylish affordability to suburban living
PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp. 207 - 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9
News
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2013 SAM winners announced Morrison Homes wins Grand SAM Builder of the Year
Special Feature Check out what’s happening in Airdrie. Included in this issue of New Home Living
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contents 10 19
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focus on
Groovy gardens
Bring your backyard to life with inspired garden décor
Show home profiles
19 Canmore’s comeback
Spring Creek’s Foothills Lottery home spotlights Canmore recovery
24 Gather ‘round
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Calbridge’s 2014 Foothills Hospital Lottery Grand Prize is a home for the ages
30 Suburban style
Shane Homes’ Andorra II brings unique style to suburbs
Community Feature
35 Winning streak
Watermark at Bearspaw bags local and national SAM awards
Shopping
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42 Bring on summer
Make the best of your backyard decks and patios
Feature
48 Spring exposure
Style
Let nature in this spring with colourful, organic décor
52 Patio panaché
Welcome spring with a fresh look for your private outdoor space
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columns
59 Around Town 66 Hope at Large Items
8 Editor’s Message 60 Maps 64 Advertiser Index
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editor’s message n
Every picture tells a story After another successful SAM Awards night, we at New Home Living thought this would be a good occasion to unveil a new look for the magazine. It isn’t a total design overhaul, just another slight tweak that we think will better serve our readers and give us another edge over competitors. Starting with this issue, our monthly show home profiles will look more like photo features. By relying more on photos, we let our readers see these spectacular homes rather have them read our essays on their features. As readers are probably aware of, show homes tend to blur into one another the more of them you visit. The same is true with real estate publications — it can be hard to differentiate one from the other with all the competing magazines out there. By making this into more of a photo feature, we think we can distinguish ourselves better. Let me know what you think, feedback is always welcome. We begin with our cover feature on Copperfield. It’s a little hard to believe that this Hopewell community is almost finished with just a few more phases to go, but it has grown to be a little slice of suburban heaven that it was intended to be. We also have the top two grand prize show homes for this year’s Foothills Hospital Home Lottery — Calbridge Homes’ $2.3 million grand prize home in Artesia at Heritage Pointe and Spring Creek’s $1.7 million mountainside home in Canmore. We let the pictures do the talking and they speak volumes for these homes’ grandeur. We also have Shane Homes’ beautiful Andorra II in New Brighton, whose design gives suburban homes a distinct inner-city feel. Then there’s the singular community of Watermark at Bearspaw, a local and national SAM winner, where a new show home parade just opened revealing the astute estate sense of the community. Speaking of SAM winners, we have a partial list of the single-family winners in this year’s awards gala night. Our Focus On, Shopping and Style features this month all showcase our delight in the warmer weather and offer design tips and trends for patio living. New home starts are expected to hit a high in 2014, which bodes well for the buyers, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges ahead. You can be sure that it’s something New Home Living will be keeping an eye on in the year ahead.
PU B L I S H E R |
Source Media Group
info@sourcemediagroup.ca A s s o c i a t e PU B L I S H E R |
Jim Zang
jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca Editor |
Pepper Rodriguez
pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca Art director |
Jean Faye Rodriguez
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca g r a p hi c d e s igne r S
Lama Azhari
lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca
Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
Megan Sereda megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca p r o d u c t ion a d mini s t r a t o r |
Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL
David Crosson, Aaliya Essa, Paige Johnston, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick Pho t og r a p h y
Don Molyneaux A d ve r t i s ing SA L E S |
Heather Dougall
heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca A c c o u n t ing |
Donna Roberts
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca D I STR I B UT E D B Y
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSN 1918-4441 PRINTED IN CANADA
©Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group Corp. agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. New Home Living® is published 12 times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and area. New Home Living® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to nleditor@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. New Home Living® is a registered Trademark the propperty of SOURCE MEDIA GROUP CORP. Reg. CIPO TMA 693289. Source Media Group, 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9. T: 403.532.3101, F: 403.532.3109, TF: 1.888.932.3101 E: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca
Next month:
The living room takes centre stage
@CalgaryNewHomes
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NewHomeLivingCalgary
focus on
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Groovy gardens
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Bring your backyard to life with inspired garden décor
n by
Aaliya Essa
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Your backyard is your own private outdoor space, and living where we do, we have to enjoy it as much as we can. Why not add a few creative and unique pieces, to make this space a little more interesting, a bit more personal, and a lot more inviting. A decorative planter, a birdbath, or a fountain, even a fire pit are a great way to open up your home to new friends, to new sounds, and even add some more warmth to your summer nights. NL
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1] Gustov Gnome on Bench Statue, $19.98 at The Home Depot. 2] Insect Trap, $17.98 at Crate & Barrel. 3] Terracotta Fish Planter, $64.95 at Pier1 Imports. 4] Alameda Fountain, $99.99 at The Home Depot. 5] Beaded Sun Garden Stake, $14.95 at Pier1 Imports. 6] Bird House, $27.69 at Crate & Barrel. 7] Ceramic Birdbath, $99.95 at Pier1 Imports. 8] Cherub Statue, $29.63 at Walmart. 9] Squawking Bird, $69.95 at Pier1 Imports. 10] Firewirks Bainbridge 22” Round Firepit, $58 at Walmart. 11] Monk Fountain, $99.95 at Pier1 Imports
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| Advertising cover Feature |
Loving Copperfield Hopewell’s Copperfield brings stylish affordability to suburban living
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dyllic, family-friendly and as suburban as they come, Copperfield is the embodiment of today’s white-picket-fence lifestyle with its open spaces, green fields and a youthful charm. With tons of amenities and infrastructure improvements that long-established communities can only envy, Copperfield is a vision fulfilled for Hopewell Residential. Copperfield was launched back in 2002 and this year marks its 12th year of development. “It is hard to believe, but Copperfield is selling into its final phase now,” marvels Erin McGregor, marketing manager, development at Hopewell. “The community is approximately 90 per cent sold out! The last phase of lots is a large one, so we anticipate sales occurring for the next 18 months on the single-family side and likely the next two to three years on the multi-family front.” When complete, Copperfield will have 4,978 homes (including condos and townhomes) and an estimated population of 15,000 residents. It is one of the biggest communities in the southeast, but its inherent small-town charm has not been lost; nor its friendly demeanor that is enhanced by its three scenic ponds, 12 neighbourhood parks and playgrounds and miles of interconnected green spaces and pathways.
| Advertising cover Feature |
living McGregor says these features give residents plenty of opportunity to interact and get to know their neighbours. Even during the cold days, it is not uncommon to see people taking advantage of the pathways to walk their dogs or go for a quick jog. There is also a skating rink, sports courts, toboggan hill and tennis courts. “Having all of these amenities available to you the day you move means that you get to move into a new home in an already established community,” she adds. Copperfield homeowners also enjoy all the benefits of a thriving community association with no annual fee. “We do encourage residents to become members of the Marquis De Lorne Community Association, which is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to creating a vibrant and healthy community. They host a number of great events and programs each year at Copperfield’s centrally located community centre.” These features are nice to have but they wouldn’t have the same effect if Copperfield didn’t have the accessibility and infrastructure support that all communities need to thrive. And with the opening of the southeast extension of Stoney Trail and the new Saint Isabella K-9 Catholic school in the community itself, Copperfield is wonderfully close to being complete.
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With tons of amenities and infrastructure improvements that long-established communities can only envy, Copperfield is a vision fulfilled for Hopewell Residential.
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| Advertising cover Feature |
“The opening of Stoney Trail has improved accessibility almost overnight, getting to the airport and all points north is so much easier,” says Edmund Alcaide, who has lived in Copperfield for the last seven years. His wife, Linda, says having the school right in the community is a welcome bonus. “We decided to live here because it was affordable and had no community fees, but to have a school where my kids can just walk or bike to is a tremendous benefit,” she says. McGregor adds that a public school is slated for completion in 2016 also within the community. “According to the Public School Board it will accommodate kindergarten to grade 4 students and will have capacity for 600,” she says. There is also the added ease of living afforded by its proximity to the 130th Avenue shopping complex with all its big box stores and unique shops and restaurants. The opening of the 130th Avenue extension east of 52nd Street has further improved accessibility giving Copperfield residents another option in going in and out of the community. The wide variety of homes makes it a perfect setting for everyone from firsttime homebuyers, families looking for move-up homes, and even empty nesters and retirees. No less than four multi-family projects are in various stages of development in this southeast neighbourhood, and include both townhomes (from the $240,000s) and apartment style condos (from the $130,000s) that will appeal to various tastes, lifestyles and budgets. These projects include Chalet No. 5 townhomes by Sabal Homes; Copperfield Park II by Brad Remington Homes; Stonecroft at Copperfield by Stonecroft; and Aura townhomes by Aldebaran Homes. Laned single-family homes are offered by Excel Homes and Sabal Homes on lots that range from 28- to 30-feet wide. These start from $370,000s. While attached garage move-up homes from Sabal Homes and Stepper Homes sit on 24- to 38-foot wide lots and start from the $460,000s. Affordable, innovatively designed, and distinctly eye-catching architecture has always been the promise of Copperfield, and it is a promise that Hopewell has kept. But more than that, it is a community people can easily fall in love with. n
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...a community people can easily fall in love with. FAST FACTS: Community: Copperfield Developer: Hopewell Residential Communities Builders: Multi-family – Chalet No. 5 townhomes by Sabal Homes; Aura townhomes by Aldebaran Group; Stonecroft at Copperfield apartment-style condos and townhomes by Stonecroft; Copperfield Park II apartment-style condos by Brad Remington Homes. Single-family (with show homes) – Excel Homes, Sabal Homes, Stepper Homes. Price: Apartment-style start at the $140,000s; townhomes at $240,000s Directions: From Stoney Trail east head north on 52nd street and follow the signs Hours: Check with individual builders to see particular show home hours
For more information, visit www.copperfield.ca
Spring Creek n show home profile
Canmore’s comeback Spring Creek’s Foothills Lottery home spotlights Canmore recovery n Written by
Pepper Rodriguez
TOP The cathedrallike windows at the back of the home bring the outdoors in, making this the best spot for stargazing on cool nights. Cherry hardwood flooring, exposed fir timber and stone and copper accents give it a distinct mountain lodge flavour.
Canmore is on the comeback trail. Sales of homes in this quaint mountain resort town have spiked to a level not seen since 2008. The recent unveiling of Spring Creek’s $1.7 million estate home that’s one of the grand prizes for the 2014 Foothills Hospital Home Lottery caps the latest string of good news for the town. After the devastating floods of last year, it’s nice to see Canmore back on its feet so quickly and so strongly. The town registered 503 home sales in 2013 compared to 365 the year before — a 38 per cent increase. This spirit of optimism and confidence is found in abundance in the Spring Creek Mountain Village — and for the most part, that spirit never actually left. For one thing, the 2013 flood did not touch Frank Kernick’s 50-acre development. “We do have two creeks running on both sides of the development, but they are spring-fed creeks that never overflow their banks,” Kernick tells New Home Living.
Spring Creek’s lovingly crafted, 2, 747-square-foot custom home for the Foothills Hospital Home Lottery has one of these creeks at its backyard, creating an enviable natural environment that has been the hallmark of this singular development on the south part of town. “We take painstaking efforts to build our homes with the least impact on the environment in every way — from conserving as much of the trees and shrubs around us, to getting Platinum BuiltGreen status for our homes,” Kernick says. Speaking of building homes, there are only eight lots left for single-family homes in all of Canmore, he says, four of them are in Spring Creek, including this lottery prize home. Those lots range from 8,000 to 20,000 square-feet, some with 75-foot frontages. Spring Creek also has a new luxury condo and creekside villas under construction called Creekstone Mountain Lodge. “It’s the perfect mountain getaway spot,” Kernick says.
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show home profile n Spring Creek
ABOVE A recreational lower level of this walk-out home features a wet bar, pool table/games room and media room, because what good is a mountain lodge without an entertainment room for the boys (and girls)?
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BELOW The fabulous kitchen blends traditional cherry cabinetry with a modern touch including quartz stone countertops and state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. The threeseater extended ledge on the island makes it a perfect party spot.
n show home profile
ABOVE Nature at your backyard is the promise at Spring Creek, and this Foothills Home Lottery prize home is no different. This raised deck offers exquisite views of the nearby creek and the lush natural vegetation. “You see elk and deer at your backyard quite frequently,” Kernick says.
LEFT The fir paneling along the vaulted ceiling of the master bedroom adds a nice dash of rustic flair to the spacious private retreat.
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show home profile n Spring Creek
fast facts builder/developer: Spring Creek Developments community: Spring Creek Mountain Village, Canmore Style: Three bedroom mountain lodge on walk-out lot Price: $1.7 million (or a winning Foothills Hospital Home Lottery ticket)
ABOVE The master bedroom’s fabulous walk-in closet features an amazing array of built-in cabinetry fit for even the most fastidious clotheshorse. “We take pride in the quality craftsmanship of our homes.” Kernick says.
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BELOW The free-standing tub is the crowning glory of the master attached ensuite, but the fully-tiled glass shower is the perfect everyday luxury. Porcelain tile flooring and quartz countertops and honey-glazed brass fixtures complete the boutique hotel ensemble.
address: 107 Spring Creek Lane, Canmore Directions: On Hwy 1 to Banff, exit at Bow Valley Tr., left on Spring Creek Gt. And follow the signs Hours: Weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.springcreekmv.com, or www.foothillshospitalhomelottery.org
show home profile n
Gather ‘round Calbridge’s 2014 Foothills Hospital Lottery Grand Prize is a home for the ages n Written by
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Pepper Rodriguez
Calbridge Homes n show home profile
Building a grand prize lottery home is a lot more pressure on a builder than you would think. One has to have the capacity to design and execute a one-of-a-kind plan on budget and on time — and of course, you want your top prize home to be better than the others offered in the city’s numerous charity draws. But that is the kind of pressure that Calbridge Homes thrives in. The 2012 Grand SAM Builder of the Year, definitely has the experience and the skill to build today’s most well-designed and elegant estate homes, and their partnership with Foothills Hospital Home Lottery has result-
ed in some of the most memorable grand prize homes in Calgary. This year’s $2.3 million grand prize estate home in Artesia at Heritage Pointe, however, may be the best one yet. “I was looking for an opportunity to build a home with a pizza oven in it,” says Calbridge President Larry Thomson during the VIP launch. The overall design of the home revolves around this theme, as the 5,361-square-foot home radiates from this wood-fired oven imported from California. It results in some surprising design characteristics and a distinct circular facet to the home, including curved walls in rooms upstairs. The four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath luxury estate home is as exquisitely unique as can be expected from a grand prize home. It has certainly helped move ticket sales this year, which as of this writing, is over 80 per cent sold. Thomson says it took them nine months to build this French Country estate home, featuring a sophisticated fusion of contemporary elements and Old World style. It re-imagines a place where sleek, contemporary design embraces the classic structure of an existing legacy. Here, exposed sandstone, chiseled flagstone and distressed alder, expertly paired with warm white cabinetry, luminescent glass tile and stainless steel appointments celebrate the contrast of old and new — creating a place where family traditions carry on. The home is also representative of the quality and craftsmanship of Calbridge Homes’ line of products in Artesia, where they offer single-family estate homes as well as villas. Single-family homes are from the $900,000s, while villas — which have become very popular and are already 95 per cent sold in the first phase — start from the $800,000s. Phase 2 is now selling. Artesia is located in the hamlet of Heritage Pointe just south of Calgary.
ABOVE The lower level media room and games area, complete with walk-up bar and pool table, may just be the most sophisticated man-cave around, but it also has a feminine touch with the coloured lighting and curved bar. A guest suite is also located here. OPPOSITE PAGE The two-storey, wood-fired pizza oven dominates the design of the home, and the circular “Old World” bistro area it creates is the cherry on top of this home that was designed to entertain. The expansive quartz island in the connecting chef-inspired, gourmet kitchen brings a glossy, modern touch to the proceedings.
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show home profile n Calbridge Homes
ABOVE An impressive great room with honed cement fireplace hearth and towering floor-to-ceiling windows brings a stately, executive ambience. Wooden shutters, engineered hardwood flooring and an open-riser staircase add to the elegance.
RIGHT The master bedroom is a private retreat with defined sitting area and spacious walk-in closet. It also has a luxurious, spa-inspired ensuite bathroom, complete with walk-in shower and deep soaking tub. Designer tile and quartz countertops along the dual vanities give it a boutique hotel feel.
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n show home profile
fast facts builder: Calbridge Homes community: Artesia at Heritage Pointe Style: French Country estate home with four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths size: 5,631 sq. ft. of livable space Price: $2.3 million (or a winning Foothills Hospital Home Lottery ticket) address: 5 Waters Edge Drive, Heritage Pointe Directions: South on Deerfoot Tr., exit west on Dunbow Rd. and follow the signs Hours: Weekdays 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.
ABOVE The French Country elevation works well with the triple-split garage design of the home. Winners get an extra $50,000 along with this fully-furnished masterpiece home.
TOP RIGHT You may have trouble getting guests to leave the creature comforts of the walk-up bar of this state-of-the-art entertainment area in the lower level. The curved quartz top bar hides a well-stocked wine cooler, tall, flat painted ceilings make you forget that you are in a lower level development.
Web: www.calbridgehomes.com
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show home profile n Shane Homes
Suburban style Shane Homes’ Andorra II brings unique style to suburbs
n Written by
Pepper Rodriguez
The next time somebody says the suburbs offer nothing but similar home styles, all one has to do is point out Shane Homes’ Andorra II to disprove that idea. This stunning show home in New Brighton proves that this award-winning builder knows a thing or two to prove that suburban homes can rock, too. A certain lifestyle is expected to be fulfilled in suburbia, where homes have to be a lot of things — a comfortable place to live, a place where you can have friends over and one that offers enough flexibility for future growth. Then, combine all these in a distinctive style that makes the owners proud to call it their own. Shane Homes understands everything it takes to create these homes and their Andorra II in New Brighton certainly bring those qualities to a soul-satisfying peak. The Andorra II show home is 2,054 square-feet, but it can be built starting from 1,963 squarefeet. Area manager Ron Kerr says people have fallen in love with the show home design that effortlessly combines traditional tastes with a modern twist. The vaulted ceiling in the great room with exposed beams and the wide-plank hardwood blend to create a classical ranch style look and the contemporary kitchen with its granite countertops, modern appliances and extended cabinetry give it a more present-day vibe. The kitchen is also of particular interest. You don’t see a lot of kitchens these days with a window to the backyard,” Kerr says. “It creates a more pleasing ambience when you can view the outdoors while doing kitchen chores, or you can keep an eye on kids in the backyard.” The Andorra II can also be built as a four-bedroom or five-bedroom home and still allows for a bonus room. “These are floor plan options that people can choose from when designing their new home,” Kerr adds. The Andorra II starts in the low $500,000s.
LEFT The rear living room with the vaulted ceiling is standard with this floor plan, as is a wall centred cantilevered fireplace flanked by windows, which combine to create a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings and entertaining.
RIGHT The open concept design of the main floor is brought to life by the wide-plank hardwood flooring, the nine-foot ceilings and the generous amount of windows all around that makes the home appear even larger.
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n show
home profile
LEFT This oversized kitchen has granite countertops and an extension with large windows overlooking the backyard, allowing bountiful amounts of natural lighting in.
BELOW The Andorra II has a lovely street profile that stands out from the crowd. Lovely stone detailing that extends to the covered front porch gives the home an elegant estate look.
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show home profile n Shane Homes
fast facts builder: Shane Homes community: New Brighton Developer: Brookfield Residential Style: Two-storey move-up homes with attached double garage Price: Starting from the mid $400,000s address: 815 New Brighton Dr. S.E. Directions: South on 52 St. S.E. and left on New Brighton Dr. and follow the signs ABOVE The entertaining personality of the Andorra II is captured by its stunning living room that fuses elements from different design aesthetics to create a unique and fresh environment.
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BELOW The bonus room is an integral part of the home’s family-friendly character, the show home even has a wet bar with tile flooring at its entrance. It also has a vaulted ceiling and built-in entertainment centre to complete this stylishly functional appeal.
Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.shanehomes.com
n show home profile
LEFT You can build the Andorra II with up to five bedrooms, but it can also give you an utterly spacious master bedroom that can fit a king-sized bed, a bureau, and twin night stands and still have room to spare.
BELOW It’s all about luxury in its owners ensuite. Designer tile flooring extends up to the corner soaker tub’s skirting for a seamless look. Granite topped dual vanities gives the couple plenty of room to get ready in the morning, and a glass shower offers loads of convenience, not to mention style.
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Watermark at Bearspaw n community profile
Winning streak Watermark at Bearspaw bags local and national SAM Awards
n Written by
Pepper Rodriguez
Winning is getting to be habit at Watermark at Bearspaw, as this unique luxury estate community is amassing quite the collection of local and national awards. This ambitious Macdonald Development community just outside Calgary won for Best Community and Best Website at the 2013 National SAM Awards. These came shortly after Watermark also took home the Best Community – Calgary Region prize at the 2013 Calgary SAMs. It is the second year in a row that it has won this category on both regional and national levels. But as prestigious as the awards are, the real winners here are the residents of Watermark. The parklike setting of this 287-acre community is fast taking shape with amenities like the central plaza with pond side pavilion, and the first of three playgrounds, ready to be enjoyed by the 40-plus families that have already moved into the community. As Watermark continues to develop at an incredi-
ble pace, four new show homes from their preferred builder group recently opened to rave reviews. Albi Homes, Astoria Custom Homes, Trickle Creek Custom Homes and Wolf Custom Homes all have new show homes that further establish the one-ofa-kind craftsmanship that has been the hallmark at Watermark at Bearspaw. Their Phase 2 show homes scales down from the previous parade that boasted palatial homes, some of which topped 8,000 square-feet. “This new show home parade goes for the more traditional sized homes of about 3,000 square-feet and starting in the $1.2 million range,” says Macdonald Development’s Dana Volrich. “This way we get to show the full range of homes that you can build at Watermark,” she adds.
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community profile n
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Watermark at Bearspaw n community profile LEFT A combination of white and bright, earthy tones with industrial nuances marks this unique home from Wolf Custom Homes. This 5,306-square-foot masterpiece has it all, including an avant garde kitchen with huge, quartztopped island that’s as perfect for entertaining or for nights with just the family.
BELOW The master bedroom of this Wolf Custom Home is a serene, private oasis with 10foot ceilings and tall windows. It also opens to a balcony that allows you to enjoy the tranquil solitude of Watermark’s parklike environment.
LEFT Astoria Custom Homes’ The Austin show home in Phase 2 of Watermark has all the characteristics of a stately mansion, including an imposing living room boasting a two-way, designer rock fireplace that stretches the length of the sunlit, open-to-above room. Mejor distressed, farmhouse-look oak flooring gives it a modern rustic feel.
RIGHT Albi Homes’ Sorano show home exemplifies the stately demeanour of Watermark’s homes. The satin finish granite countertops in its traditional-meetsmodern design kitchen blends perfectly with the farmhouse oak hardwood flooring. Integrated appliances in the cabinetry allows for functionality of space and a seamless look.
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community profile n Watermark at Bearspaw
fast facts Community: Watermark at Bearspaw Developer: Macdonald Development Corporation Builders: Albi Homes, Astoria Custom Homes, Trickle Creek Custom Homes, Wolf Custom Homes Style: Custom estate homes on quarter-acre to one-acre homesites Price: Home and lot packages start at $1.2 million Address: Watermark Road, Rocky View County Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 pm, closed Fridays. Directions: West on Crowchild Trail and south on 12 Mile Coulee Road N.W. and follow the signs WEBSITE: www.loseyourselfinwatermark.com
ABOVE The genius of Trickle Creek’s The Capilano show home is how it expertly blends contemporary sensibilities with more traditional ones into a very memorable 3,522-square-foot home. The walnut hardwood flooring, brick feature wall and open riser staircase in its open concept main floor are a visual delight, but the state-of-the-art wine room makes it memorable.
LEFT The mod industrial nuance of the design of Wolf Custom Homes’ belies its utter family-friendly functionality, with a triple car garage (a double in one wing, and a single on the other). It also has five bedrooms and four-and-ahalf bathrooms, as well as two outdoor living spaces.
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ABOVE Blending traditional elements like walnut cabinetry and wooden shutters with stylishly modern quartz countertops along with a deep, stand-alone soaker tub gives the attached ensuite of Trickle Creek’s The Capilano a feeling of appealing warmth.
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shopping n
Bring on summer
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algary has just been through a long, tiresome winter with a lot of snow and not much opportunity to enjoy our beautiful landscape, so it comes as no surprise that people are clamouring to get outside. As a result, any furniture or equipment that lets people enjoy their own private outdoor space is selling through the roof at specialty stores. “Fire pits and infrared heaters seem to be the hot sellers the last few years — for obvious reasons,” says Randy Kurta of Porch and Patio (which also includes The Awning Factory). “Given the short summer we have, they allow customers to enjoy the shoulder seasons of spring and fall — basically extending the chance to enjoy the outdoors.” As a result, manufacturers have been adding product to fit all needs and wants, no matter the size of outdoor space, says Ross Mikkelsen of Barbecues Galore. “The gas fire pits that are most popular are the ones that function as coffee tables but also have a fire component. They do throw a bit of heat to help warm a chilly evening, but their main appeal is aesthetic. Folks are just drawn to these things when they’re lit.” Models range from $250 to $5,000 and have options for size and style. “The best part about them is they are safe for any deck surface (wood, composite, vinyl) and can even be used during hot and dry months when fire bans are in effect,” says Kurta. “No smoke; no embers; no ash.” Stand-alone fire pits allow for different functionality, but aren’t as cosy, says Mikkelsen. Infrared heaters, too, come in a range of sizes, styles and prices — and again, even if outdoor space is limited to a balcony, they can warm up the outside and extend the season for home or condo owners. “We have smaller, tabletop patio heaters now that are perfect to warm two people sitting on opposite sides of a table,” says Mikkelsen. While many models are propane with the natural-gas-ready connections, don’t assume that is the case, he says. “That includes patio heaters, fire pits and barbecues.” It’s all about bringing the inside outdoors, a huge trend that is growing in popularity, says Kurta. “The look and quality of products now definitely matches the look and quality of much of the indoor furniture. Some of our manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on the frame and fabrics now come with warranties of up to seven years.” Any family activity that is carried on inside is now wanted outside, Mikkelsen says. “Any type of cooking — pizza ovens, deep-fryers, refrigeration, tandoori ovens — people want it outdoors. “We’re selling a lot of coolers for the backyard in some fun and colourful designs. People are installing televisions, sound systems, hot tubs, carpets, pergolas, special lighting — you name it.”
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It’s all about bringing the inside outdoors, a huge trend that is growing in popularity.
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Make the best of your backyard decks and patio n Written by
Photos on opposite page courtesy The Awning Factory. Photos on this page courtesy Crate and Barrel.
Kathy McCormick
Regatta Console Table.
And the “overwhelming trends in outdoor living are bold pops of colour and pattern in everything from throw pillows and seat cushions, to umbrellas and accessories,” says Cathy Miller, spokesperson for Crate and Barrel. “People are also acquiring pieces that could function either indoors or out. For condo dwellers who may not have much storage space, it means they can really bring things inside for the winter and make use of them indoors, too.” Here are some of the latest must-haves for creating that ‘room’ outdoors: • Dining sets aren’t as popular as they once were — with more people opting for comfortable groupings more like a living room, say the experts. Still, if you’re on a limited budget, or have little room, a good spot to start is with a high-quality bistro set, says Mikkelsen. “You could enjoy it now and when your bank account and deck space grows, you can use the set in a separate corner of your yard or second balcony and buy a larger, more expansive set of furniture.” • Comfortable seating, that mimics indoor furniture, says Miller. • Bar carts for functionality. “They can serve anything and move items around easily,” she says. • Outdoor rugs that look like indoor rugs. “Coir/sisal is still popular but water-resistant polypropylene is hot now and comes in varied colours, patterns and even in woven textures, including low pile that mimic wool or cotton rugs. They’re softer on bare feet, not plastic-y like the old style of outdoor mats, and available in large sizes to truly give a seating area the feeling of a defined living room or a din-
shopping
Alfresco Cart.
Kruger High Back Lounge Chair.
ing room. For smaller spaces, Miller recommends runners — usually two-by-eight feet — or two matt-sized rugs — usually two-by-three feet. • Sectionals continue to sell well, says Kurta. • Some of the more popular outdoor sellers at Crate and Barrel include high-backed lounge chairs which support the head (good where space is an issue and there is not room for the classic chaise lounge), nesting tables, work stations, and sturdy ‘poufs’ (round fabric ottomans). Trends • Colours: “Earth tones seem to be on the wane,” says Mikkelsen. “Yellow, blue, bottle green; strong, crisp graphic patterns like stripes and chevrons; conversely, florals with a soft, painted look are coming in, too, this season,” says Miller. “Many people stick with solids for larger pieces, and then add punches of colour with lot of throw pillows in stripes and solids,” says Kurta. • Accessories: Lighting — hurricane lanterns hold candles to create ambiance at night and can also be used indoors in the off-season. “Crate and Barrel sells two sizes of battery-powered pillar candles with on-off timers,” Miller says. If the budget is tight, “purchase the best furniture pieces you can — so many synthetic, durable materials are now available for outdoor furniture that don’t cost an arm and a leg, like classic teak or wrought iron, which used to be the only choices previously in high-quality outdoor furnishings,” says Miller.
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shopping n
And buy classic pieces in classic colours, says Kurta. Then have fun keeping up with the trends in accessories like pillows, outdoor art pieces, lighting. “It’s much easier to change out some pillows as trends change than recover all the furniture.” A plant or two (even in the most simple planter), a tall one placed on the ground and a smaller one placed on a table, greatly contribute to the ‘room’ feel of an outdoor set-up,
Photo courtesy Crate and Barrel.
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defining the space and drawing the eye in, says Miller. “If it works indoors, it can work outdoors.” Some tips • When buying seating pieces of furniture, “keep an eye on the depth of the cushions,” says Mikkelsen. Some companies will “shave costs by installing thin cushions that won’t last as long and are not anywhere near as comfortable.” • Buy Sunbrella fabric if possible on furniture pieces. They will last much longer, although even that fabric isn’t completely water repellent. “Extend their life by keeping them out of the rain. How about a storage bench where space is limited?” says Miller. “Dual purpose storage and seating.” • Make sure frames are aluminum so they won’t rust and make sure the woven material isn’t a cheap plastic, says Kurta. “It should be resin or HDPE. The warranty offered should speak to the quality of the furniture.” NL
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design n
Spring
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exposure A
warming trend this spring is to open your doors and invite nature in! From vibrant florals to tropical leaves, flamboyant foliage has taken centre stage in the worlds of both fashion and interior design. With interiors, this nod to Mother Nature will provide a welcome reprieve after months of harsh winter weather and can be achieved in a myriad of ways. Engaging the full range of your senses, making a connection to nature will be as uplifting as it is refreshing. Organic elements and details will also work to soften the hard lines dominant within interior spaces, particularly ones that are more contemporary. Spring is a season for blossoming flowers and greening foliage and colour is a primary feature, creating powerful visual impact with its ability to evoke different emotional responses. Whether saturated or pale, intense or tinted, the colours in nature can be used effectively in any room to create or enhance a rustic or sophisticated look or to set a casual or elegant tone. International colour expert Pantone voted Radiant Orchid as ‘The Color of the Year 2014’, and we see upcoming design being dominated by vivacious shades of blue, purple and yellow. These hues will readily compliment most palettes — from neutrals and whites to grays — so homeowners wishing to be on-trend need not be afraid of introducing such vibrant colours to their space. For pops of colour and hits of spring, adorn your living room sofa with beautiful floral throw cushions or hang a floral print or hand painted piece of art. In your bedroom, add a decorative bedspread or lightweight duvet accented with a cheerful blanket. If you’re feeling adventurous, paint a feature wall or powder room in a striking colour like turquoise. And for those with both the nerve and the budget, upholster that occasional chair you’ve been eying up in one of the bold new foliage patterns!
design
Let nature in this spring with colourful, organic décor n Written by
Paige Johnston
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A glass vase of white lilies can add a stylish note to an informal living room.
Fresh cut stems and flowers can change the look of any room instantly. A glass vase of white lilies can add a stylish note to an informal living room, while a ceramic pot of budding twigs can bring warmth and life to an austere palette of charcoal and chrome. Tropical plants are a subtle reminder of the outdoors, while a potted tree can provide big impact and add height to a low profile, contemporary space. Another way to draw nature into your home is to cover your walls with grasscloth wallpaper. A decorator staple in the ‘60s and ‘70s, grasscloth has made a major comeback and, while it’s best to avoid hanging it in humid areas, it’s perfect for Calgary’s dry climate. Made of woven plant fibers, this wallpaper provides a space with natural texture and great visual interest. Grasscloth wallpapers are now carried in a wide variety of textures and colours, making each as unique as the next! If an entire room of wallpaper seems like too much, consider papering a feature wall in one of the wide range of wallpapers that incorporate nature into their design. From scenic murals with a whimsical air to bold, tropical patterns featuring ferns, banana leaves or palm leaves, these wallpapers are a creative and playful approach to bringing the outdoors in. Whether you introduce new elements to your home through a simple bouquet of flowers or a feature wall, open your doors with open arms and give in to nature this spring! NL
FOR POPS OF COLOUR AND HITS OF SPRING, ADORN YOU LIVING ROOM SOFA WITH BEAUTIFUL FLORAL THROW CUSHIONS. 50 | NE W HOME LIVING
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From senic murals with a whimsical air to bold, tropical patterns featuring ferns, banana leaves or palm leaves, [wallpapers] are a creative and playful approach to bringing the outdoors in.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Paige Johnston, a graduate of the Ryerson School of Interior Design, helped expand LUX Design, a successful Toronto-based interior design firm, to the city of Calgary. She is working now in Calgary as the lead interior designer of LUX Design. luxdesign.ca/calgary
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Patio panaché Welcome spring with a fresh look for your private outdoor space n Written by
David Crosson
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Venerable manufacturer Janus et Cie offers a range of exquisite outdoor furnishings, from playful to sophisticated and everything in-between. Courtesy Janus et Cie
algarians cherish their outdoor time — and well they should considering there’s often so little of it. Despite being Canada’s sunniest city, good old YYC does not get its fair share of fair weather. True, there are many things one can do outdoors here almost year ‘round, just not in shorts and flip-flops. On the upside, our outdoor furnishings (if stored properly) tend to see less wear and tear because they spend so little time exposed to the elements. This is another great reason you should invest in decent pieces for the patio/balcony/terrace/lanai — they will last you so much longer. While trends do affect outdoor objets, the bigger factor driving your choices should be enjoyment — comfort and convenience are generally more significant than colour. Although grey continues to play a significant role in current offerings, the variety of other hues available is broad enough to make a rainbow weep with jealousy. Outdoor design tends to fall into two main categories: sophisticated and playful — and neither is correct unless it is correct for you and your approach to decorating. A good way to determine this is to look at your current home décor choices and let those lead the way. For those drawn more to the sophisticated, opportunity abounds — primarily in the realm of faux wicker, rattan and cane. Take, for example, the deft weave on the curvaceous Carly benches or Tranquility chairs from Toronto-based Andrew Richard Designs. These pieces make a distinct style statement while still exercising tasteful restraint. If you’re looking to dial up the drama, consider the sublime effect created by the large scale mesh weave in the Matilda series from venerable manufacturer Janus et Cie (available in Calgary from Domaine Fine Furnishings and Design) or the ontrend, Art Deco inspired Sillouette chair in teak and stainless steel
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from Andrew Richard Designs. Sit in either for one second and you’ll forget there even is such a thing as folding nylon camping chairs… Once you’ve selected your seating, the options for completing the look underfoot are plentiful. Outdoor rugs have come a long way from the wall-towall frog-green “grass” that could be used to scrub baked-on cheese from a lasagna pan. The new crop is comprised of stunners that will ground your outdoor space and provide the perfect base for furniture groupings. Korhani — a Canadian institution since 1902 — taps into Creative Director Kirsten Korhani’s fashion roots and provides consumers with such inspired offerings as the classically influenced Jordan and the subtly exotic Lovina, both in beautifully understated colourways. Better still, these rugs are low-maintenance, fade-resistant and reversible, giving their owners two distinct looks for the (very reasonable) price of one. Their product is widely available through a
The curvaceous Double Carly Bench. Courtesy Andrew Richard Designs
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style
Start by laying the groundwork with a chic, colourful rug from Massachusettsbased Dash and Albert…
Brightly coloured seating, mastered by Canadian-based Innit Designs, adds just the right amount of playfulness to an outdoor entertainment zone. Courtesy Innit Designs.
variety of major Canadian retailers as well as online at www.korhani.com. If summertime equals playtime for you, then numerous options also abound. Start by laying the groundwork with a chic, colourful rug from Massachusetts-based Dash and Albert, available in Calgary through Maria Tomas. Naturally, a fun base needs something equally spectacular to perch upon it. Janus et Cie’s Forest chairs are available in a range of great colours and powder-coated for added protection from the elements. If you really want to let loose, Toronto-based Innit captures the spirit of warmer climes with a series of deceptively simple pieces that look like they were spun by a Technicolour spider with a taste for minimalism. These über-comfortable chairs — Innit, Concha and aptly named Acapulco, among them — come in twelve colours with either black or white bases for outdoor use. This line was a huge hit at Toronto’s Interior Design Show and is now available through either HBC or online at www.innitdesigns. com (shipping costs included in purchase price). No matter how long or short, summer is a time to get out and celebrate. Whatever your style, I hope you enjoy yours to the fullest — Sorel and snowsuit season will be upon us soon enough! NL
ABOVE: Indoor/ outdoor rugs form Massachusetts-based Dash and Albert are the epitome of warm weather playfulness. Courtesy Dash and Albert Left: Whether vivid or
subtle, outdoor rugs from Korhani make a bold statement underfoot. Courtesy Korhani
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Crosson is the owner of Barbarian Interior Decoration Ltd., which woks with both residential and commercial clients in Calgary and beyond. He is also the author of the blog Hausfrau: Better Living Through Better Living and is frequently called upon to provide commentary in matters of life and style in the local media. For more information visit www.barbariandesign.ca
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2013 SAM winners
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he biggest night of the year for Calgary’s home industry did not disappoint, as the best of the best for 2013 were honoured. The Gala held on March 29 at the Telus Convention Centre with more than 1,600 people in attendance and a record number of submissions (776) from members vying for the prestigious awards. The best-of-the-best 2013 Grand SAM Winners were: Builder of the Year – Morrison Homes.; Builder of Merit – Empire Custom Homes; Multi-Family Builder of the Year – Jayman Group of Companies; Renovator of the Year – Albi Renova Ltd.; and Partner of the Year – PHI Systems. “Winning this award for the 11th time is an incredible honour that I share with the whole Morrison team, including all our trade partners and suppliers”, says Al Morrison, Chairman of Morrison Homes. “We consider this a testament to our passion for customer satisfaction. In the end, a happy customer is our biggest reward.” Competition brings
Morrison Homes, The Savannah
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out the best, and in the end, it’s the buyers that win, says Shane Wenzel, co-chair of the SAM committee for CHBA – Calgary Region. “Once again, the new home industry in Calgary continues to amaze.No matter the economy, no matter whether builders are busy, the industry puts out their best year after year.” “These prestigious awards are taken very seriously by us and those in the industry,” says Wendy Going, the other SAM co-chairman. “That’s why the competition is so well respected in the industry — and why homebuyers look for the SAM birds from the builders who have soared high enough to capture the silver goose. The winners are truly the best-of-the-best in the Calgary region.”
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announced
Morrison Homes wins Grand SAM Builder of the Year
GRAND SAM AWARDS
New Home Awards
Builder of the Year Morrison Homes
Best New Home — Up to $229,999 Morrison Homes, Love Residence
Multi-Family Builder of the Year Jayman Group of Companies
Best New Home — $230,000 – $269,999 ReidBuilt Homes, The Opus in Kincora
Builder of Merit Empire Custom Homes Ltd.
Best New Home — $270,000 – $309,999 Brookfield Residential, Belvedere – Cranston SF
RENOVATOR OF THE YEAR Albi Renova Ltd.
news
Best New Home — $310,000 – $349,999 Douglas Homes Ltd., Barcelona, Kinniburgh (Chestermere)
PARTNER of the Year PHI Systems
DEVELOPER AWARDS Show Home Parade of the Year Hopewell Residential Management LP, LakeFront Show Home Parade, Mahogany New Community of the Year Heritage Pointe Properties Inc., Artesia (DeWinton) Community of the Year — City of Calgary Hopewell Residential Management LP, Mahogany Community of the Year — Calgary Region Watermark Development LP, Watermark at Bearspaw, Rocky View County
Heritage Pointe Properties, Artesia (DeWinton)
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Hopewell Residential, LakeFront Show Home Parade, Mahogany
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news n Best New Home — $350,000 – $399,999 Douglas Homes Ltd., Mykanos 2 Showhome (Chestermere) Best New Home — $400,000 – $459,999 ReidBuilt Homes, The Ridgeway in Westmere (Chestermere) Best New Home — $460,000 – $534,999 Homes by Us Ltd., The Ashton in Aspen Woods Estates Best New Home — $535,000 – $599,999 Augusta Fine Homes, a division of NuVista Homes, Demo Residence
Douglas Homes Ltd., Barcelona
Best New Home — $600,000 – $699,999 Brad-Mar Homes, Elbow Valley West Best New Home — $700,000 – $849,999 Canterra Custom Homes Ltd., The Armani Best New Home — $850,000 – $999,999 Lupi Luxury Homes Inc., The Lambrusco II, Rock Lake Estates Best New Home — $1,000,000 – $1,499,999 Morrison Homes, The Savannah Showhome Best New Home — $1,500,000 – $2,299,999 McKinley Masters, The Roseview Best New Home — $2,300,000 and over McKinley Masters, Circle P Estate
ReidBuilt Homes, The Ridgeway in Westmere (Chestermere)
Homes by Us Ltd., The Ashton in Aspen Woods Estates
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For a complete list, visit www.samawards.com NL
around town n
By Pepper Rodriguez
Shane Homes helps build Famous 5 centre Shane Homes is one of the many supporters assisting the Heritage Park Historical Village with the cost of building the Famous 5 Interpretive Centre. Company founder, Cal Wenzel, is incredibly excited for the company to be part of this initiative, which will become a very important piece of history at Heritage Park. “We have agreed to contribute $500,000 for the honour of building a replication of the Nellie McClung house currently located in downtown Calgary. This new building will serve as an interpretive centre for exploring the history of Nellie McClung and the other Famous Five women who were instrumental in women gaining the status
of ‘person’ and the right to vote in Canada in 1915. The building is currently underway at Heritage Park and scheduled for completion in the fall of 2013. “Heritage Park, in its quest to fulfill its mandate of ‘Connecting People with the Settlement of Western Canada’ has embarked upon an exciting project that will fulfill this directive and bring to life the stories that have not been well told before,” said Alida Visbach, President and CEO of Heritage Park Historical Village. “The new Famous Five Interpretive Centre, the cornerstone of Heritage Park’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2014 will give us this opportunity to not only share the stories of the Famous Five, but of all influential women in Canadian history. Imagine the history we can impart, the lessons we can teach and the minds we can reach from the stage of this women’s history centre.” The Famous Five Interpretive Centre will open mid 2014 as part of Heritage Park’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The cost for the project is an estimated $3.4 million.
March starts climb
Concept Coverings raffle winner
More multi-family development construction raised housing starts in the Calgary area in March, which was trending at 16,647 units compared to 14,978 in February, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The trend is a six month moving average of the monthly seasonally adjusted annual rates (SAAR)1 of total housing starts. The CMHC says total starts in the Calgary census metropolitan area rose to 1,667 units during the month from 890 in March 2013. The multi-family sector jumped an astounding 212 per cent to 1,217 units from 390 a year ago, however, the single-detached sector dipped 10 per cent to 450 units from 500 last year. “The trend in total housing starts continued to increase in March, as rising multi-family construction more than offset a reduction in single-detached starts,” said Richard Cho, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for Calgary. “Low multi-family inventories, strong migration, and a low rental vacancy rate are supporting demand for multi-family units, prompting builders to start more projects this year.”
Heather Murray is the lucky winner of the Source Media Group raffle draw for a Concept Coverings blinds package held at the Calgary Home + Garden Show in February. Heather won $1,000 towards her purchase of a blinds package from Concept Coverings, a Calgary distributor of Hunter Douglas. “I just can’t believe that I won, I’ve never won anything like this,” Heather tells Around Town. Concept Coverings owner, Connie Drake, presented the winning certificate at the Concept Coverings show room at #109, 5126 126th Avenue S.E. Heather says she will use her winnings to get new blinds for the two bedrooms in her Varsity condo. “I’ve been doing some renovations to the place, and this lucky draw came at the right time,” she says. Concept Coverings specializes in this latest technology; blinds controlled by remote, or programmed to suit the lifestyle of the user. Connie and her husband, Barry, started the company five years ago, when they saw that there was a need for Heather Murray (left) and Connie Drake. experts in the specialized field of motorized blinds. “I’ll personally do the measurements for Heather’s blinds,” Connie says. Heather entered the draw by filling out a raffle ticket at the Source Media Group booth at the last Calgary Home + Garden Show at the BMO Centre. NL
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calgary map n Northwest/Northeast
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calgary map n Southwest
Chestermere
Rainbow Falls · Westcreek · Westmere
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Southeast/Calgary area n calgary map
AIRDRIE
OKOTOKS
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advertisers index n Dundee Developments Evansridge page 65
Arbus Homes page 46 Avid Ratings page 15 Baywest Homes page 7 Brookfield Residential pages 16-17 Cardel Homes Inner City page 23 Cardel Homes Walden page 55
CHBA page 46 Concept Coverings page 28 DS Homes page 61
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Homes By Us page 64
Shane Homes Kings Heights page 68
Hopewell Communities Copperfield FC, pages12-14, 40
Tamani Developments Riversong page 9
Hunter Douglas page 18
THERIVER page 2
Innovations by Jayman page 41
Trico Homes page 54
Jayman MasterBUILT page 34
United Communities Nolan Hill page 45
Kinette Club Golf for Girls page 51
Cedarglen Homes page 29
Vesta Properties page 4
Landmark Homes page 44
Watermark page 54
Mattamy Homes page 67
WestCreek Developments Legacy page 47
McKee Homes page 3
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Sabal Homes page 39
Genstar Walden insert
Melcor Sunset Ridge insert
hope at large By Marty Hope
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Nature’s legacy WestCreek Development preserves woodland heritage in Legacy It was May, 2005, when I looked out over the former farmland in the Pine Creek area where a few head of cattle, some horses, and even a llama or two were contentedly grazing, and spotted some long unused bunkhouses and other outbuildings crumbling under the constant barrage of nature’s vagaries. I was with Bravin Goldade, president of WestCreek Developments, to check out what would be the future site of Legacy; and I guess the most vivid memory of that day was looking at all the stands of trees on the property, and quietly watching deer cautiously munching grass. I asked Goldade if the trees would be saved, and without hesitation he said “yes, as many as we can.” Fast forward almost a decade and Goldade and his talented team of planners, designers, architects, and builders have stuck to the vision of Legacy which is to provide homes within an 1,100-acre master-planned community, rich with natural amenities and enhanced by others manmade. WestCreek bought the land 13 years ago. After working its way through various approvals processes, clearing political obstacles, and sitting tight through a recession, Legacy found its way into the marketplace — a much anticipated and now successful event. It hasn’t even been a year yet since the first show homes opened their doors and 400 permits have already been issued for a variety of homes covering everything from the starter market to estate homes. Goldade estimates that number will reach 500 the end of June.
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Still in the early stages of development, some water features are in place, tree-lined medians are springing up, and the gothic-inspired entrance features are welcoming hundreds of visitors each week. As for the stands of trees, they’re still there waiting their turn to step into the development spotlight in about two years. And that herd of deer? Still there, Goldade adds. For the moment, at least, one particular forest of old trees that stands in the centre of the development called The Woods. And the plan is for it to become the backdrop for million-dollar homes placed thoughtfully among the trees. The trees that spread over about 60 acres will have larger homes spotted among them at a density of about four per acre. “We’re going to create a series of cul-desacs and all homes will have trees on the lots and each cul-de-sac will be separated by a line of trees,” says Goldade. One of the countless pathways meandering through the entire community will lead from The Woods to an escarpment and from there to the Pine Creek valley where it will hook up with the regional pathway system. Atop the escarpment will be a lawned area with an “amphitheatre feel” to it, says Goldade. In the valley itself, there will be an interpretive area, viewing decks, bridges, and pathways. And the wooded enclave is just one of the several special areas Legacy will offer.
Among them will be escarpment lots, ravine lots, special amenity lots to be developed in natural peninsulas overlooking the Heritage Pointe golf course, and lots on ponds. “When I drove the land, I knew we had something special,” says Goldade. “We had to take our time and do it right, there would be no second chance.” When completed in another 10 or 11 years, Legacy will have 4,000 single-family homes, 3,000 multi-family units, 800,000 square-feet of retail and commercial space, four schools, 300 acres of environmental reserve, 10 miles of interconnected pathways, a community garden, and numerous smaller mixed-use sites. Visit www.westcreekdevelopments.com or www.LegcyLife.ca for information. NL
Marty Hope. For more than two decades Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry.
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