VOLUME 11 ISSUE 120 n DECEMBER 2015
contents
12 COVER FEATURE
12
Connected to nature Mattamy emphasizes the connection to nature and active living in Carrington
NEWS
CMHC Fall forecast 36
Calgary housing starts to decline in 2015 and 2016 but rise slightly in 2017
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contents 16 32
FOCUS ON
10 Christmas bling
Glam up your Christmas tree in stylish fun
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SHOW HOME PROFILES
16 Homes of the heartland
Excel brings family-friendly style to Cochrane’s Heartland
21 Okotoks’ appeal
The refreshing spaciousness of Timber Creek estate homes in Cimarron
COMMUNITY
24 Untroubled waters
Watermark at Bearspaw remains unaffected by slow economy
SHOPPING
29 The joy of giving
Give Santa a hand with these stocking stuffers
39 Around Town 46 Hope at Large
STYLE
32 Festive fun
Be the hit of the party season with these Christmas décor tips
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COLUMNS
ITEMS
8 Editor’s Message 40 Maps 44 Advertiser Index
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editor’s message n
Christmas wish
PUBLISHER
Source Media Group
With the recent spate of job cuts resulting from the falling oil prices, and the economic slowdown that comes with it, you’d think Calgary was on Santa’s bad list. And, my Christmas wish for a better year ahead may be wishful thinking at this point. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) says things don’t look any brighter in Calgary’s home market in 2016. Jim Zang’s housing forecast story in this issue says that relief will not come until 2017. But even in these depressed market, there remains glimmers of strength and growth. Our cover feature on Mattamy Homes newest development, Carrington, provides some of that hope. This is the second community in Calgary to be developed by North America’s largest privately owned home builder, and looks to bring more of Mattamy’s popular family-friendly style to the city. Construction has started and new show homes will likely be opened by next year. In fact, this northwest community is just one of several that have recently started, including Cornerstone by Walden Developments in the northeast, and University District in the northwest, and Harmony over by Springbank. Then there is Watermark at Bearspaw by Macdonald Developments that has certainly been very successful through this down market, selling 13 homes each over the $1.2 million mark this year. Find out more about it in our Community Profile this issue. We also turn the spotlight on two out-of-town show homes this month — one by Timber Creek in Okotoks, and the other by Excel Homes in Cochrane — that demonstrate the continued strength of new single-family homes market in Calgary’s outlying communities. This is our Christmas issue, and we do have features that help celebrate the joyous season. From Aaliya Essa’s Christmas ornament photo feature in Focus On; to Kathy McCormick’s stocking stuffer guide in Shopping; and David Crosson’s holiday entertainment décor tips in Style; we have your holiday needs covered. From all indications, the coming year will likely test Calgarians’ resilience even more, and the housing sector will likely be tested again. But industry leaders remain confident that smarter growth initiatives are the way to survive and thrive in these trying times. We’ll be there to let you know how it goes. Merry Christmas, everyone!
info@sourcemediagroup.ca A S S O C I AT E P U 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 GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Dave Macaulay
dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca P R O D U C T I O N A D M I N I S T R AT O R
Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL
David Crosson, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick ADVERTISING SALES
Cindy Marks
cindy.marks@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING
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©2015 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from 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 property 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
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NewHomeLivingCalgary
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CHRISTMAS BLING 12
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4 Glam up your Christmas tree in stylish fun n BY
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Aaliya Essa
HANGING ORNAMENTS ON your Christmas tree is what really makes this time of year special. Find new ornaments to make this season a little more fun and festive. With so many great options to choose, each tree is truly unique, here are a few different variations on a time old tradition. NL
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[ 1 ] Red Berry Sphere Ornament, $12.50 at Pottery Barn. [ 2 ] Open bead ball ornaments, $4.95 at Crate and Barrel. [ 3 ] Beaded Ball Ornament – Red and Gold, $4.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 4 ] Personalized snowflake ornament, $19.50 at Pottery Barn. [ 5 ] Angel Wings Ornament – Gold, $4.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 6 ] Bottle Brush Santa Ornament, $6.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 7 ] Silver Sunburst ball ornament, $6.95 at Crate and Barrel. [ 8 ] Turtle ornament, $8.50 at Pottery Barn. [ 9 ] Snowman Wine Glass Ornament, $5.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 10 ] Silver jingle bell star ornament, $6.95 at Crate and Barrel. [ 11 ] Owl Glass Ornament – Red and Green, $7.95 at Pier1 Imports. [ 12 ] Glitter starflake ball ornaments, $8.95 at Crate and Barrel. [ 13 ] Mistletoe ball ornaments, $8.95 each at Crate and Barrel.
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CONNECTED TO LIFE
T
he frenetic life we lead in the second decade of the 21st century can indeed make anyone feel more connected to the Internet than to reality. That’s why at Mattamy Homes the importance of creating a community where residents’ connection to neighbours, nature and family has always been paramount. This sentiment is at the heart of the vision in their newest master planned community, Carrington, in northwest Calgary. Mattamy communities commonly feature pathways, ponds and green spaces. But in Carrington this connection to nature is being raised to a new level, not only to enhance the quality of life of its residents but make them feel a stronger connection to the community. Carrington will feature 19 acres of park space, 19 acres
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of naturalized storm water ponds and more than 10 acres of environmental reserve. It will also incorporate a walkable neighborhood design with destinations in mind for active lifestyles. “Carrington will have a particular focus on active lifestyles, with easy access to more than eight kilometres of pathways. This includes a pathway system within the community, and a connection to the Rotary / Mattamy Greenway, a system that will encircle the entire city,” says Warren Saunders, Mattamy Vice President, Sales and Marketing. He adds that the “green corridor” of protected natural space is incorporated into the community design to provide opportunities for homeowners to interact with nature. “Park space locations and amenities are designed intentionally to en-
| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
Mattamy emphasizes the connection to nature and active living in Carrington “Carrington will have a particular focus on active lifestyles, with easy access to more than eight kilometres of pathways. This includes a pathway system within the community, and a connection to the Rotary / Mattamy Greenway, a system…” courage walkable destinations to make it easy for our homeowners to enjoy the community, spending time in the outdoors.” Carrington follows Cityscape in the northeast as the second development within the city of Calgary by North America’s largest privately owned homebuilder. Mattamy has been in Alberta far longer, though, with the established community of Windsong and now Southwinds in Airdrie and the recently sold out community of Lakepointe in Chestermere. Like all Mattamy communities, they will also be the exclusive home builder in Carrington. “Carrington homebuyers will benefit from living in a community that is solely designed and built by one builder, Mattamy,” says Saunders. “This level of integration allows us to stay true to the vision of the community,
create a master-planned community that is thoughtfully designed using extensive market research. Combined with architecturally planned streetscapes, logical road systems, strategic mix of uses and densities, and neighbourhood scale parks and open spaces, creating a unique community to call home in northwest Calgary.” “Our unique lot configurations and house designs provide for additional benefits not typically found in suburbs such as: the entrance of the home is the dominant feature rather than the garage, doors, windows, porches are brought closer to the street; and the wider lots allow for enhanced interior floor plans.” Carrington is conveniently located north of Stoney Trail and east of 14th Street N.W. The master planned community is 400 acres in size and will ultimately include 3,500 homes, says Saunders.
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
Carrington will offer a wide arrange of home types, sizes and prices. “We believe the diversification is what truly makes a community great,” Saunders says. “Single-family homes with attached garages, semi-detached homes, single car and double car townhomes, and apartment condo units will all be part of the Carrington community, thoughtfully designed into the plan.” Carrington’s central location in the heart of the northwest is also a great part of its appeal. It will also have two schools and shopping retail space within its boundaries, but is also close to existing amenities such as Beacon Hill retail area, Country Hills Landing and Cross Iron Mills outlet. “Travel is made easy, as Carrington is a short drive from the airport and direct access to Stoney Trail for weekend escapes to Kananaskis and Banff National Park.” Mattamy is confident of Carrington’s success in the midst of the transitioning economic climate in Alberta. Mattamy looks forward to opening for sales in 2016. n
“We believe the diversification is what truly makes a community great.”
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fast facts BUILDER/DEVELOPER: Mattamy Homes. COMMUNITY: Carrington HOMES: Townhomes, duplexes, and front-attached garage homes SIZES AND PRICES: To be determined ADDRESS: North of Stoney Tr. and west of 14th St. N.W. DIRECTIONS: If heading West on Stoney Trail Exit onto 14 Street N. If heading East on Stoney Trail, exit onto Centre Street N, then turn West on 144th Avenue West. Turn South onto 14 Street. HOURS: No sales centre open at this time
For more information visit www.mattamyhomes.com
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show home profile n Excel Homes
HOMES OF THE HEARTLAND Excel brings family-friendly style to Cochrane’s Heartland n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
LIVING IN THE countryside brings calm to our lives, offering a rare connection to nature and small town values that one cannot find in the big city. And if your home is as well crafted and as affordable as those offered by Excel Homes in Cochrane’s Heartland, then families do get to enjoy the best of all possible worlds. Excel Homes has always “excelled” in building family-friendly homes that emphasize a stylish functionality. Their newly opened presentation centre on 5 Thoroughbred Boulevard in Heartland gives homebuyers the opportunity to pick out their home, lot and design package all in one place. “It’s a one-stop-shop where we can provide all the assistance our clients will need through the whole process of home buying,” says area manager, Charla Power. This vibrant community, developed by APEX Land, on the west side of Cochrane is seeing continued growth, and Excel Homes has also just opened up two new single-family show homes in addition to their three townhomes. “Word-of-mouth is a big part of our success, as referrals have made this into a community of friends and relatives,” Power says. “And once you’re in Heartland, you never have to leave, as we have all the kinds of homes you will need for every stage of your life.” The Radison is among their bestsellers and is one of the new single-family show homes in the neighbourhood. Although the images shown in these pages are of the previous Radison show home, Power says its design has been carried over to the new show home. The three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom home with front attached garage has a very functional floor plan, but Power says its best feature is the double garage with a tandem bay extension. This optional feature has been popular among their buyers, as it gives owners room to up to three cars inside. “But what a lot of our buyers use the extra room for is to
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store their big boy toys — like motorbikes and ski-doos. After all you are already in Cochrane and a life of adventure is right outside. The Radison gives you the storage space to enjoy this freedom,” she tells New Home Living. The Radison with a tandem bay garage option measures at 2,046 square-feet, and one with a standard plan den instead is at 2,177 square-feet. Excel offers seven single-family home models in Heartland starting from the $390,000s. Townhomes range from $307,000 to $360,900. “In many cases, the monthly mortgage for our townhomes is less expensive than a monthly rent,” Power says.
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show home profile
LEFT The Radison show home undeniably captures the importance of the kitchen to the family. Its flowing layout allows for plenty of space to work and move about, as well as providing a beautiful space to entertain guests. The seamless wall array of appliances is a terrific option, as are the ceiling-height cabinets and granite countertops.
LEFT The stylish open concept layout of the Radison’s main floor is a big reason for its popularity, as it offers spacious functionality and stylish verve. Elegant hardwood flooring and an optional fireplace give it a stately elegance.
ABOVE The sunny dining nook again offers comfort and convenience for the busy family. “Big families are our main demographic in Heartland and our homes are designed to fit their needs,” Power says. Having their homes built to meet BUILTGREEN® standards is another way that Excel brings peace of mind to homeowners.
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show home profile n Excel Homes
fast facts BUILDER: Excel Homes AREA: Heartland DEVELOPER: APEX Land MODEL: The Radison SIZE: 2,046 sq. ft. with tandem bay options, and 2,177 sq. ft. with standard den plan PRICE: Single-family models in Heartland start from the $390,000s PRESENTATION CENTRE: 5 Thoroughbred Blvd., Cochrane DIRECTIONS: West on Hwy 1A, and left on Horse Creek Rd. and follow the signs HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.excelhomes.ca
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TOP The centrally located bonus room with vaulted ceilings is another family-friendly feature of the Radison, brilliantly separating the master bedroom from the kids’ rooms. “It’s a great place for the family to come together for movie nights or for kids to play their video games without getting in the way,” Power says.
ABOVE Luxurious comfort is all anyone needs in a master ensuite, and here, too, Excel comes up in spades. The Radison’s five-piece ensuite ensemble shows optional granite countertops and designer lighting fixtures that bring out the full potential of the design. NL
Timber Creek Homes
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show home profile
Okotoks’ appeal The refreshing spaciousness of Timber Creek estate homes in Cimarron n WRITTEN BY
Jim Zang
“THIS COULD BE the last time you see lots this size anywhere,” says Moez Moledina of Tristar Communities, developers of Cimarron Country Estates in Okotoks. “Even with the larger homes, there’s still plenty of elbow room,” he says of the huge 65-by-150-foot lots in Okotoks’ largest community. He speaks the truth. In fact, there are just a few lots remaining in the current Phase 40 of the development and 64 left in the final stage, Phase 41, completing the approximately 2,500 homes in all of Cimarron at final build-out. About 25 per cent of the community is green space, says Moledina, with many homes backing onto wetlands, green spaces and pathways. “The whole area is geared for walking,” he says. “Parents walk to school with their kids, residents walk their pets or with their families. There’s in excess of eight kilometres of trails.” Situated right smack dab in the middle of town, Cimarron is loaded with amenities that are already there and open for business. Sandwiched between 32 St. on the east and Southridge Dr. on the west, you’ve only got to drive a couple minutes in either direction to have a wide variety of shopping and dining options at your fingertips. Even the new Calgary South Health Campus is only
15 short minutes away. And, while the phases featuring starter and smaller move-up homes have basically been finished for a while (Timber Creek Homes still had four lots in one of these areas at time of writing), the larger move-up and estate market has been steady. “It’s amazing,” says Moledina, “this market niche is still very active. Most are not first time home buyers, they’re coming with equity built up from their previous homes.” Right now Timber Creek Homes is the exclusive builder in Cimarron Country Estates, but that could change. The area features bungalows of over 2,000 square-feet and two-storey homes of 3,000 square-feet plus with lot, house and GST starting around the low $800,000s. Timber Creek Homes has been building homes since 2006, says third generation home builder Jim Crawford, and in Cimarron since “about five years ago.” Since then, they’ve been busy building their special brand of custom homes, completing 40-some houses in Cimarron last year alone. Right now, he says, about half the lots in the final phase (41) are still available.
LEFT The Timber Creek Homes show home at 15 Cimarron Estates Gate measures in at a spacious 1,926 square-feet of living space on the main floor and 1,602 square-feet in the finished basement. Front curb appeal is highlighted by a triple garage with cedar doors, exposed aggregate driveway, with natural stone accents and arched entry.
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show home profile n
RIGHT In the kitchen, the gigantic island is topped off with a bright white crystal granite waterfall-style countertop to match the cabinets. High-end appliances include a Dacor stainless steel range and a six-foot wide Frigidaire refrigerator/freezer. A microwave is tucked discreetly into the adjoining butler’s pantry, which flows into the back mudroom and garage entry.
fast facts BUILDER: Timber Creek Homes AREA: Cimarron Country Estates in Okotoks DEVELOPER: Tristar Communities STYLE: Bungalow SIZE: 1,926 sq. ft. on the main floor PRICE: The show home is at $1.2 million ADDRESS: 15 Cimarron Estates Gate, Okotoks DIRECTIONS: From Highway 2 south, turn right at the Okotoks turn-off and follow the Cimarron community signage. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m.; weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.timbercreekhomes.ca
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Timber Creek Homes
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home profile
TOP LEFT Details in the home are literally floor-to-ceiling, from the herringbone patterned walnut hardwood floors, to the towering 13-foot ceilings on the main floor. The star of the great room, though, is the full seamless marble surround fireplace, with built-in maple bookshelves on either side.
TOP MIDDLE A maple stair railing with glass panels leads downstairs to a large family/ games room centred around a big screen TV flanked by more maple bookshelves. Across the room is a complete wet bar and glittery tile backsplash and kitty corner from that a complete wine room. This particular home features three more big bedrooms and two full baths in the finished basement.
TOP RIGHT In the master bedroom ensuite, the ceramic tile shower stall, free-standing soaker tub, and same quartzygranite countertop are reflected in dual vanity-to -ceiling mirrors. Heated quartz Candia Tiger tile flooring warms the feet on the way to an incredible walk-in closet with wall-towall shelves, hangers and drawers. NL
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community profile n Watermark at Bearspaw
Untroubled waters
Watermark at Bearspaw remains unaffected by slow economy n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
WAT E R M A R K AT B E A R S PAW was always going to be special, now everyone knows just how special. While home sales in Calgary continue to struggle amidst the economic slump, this multiple award-winning, luxury community on the city’s western edge continues to rack up sales at an astonishing clip. Ian Macdonald, director of sales and marketing for the Macdonald Development project, says this year they have sold 13 quick-possession single-family homes ranging in price from $1.2 to $3.4 million. This includes Wolf Custom Homes’ Mission Revival estate, an 8,644-squarefoot home including a guest house, which sold for $3.45 million. “Two other quick-possession homes sold for over $1.8 million each within two weeks in October.” Quick-possession homes are pre-built residences offered by builders to buyers for immediate move-ins or 30, 60 and 90 days out. Their multi-family Villas at Watermark have been just as well received with only seven of the total 101 units remaining. “We may be sold out of our Villas by the New Year,” he tells New Home Living. A further 183 of the 217 single-family estate lots released have also been bought, another indication of the strong demand for their products.
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“We’ve been averaging 30 lots a year in sales. It just shows that, whether boom or bust, what we offer at Watermark is what people are looking for,” Macdonald says. He adds that 110 single-family homes are already occupied, as well as 38 Villas, and the new residents are already enjoying the plentiful amenities that the developer had already installed since they launched in 2011. Watermark’s spacious lots, park-like setting and accessibility are all part of their appeal as the perfect estate community to set roots, raise a family, and live your life in luxurious style. These are qualities that seem to have insulated this Macdonald Development Corp. (MDC) community from the perceived economic slowdown in Calgary. The development, launched in March 2011, will have 469 lots available when fully developed.
n community
But a trend that Macdonald had noticed is that quick-possession homes have overtaken sales for their custom-build homes. “Many of our buyers just don’t want the uncertainty of building a custom home until they have sold their current home. When a family has sold their home they want a place they can move into right away.” It’s a trend that Watermark’s new preferred builder group is willing to oblige. In fact, Astoria Custom Homes, New West Luxury Estate Homes, Trickle Creek Designer Homes, and Wolf Custom Homes have recently unveiled a new show home parade that can only raise the prestige level of Watermark at Bearspaw. “We’re extremely pleased with how the new parade turned out, the architectural diversity is unprecedented in Calgary” Macdonald says. “They’ve been averaging 100 visitor groups a day.” Ideally situated close to Calgary and nestled among the Bow River, Bearspaw Reservoir and Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park, the community of Watermark at Bearspaw is a highly sought after place to live. The community was developed with nature in mind with more than 46 acres of parkland and water features. There are also five kilometers of paved walking and cycling pathways. Featuring 17 interconnected and cascading ponds and three playgrounds, there is also a Central Plaza that features an
Watermark’s spacious lots, park-like setting and accessibility are all part of their appeal as the perfect estate community…
profile
New West Luxury Estate Homes’ Berkshire show home
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Astoria Custom Homes’ Montebello show home
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community profile n Watermark at Bearspaw Trickle Creek Designers Home’s Maderia show home
FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: Watermark at Bearspaw DEVELOPER: Macdonald Development Corporation BUILDERS: Astoria Custom Homes, New West Luxury Estate Homes, Trickle Creek Designer Homes, Wolf Custom Homes STYLE: Custom estate homes on quarter-acre to one-acre homesites. Bungalows start from 2,045 sq, ft, and two-storey homes are from 2,400 sq. ft. PRICE: Home and lot packages start at $1.2 million INFORMATION CENTRE: 2 Stoneypoint Place N.W. DIRECTIONS: West on Crowchild Trail and south on 12 Mile Coulee Road N.W. SHOW HOME HOURS: Tuesday to Thursday 12 pm to 6 pm, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays 12 to 5 pm, closed Mondays. WEB: www.watermarkatbearspaw.com
“Amenity areas and the clubhouse are constructed using all natural wood and stone materials and the heavily landscaped common areas and surrounding yards help outdoor pavilion with fireplace, picnic tables, barbecues, kitchen, NBAsized sports court and gas fire pit with amphitheater style seating. And all absorb water runoff.”
of this is also conveniently located next to the 3,500-acre Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park. “Amenity areas and the clubhouse are constructed using all natural wood and stone materials and the heavily landscaped common areas and surrounding yards help absorb water runoff,” says Macdonald. These features have helped Watermark at Bearspaw amass quite the collection of local and national awards. They are proud recipients of the Canadian Home Builders Association’s (CHBA) Sales and Marketing Awards (SAM Awards) for Best Community – Calgary Region, three years in a row (2012, 2013, and 2014), the Alberta Awards of Excellence for Best Community in Alberta (2015) and Best Community in Canada, two years in a row (2012, 2013). Professionals and their families are the main buyers at Watermark at Bearspaw, many of them coming from Calgary’s northwest communities.
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“A lot of our buyers want a bigger home but want to stay in the neighbourhood. We also get quite a few medical professionals because they like the fact that we are just 15 minutes away from the Foothills Medical Centre,” Macdonald says. “Also, being 20 minutes from downtown, our purchasers that work in the core are looking forward to an easy commute. In fact, we are also just 20 minutes away from the airport and have numerous northwest shopping centres nearby, so the location is pretty tough to beat,” Macdonald notes. NL
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shopping
The joy of giving Give Santa a hand with these stocking stuffers
n WRITTEN BY
Kathy McCormick
W
ith the imminent arrival of the jolly old elf himself, it could be time to start to panic if you haven’t finished (or, indeed, even started) shopping for unique gifts for your favourite people for Christmas. The good news is that there are a lot of unique, practical, downright necessary, or just plain fun items at stores near you to help you take the guesswork out of shopping and still make your gifts memorable and appreciated. Here are a few tips.
CRATE AND BARREL
TREE LUMINARY ($22.95) This versatile decoration can be used indoors or out, says media relations expert Cathy Miller from Crate and Barrel. “It’s sturdy because it’s made of iron. It can hold a flameless candle (so easy) or a standard wax pillar and it creates a beautiful, flickering effect with tree cut-outs.” ROSCOE NESTING BOWL SET ($39.95) Multi-purpose, tonal grey, durable stoneware in interesting organic shapes make the Roscoe Nesting Bowl Set a great addition to any home, says Miller. “This is a great price for five modern, functional stoneware bowls — and they nest for storage.”
GLOW TABLE LAMP ($119) “The Glow Table Lamp is incredible value for a quality, modern lamp which emits a soft glow,” says Miller. “It’s perfect for a desk or nightstand, or as a décor piece on an entranceway table.” The lamp has a solid steel base with an opal glass shade and a translucent cord to keep the look clean.
HOME DEPOT
HUSKY 9-DRAWER METALLIC SILVER CHEST & CABINET ($298) “With a three-year limited warranty, this nine-drawer tool chest and cabinet is made from high-grade, all-welded steel construction and finished with tough metallic silver industrial powder coat paint,” says Emily DiCarlo, public relations specialist for The Home Depot Canada. “All drawers feature 100-lb.-rated ball bearing drawer slides featuring ‘Secure Latch’ retention system.” Castors that roll easily, an ergonomic handle, and a secure locking system “makes this the perfect gift for that special DIYer in your life,” says Di Carlo.
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shopping n
DEXTERITY GLOVE 3-PACK ($14.97) “For anyone who loves to work with their hands, the Dexterity Work Gloves Value Pack is the perfect stocking stuffer,” says DiCarlo. “This three-glove pack offers value in the form of mesh suede with high dexterity and grip.” ECOBEE3 HOMEKIT ENABLED WIFI THERMOSTAT ($249) “For the tech guru in your life, this smarter Wi-Fi thermostat with remote sensors is perfect for homes,” DiCarlo says. “Ordinary thermostats read the temperature in one room, usually the hallway, which can make your favourite rooms uncomfortable. The EcoBee3 works with remote sensors to deliver the right temperature to rooms that matter most — and it can be controlled using your iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, and Siri. It requires IOS 8.1 or later.”
HOMESENSE
ADULT COLOURING BOOK ($9.99) We’ve finally discovered that there is still a child in all of us — and adult colouring books are the rage these days. “It’s a unique way to de-stress,” says Margot Reilly for HomeSense. “This adult colouring book is a definite conversation starter that produces beautiful results.” This colouring book invites adults to add their personal touch to each drawing that has intricate detail. MARQUEE LIGHT-UP LETTER ($24.99) Adding personalization to any space, the battery-operated Marquee Light-Up Letters create warm ambiance with the flip of a switch. “The letter is a trendy item that can be tailored to every recipient,” says Reilly. “Give the recipient their initial or gift a word that means something special.”
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MASTERMIND TOYS And let’s not forget the kids themselves. Mastermind Toys has a couple of unique gift ideas that are sure to be a hit. LAMBORGHINI LUGGAGE ($69.99) (Available in stores and online at www.mastermindtoys. com. For ages 4+) Cool for kids, “this awesome and stylish ‘Lambo’ luggage has a durable plastic shell and two retractable handles,” says Merrick. “It’s perfect for travel, but also for everyday use and storage.” It comes in funky orange and green.
4-D CALGARY CITYSCAPE PUZZLE ($39.99) (Note: this item is available in Calgary stores only, not online. Recommended for ages 8+) “This award-winning puzzle recreates Calgary’s famous skyline, not only in three dimensions using scale-model buildings, but also along the fourth dimension of time, spanning over 100 years of architectural history,” says Beth Merrick for Mastermind Toys. “The puzzle includes 50 plastic building replicas that depict the city as it appeared as far back as 1883 through to present day with the addition of the Peace Bridge, Calgary Tower, COP, and more.” The buildings fit into pre-cut holes in a traditional 2-D jigsaw puzzle that forms the city’s street layout. It also includes a Time Poster that directs you through time as you rebuild Calgary’s skyline history.
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RONA
WINE COOLER ($178) This countertop wine cooler will keep up to 17 bottles cool, says Doucet. Measuring 45 centimetre wide by 51 centimetre deep and 51 centimetre high, it has a reversible door for right or left opening, a temperature range of 6 to 14 degrees Celsius and a 12-month warranty on parts and labour.
DEWALT TOOL BAG ($57.99) This tool bag fits the DIYer in every way, says Caroline Doucet for RONA. “It’s an open-tool bag with an open-top design and handle, allowing excellent visibility and access to all the contents. It has 23 pockets, sleeves and slots, allowing a wide variety of tools and parts.” Heavy-duty ballistic poly-fabric construction, adjustable, nonslip padded shoulder strap and padded bar handle, and a 6x11-inch parts tray make it the perfect bag for all the household tools. DEWALT DRILL/DRIVER AND IMPACT DRIVER COMBO KIT ($199) “The DeWALT Lithium-ion 20V Max combo kit includes two cordless tools to help you with your renovation work,” says Doucet. The kit includes the DCD771 ½-inch drill/driver with variable speed transmission and the DCF885 1/3-inch compact driver which features three LED lights with a 20-second delay to provide visibility.
shopping
URBAN BARN
EIFFEL WINE RACK BLACK ($49) “The Eiffel Wine Rack offers a romantic feature to any home with its simple design,” says Luchetta.
NEED A DAY WALL ART ($36) “No-one would disagree,” says Luchetta. “This cheeky wall art brightens any room with its witty humour and rustic white-washed finish. RELAX SHELF DÉCOR ($22) “Made from aluminum and finished with shimmery metallic paint the Relax Shelf Décor is a brilliant accent for your bookshelf or mantle,” says Sonya Luchetta for Urban Barn.
FINALLY, URBAN BARN’S ANNUAL INITIATIVE TO HELP THOSE IN NEED IN THE COMMUNITY IS BLANKET THE COUNTRY IN WARMTH ($5). “With a $5 donation, you can help a person in need stay warm this winter. Together we will be donating 13,000 of these cozy blankets to homeless shelters across Canada,” Luchetta says. “So go ahead, buy one, two or 20 (they make great stocking stuffers or hostess gifts) and help us blanket the country in warmth.” NL
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FESTIVE FUN
Be the hit of the party season with these Christmas décor tips n WRITTEN BY
David Crosson
B
Photos cour tesy Cr ate & Barrel
e your focus religious or secular, however you celebrate the festive season it’s safe to say the holiday table is common ground for the majority. And, although people’s preferences may vary, this time of year is known to provide some latitude when it comes to sparkle. Like a dash of spice, how much you use is up to you — think of it as seasoning the season to taste. Dialed up or dialed down, when it comes to glitz it’s good to start with a solid base — your own dishes, for example. Classic white plates can be taken in any number of directions and will serve you (literally) 365 days a year. Investing in a good set will allow you to change things up with accessories and explore trends without reinventing the wheel (or plate) each time, much in the same way you’d use trendy, bright cushions to jazz up a simple sofa. I like to play it cool when it comes to the holidays, and often use subtle metallics to bring a bit of sparkle to largely neutral tablescapes. One go-to material of mine is mercury glass; it’s a great way to add a bit of glam to the mix without taking it to the max and its frosty sophistication pairs well with a number of colour schemes and décor styles. West Elm is a great source for mercury glass items from votives to vases and all at a terrific price point. Their votive candleholders come in a range of shapes and textures and would look stunning scattered down the centre of an all-white table accented with soft pinks or icy blues. For a real wow factor, adding a couple of their silver Manzanita Candelabras to the mix would yield nothing short of a winter wonderland — all within the confines of your dining table.
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Photo cour tesy Potter y Barn
Another fun option that’s readily available right now (and also scores high on the subtlety scale) is capiz shell. Far from beachy in a holiday setting, this lustrous material looks gorgeous in candlelight and pairs beautifully with other, earthier textures like heavy linen or felted wool. Pier 1 has always been a great source of capiz goods in both natural white and dyed hues such as holiday red. Their Scalloped Capiz Placemat is like a minimalist snowflake, the perfect landing spot for a plateful of holiday indulgence. However, if this pearlescent ode to glamour isn’t quite up to par for your party, consider adding one of their accent pieces to the mix, such as the Beaded Glitz Table Runner. It will be as if the ghost of Liberace himself had joined you at the table… Linens are also a fantastic way to dress a table and Pottery Barn is always a good resource for festive fare; their playful take on traditional style is sure to please in this, our most tradition-laden of seasons. I’m not entirely sure how plaid cornered the market as a go-to print for the holidays but it’s tried and true. Williams-Sonoma’s Forest Tartan
style
Photo cour tesy Pier 1
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series provides beautiful options for a festive meal as well as plenty of opportunity to play with non-traditional colour schemes. Try it with cobalt glass stemware and brass flatware — a stunning combination. If it’s a Scandi vibe you crave, their Alpine Toile series dishes up a classic red stag-and-forest motif on a white background, which would look stunning with rustic white crockery and chunky silverware, accented with simple white pillar candles.
ABOVE LEFT: Witty accessories, like this antler-handled serving piece, bring a festive flare to family gatherings
ABOVE RIGHT: If bling is your thing, a beaded table runner is just the piece you need to amp-up the tabletop glamour.
»
I like to play it cool when it comes to the holidays, and often use subtle metallics to bring a bit of sparkle to largely neutral tablescapes. OPPOSITE PAGE: Playful pillows are a great way to enliven a space for the holidays without going overboard. Better still, their compact size makes for easy off-season storage. RIGHT: Mercury glass, in its many forms, is a great way to add sparkle to your space. Votive candles are particularly appealing on a holiday table.
Photo cour tesy West Elm
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Photo cour tesy West Elm
Photo cour tesy Williams-Sonoma
Photo cour tesy Potter y Barn
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For added flair, Pottery Barn’s Antler Handled Serving Tray or Serve Bowl are the perfect, witty accompaniments. Feeling even more playful? Their Caroline Paisley in predominant reds and greens offers a fresh approach to a centuries-old pattern, superb with mismatched old-school china and arrangements of cut amaryllis for a heady dose new-meets-old-world chic. Of course, once bellies are full it’s always nice to have somewhere cozy to retreat — and there’s no reason other parts of the house should be left out. Although there’s no need to go holiday-mad with decorations, a nod to the season is always a welcome touch. Crate & Barrel has a wonderful selection of items designed to delight but not overwhelm and their throw cushions
are a great way to toss in some yuletide style without breaking the bank. Some of their stand-out choices include the Dasher 18 inches red Reindeer Pillow, the Polar Bear 23 inches holiday Pillow and the 18 inches Holiday Snowman pillow. Of course, no post-nosh nestling would be complete without a sumptuous throw and West Elm has plenty with style to spare. I particularly like the Faux Fur Seal Ombre model, a cruelty-free yet cozy option perfect for the season of good will towards all. However you choose to celebrate, I hope you do so safely and with style; there’s a whole new year ahead waiting for all of us. Season’s greetings! NL
Linens are also a fantastic way to dress a table and Pottery Barn is always a good resource for festive fare; their playful take on traditional style is sure to please in this, our most tradition-laden of seasons. 34 | NE W HOME LIVING
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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: In this season of good will to all creatures, friendly faux fur is the way to go if you need a throw. Flora and fauna bring a fresh twist to a classic French toile pattern, seen here in a seasonappropriate red-and-white colour scheme. Rendered in tones of blue and green, Forest collection offers a fresh take on traditional tartan.
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
news n
CMHC Fall forecast Calgary housing starts to decline in 2015 and 2016 but rise slightly in 2017 n WRITTEN BY
Jim Zang
A
ccording to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) Fall 2015 Calgary Housing Market Outlook released October 26, total housing starts in the Calgary Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) are forecast to decline to 11,900 units in 2015 and 10,000 in 2016 before increasing slightly to 10,200 in 2017. “The impact of lower oil prices on Calgary’s labour market and consumer confidence, combined with a well-supplied resale market will reduce new home construction in 2015 and 2016,” said Richard Cho, CMHC’s Principal, Market Analysis for Calgary. “In 2017, total housing starts are forecast to increase slightly with support provided by gradual improvements in job creation, income growth and net migration,” he added. New construction of single-detached homes in 2015 and 2016 is forecast to reach its lowest level since 1988 with 4,000 starts per year. “Employment growth in 2015 has slowed and will also be muted in 2016 as job losses are expected in the early months of the year. Migration will also decline as the region continues to face an elevated unemployment rate,” said Cho. Economic conditions are anticipated to improve in the second half of 2016 and into 2017. Single-detached
“In 2017, total housing starts are forecast to increase slightly with support provided by gradual improvements in job creation, income growth and net migration.”
starts are forecast to rise three per cent to 4,100 in 2017. Following a record high of 10,637 units in 2014, multi-family starts are forecast to decline to 7,900 units in 2015 and 6,000 units in 2016. An increase in inventories, a rise in rental vacancy rates and competition from the resale market will moderate multi-family starts. In 2017, multi-family construction is forecast to increase to 6,100 units as economic conditions improve. MLS® residential sales in Calgary are forecast to decline 28 per cent to 24,300 in 2015, after reaching a record high of 33,615 units in 2014. A sharp rebound in sales is not expected for 2016 as employment growth will be particularly weak in the first few months before posting some gains later in the year. Confidence in the economy and housing markets will gradually improve through to 2017 as economic activity gains ground and employment increases. Although mortgage rates are expected to rise, they will still remain historically low, and the anticipation of higher rates may also move some buyers off the fence. Sales are forecast to rise 1.6 per cent to 24,700 units in 2016 and increase two per cent to 25,200 units in 2017. The average MLS® residential price is forecast to ri rise by less than one per cent in 2016 to $454,000, and increase two per cent to $463,000 in 2017. NL
CALGARY CMA FORECAST SUMMARY 2015 2012
2013
2014
2015 (F)
% chg
2016 (F)
% chg
2017 (F)
% chg
NEW HOME MARKET STARTS: Single-Detached
5,961
6,402
6,494
4,000
-38.4
4,000
0.0
4,100
2.5
Multiples
6,880
6,182
10,637
7,900
-25.7
6,000
-24.1
6,100
1.7
Starts - Total
12,841
12,584
17,131
11,900
-30.5
10,000
-16.0
10,200
2.0
580,135
588,179
634,979
745,000
17.3
720,000
-3.4
732,000
1.7
478,669
486,566
539,332
645,000
19.6
625,000
-3.1
635,000
1.6
1.7
5.3
7.0
1.0
-
1.5
-
2.0
-
AVERAGE PRICE ($): Single-Detached MEDIAN PRICE ($): Single-Detached New Housing Price Index (% chg.)
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n news
CALGARY CMA FORECAST SUMMARY 2015 (CONTINUED) 2012
2013
2014
2015 (F)
% chg
2016 (F)
% chg
2017 (F)
% chg
RESALE MARKET MLS® Sales
26,634
29,954
33,615
24,300
-27.7
24,700
1.6
25,200
2.0
MLS® New Listings
42,137
42,678
48,078
41,000
-14.7
39,000
-4.9
40,000
2.6
7,166
5,947
6,078
8,300
36.6
7,800
-6.0
7,900
1.3
412,315
437,036
460,584
451,000
-2.1
454,000
0.7
463,000
2.0
MLS® Active Listings MLS® Average Price ($)
RENTAL MARKET October Vacancy Rate (%) Two-bedroom Average Rent (October) ($)
1.3
1.0
1.4
3.5
2.1
3.7
0.2
3.6
-0.1
1,150
1,224
1,322
1,325
0.2
1,335
0.8
1,350
1.1
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW Mortgage Rate (1 year) (%)
3.17
3.08
3.14
2.60 to 3.30
-
3.00 to 3.80
-
3.90 to 4.80
-
Mortgage Rate (5 year) (%)
5.27
5.24
4.88
4.10 to 5.20
-
4.70 to 6.00
-
5.10 to 6.50
-
Annual Employment Level
757,100
779,600
799,500
818,688
2.4
823,600
0.6
838,425
1.8
Employment Growth (%)
5.1
3.0
2.6
2.4
-
0.6
-
1.8
-
Unemployment rate (%)
4.7
4.8
5.0
6.2
-
6.4
-
6.2
-
31,504
37,996
36,521
18,000
-50.7
17,500
-2.8
18,000
2.9
Net Migration
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around town n
By Pepper Rodriguez
Homes by Avi Dream Home winner PAUL ALLRED IS a 67-year-old Calgarian and long-time Stampede Lotteries supporter, and the widower won this year’s Rotary Dream Home by Homes by Avi. The 2,440-square-foot home is valued at more than $860,000 and is now part of the southeast community of Walden. Paul bought pre-sale tickets but didn’t actually make it down to the Stampede grounds to see the home. During the winner’s reception hosted by the Lotteries, he says that he initially thought that he would probably sell the home, since it’s just him and his dog, Buffy. However, when touring the home not more than an hour later, he says he was having second thoughts, adding that there’s no way he could pass up the chance to live in such a beautiful home. And his sister, who accompanied him on the tour, was already picking out a room to stay in.
Wolf sells $3.46 million show home in Watermark DESPITE THE SLOWING Calgary economy, Wolf Custom Homes has sold two of their former show homes in Watermark at Bearspaw for over $5 million. Wolf Custom Homes’ 8,644-square-foot Mission Revival estate was sold to a private buyer in October for $3.45 million. And its other former show home, with a total living space of 5,306 square-feet also sold for $1.94 million. The Mission Revival estate was the custom home builder’s first show home in this upscale community just northwest of Calgary and included a guest house, soaring ceilings, hydronic infloor heat and a turreted wine room. The recent luxury home sales are an indication that in spite of economic changes, the luxury lifestyle and market remain strong in Calgary, the company says in a statement. Watermark at Bearspaw has actually done pretty well this year, selling 13 properties worth over $1.2 million, quite a remarkable feat during an economic downturn. “We are thrilled to have Wolf as one of our Builders of Distinction in Watermark,” says Ian Macdonald, director of sales and marketing for Macdonald Development Corporation. “With the variety of design, size, and setting for a custom or quick possession home there is truly something for everyone here and our community is designed to reflect the luxury lifestyle our residents have worked Wolf Custom Homes’ Mission Revival estate show home hard to enjoy.”
Stampede Lottery grand prize winner, Paul Allred (left) cuts ribbon for his new home with Homes by Avi president Monte Kendall (far right).
CMHC sees rise in October starts HOUSING STARTS IN the Calgary Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) were trending at 13,780 units in October compared to 13,050 in September, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The trend is a six month moving average of the monthly seasonally adjusted annual rates (SAAR)1 of total housing starts, and the CMHC says they use this standard to paint a more accurate picture of the market. “Housing starts trended higher in October as both single-detached and multi-family construction rose from the previous month,” said Richard Cho, CMHC’s Principal, Market Analysis for Calgary. “Despite the increase from a month earlier, the pace of construction through most of this year has been below 2014 levels due to a rise in supply and a slowdown in migration and employment growth.” Actual housing starts from September to October 2015 reflected a 24 per cent decrease from 1,410 total starts to 1,078. Year-to-date shows a similar softness, dipping 28 per cent from 15,213 in 2014 to 10,909 this year. The CMHC sees housing construction will continue to slow in 2015 and 2016, but will be higher in 2017. NL
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calgary map
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Northwest
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Northeast n calgary map
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calgary map
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Southwest
42 | NE W HOME LIVING
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Southeast/Calgary area n calgary map
AIRDRIE
OKOTOKS
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advertisers index
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APEX Land
Mattamy Homes
Brookfield Residential
McKee Homes
Hillcrest page 3
Carrington FC, pages 12-14, 48
Fireside page 15
page 38
Brookfield Residential Symons Gate page 27
Stepper Custom Homes Kinniburgh page 28
United Communities
CHBA
Drake Landing page 20
Homexpo page 37, 44
United Communities
APEX Land
Nolan Hill page 2
Heartland page 19
United Communities
Genesis Land page 7
The Ranch page 47
Genesis Land
Vesta Properties
Pier 11 page 9
page 4
Grasslands of Beiseker page 42
Legacy page45
Jayman BUILT Sunset Ridge page 35
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WestCreek Developments
DECEMBER 2015
hope at large n
By Marty Hope
THE NEW NORTH Walton Developments makes strides in transforming the northeast NOT ALL THAT long ago, Country Hills Boulevard eastbound from Deerfoot Trail wasn’t much more than pastureland. Then Walton Development and Management transformed a huge swath of it into SkyView Ranch which opened the doors for dramatic residential growth in the northeast quadrant and that has become an unqualified success. In the meantime, other developers surfaced with their own residential and commercial projects, but it was Walton that kick-started the whole thing. In late August, Walton laid out its plans for yet another residential development — Cornerstone — that is anticipated to become home to something like 30,000 people. It is coming to life on approximately 1,200 acres of land bounded on the north and east by Stoney Trail, on the south by Airport Trail, and on the west by 50th Street N.E. With work already underway in creating its newest community, Walton executive vice-president Craig Dickie says Cornerstone has created a new excitement in the area that has become one of the fastest-growing parts of Calgary. “Cornerstone is the largest single outline plan ever approved by the city. Previously the largest was SkyView Ranch,” he says. By spring, Dickie expects the project to be will into the underground servicing of construction followed by the show home phase, with show homes opening in the fall. “From a residential perspective, we’re go-
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ing to have something for everyone, from first-time to moveup buyer, and with a blend of single-family and multi-family choices available,” he says. The builder group put together by Walton includes a Who’s Who of the housing industry in and around Calgary, like Morrison Homes, Jayman MasterBuilt, FROM LEFT Craig Dickie (Executive Vice-President, Canada, Walton Shane Homes, Hopewell Development and Management), Bill Doherty (Chief Executive Residential, Truman Office of Walton Global Investments Ltd.), Ward 3 Councilor Jim Development Corp., and Stevenson, John Plastiras (Executive Vice President, Real Estate for Carrington Communities. Walton Global Investments Ltd.). Cornerstone will actually be a family of five neighbourhoods The community will be developed on a north and south of Country Hills Boulegrid network to make travel easier, and vard — Cornerstone Point, Cornerstone many of the environmentally significant Park, Cornerstone Gate, Cornerstone wetlands will be preserved and connected View, and Cornerstone Ridge — and will be by way of a green corridor comprised of about 14,500 single-family Cornerstone will be put together in homes, apartments, townhomes, duplexphases moving from west to east across es, laned homes, zero-lot-line homes, and the property starting at 128th Avenue N.E. front-drive homes. — with the possibility of a second phase One of the more unique aspects of the south of Country Hills Boulevard breaking community will be an urban boulevard to ground about the same time. NL be built across Country Hills Boulevard connecting cyclists and pedestrians to the Marty Hope. For more than two decades amenities and features of all five CornerMarty Hope has been reporting on the housing stone neighbourhoods. and development industry in Calgary, At the centre of the community is a Major throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Activity Centre (MAC) featuring retail Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ spaces, possibly with residential above, Association which is given annually to a and commercial spaces, along with two non-builder member in Canada for planned transit plazas. contributions to the industry.