New Home Living August 2014 by Source Media Group

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 104 n August 2014

contents

12 cover feature

Coming perfection If you think Mahogany is irresistible now, wait till you see what’s coming next

Feature

Top tot lots This year’s best Calgary children’s playgrounds are counted down

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contents 36 16

focus on

10 Dish play

Cater with creativity using colourful serving bowls

Show home profiles

Delightful La Casa

DS Homes unveils second show home in EvansRidge

22 Charming Carlisle

Jewel box home is a model of functionality

Lifestyle

27 An entertainer’s home

The Toppings find their perfect bungalow in the perfect community

Style

columns

36 Green thumbs up

45 Around Town 54 Hope at Large

Shopping

41 Loving laminates

8 Editor’s Message 48 Maps 52 Advertiser Index

Stylize your yard the YYC way

Cover your floor in the latest design style

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Items

editor’s message n

Hot in the city

PU B L I S H E R |

Turn off the TV and break out the sunglasses! The sun’s shining and it’s been a glorious summer so far, and even if Stampede is done there’s still lots of fun we can have in the great outdoors, even if you’re just staying home. Our STYLE writer, David Crosson, says though it may be late in the growing season you still have time to pretty up the backyard — and design it in such a way as you can make the most of it through Calgary’s fickle weather. We also have a special feature from Dana Wheatley counting down this year’s best playgrounds in the city — if a city stay-cation is what you’re doing this summer, taking the kiddies to explore as many of these tot lots as you can may be a worthwhile challenge. Fun in the sun is exactly what you can expect in Hopewell Residential’s community of Mahogany, as Calgary’s award-winning lake community gets set to open new show homes and new amenity areas in what already is one of the best neighbourhoods where you can spend a lifetime of vacations. The great weather we’re enjoying is also the perfect time to go out and check out Calgary’s newest show homes and we have a couple of good ones for you in this issue. DS Homes is a custom home builder in EvansRidge and their latest stunner, La Casa, takes full advantage of their ridge lots with a design that allows for the best views. Brookfield Residential’s laned home show home in Cranston, Carlisle, was nominated for best new home in this year’s SAM Awards, and its family friendly appeal and functionality makes it a clear favourite. If it gets too hot, we also have some indoor features with Kathy McCormick talking about the charms of laminate flooring, and Aaliya Essa presenting colourful decorative bowls in her Focus On photo feature that bring the colours of summer inside. Marty Hope brings his insider knowledge to this magazine every issue, this time he chats with Dream Developments (formerly Dundee) to see the two new communities they are intent on developing that’s just waiting for the go-ahead from the city. Summer will be over before we know it and — maybe even sooner, knowing how capricious weather here can be like. You don’t need me to tell you to go out there and enjoy it, but if you’re stuck in the city these are just some of the cool places and things you can do to make the most of the season.

Source Media Group

info@sourcemediagroup.ca A s s o c ia 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, Karen Durrie, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick, Dana Wheatley Pho t og r a p h y

Don Molyneaux A d ve r t i s ing S A 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 I SS N 1 9 1 8 - 4 4 4 1 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 go shopping at furniture stores in Inglewood

@CalgaryNewHomes

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NewHomeLivingCalgary

focus on

Dish Play

Cater with creativity using colourful serving bowls n by

Aaliya Essa

Gone are the days where you must succumb to using whatever you have in the cupboard to serve side dishes at parties. Now, with so much variety at your fingertips, you can really make each dish as unique in its presentation, as well as in taste. Choose from large serving bowls, to plates, to trays to make your next event both stylish and one of a kind. NL

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n focus

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5 [ 1 ] Watermelon serving bowl, $11.95 - $49.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 2 ] Ginkgo leaf serving bowl, $49.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 3 ] BÄRBAR, $5.99 at IKEA. [ 4 ] Rustic melamine serving bowl – turquoise, $36.85 at Williams-Sonoma. [ 5 ] OFFENTLIG, $8.99 at IKEA. [ 6 ] Pomegranate serving bowl, $95 at WilliamsSonoma. [ 7 ] Arabesque bowl – lime and teal, $49.95 and purple and teal, $32.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 8 ] Sunflower glass serving bowl, $49.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 9 ] Chalk note bowls & tray, $19.95 at Pier1 Imports.

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| Advertising cover Feature |

Coming perfection If you think Mahogany is irresistible now, wait till you see what’s coming next

ahogany as seen today already seems to be the perfect lakeside community — drive by its beachfront any day of the week and you will see families enjoying their suburban stay-cation life. But things are about to get even better. For one thing, more show homes are being launched that expertly displays the varied home styles and pricing options available in this multiple award winning community. Renowned Calgary home builder, Homes by Avi, will be making their long-awaited debut as part of its Reserve Collection Lakeside Parade. And, finally, the much-anticipated sales of lots in Mahogany’s premier Island Collection are beginning later this year. With 56- to 64-feet wide lots each with personal dock and private lake access — those 22 premiere lots promise to be the hottest deals in town. As well, there are plenty of new developments coming this year that will make this two-time Community of the Year SAM Award winner fulfill its potentials to become Calgary’s premier suburban community. It starts with the opening of the 22,000-square-foot Beach Club, which will be the focal point of community life here. Then there’s the opening of the spur, which will connect Mahogany to the massive Greenway pathway system — that one day will link all of Calgary. All these give residents of this southeast lakeside community that much

“People will be able to kayak from their backyard to the central park, dock, and walk in to the Urban Village to meet a friend for coffee.” 12 | NE W HOME LIVING

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more opportunities to enjoy an active, healthy outdoor lifestyle. “Our 84-acre lake is the biggest in the city, but there is so much more to living in Mahogany than just that,” says Erin McGregor, marketing manager for development at Hopewell Residential, Mahogany’s developer. “It’s all about giving our residents the best possible ways to enjoy life here, and that includes providing the best home choices in the widest possible range of prices, and having all the family-friendly amenities — like parks, playgrounds and pathways — available for their enjoyment,” she adds. “There are also five school sites ready for development within the community.”

Lakefront show home parade

Front garage show homes

Homes overlooking the wetlands

The massive undertaking by Hopewell is only about a quarter of the way developed with over a thousand families already calling it home. McGregor says sales are continuing at a healthy pace. “Sales are exceeding all expectations, we’re on par to setting a record year. There’s a good balance of supply and what we can offer.” There’s also plenty of innovation involved. The newest show home parade they will be opening on September 6 is an exclusive to Sabal Homes — Hopewell’s home building arm — and will feature rear-attached garages. “We anticipate they will become a very popular home style, as it offers the convenience of an attached garage while still providing a home with pleasant, unobstructed curb appeal.” A week later, Mahogany’s newest Lakeside show home parade will be unveiled featuring models from Calbridge Homes and Morrison Homes (they will be joined later in the year by Homes by Avi, which will be introducing their first single-family homes here). And that isn’t everything. The west side of Mahogany’s lake is already open; it is ultimately designed to have three distinctive parts and two private beach areas

“Our 84-acre lake is the biggest in the city, but there is so much more to living in Mahogany that just that.” for the residents, and clubhouse will also feature playgrounds, fire pits, boat rentals and more. Mahogany’s Urban Village is expected to become the heart of the community’s social and cultural life, with a selection of commercial and retail destinations. “People will be able to kayak from their backyard to the central park, dock, and walk in to the Urban Village to meet a friend for coffee,” McGregor says. “Mahogany offers an incredible lifestyle, and residents appreciate that active and friendly atmosphere.” Its location by Stoney Trail (22X) and Deerfoot Trail is also key in the community’s overall appeal. When completed, Mahogany will have an extraordinary mix of home collections, unique shops, August 2014 NE W HOME LIVING

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| Advertising cover Feature |

“We have price points from the $180,000s to the milliondollar range, making it one of the most comprehensive communities in Calgary.” restaurants, 265 acres of open space and parks, wetlands and beautiful streetscapes. “It’s a big project, and it will be about 15 more years before it’s finished,” McGregor says. Mahogany’s award-winning character is even more amplified by its list of award-winning builders, including Calbridge Homes, Homes by Avi, Jayman MasterBUILT, Morrison Homes, Sabal Homes, Stepper Custom Homes, and Trico Homes. Jayman Modus, Homes by Avi and Truman Homes offer multi-family options. “We have price points from the $180,000s to the million-dollar range, making it one of the most comprehensive communities in Calgary,” McGregor says. “It’s only going to get better from here.” n

Mahogany Lake and West Beach

Mahogany’s Collection of homes and their builders Boulevard Collection: Condos by Jayman Modus and Truman Homes from the $180’s. Attached Homes by Sabal Homes from the mid $350’s. Townhomes and Street Towns from Jayman Modus and Homes by Avi from the low $300’s Lakeland Collection: Laned Homes by Sabal Homes and Stepper Custom Homes — priced from the $380,000s. Rear-Attached Homes by Sabal Homes – priced from the $520’s. Front-Garage Homes by Jayman MasterBUILT, Sabal Homes, Stepper Custom Homes and Trico Homes — priced from the mid $500’s. Reserve Collection: Lakeside Estate Homes by Homes by Avi, Calbridge Homes and Morrison Homes — all with private Mahogany Lake access — priced from the $650’s. Lakefront Estate Homes by Calbridge Homes and Morrison Homes – with private docks and lakefront lots – from $1.3 million.

For more information, visit www.mahoganyliving.com

Lakeside show homes

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show home profile n DS Homes

Delightful La Casa DS Homes unveils second show home in EvansRidge Pepper Rodriguez Photos by Don Molyneaux n Written by

The community of EvansRidge is full of surprises — view lots of the surrounding grasslands, world-class shopping amenities nearby, and some of the most comprehensive home offerings this side of the Deerfoot. One of the most pleasant surprises you’ll find here though is DS Homes’ latest show home: La Casa. This 2,843 square-foot majestic estate home on a walk out lot is a stunning combination of classy architectural styling and family-friendly convenience; a home that is as spacious and dreamy as the blue suburban skies of northwestern Calgary. For another thing, it’s truly one of a kind. DS Homes is EvansRidge’s only custom home builder and they can build the home of your dreams in affordable fashion in this just-as-unique community. “Our homes can fit any lifestyle, because they are fashioned after our buyers’ wants and needs,” says DS Homes’ Harneet Garcha. “We are a family-run company and not only do we treat our trades and our customers as part of our family, but our designs reflects our attitudes towards family values,” she says. The Garcha family is from India and they have a strong multicultural market base who have been very receptive of the stylish, modern look of their homes. “Many are pleasantly surprised, saying our homes are far from what they expected.” DS Homes has quietly created a name for itself a year after it opened its first show home in Calgary, also in EvansRidge. “We are getting noticed and our market is expanding from our usual base,” she says. “Sales have been crazy and we only have two lots and two spec homes left in the current phase of EvansRidge, we should be getting more soon.” One look at La Casa and it’s easy to understand their growing popularity. The open concept design is used to great effect. The foyer is wide and welcoming; hallways and stairwells are gracious; and the high ceilings and tall windows create a feeling of sheer luxury. The show home itself is being sold completely furnished for $999,900, but the La Casa can be built starting from $853,000 including lot and GST.

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LEFT The kitchen area sets the tone for the La Casa show home with its modern style and functional design and comes with an optional pot filler. The stainless steel Jenn-Air appliances are mounted in a single array along the wall leaving plenty of flowing workspace. The mosaic glass backsplash and quartz countertops bring a nice aesthetic touch.

TOP LEFT The stone archway over the threshold and the unique Craftsman elevation creates a memorable curb appeal, and the views available from DS Homes’ ridge lots in EvansRidge make their homes even more irresistible.

ABOVE The open-toabove foyer builds on the spaciousness this home offers, and the wood and spindle railing staircase you see as you first enter the home creates an immediate sense of drama and character. French doors with glass insert lead to the den/office.

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DS Homes

BELOW La Casa is a big home with lots of welllit space, including this dining nook framed by large windows. Garcha says bigger homes sell just as well as their smaller models, as she is seeing a shift in the makeup of the traditional family. “The clientele that we get, consists of more joint families and bigger families. Four people in a family are no longer the norm.”

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP The creative use of 3D wallpaper framing the cantilevered gas fireplace in the great room strikes a balance between modern and traditional design flair. The seven-inch wide distressed-look White Oak hardwood planks that cover the main floor lend a sense of executive elegance to the home.

n show

home profile

Below The fabulous five-piece master ensuite is a picture of cool, comfortable luxury. Ceramic tile flooring lends a boutique spa feel, and the generous stand-alone tub is a romantic touch.

fast facts builder: DS Homes community: EvansRidge Developer: Dream Development Style: Custom estate home on walk-out lot size: 2,843 sq. ft. Price: Starts from $853,000 including lot and GST address: 93 Evansborough Green N.W. Directions: North on Symons Valley Rd., right on Symons Valley Pkwy, turn left at Evanspark Blvd, turn left at Evanston Dr. and follow the signs. Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Website: www.ds-homes.ca

OPPOSITE PAGE, Bottom The bonus room also has a 3D wallpaper feature wall that forms the perfect background for the widescreen TV. The room is an enormous 20-by-14-foot space capped by vaulted ceilings and a cathedral window making it an elegant and airy space for family entertainment.

ABOVE The stylish stone fireplace in La Casa’s above-grade deck make this a fabulous outdoor space for parties, and the wide open grasslands of northwestern Calgary make a fabulous backdrop that’s yours to enjoy from EvansRidge’s amazing view lots. NL

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Above Carlisle is perfect for first time homeowners with its stylish open concept layout that provides ideal space for entertaining. The nine-foot ceilings and tall windows give the interior an air of spacious comfort, and the optional fireplace adds a touch of elegance. Left Full-height kitchen cabinets, mosaic glass tile backsplash and granite countertops bring a knockout punch to the Carlisle, but the inherent functionality of the workspace flow is the key to its winning style. Right The maple hardwood on Carlisle’s main floor is one of its most popular features, and adds a stately, executive appeal. They combine well with the upgraded lighting package in the kitchen and half bath that comes standard.

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Brookfield Homes

n show

home profile

Charming Carlisle Jewel box home is a model of functionality n Written by

Pepper Rodriguez

The jewel box has traditionally been an ornate, heirloom piece that holds one’s most valuable treasures. It is this spirit of artistic functionality that Brookfield Residential strives to capture in their line of laned single-family homes in Cranston, and the Carlisle is one of the best representations of this approach. The family, of course, is one’s most valuable possession, and Carlisle is designed to suit their unique needs. It has, in fact, been one of Brookfield Residential’s top sellers in this southeast community since its introduction last year, and even landed a 2013 SAM Award nomination for best new home ($270,000 to $309,000). “From the creation of the design concept, we knew that the Carlisle would be special,” says Ryan Moon, Sales and Marketing Manager with Brookfield Residential. “As a homebuyer, it has everything you want — a spacious and contemporary kitchen incorporating open-concept dining room and living space, three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, flex room, bonus room, plus nine-foot ceilings. The value it offers is exceptional.” Brookfield offers nine laned home models in Cranston, five of which are currently offered for purchase. This includes the 1,492-square-foot Belvedere, which in fact, won the 2013 SAM Award. But the 1,700-square-foot Carlisle, with its charming Juliet balcony (an option seen in the show home) has a special place in people’s hearts. The show home displays all the vast potential Carlisle has in a stylishly finished, form-follows-function attitude. Including its popular flex room on the main floor, a feature not many other laned homes have. Asked why people have fallen in love with Brookfield Residential’s laned homes, Moon says it all comes down to value. “The source of their appeal is their jewel box design. They are phenomenal homes that are all about quality, function and attention to detail.” He adds that Brookfield Residential has just entered their new — and last — phase in Cranston (Phase 55). “This is the last opportunity to purchase a laned single-family home in Cranston,” he adds.

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Brookfield Homes

Left It doesn’t take a lot to cozy up Carlisle’s sizable master bedroom. A distinctive wall paper print along the feature wall creates an intimate atmosphere together with the big windows and plush carpet.

n show

home profile

fast facts builder: Brookfield Residential community: Cranston Developer: Brookfield Residential Style: Two-storey laned home with bonus room Size: 1,700 sq. ft

Bottom Left The Carlisle’s master ensuite features China basin sinks with upgraded wing lever faucets, but buyers are offered three styles of bath hardware to choose from. Vanities in maple with brushed chrome hardware and matching kicks spice up the style. below Carlisle is one of the few laned homes that come with a standard bonus room upstairs, which shows Brookfield Residential’s innovative approach in using all available space. Their laned homes also come with multimedia outlets using CAT5e (computer and telephone) and RG6 (video) lines in convenient room locations.

Price: Starts from the low $400,000s address: 201 Cranford Dr. S.E. Directions: South on Deerfoot Tr. exit to Cranston Blvd., left on Cranarch Rd. and follow the signs Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Fridays, weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.livebrookfield.com

Left The jewel box romance of Carlisle is embodied in the Juliet balcony featured in the elevation used for the show home. The designer stone columns and arches help to create a very distinctive street appeal for the home. Carlisle starts from the low $400,000s including tax and the show home itself is at $455,000. NL

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n lifestyle

An entertainer’s home The Toppings find their perfect bungalow in the perfect community Karen Durrie Don Molyneaux

n Written by Photos by

ith credit to Frank Sinatra, sometimes you just gotta “do it my way.” That’s what Kevin and Darlene Topping did in searching for a just the right house to build in Airdrie. In a bid to cut their commutes and trade their northwest Calgary condo loaded with stairs for something less choppy and more flowing, the Toppings set out to find a bungalow design that would fit the bill. Turns out it’s not all that easy to find bungalows these days, with many builders mostly offering two-storey models that fit more easily onto lot sizes. “We didn’t have a builder say they wouldn’t build one, but they just didn’t have the lots for them,” Kevin says. After doing some legwork, the pair discovered that Shane Homes had a lot in Airdrie’s new King’s Heights community backing onto a pond that was appropriate for a bungalow. And the developer would allow the couple to put a bungalow model they’d last built in 2008 on that lot. The Toppings moved out of their Hanson Ranch condo to Airdrie in October. Both Kevin and Darlene work at Fortis Alberta in Airdrie, and now have a quick three-minute drive to the office.

Kevin and Darlene Topping

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lifestyle

The results of their personal involvement in the building of the home are apparent as Shane allowed the Toppings to play with many of the design’s details to make it a truly custom domain. The 1,400-square-foot home is a light-filled charmer and a study in monochromatic tones of grey, black and white, with pops of colour brought in by accessories. Inside the front foyer is a hall with a laundry closet and coat closet on opposite sides, past which a contemporary pocket bath sits. The kitchen, dining and living room are open concept, and high ceilings, a skylight over the island, and plenty of windows lend the space a lofty airiness. The pair asked to have the kitchen sink installed in the large granite island, and chose a custom glass backsplash with a stripe of gleaming black running through it. Open white railings edge the stairwell to the finished part of the walkout basement. The original plans called for a half-wall to skirt it, but the Toppings liked the idea of keeping the openness flowing to the lower level. The tile fireplace dividing the dining and livingroom is cut creatively so it provides an open look-through to the back patio doors. The pair chose to expand the standard deck out and across the entire back of the house, and it’s apparent why when you take a look out there. A state-of-the-art barbecue and meat smoker sit on the deck. “We like to entertain, and we like to eat,” Kevin laughs. “Kevin really likes to cook,” Darlene weighs in. The stainless Samsung appliances in the kitchen also reflect this, as Kevin waxes about the merits of the gas range and its superiority to other stoves.

…Shane allowed the Toppings to play with many of the design’s details to make it a truly custom domain. 28 | NE W HOME LIVING

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n lifestyle

The extended back deck meant that the lower patio from the walkout basement also received the same extended treatment, and they’ve taken advantage of the space by setting up outdoor furniture and a hot tub. Kevin and Darlene have always liked contemporary, modern furnishings and made a number of new purchases for their space from Airdrie Home Furnishings. A large white leather sectional has cushions that flip up or down depending on what level of comfort or what look you want it to have. A black glass dining set with black leather and chrome cantilevered chairs features in the dining room. Large black-and-white floral photographs line the walls. The master bedroom features décor with splashes of purple against the grey, a door to the back deck, a spacious walk-in closet and an ensuite that received the Topping treatment as well, with a reconfiguration of the water closet for privacy, an upgraded shower stall with rain showerhead, and vaulted ceiling. In building the home, the couple found the Shane design centre an invaluable resource, especially accessing the guidance of an inhouse interior designer. “There were almost too many choices,” Darlene laughs. “They helped us narrow them down and stay focused.” A good-sized second bedroom on the main

floor has plenty of extra closet space, and vibrant poppy-orange accents in bedding and art. The pair had the builder finish about half the large basement during the build. Nine-foot ceilings feature in the rec room containing a pool table with plenty of space around it so players aren’t bumping cues against any walls. A bistro set sits in the corner for spectators, and there’s a granite-topped wet bar, leather couches, a corner fireplace, and a large-screen TV. Neutral berber carpeting gives way to a large semicircle of ceramic tiling inside the patio door — a thoughtful feature for wet hot tubbers coming in from outside. Another finished bedroom and a full bath are also in the basement, with the rest of the space past a closed door remaining unfinished and offering a ton of storage space. At about $562,000 the Toppings say they have received major value for their money, having scouted around Airdrie for similar properties before building theirs. Future plans include full landscaping of the backyard and a firepit to enjoy cozy nights gazing out onto the pond. They love Airdrie and all the services close to King’s Heights. The pair has worked in the community for many years and they’re impressed by the way Airdrie has grown and improved in that time. “It’s really come a long way,” Kevin says. NL

They love Airdrie and all the services close to King’s Heights. The pair has worked in the community for many years and they’re impressed by the way Airdrie has grown and improved in that time.

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feature n

Top tot lots This year’s best Calgary children’s playgrounds are counted down

Applestone Park Playground

Used with permission from calgaryplaygroundreview.com

Applewood – Applestone Park, Applewood Drive S.E. This playground was newly installed last fall. It is a huge accessible playground with equipment suitable for kids of all ages and ability levels. Hands down one of Calgary’s best playgrounds. I would encourage everyone to make the trip to see it but especially if you have a child with special needs.

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Cliff Bungalow (by Mission) – Cliff Street and 22nd Avenue S.W. One of the prettiest playgrounds in the city, this playground has a forest theme and features accessible flooring and challenging climbing equipment for big kids and little kids.

hese playgrounds represent some of the best from around the city. About half of the playgrounds are new to the list this year, and about half were also on last year’s list of Calgary’s Best Playgrounds.

n Story and photos by

Dana Wheatley

Cliff Bungalow Community Centre Playground

Helicopter Playground

Parkdale/West Hillhurst – 5th Avenue and 27th Street NW. One of Calgary’s most beloved playgrounds. It’s large with plenty of equipment for older and younger kids and has a helicopter theme.

Elboya Park Playground

Elboya – 46 Avenue & 4a Street S.W. This playground is big and bright and sure to please. The playground has accessible flooring, and plenty of equipment for both older and younger kids. Making the playground even better is the landscaping surrounding it including small hills, rocks, pathways and trees.

Haultain Park Playground

Downtown – 225 13 Avenue S.W. (also known at 13 Avenue Park) Located next to the Parks Foundation Calgary building this huge playground has accessible flooring, a climber for big and little kids and a great ramp system.

Capitol Hill Dinosaur Playground

Capitol Hill – 20th Avenue and 15th Street N.W. The playground was newly installed last year. This playground provides great opportunities for imaginative play and will have your kids begging to go to the dinosaur playground.

Simons Valley School Playground

Nellie Breen Park – Inglewood

feature

Sandstone – Sandarac Drive and Sandalwood Gate This playground is excellent, it features accessible flooring, a large Merry-go-round spinner (Apollo) and a musical array. To top it off there is another really good playground just a short walk across the field.

Inglewood – 14th Street and St. Monica Aveune S.E. This playground is within a beautiful little park with large mature trees. The park has a real community feel with picnic tables, a gazebo and outdoor carpet flooring making the play space accessible to everyone. This is one of the first playgrounds I reviewed and it is still one of my favorites.

Prairie Winds Water Park and Playgrounds

Westwinds/Castleridge – 233 Castleridge Boulevard N.E. Located on the South side of Prairie Winds Park this playground features accessible flooring, saucer swings and a huge Merry-go-round spinner (Apollo).

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Millrise Drive Playground

Millrise – Corner of Millrise Drive and Millrise Way S.W. This playground features plenty of choices for climbing and spinning and the rock features give it a cool look.

Valleyview Park Playgrounds

Dover - 28 Street and 30 Avenue S.E. This beautiful park has two fantastic playgrounds both with accessible flooring. The preschool playground is inside a fenced area along with a spray park. The school-aged playground is just up the hill and has equipment that will challenge and entertain even your biggest kids.

Applewood Rotary Greenway Playground

Along the Rotary Greenway – access from the community of Applewood This playground features of this playground are shaped like rocks, logs, frogs and even a giant snake. This is a really unusual playground — it’s definitely worth a visit.

New Brighton Treehouse Park

New Brighton - 2000 Brightoncrest Green S.E. Featuring accessible flooring and a cute treehouse theme this playground is sure to spark your child’s imagination.

Vista Heights Jungle Playground

Vista Heights – 1820 Valleyview Road N.E. This playground is geared towards toddlers and preschoolers. It features accessible flooring, a cute jungle theme and equipment perfect for their smaller size.

Renfrew Park Playground

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Renfrew 811 Radford Road N.E. (Beside the Renfrew Community Association — NOT the athletic park) One of the best toddler playgrounds in the city. Your little ones will love running around a playground that is just their size. NL

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style n

Green thumbs up Stylize your yard the YYC way n Written by

David Crosson

“M

ary, Mary, quite contrary; how does your garden grow? With blue bells and cockle shells and all of it covered in snow.” If you were a pessimist — or at least a recent transplant to YYC — you might think that’s how the old rhyme would have gone had Mary been a Calgarian. As we all know, in certain years our city can present some challenges when it comes to cultivating a green thumb… or anything else for that matter. Our growing season always seems to get off to a soggy start (‘June’ and ‘monsoon’ rhyme for a reason) and then fizzle just as bags of tiny chocolate bars hit grocery store shelves. Still, according to Peter Van Seggelen of The Landscape Artist, if you’ve decided to put down roots (literally or figuratively) here in Cowtown, a shortened spring/summer cycle really is more a matter of perception than reality. “I’d say our growing season is actually quite good; you’re looking at end-of-April through the middle or end of October for perennials and shrubs,” the 35-year industry veteran says. “Annuals and vegetables are another matter because we cool down at night — much more than Edmonton, even — but you can get around that by building raised beds.” While it may seem late to start an outdoor project, by Van Seggelen’s calculations you still have three months to enjoy the fruits of your labour (if not actual

Urns bring an historical note to gardens both traditional and modern. Image courtesy of Campania International.

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fruit). Better still, if you’re willing to venture beyond botanicals, there are ways of enjoying your outdoor space well into fall and even winter. Although they don’t actually have the power to extend the seasons, adding certain elements to your garden can provide focal points that look good year-round, not just in the ‘salad days’ of summer. Water features are a wonderful way to add dimension and interest to your outdoor space, be they elaborate falls and ponds or just small fountains that provide movement and the pleasant distraction of white noise. The Landscape Artist is known for creating stunning installations that take H20 to another level, utilizing multiple levels of rock, shrubs, flowers and trellises. “Each garden is different and you really should design landscape in keeping with the style of the house,” Van

A gazing ball on a pedestal offers a glamorous reflection of your garden season after season. Image courtesy of Campania International.

Seggelen says, “but there are many options when it comes to water features and other things that enhance a garden.” While everyone might not have the space for a full-scale feature, Rubaiyat on 17th Avenue carries a number of free-standing fountains by Campania, eye-catching pieces that suit everything from the humblest of condo balconies to the grandest of estates. Standouts from their line include the very modern “Precipice” and “Echo” models, both of which would look great in a simple, manicured garden or as an oasis of calm in a yard that is carefully cultivated to appear overblown and overgrown. Wild or groomed, keeping your garden in shape, literally, is also a really great way to maximize the beauty year-round — especially with the addition of a blanket of snow.

Introducing animal statuary is a centuries-old tradition that continues to delight in the modern age. Images courtesy of Campania International.

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Above Water features large and small create a truly dynamic environment in any garden, offering a perfect counterpoint to flowers and greenery. Images courtesy of The Landscape Artist.

RIGHT The Echo fountain is a study in minimalistic elegance. Image courtesy of Campania International.

The Precipice fountain does double-duty as a stunning outdoor sculpture. Image courtesy of Campania International.

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For ultimate impact, try introducing dramatic elements such as wire sculptures, gazing balls, urns, frost-friendly statuary and other non-organic pieces. In the spring and summer, they will provide texture and a much-needed counterpoint to the softness of flowers and greenery, then take on a whole new life by providing a dramatic “garden of shapes” once the white stuff falls. Campania also offers a charming range of fauna to complement your flora, some of which are interpreted in a stylized fashion to impart even more charm. Whether it’s a classic raven or a regal lion, these chic beasts will definitely give your garden an edgy edge. Large or small, the right additions to a garden will pull their weight 365 days of the year. “When it comes to features — and I mean larger ones like gazebos and fireplaces — you want to make sure they’re visible from the interior for maximum impact,” says Van Seggelen. “On a clear winter day when it may only be five-below, you can actually make use of an outdoor fireplace if you bundle up or bring out some freestanding heaters.” Even frozen foliage and bare branches can contribute to the overall appeal: consider how dynamic tall grasses would be poking out of a shroud of snow on a crisp winter’s day, or how beautiful a silhouette cast by a leafless Japanese maple would look upon a frosty canvas. With the sharp shadow yielded by our city’s oft-sunny winter days, incorporating touches such as these is definitely more curation than cop-out. While Calgary might not have the most equitably distributed seasons, it is possible to enjoy all four equally. Mother Nature may be a natural beauty, but everyone can benefit from a few well-chosen accessories. Bear that in mind the next time you go to break ground on a new outdoor project. NL

While Calgary might not have the most equitably distributed seasons, it is possible to enjoy all four equally. Mother Nature may be a natural beauty, but everyone can benefit from a few well-chosen accessories. 38 | NE W HOME LIVING

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TOP LEFT Creating purpose-driven zones in an outdoor environment increases its appeal and function exponentially. Photo courtesy the Landscape Artist. TOP RIGHT Even in winter a water feature creates a dramatic focal point in your outdoor space. Photo courtesy the Landscape Artist.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Crosson is the owner of Barbarian Interior Decoration Ltd., which works 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

shopping

Loving laminates

Cover your floor in the latest design style

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Kathy McCormick

ife today is so much more complicated than it ever was before — and so, for many people, a conscious decision has been made to make it simpler. The home is the perfect example. It’s no accident that contemporary, minimalist styling is so in vogue today. People love the uncluttered, dramatic look that aims to simplify the environment and create a space that’s calm and serene. But along with that is easy care, no-fuss furnishings and home décor. It starts with the flooring anchoring the spaces — and the popularity of hard surfaces embodies all of those simple themes. Hardwood is king, but many people today are choosing alternatives that create the same feel without the price tag and the extra care needed to keep the floors in optimal condition.

“Laminate has established itself as an innovative and cost-efficient alternative to sold hardwood flooring,” says Ganesh Krishnan, senior merchant for flooring, Home Depot Canada. “Laminate is not only attractive, but available in a wide range of colours and grains.” Laminate flooring is created in four layers, with the bottom layer, a fibreboard core, a decorative layer and a tread layer. These are synthesized into an extremely dense surface, says Krishnan. “Made with melamine and fibreboard, it’s extremely durable — and thicker laminates generally indicate a more durable, comfortable product.” Realistic designs and textures abound — and that is a big advantage, says Sara M. Babinski, principal designer, hardwood and laminate for one of the largest floor manufacturers, Armstrong flooring. “For many consumers, it is difficult to distinguish between laminate and real wood — laminate looks that good!” Its durability is another big advantage, says Krishnan. “It’s also more dent and stain-resistant than solid or engineered hardwood flooring, making it the perfect choice for active households with young children or pets.”

Architectural Remnants Woodland Reclaim laminate. Photo courtesy Armstrong Laminate Floors.

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“Most laminates are designed to snap together without glue or nails and are engineered to ‘float’, meaning they are not attached to the subfloor.” The advantages add up to good investment, says Brian P. Parker, laminate product manager for Armstrong. “Scratch resistance, dent resistance, wear resistance, fade resistance to sunlight, stain resistance; affordable and long-lasting; and easy to clean and maintain.” And it’s so easy to install, it’s the perfect D-I-Y project, say the experts. “On a scale from one to 10, installing laminate flooring requires a skill level of about a four,” says Krishnan. “Most laminates are designed to snap together without glue or nails and are engineered to ‘float’, meaning they are not attached to the subfloor. Instead, laminates are installed over a thin layer of foam cushioning and held in place by room walls.” The boards are two- to three-times wider than a traditional hardwood board, so they cover the room in less time. “The simplified interlocking clicking system enables most do-it-yourselfers to install an entire floor in a single afternoon — and you can walk on it immediately,” Krishnan says. But there are some disadvantages to other types of flooring. The laminate can sound hollow when walking on the floor. “This can be reduced by using thicker laminate and better sound-proof under pad,” he says. It can’t be sanded, like real wood, “but with its great wear resistance, you won’t need to sand it,” says Babinski. And it isn’t waterproof, so “it is not suitable for wet and high-moisture environments, like indoor swimming pools and saunas,” she says. In fact, depending on the quality of the product, it may not be recommended for bathrooms and kitchens, either, Krishnan says. It really is all about the quality, says John Fitzsimmons, owner of Fitz Flooring in Calgary. “You really get what

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you pay for. If you’re buying a really cheap laminate from overseas countries that have no manufacturers’ regulations, then you have no idea what you are getting. There are no restrictions on such things as chemicals used or even the working conditions. Unless you are buying from a controlled environment, the quality is a concern.” He saw a lot of laminate that had to be pulled out and thrown away after last year’s flood because of the poor quality in the first place. Even though many of the big manufacturers do have facilities overseas, they are developing the products to their own standards. As for Calgarians’ hot spots, look to rustic oaks, barn wood and dark greys, says Fitzsimmons. Armstrong favourites include: “rustic/vintage looks featuring nature’s fingerprints of knots, mineral streaks, graining, and colour variation — often including distressed, painted looks,” says Parker. “Colour ranges from the summery aesthetic of white, to hardy earth tones and into the strong interior statement of black and grey.”

shopping

FAR LEFT: Cantabria Stone Monzone. Photo courtesy Bruce Laminate. LEFT: Leather Maple laminate. Photo courtesy The Home Depot. BELOW: Architectural Remnants Antique Structure laminate. Photo courtesy Armstrong Laminate Floors.

Over at Home Depot, demand is similar, says Krishnan. “The hottest colour trends in flooring definitely centre on brown and grey tones. There is an increasing demand for laminates with exotic wood looks. There is also a growing trend in hardwood to have a handscraped floor. Of course, this trend carries over to laminate as well.” Domestic exotic woods are gaining in popularity as well — walnut, maples, cherry, hickory, and oak, especially white. And the wider the planks, the better — five inches or more. Maintenance of laminate flooring is as easy as the installation. Simply vacuum and drymop to keep it looking as beautiful as the day it was installed, Krishnan says. “Avoid broom sweeping, as it may cause laminate flooring to scratch. To wash your laminate floor, use a no-wax cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.” At Armstrong, for instance, they have an Armstrong/Bruce Hardwood & Laminate Floor Cleaner kit that includes: laminate spray cleaner, a swivel-head mop with telescoping pole; and two washable microfiber mop covers. “Simply spray and mop,” says Babinski. While laminates continue to be a staple for home flooring, a new product is really making a statement, especially in Calgary, says Fitzsimmons. People are often choosing LVTs instead, he says. Luxury Vinyl Tile plank is “so easy to install, it’s extremely durable and really looks so good, it’s taking over our warehouse,” he says. Simply stick it to the floor — and it can be installed over lino or flooring already in place.

“It’s good for kitchens and baths — and there is not a lot of removal prep work to be done. It’s like a 3-M sticky tape — if you don’t like where you put it, just lift it up and put it in another place.” And it comes in a variety of colours and textures. Hardwood remains the priciest flooring choice; LVTs are priced between hardwood and laminate flooring. And linoleum remains the most cost effective. Laminates at Home Depot range from .99 cents to $2.99 per-squarefoot, while Armstrong offers them from $2.99 to $3.99 per-square-foot, uninstalled. Fitz has laminates from .99 cents to $6 per-square-foot. Ironically, carpet is making a bit of a comeback as well — but just in bedrooms and maybe living rooms, says Fitzsimmons. But the hard surfaces are still the kings of the flooring world — and that’s not about to change any time soon. NL

“The hottest colour trends in flooring definitely centre on brown and grey tones. There is an increasing demand for laminates with exotic wood looks.” August 2014 NE W HOME LIVING

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Brookfield launches new mobile augmented reality app Brookfield Residential has teamed up with EON Reality Inc. to create an Augmented Reality (AR) mobile platform, which will allow users to visualize different home models utilizing the latest in AR processes. “In this technology-driven age, we’re realizing that we must embrace technology. As customer’s demands change, we have to be able to look at new, innovative ways to provide tools that align with customers’ Ryan Moon wants and needs,” says Ryan Moon, Sales and Marketing Manager with Brookfield Residential. “Our Augmented Reality tool incorporates interactive technology and gives the traditional home buying experience a digital makeover. It allows customers to experience and visualize a home in new ways and on their terms. By creating an experiential experience, we’re truly redefining how we communicate with customers.” With the Brookfield Residential AR App, users can experience and see a detailed view of a home using their mobile device anywhere. The marker for the App can be found on our website. Use of the App requires iOS 5.1 or later or Android 2.2 and up and is compatible with the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, but is optimized for iPhone 5. To enjoy this 3D experience, users need to download and launch the App and focus the camera on the marker to see a model of a home come out of the page in 3D. Then use the navigation buttons to view the different floors in detail or click on the camera icons to view photos of the space.

June sees huge spike in Calgary housing starts Home construction starts in Calgary soared in June to a total of 2,407 units, a whopping 163.9 per cent rise from the 912 units recorded last year, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The multi-family segment led the charge recording a 397.2 per cent yearover-year increase to 1,780 units, up from 358 in June 2013. The single-detached sector also saw a jump of 13.2 per cent to 627 units in June from 554 last year. “The trend in total housing starts recorded a pronounced gain in June, primarily due to an elevated pace of multi-family construction,” says Richard Cho, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for the Prairie and Territories Region. This comes even as the Calgary region saw a whopping year-over-year hike in May in the value of building permits, according to Statistics Canada. The federal agency says that permits reached $636 million in the Calgary census metropolitan area. That was up 37.3 per cent from a year ago and it increased by 6.1 per cent from April. During the month, residential permits were $432.6 million, an increase of 34.81 per cent from April.

By Pepper Rodriguez

Stampede Dream Home winner Carol Pentland of Calgary could not contain her excitement after learning that she won the 2014 Stampede Rotary Dream Home. She tells reporters she couldn’t stop shaking after getting the phone call informing her that she won the 2,433-square-foot home built by Homes by Avi. The home, valued at $820,125, is Homes by Avi’s 19th Stampede Dream home, and will be located in the southeast community of Walden. This year’s home is a departure from Homes by Avi’s past designs in that it features a front attached garage, 10-foot main floor ceilings, and nine-foot second floor ceilings. James Hardie shingles and siding, board and batten siding, and wood siding with mitred corners add interest and texture to the home’s modern exterior, which is Stampede Dream Home complemented by three outdoor living spaces — a balcony with a fireplace off the master, an herb garden, and a rear deck.

Genesis unveils Pier 11 Genesis Land Development Corp. launches Pier 11, their newest neighbourhood in the Bayside community of Airdrie. This will be a select enclave with 30 lots presently available. Genesis will be the exclusive builder and they are offering an eclectic mix of floor plans, each delivering the benefits of smart design while satisfying the lifestyles and budgets of any buyer. “We have focused on creating best in class homes by incorporating smart, functional design, coupled with innovative features and thoughtful standard finishes,” says Genesis’ Jesse Coderre. Homes will have NEST thermostats, LED pot lights and natural gas hot water tanks, all of which combine to reduce the overall operating cost of the home. Homes in Pier 11 start in the mid $300,000s. “We are currently offering laned homes only (five different models), we will be releasing our Front Attached Garage collection soon,” Coderre tells Around Town.

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around town CHBA – Calgary Region’s new board facing steep challenges The Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region introduces the 2014-2015 Executive and Board of Directors. But the outgoing president warns that the new board will face increasingly difficult times for the industry. Outgoing CHBA – Calgary president Doug Whitney says that homebuilders are already feeling the pinch due to the tightening supply of available land for development. Whitney, the vice-president of sales for Crystal Creek Homes, says smaller builders have already had to lay off staff because of this. He says Crystal Creek had to lay off 50 per cent of its staff this year and that other mid-sized builders with $40-$60 million in annual business face a similar plight. This is occurring even as a recent report says the homebuilding industry is a crucial part of Calgary’s economic engine. The report by Will Dunning Inc., a consulting firm that specializes in housing market analysis, said there were 12,584 new housing starts in Calgary last year with 42,600 jobs in new home construction, renovation and related fields generating $2.7 billion in wages. It adds that the new home market also generated $6.1 billion in investment value – the largest single wealth-builder for most families. In 2012, the report indicated 12,841 new housing starts, 37,200 jobs, $2.3 billion in wages and $5.7 billion in investment value. Whitney says its important the new CHBA – Calgary board continue to work to ensure that the industry remains to be an engine of growth. The new CHBA – Calgary executive board of directors are: President – Wayne Copeland, Director, Business Development, Double R Building Products Ltd. 1st Vice-President – Wendy Jabusch, Vice President, Calgary Housing, Brookfield Residential 2nd Vice-President – Roger Duurtsema, Director, Alberta Sales, Ply Gem Secretary/Treasurer – Howard Tse, President, Cedarglen Homes Past-President – Doug Whitney, Vice President, Sales, Crystal Creek Homes Inc. Donna Moore, Chief Executive Officer, CHBA – Calgary Region NL

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calgary map n Northwest/Northeast

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calgary map n Southwest

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Southeast/Calgary area n calgary map

AIRDRIE

OKOTOKS

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advertisers index n Avid Ratings page 20 Brookfield Residential pages 2-3 Cardel Homes Walden page 4

Homes By Us page 26 Hopewell Communities Mahogany FC, pages 12-14, 46

CHBA page 26 Concept Coverings page 30 Dream Development EvansRidge page 52 Genesis Land Bayside page 31

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Genesis Land Pier 11 page 7

Tamani Developments Riversong page 53 University Eye Foundation page 44

Hunter Douglas page 40

United Communities Drake Landing page 35

Innovations by Jayman Chaparral Valley page 9

United Communities Nolan Hill page 47

Mattamy Homes Lakepointe page 56

WestCreek Developments Legacy page 21

Marketplace Events Calgary Home + Design Show page 39

August 2014

Sabal Homes page 55

hope at large By Marty Hope

Dreaming again Dream Developments sets sights on two new Calgary communities After more than 40 years of turning raw land into communities, Mike Cowie still gets that tingle of excitement when new plans land on his desk. Following brief stints in Edmonton and Toronto, Cowie set down stakes in Calgary working with Genstar before moving onto Markborough Properties. Markborough was bought out by Toronto-based Dundee Developments, and that’s where Cowie has worked ever since — until earlier this year. As of May, Dundee became Dream Development, a division of the massive publicly-traded Dream empire anchored in Toronto. Cowie, for now though, remains vice-president of Calgary Land. “Dream Developments is a vertically integrated company,” says Cowie from the company boardroom. “And that means we’ll not only develop land, but will build single-, and multi-family houses, and retail. But not right now, at least not in Calgary. Dream has land under its control, but signage announcing the start of development is still a few months away. But the tingle of anticipation has returned. “In Calgary, we continue to work to advance discussions with the City of Calgary on our Providence and Panorama (area) developments,” says Dream president and chief executive officer Michael Cooper in the company’s 2013 annual report. Providence will be a large undertaking located

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in the southwest quadrant of Calgary covering some 1,700 acres on both the east and west sides of 37th Street near 146th Avenue S.W. about a half-mile from the Woodbine community. “It’s available for development and we want to be going on it by the end of 2015,” says Cowie, adding that Dream is proposing to not only front-end the cost of normal servicing but to also front-end the cost of off-site services normally provided by the city to make Providence a reality. Because of the vertical integration, Homes by Dream will introduce itself to the Calgary marketplace as part of the stable of builders in Providence. As well, Dream Centres will be developing about 400,000 square feet Michael Cooper of retail space to make the planned development a mixed-use community. “What people will see is a mix of housing styles, designs, and price points,” says Cowie. He estimates that up to 30 per cent of housing will be multi-family. Dream will also show itself in northwest Calgary when it starts work on Evansburg — a follow-up and adjacent community to its highly successful EvansRidge neighbourhood — in 2016 that will come out of a large piece of land north of 144th Avenue and west of 24th Street N.W. And as in Providence, Dream will carry the front-end costs associated with off-site services for Evansburg that,

in this instance, will include the construction of a bridge over West Nose Creek to Symons Valley Road that will provide another access point for the planned community. Dream Homes will also be involved in this project. As he prepares to embark on new adventures with a new company, Cowie can look back at some of the communities that he has been part of creating. At Genstar, it was Deer Run. With Markborough, his career included Woodbine and Richmond Hill; and with Dundee there was the completion of Richmond Hill, Springside, Wentworth, Westpark, and Castle Keep, as well as Montrose in High River. Dream is a real estate investment, development and management company that went public on the Toronto Stock Exchange in 2013 with more than $13.4 billion in assets in North America and Europe. The company owns and has under contract almost 9,700 acres of land in “Canada’s fastest-growing cities,” says Cooper. “Altogether, in Calgary, Saskatoon, Regina, and Edmonton, we expect to be advancing on various stages of development on over 7,000 acres of land in the next few years.” 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.