VOLUME 10 ISSUE 103 n July 2014
contents
12 cover feature
12
By the banks of the Bow Expect more of life in Calbridge’s Riverstone homes
Feature
32
Women in power Women make their mark in Calgary’s home building industry
PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp. 207 - 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 5
contents
17
10
22
focus on
10 Summer lights
Patio lanterns bring romance to your outdoor space
Show home profiles
17
Inner-city spotlight
Cardel launches inner-city arm with Solstice
22 Real legacy
Trico’s estate homes in Legacy astound
27
Community Feature
27 Nature’s song
The melodic murmur of the Bow River is the refrain of life in Riversong
Feature
AARC provides a new direction for adolescents struggling with addiction
6 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
columns
37 Around Town 46 Hope at Large
36 Teen spirit
Items
8 Editor’s Message 40 Maps 44 Advertiser Index
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 7
editor’s message n
The nature of giving
I had the pleasure to attend the Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre’s (AARC) gala night last month, and I have to still pick up my jaw from the floor where it fell in utter amazement at the charitable nature of the city. $1.1 million was raised that night alone, their 17th annual gala, which also marked a milestone with AARC topping the 500 graduates mark. Source Media Group was one of the media sponsors for the event and we’re just happy to contribute in any small way we can to this noteworthy organization and the work they do in helping Alberta’s troubled youth. For more about the organization and the good they are doing, check out our feature in this issue. The giving nature of the city is also reflected in the natural bounty we all get to enjoy nearby, and Calbridge Homes gives us a way to enjoy this reality even better with their new estate homes in the riverside community of Riverstone of Cranston. They will be opening a range of triple-car garage homes that takes total advantage of this tranquil location by the banks of the Bow River and Fish Creek Park. One of their buyers was lured here by the fly fishing that can readily be had literally at their backyard. Trico Homes’ show home in Legacy also shows the builder’s detail-oriented magnificence in designing luxury estate homes. They are the perfect family home for those looking for a step-up from their move-up home but not necessarily go over the $1 million mark. Meanwhile, Cardel Inner City — the newest addition to the Cradel Homes group — is spicing up living in Calgary’s older communities. Their new show home in Killarney was just launched as they offer a more affordable way to enjoy the benefits of inner-city living. Those inclined to live by the countryside can thank Tamani Communities for the best bet in riverside living in Cochrane with Riversong, as they launch new show homes that will attract buyers from across the demographic range into a new community just a few minutes from Calgary. This issue also brings part two of our series on the outstanding women in Calgary’s home building industry, and how they impact the industry. With the spring market booming, you can trust us to bring you the latest on what’s happening in the new home market and how this can affect your lives — from buying one, decorating your home, and enjoying the lifestyle.
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
Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope A d ve r t i s ing SA L E S |
Cindy Marks
cindy.marks@sourcemediagroup.ca A c c o u n t ing
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:
We look at the best children’s playgrounds in the city
@CalgaryNewHomes
8 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
NewHomeLivingCalgary
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 9
focus on
n
Summer lights Patio lanterns bring romance to your outdoor space n by
Aaliya Essa
“Those patio lanterns they were the stars in the sky…” Kim Mitchell’s song is a tribute not just to young love but also to suburban living, and its romantic spirit is captured by the selection of — you guessed it — patio lanterns we have here. But who says they can only work in patios? Indoors or out they’re perfect mood setters. NL
1
2 10 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
n focus
9
8
10
7
[ 1 ] Bohemian Wooden Lantern, $54 at Pier1 Imports. [ 2 ] Rope Lantern, $20 at Pier1 Imports. [ 3 ] ROTERA - yellow, $3.99 at IKEA. [ 4 ] Crosby small lantern, $77.23 at Crate and Barrel. [ 5 ] Carmel small lantern, $66.19 at Crate and Barrel. [ 6 ] Wisteria lanterns, $34.95 to $54.95 at Crate and Barrel. [ 7 ] Hudson Lanter, $35 to $40, at Pier1 Imports. [ 8 ] MÖRKT - blue-gray, $6.99 at IKEA. [ 9 ] Colourful glass hanging lantern, $89.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 10 ] Cambria lanterns, $13.59 to $54.56 at Crate and Barrel.
5
3
on
6
4 july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 11
| Advertising cover Feature |
By the
banks of the Bow
Expect more of life in Calbridge’s Riverstone homes
U
nder the blameless blue skies of southern Calgary, besides the gently flowing Bow River, the community of Riverstone flourishes in idyllic suburban splendour. This young, vibrant neighbourhood is the perfect backdrop for Calbridge Homes’ line of luxurious, family-friendly estate homes that elegantly captures this carefree riverside lifestyle. Calbridge Homes only started in this riverside enclave of Cranston in the southeast last September, but they have quickly caught up, with a new show home, The Rochester, opening in June that showcases their single-family expertise. “This is a very special community and we’ve had buyers coming in from all over the city — and from all age groups — who want to take advantage of the unique park-like setting of Riverstone,” says area manager Glenda Ell. “I have a couple from the northwest who bought one of our homes here simply because of the fly fishing that can be so easily had,” she adds. It is this lure of tranquil riverside living that has been the biggest advantage in Riverstone of Cranston, but, curiously, also the number one question in most buyers’ minds. “After the historic floods that hit the city last year, the question that pops up most is how safe life is here this close to the river. And the answer is: very safe,” Ell points out. “The community didn’t flood last June, and with the flood mitigation measures that the developer — Brookfield Residential — had put in place here, it’s highly unlikely it ever will.”
12 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
| Advertising cover Feature |
Brookfield raised the community by 4.8 metres (15 feet and nine inches) on average, so basement floors are 3.3 metres (more than 10 feet) above the original ground level. “You really get all the benefits of riverside living without the risks,” Ell says. And with Calbridge Homes, that lifestyle has an emphasis on style. The 2012 SAM Awards Builder of the Year is pulling out all the stops to create homes here that befit the unique natural setting of Riverstone of Cranston. Offered are 10 models from Calbridges’ Designer Series and Motion Series, most are triple car garage homes on walk-out lots. The two-storey homes start from 2,642 to 3,447 square-feet, and are available in three- or four-bedroom models. Bungalows from 1,852 square-feet are also available. The Motion Series homes are from 2,642 square-feet and include vinyl deck with aluminum railing, a walkout basement backing onto the green space and a triple car garage. Prices start at $740,000, including GST. Designer Series homes are from 2,879 square-feet and priced from $1.025 million with GST, and include vinyl deck, aluminum railing, stone deck columns, exposed aggregate patio to mirror deck above and walkout basement backing onto green space. The soon-to-open show home will be The Rochester, a 3,226-squarefoot estate home with triple car side garage that’s part of the Designer Series. “It is a true luxury home with gourmet kitchen, a fully developed lower level, a spacious deck that allows the owners to fully enjoy the spectacular natural wonders of Riverstone,” Ell says.
“I have a couple from the northwest who bought one of our homes here simply because of the fly fishing that can be so easily had.”
»
The Rochester features oversized windows to maximize natural light.
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 13
| Advertising cover Feature |
“It doesn’t matter which lot you choose, the serenity and calm that living in Riverstone will bring to your everyday life is truly priceless.” The Rochester features oversized windows to maximize natural light, a family-sized mud room with enough storage space to move in with school bags and sports equipment and groceries. The laundry is conveniently located on the second floor to minimize laundry chores. The partially covered deck (a standard) is also included to let owners enjoy summer entertaining all the better. The master retreat is far enough away from the two other bedrooms to give each member of the household that much more privacy and the bonus room at the top of the stairs will be the perfect spot for movie-nights with the family. The optional lower level development has a games area, a media area and two more bedrooms plus a full bath that makes this a great place to entertain guests and have them stay for a couple of days. “We have young couples, or young families wanting to set down roots, as well as older couples with no kids who are looking to upsize,” Ell says.
Interior photo is from a previous Calbridge Homes show home.
14 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
They can all expect an idyllic lifestyle in Fish Creek Park, the largest urban park in North America, as well as an unmatched family-centred convenience with plenty of schools within the community of Cranston, and the peace of mind of being near the South Calgary Campus Hospital. “The development of the Seton commercial centre is also something residents here can look forward too,” she adds. “It doesn’t matter which lot you choose, the serenity and calm that living in Riverstone will bring to your everyday life is truly priceless.” n
FAST FACTS: Community: Riverstone at Cranston Developer: Brookfield Residential Builder: Calbridge Homes Model: The Rochester Style: Two-storey luxury estate home Size: 3,226 sq. ft. Price: Motion Series homes from the $750,000s, Designer Series homes from $1.025 million Address: 3 Cranbrook Drive S.E. Directions: South on Deerfoot Trail, exit on Cranston Blvd. and follow the signs Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.
For more information, visit www.calbridgehomes.com
Cardel Homes n show home profile
Inner-city spotlight Cardel launches inner-city arm with Solstice n Written by
Pepper Rodriguez
There is a definite trend towards building new homes in the inner-city these days, but with the cost of land in areas near the downtown, no one has figured out a way to make this a more affordable venture. That is until Cardel Inner City came into the picture. This division of multiple award winning builder, Cardel Homes, is tasked with acquiring new lots in some of Calgary’s best inner-city locations and building their stylish, modern brand of semi-detached homes. They opened their first show home in May in the established southwest community of Killarney. “We’re very pleased with the response to our new inner-city developments,” says Cardel Inner City’s Travis Burnside. “We’ve found out that people are willing to pay premium prices to live in these inner-city communities that allows them to live closer to downtown, eliminate the long commutes and avail of nearby, already-established amenities.”
Even though they are willing to pay a premium, it doesn’t mean that everyone can afford the $1-million-upwards price tag that most single-family, inner-city homes go for these days. This is where Cardel Inner City comes in. Prices for Cardel Inner City homes start in the $760,000s, which includes lot, GST and the basement development and garage, Burnside says. They already have six infill homes available right away in the southwest communities of Killarney, Glenbrook and Altadore. Burnside says as much as 16 more are coming soon. “We’re certainly more affordable than what most new single-family homes go for these days in the inner-city, and in some cases, even for some condos,” Burnside says. Their first show home is the 2,638-square-foot Solstice A at 3213 Kinsale Road S.W. this semi-detached homes has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths and premium finishes.
Above For a semidetached home with a shared wall, the Solstice A is surprisingly well-lit with lots of natural light. “It feels airy and spacious because of all the oversized windows it has throughout the main floor, and the nine-foot standard ceilings help, too,” says community sales area manager, Mark Endruhn.
»
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 17
show home profile n
Above Engineered hardwood flooring is a staple for every Cardel Inner City home, which makes it very easy to personalize. Custom, half-height tiled fireplace and other aesthetic flourishes give Solstice a very modern feel.
Left The flex room in the front of the Solstice gives owners a flexibility rare in semi-detached homes. “Our inner-city models have a universal appeal that crosses all demographics. Singles, couples, young families and retirees all love the floor plans,” Burnside says.
18 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
Right The deluxe ensuite comes with tiled flooring Hanstone Quartz countertops with double sinks, a large soaker tub and oversized glass shower stall, giving it a luxurious, boutique feel.
Cardel Homes n show home profile
Left Maple lacquered and walnut cabinetry grace the Solstice’s kitchen, blending well with the quartz countertops and top of the line, stainless steel Kitchenaid appliances.
»
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 19
show home profile n
Left The elegant exterior featuring plenty of stone detail blends well with the inner-city charms of Killarney. “It’s the perfect location for us to launch our inner-city line,” Burnside says. “It’s a very well established community with plenty of nearby amenities and downtown is just 10 minutes away. It’s perfect for singles, to families, to downsizers.”
fast facts Community: Killarney Builder: Cardel Inner City Style: Semi-detached infill homes size: 2,638 sq. ft. Price: Starts in the $760,000s Address: 3213 Kinsale Rd. S.W. Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Directions: South on 37 St S.W., left on Richmond Rd. and left on Kinsale Rd. WEBSITE: www.cardelhomes.com
Above The four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath Solstice has every feature that buyers want. Spaciousness and storage that are rare to find in semi-detached homes are in abundance in Cardel Inner City homes.
Right Every Cardel Inner City home comes with a fully developed basement with rec room, bedroom and full bath, as well as a detached garage. “With prices starting in the $760,000s, it’s the most affordable new home in the inner-city with all the features of a suburban home without the travel time,” Burnside says.
20 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
show home profile n Trico Homes
Regal legacy Trico’s estate homes in Legacy astound n Written by
Pepper Rodriguez
The new community of Legacy in the southeast is a family-friendly enclave surrounded by lush natural beauty, and Trico Homes’ line of luxurious estate homes here mirrors the rich, varied landscape, offering a lifetime of relaxed comfort. Trico’s Newport and Birchwood show homes in Legacy are the best representation of this popular line of homes, where you can find the middle ground between the move-up home and million-dollar mansions. “As families grow and become more established, they want more in a home, and Trico’s estate homes provide a terrific selection to fill this need,” says Area Manager Hal Pike. “Our line of estate homes give families the option of upgrading from their starter or move-up home into a larger one without necessarily going over the $1 million mark.” He tells New Home Living that Trico offers six estate models in Legacy, ranging from 2,315 to over 3,000 square-feet. “They are all two-storey with double attached garages. We start at $624,000 including home, lot and GST, and go up from there.” Pike says Trico has lots up to 40-feet-wide, a rare find in the city, “and you get to enjoy Legacy’s 300 acres of green space, including an environmental reserve, with 15 kilometres of winding walking paths.”
Right The 3,042-square-foot Birchwood revels in the sheer elegance and functionality of the family home. The dining room is particularly impressive with its domed ceiling with wraparound lighting that provides a dramatic backdrop and accents the home’s unique visual appeal.
22 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
Right Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams bring an aesthetic flourish to the Birchwood’s master bedroom, but it is the spectacular view available from the show home’s location overlooking Legacy’s green space and pond that bring the design to another level.
BELOW The double-sided fireplace separating the living room and the formal dining room heightens the sense of luxury in the Birchwood’s open concept main floor. Price is $975,000, which is on a home site backing onto the pond.
Left The luxurious, spalike master ensuite is the ultimate in lavish comfort, but the four-bedroom Birchwood does not stray from its family-oriented design, which provides plenty of space and privacy to all members of the household.
Above “The massive kitchen has a large island with a unique bulkhead giving it a very modern appearance. The functional layout of the kitchen allows for a very smooth flow to the workspace with tons of cabinetry for extra storage space,” Pike says.
»
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 23
show home profile n Trico Homes Left The Newport offers an exciting new design. “It’s designed for grown-up families with older children and offers a bungalow lifestyle with the convenience of a two-storey home. It is another example of Trico’s innovative way of designing the new family home,” Pike says.
fast facts Community: Legacy Developer: WestCreek Developments Builder: Trico Homes Style: Estate homes size: From 2,432 to 2,924 sq. ft. Price: From the low $600,000s Address: 24 and 28 Legacy Circle S.E. Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Directions: South on Macleod Tr. exit east on 210 Ave. S.E. and follow the signs. WEBSITE: www.tricohomes.com
ABOVE Trico’s semi-estate homes blend well with the character of Legacy, Pike says. “About 80 per cent of our lots in the first phase are walkouts that back onto Legacy’s fabulous green space, including pond lots. So there’s some really unique opportunities to build the perfect dream home here,” he adds.
24 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
RIGHT The Newport is Trico’s most popular model in Legacy with its master bedroom on the main floor, giving it a bungalow feel. The airy master ensuite with dual vanities and make-up table adds a touch of functional style.
Riversong nn community profile
Nature’s song
The melodic murmur of the Bow River is the refrain of life in Riversong n Written by
Pepper Rodriguez
T h e g e n t ly f l ow i n g banks of the Bow River provide the spectacular backdrop to life in Riversong, Cochrane’s newest family-friendly community that’s as attuned to nature as it is to the needs of modern living. The symphony of nature can be seen and heard through the 100 acres of natural woodlands set within the community, and with the Bow River right at your backyard, the opportunities for year-round recreational activities are boundless. And the community is only coming into bloom with plenty of potential still ahead. “Ground was broken for the community of Riversong about six years ago and still has about five to seven years left of development,” says Nicole Westman-Jones, Marketing Manager at Tamani Communities, Riversong’s developer. “In about a year there will be homes built up along the ridge which will have full views of the mountains and the Town of Cochrane.” With the lushness of nature surrounding the community, it may seem like Riversong is a world away but it is only 15 minutes west of Calgary. “The lifestyle would be laid back with a strong community feel. People who love to head to the mountains to ski or hike would find their perfect home here, especially with its accessibility to major routes including Highways 1 and 1A. Add to that Cochrane’s small town values and family-friendly appeal and you really can’t find a more affordable, accessible and amenity-rich community that’s close to nature.”
»
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 27
community profile n
Close to a third of this picturesque community is nestled along the shores of the Bow River. But it also has amenities that make life here seem so much more leisurely and carefree, including having the Bow Valley High School right at the entrance to the community. “We have a second park down along the Bow River, we also have many bike paths and a pedestrian bridge that allows residents to take a leisurely stroll right into the heart of down town Cochrane, in fact, we’re the only development on this side of the river that has this unique feature,” Westman-Jones adds. The floods that hit southern Alberta last summer may have put into question the safety — or indeed the sanity — of living so near the river, but Tamani General Manager, Cam Hart, quickly puts those concerns to rest. “With all due respect to the terrible events that happened with the flood, this was a good news story in Riversong,” Hart says. “The water did not reach the lots in the community and the flooding was limited to the floodway, where we have no development. This
28 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
is due to current regulatory and development practices that were followed, which means the lands adjacent to the river were developed to withstand the one- to 100-year flood. This involved a significant amount of grading work, raising the elevation of these lands and adhering to setbacks from the river.” Riversong was designed not only to withstand nature, but to blend with and nurture it as well. The architectural designs are very high in Riversong, giving it a consistent and luxurious, high-end appeal, and Tamani has taken steps to make it an environmentally-sustainable neighbourhood. “We have amazing architiecture in the community and a group of award winning builders,” Hart says. “Environmental sustainability plays a significant role in the community, all homes in our new Riviera of Riversong enclave are built to Built Green Gold standard and we have incorporated two residential wind turbines into the community that provide power to the park and pathways.” A wide range of homes and floor plans are available including front drive, semi-detached, laned, manors and villas. “Riversong includes a broad range of real estate options crafted to satisfy the diverse needs of our buyers,” adds Westman-Jones. “Rarely has a property like this been available to home buyers in the Cochrane and Calgary area.” New to the community are street oriented townhomes, starting in the high $200,000s, from Innovations by Jayman. Also available are semi-attached homes from the
n community
profile
The architectural designs are very high in Riversong, giving it a consistent and luxurious, high-end appeal… mid $300,000s from Trico Homes and Innovations by Jayman, laned homes from the low to mid $300,000s are from Sabal Homes and Trico Homes, and narrow lot front drive homes in the mid to high $300,000s from Innovations by Jayman. In Riviera, which is their upscale enclave that’s closest to the Bow River, they have luxury villas and manors starting in the low $600,000s from Jayman MasterBUILT and front drive homes starting in the mid $500,000s from Trico Homes and Jayman MasterBUILT. “A great range of housing options to accommodate a wide choice of lifestyles,” Hart says. There are 18 show homes currently open, where visitors can get a feel for the kind of lifestyle that awaits them in Riversong. With the river valley and mountain views at your doorstep, Riversong offers “resort living in the heart of Cochrane,” Hart says. NL
fast facts Community: Riversong of Cochrane Developer: Tamani Communities Builders & Prices: Townhomes from Innovations by Jayman from the high $200,000s. Semi-attached homes from Trico Homes and Innovations by Jayman from the mid $300,000s. Narrow lot front drive homes from Innovations by Jayman in the mid to high $300,000s. Luxury villas and manors starting in the low $600,000s from Jayman MasterBUILT. Front drive homes from Trico Homes and Jayman MasterBUILT starting in the mid $500,000s. Directions: West on Highway 1, north on Highway 22, and right on River Heights Dr. and follow the signs Sales Centre Hours: Monday to Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m., closed Fridays. Web: www.riversongcochrane.com
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 29
30 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
feature n
Women in power Women make their mark in Calgary’s home building industry
n Written by
Elizabeth Chorney-Booth
L
ast month we introduced readers to some prominent women who hold high level positions in the local home building and property development business — in Part Two of our series about women executives in the housing industry, we have another group of leading women who all come from markedly different backgrounds. As with the women we profiled last month, all of these professionals share a love of the industry and are proud of the part they’ve played in building a thriving community of homebuilders here in Calgary. Of course, there are many women in a number of roles in home building and development, ranging from trades people and sales representatives to Presidents of major companies. These are just a few more of the women who have made their mark in the local industry:
Alice Mateyko
President, Homes By Avi Alberta (Single Family Division)
Alice Mateyko says that she has grown her career by being a good manager and surrounding herself with excellent people, but she also believes that her strong interest in the technical aspects of building have given her an edge in the business. Despite having a background in engineering, after moving to Calgary from Singapore in the late ‘80s, Mateyko started working in real estate. After meeting Avi Amir at a real estate conference she began working at Homes by Avi and realized that it was the perfect place for her to combine her love of real estate with her engineering know-how.
“Initially, I was attracted to real estate because I wanted the opportunity to engage with people who were making the biggest financial investment of their lives.” 32 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
n
“Initially, I was attracted to real estate because I wanted the opportunity to engage with people who were making the biggest financial investment of their lives,” Mateyko says. “I felt like I could relate to those people, and I enjoyed great success in sales. But because of my background in mechanical and production engineering, I also wanted to know everything that went into building a home, the technology involved, and the materials being used.” Mateyko says that even though her interest in the physical building of homes is invaluable, the most essential part of her job is working with the people on her team. “The legacy I want to leave behind is to show the team, how we appreciate, develop and retain the people,” she says. “People are all you have to run a successful business.”
feature
Editor’s note: This is the second of a two-part series on Calgary’s top women in the home building industry. Part 1 ran in the June 2014 issue of New Home Living.
Donna Moore
CEO, Canadian Home Builders Association – Calgary Region
As the CEO of Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region, Donna Moore also focuses directly on people, but in a way that’s quite different than many of her peers. Moore’s own background is in the not-for-profit sector, and when she first moved to Calgary in 1984 she took a position at the CHBA believing it would be temporary until she found something that better suited her interests. She was surprised to find out how much she loved the industry and has been with the organization ever since. “Not-for-profits are different in that we don’t have customers in the true sense, we have members,” Moore says. “It’s really up to us as the industry staff and leaders to listen to the members and execute and implement their ideas. And making sure that we are keeping the strategic plan and the ideals at the association in mind at all times to make the industry better.” Moore appreciates that the CHBA has let her work in her comfort zone, but has also introduced her to the home building world, which she has grown to love. “I think the piece that I love the most is that whether the industry is on an upswing or a downturn there’s always a challenge, something that we as an organization can look toward to help improve or change to try to keep the industry successful and viable for our members,” Moore says. “That, I think, for any person in any kind of business, is rewarding.”
“Not-for-profits are different in that we don’t have customers in the true sense, we have members. It’s really up to us as the industry staff and leaders to listen to the members and execute and implement their ideas.”
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 33
feature n
Carol Oxtoby
President and CEO, Heritage Pointe Properties Inc.
For Carol Oxtoby, being a part of the local housing industry has been rewarding from both a business point of view and also because she has had the chance to create an idyllic lifestyle for the homeowners that move to the country residential communities developed by Heritage Pointe Properties Inc. Oxtoby has been with the land division of Upper Lake Groups for 23 years, and was responsible for amassing land for what would become the Heritage Pointe development in 1989. “I believe everyone deserves the right to have a place to call home, whether it be rental or ownership,” Oxtoby says. “We as an industry have the privilege of creating that safe haven and our constant challenge is to be able to offer affordable product for all income levels.” As for business advice, Oxtoby thinks it’s particularly important for younger women to find a strong mentor and develop relationships in an industry that historically has been dominated by men, a trend which is changing as more women enter the industry. “Become involved and engaged by volunteering your time to not only build relationships, but nurture them,” she says. “And above all, be cognizant that, male or female, we all have the ability to build great homes and communities.”
“I believe everyone deserves the right to have a place to call home, whether it be rental or ownership.”
Wanda Palmer
Vice President, Marketing, Trico Group
Compared to some of the other women on our list, Wanda Palmer is a relative newcomer to the industry, but that doesn’t mean that she doesn’t come to her job with many years of experience. After working with various marketing agencies (including her own firm), frequently with home builder clients, Palmer stepped across the aisle, so to speak, in 2010 to work in Trico Homes’ marketing department. Palmer says that her role has required her to learn about just about every aspect of the industry, which is a challenge she’s quite relished. “Being in marketing really allows you to become fully entrenched and fully immersed in the organization because you’re helping to develop the brand,” Palmer says. “You’re trying to understand what customers want so that you develop the right product, so you get to assist with product development. You get to assist with merchandising in the show homes. It’s such a great career.” And that is really what has drawn all of these accomplished women in this business: the variety of challenges that are presented on a daily basis, coupled with the opportunity to interact with other enthusiastic professionals. All of the women we talked to come from different backgrounds and hold different roles, but the satisfaction that comes with building communities and helping people make the most significant purchase they’re ever likely to make has kept them thriving in the industry. NL
“You’re trying to understand what customers want so that you develop the right product, so you get to assist with product development.” 34 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 35
| Advertising Feature |
Teen spirit AARC provides a new direction for adolescents struggling with addiction
I
t’s not easy being a teenager these days. The teen years are filled with a variety of ups and downs, pressures and expectations, not to mention changing hormones. For teens that succumb to the lure of drug addiction, things are even more difficult, with insurmountable compounding problems, each stemming from and building on the other. It’s a story that’s told all too often; of how simply trying a drink with friends progresses into trying drugs, and just turns into a domino effect that, even for many adults, is hard to control. Carly is one of many young people who have graduated from the Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC). Her story starts off just like any other kid. When her mother had her she thought she was perfect, and she was. She grew into a child that was into sports and participated in activities at school, like choir. She even had good grades. “My childhood was normal and quite lovely actually, unlike others who have been through here (AARC), neither of my parents struggled with addiction,” says Carly. “I played soccer and sang competitively, did well in school, and I had lots of friends at school too.” Carly, though, like so many other kids, fell under the intoxicating spell of trying substances at a young age. She took her first drink when she was 12 years old. “Which, looking back on it, was really young,” she says. She was able to access the liquor her parents had in their home. “It didn’t progress really fast right away for me, it was mainly on weekends partying, it was very much centered around my friends.”
In high school, things started to go downhill. “I started smoking weed, mostly just because I was rebellious and bored. Nothing was going wrong in my life, but that progressed much quicker with the marijuana,” says Carly. She started to fall behind in many of the activities she use to be part of and, despite the drugs, was depressed. By the time Carly was 16, she had started experimenting with other drugs. “I loved how drugs made me feel, so every drug I tried I loved,” she says. “I did ecstasy, mushrooms, and then I started doing cocaine and that was my drug of choice.” After a variety of incidents, she was enrolled at AARC, where she was placed into an environment and treatment program that offered the kind of personal help that she needed. At AARC, Carly says, she received emotional support, was able to isolate her issues, and really begin to tackle them one by one. “I felt understood here. I felt heard. A big thing is that a lots of the people that work here have experienced addiction and gotten through it themselves,” she says. Carly’s mother, Donna, appreciates that AARC is a support system for the entire family, who are also affected by the person’s addiction. “It was awful and terrifying at first, she was not the daughter that I knew,” she says. “She was a girl that excelled at many things, and slowly over a year she lost interest in everything.” “I didn’t have a lot of understanding or knowledge about addiction, I didn’t know what was wrong,” she adds. “I think what the program has done for her is given her the tools to have a successful life,” says Donna. n
“I felt understood here. I felt heard.”
16th Annual Tournament of Miracles AARC is holding their annual Tournament of Miracles, at Silvertip Gold Resort in Canmore on August 18. Funds raised go to support the great services that AARC offers, and to ensure that no family is ever turned away from the assistance and help that they need. To register, or for information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact the events department at (403) 253-5250 or events@aarc.ab.ca Last year’s winning team from Spyglass Resources.
36 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
around town n
By Pepper Rodriguez
Homes by Avi brings back semi-detached homes to Walden
Cedarglen auction raises $551,000 for Wellspring
Homes by Avi has reintroduced its popular semi-detached homes to the southeast community of Walden. This is the second time that the homebuilder has offered this versatile product in this Genstar community after the first lots sold out in record time. “Our Walden semi-detached homes are very well received,” says Karl Bursnell, sales manager for Homes by Avi. “Customers like that they can enjoy the benefits of a single-family home, like a private yard and the ability to build a garage, but at a more affordable price point. And there are no condo fees to worry about like with a multi-family unit.” Bursnell also attributes the popularity of Homes by Avi’s semis to the enticing list of inclusions, like nine-foot main floor ceilings, hardwood, quartz in the kitchen and front landscaping. “They offer a complete package, so they really appeal to young professionals who want to enter the market with a comfortable, inviting home, as well as those who want to downsize, but still desire some extra space for entertaining friends and family.” Visit www.homesbyavi.com for more information.
Darlene Browning won the Cedarglen Home auction to benefit Wellspring Calgary. Her bid of $551,000 at the jampacked auction won a 2,160-square-foot two-storey, front attached garage, three-bedroom family home in the southeast community of Auburn Bay. “I’m writing out a cheque for the amount which we are giving to Wellspring right after the auction,” Cedarglen President Howard Tse told Around Town. Before the auction, the home was being used by Wellspring Calgary as an outreach office to give people living with cancer in the area an opportunity to try out their programs. “It gave us terrific exposure Howard Tse in this part of town,” says Wellspring’s Patti Morris. “People not only from southern Calgary but also from rural southern Alberta were able to try out the programs we offer, and highlights the need for a permanent presence for Wellspring in the area.” Bordeaux, Qualico partner for Harmony Land developers Bordeaux Developments and Qualico Communities announced a partnership to develop the new community of Harmony. Sustainability is the cornerstone of Harmony, a visionary 1,700-acre village concept in Springbank just west of Calgary. It is designed to have 3,500 homes and will feature a self-contained water system, recreational lake and a 27-hole championship golf course. “The vision for Harmony resonates with our commitment to creating communities we believe in,” says Karin Finley, Qualico Communities’ Vice President. “We’re excited to be an integral part of this project and look forward to working with Bordeaux Developments and Rocky View County to ensure that Harmony will be truly exceptional.” Project construction is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2014 with show homes Cedarglen scheduled to open in Homes auction. September, 2015.
May housing starts dip Total housing starts in Calgary slipped four per cent in May to 1,030 units led by a decline in new multi-family constructions. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. says multi-family starts in May was at 424, down from 519 from May last year. But single-detached homes saw an increase of 8.4 per cent with 606 starts. “After rising consistently since July 2013, the trend in total housing starts in Calgary declined in May,” says Richard Cho, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for the Prairie and Territories Region. “Production of multi-family units slowed in May after reporting strong increases in the first four months of the year,” which he says is not uncommon, as apartment buildings are counted as starts once foundations are poured. It’s no reason to worry though as he says “the economy in Calgary continues to support housing demand with impressive gains in employment and strong migration.
»
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 37
around town n Golf for Girls raises funds for Made by Momma Kinette Club of Calgary’s Golf for Girls raises funds for local grass roots charities. This year the funds went to Made by Momma Golf for Girls raised over $34,000 for charity during the 4th annual all-women 9-hole golf tournament. Held at the River Spirit the charity golf classic was hosted by CTV’s Lisa Bowes, a total of 90 women golfers and 24 celebrities participated, including John Morris, Darryl Janz, Lisa “Longball” Vlooswyk, Roughneck Captain Andrew McBride and three of his team mates, four NHL referees and many, many more. Making the event even more successful was a generous $10,000 donation from Cardel Homes. All proceeds are going to the Made by Momma charity organization that is a 100 per cent volunteer-run group providing wholesome nourishment and nurturing care to mothers and young children facing situations of adversity and crisis. Source Media Group was also one of the main media sponsors for the event. The Kinette Club of Calgary is a vibrant group of women dedicated to serving the community’s greatest needs. the club began in 1948 and continues to support a variety of charities in the city. Kinette Club of Calgary is part of Kin Canada — the association of Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs, a proud all-Canadian service organiation made up of outstanding community volunteers. It has more than 7,000 members belonging to 518 Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs from coast to coast. NL
L to R: Lisa “Longball” Vlooswyk, Source Media Group’s Norma Robertson, Hopewell’s Erin McGregor, and Tamani’s Nicole Westman-Jones.
38 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
ual n n a mbhg Z ] 17th hng
^k o b g N
> r^ r m b l
?
calgary map n Northwest/Northeast
40 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 41
calgary map n Southwest
42 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
Southeast/Calgary area n calgary map
AIRDRIE
OKOTOKS
COCHRANE july 2014 NE W HOME LIVING
| 43
advertisers index n Avid Ratings page 15
Homes By Us page 35
Brookfield Residential pages 2-3
Hopewell Communities Copperfield page 30
Calbridge Riverstone FC, pages 12-14
Hopewell Communities Mahogany page 38
Cardel Homes page 21
Hunter Douglas page 31
CHBA page 35
Innovations by Jayman Chaparral Valley page 26
Concept Coverings page 45
Jayman MasterBUILT page 16
Dream Development EvansRidge page 44
44 | NE W HOME LIVING
Mattamy Homes page 47
July 2014
Shane Homes Kings Heights page 48 Tamani Developments Riversong page 9 University Eye Foundation page 39 United Communities Nolan Hill page 25 Vesta Properties page 4 WestCreek Developments Legacy page 7
hope at large By Marty Hope
n
Mystical land Calbridge’s Mystic Ridge is as magical as it sounds Fuelled by a growing consumer demand for luxury homes, Calgary’s west side continues to be the go-to destination for builders wanting their piece of the luxury home pie — and for discerning buyers hungry to set down roots. Mystic Ridge by Calbridge Homes is the newest addition to this burgeoning segment of the housing marketplace — one that is made up of newcomers to the city looking for the same style of home they left behind, locals moving up in the market, or those who see the appeal of owning on the prestigious west side. “Mystic Ridge is exclusive to Calbridge Homes,” says area sales manager Simon Lau. “We’ve cleared the land, put in the services, and have several Calbridge floor plans that we are offering.” Located on 85th Street S.W. between 17th Avenue and Lower Springbank Road, Calbridge has created an exclusive cu de sac enclave of 29 large estate lots in what Calbridge is calling the second phase of Mystic Ridge that Lau feels will bring a new dimension to an area that is rich in natural beauty and countless amenities. A third phase of eight more lots is planned for future development. So, how is the development being accepted? “Well, with no show home, no sales trailer, and just relying on our signage that is pulling people in who are driving around looking for something special, we’ve sold nine lots,” says Lau. “Sales are exceeding
46 | NE W HOME LIVING
July 2014
all of our expectations.” To some, the Mystic Ridge name may sound familiar. Well, give yourself a gold star and a pat on the back. Lau says that the original phase of Mystic Ridge was completed about three years or so ago.
“The first phase of Mystic Ridge is just to the east of here, across the ravine,” says Lau hovering over a map showing the location of the second phase as well as the lot pattern. “It was a huge success, and this phase will be just as successful.” Lau figures he might be sold out of the second phase by the end of next year. Lots, on average, are 80 feet wide and as much as 125 feet deep and are prices between $530,000 and $790,000 — which brings the lot-house price up to between $1.25 million and $2 million, says Lau, who has been selling new homes for 14 years. Calbridge has brought together eight of its most popular floor plans for buyers to choose from. The five two-storey models range in size from nearly 2,900 squarefeet to just under 3,600 square-feet. The
bungalows are sized from almost 1,900 to just over 2,100 square-feet. The exteriors of the homes are blend of stucco, Hardieboard, and stone, and all have three or four bedrooms, 3.5 to five bathrooms, and room for three- or four-car garages, adds Lau. “Our buyer profile is pretty consistent,” he says. “We’re seeing professional couples with children, many of whom already live on the west side but are looking for larger homes for their growing families.” Nestled in a little valley, surrounded by trees and with an environment reserve, Mystic Ridge is unique to the west side. “It’s secluded, quiet, and private — I think that’s part of the reason we have been successful so early in the sales process,” says Lau. It also doesn’t hurt that Calbridge was a finalist for the Builder of the Year award this past April, after winning the prestigious title a year earlier. Also this year, Calbridge won a marketing category award and also had 10 finalist nominations in various housing and marketing categories. 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.