VOLUME 13 ISSUE 128 n AUGUST 2016
contents
12 COVER FEATURE
12
Village for a new generation Westman Village introduces new community living concept for the 21st century
NEWS
A bold, new era begins 20
CHBA – UDI Calgary Region elects first board members, names executive directors
PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp. 6109 — 6th Street S.E, Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9
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contents 29 36
16
FOCUS ON
10 Gadgets galore
Personal gadgets for the mobile age
SHOW HOME PROFILE
16 Effortless elegance
Augusta Fine Homes’ Westwood brings magical style to bungalow living
22 Custom-fit homes
Brycor Homes puts the ‘custom’ in customer-focused
STYLE
29 Wireless living
The digital age allows for wireless home entertainment
SHOPPING
33 Watch me now
The continued evolution of the television makes home entertainment affordable, indispensable
FEATURE
26 Nature all around
Calgary city parks keep urban denizens close to nature
36 Community education
is the key
Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre takes their program to whole a new level
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COLUMNS
43 Around Town 46 Hope at Large
ITEMS
8 Editor’s Message 38 Maps 45 Advertiser Index
editor’s message n
Big screen dreams
PUBLISHER
No, I don’t mean being a star of the silver screen. Rather, my dream of having the best home entertainment system money can buy…or at least what I can afford, which really isn’t much. That ideal system usually involves powerful amps, surround sound speakers with a subwoofer and a widescreen TV. Trouble is technology moves so quickly nowadays that what’s trending right now may be obsolete after you read this. I can remember when 3D TVs were all the rage, but that hasn’t really worked out in the home front, overtaken instead by the newest ultra 4K smart TVs with pictures so crisp and clear you can see each bristle of the Blue Jays’ Jose Bautista’s beard (three guesses as to what I’m watching right now). In this issue, we have STYLE guru David Crosson and our Shopping correspondent Kathy McCormick delving into this Jetson-age world of home entertainment. David takes on the aspect of how to design your home to fit this new technology, and Kathy tells us what’s available out there. Let me tell you, it boggles the mind. I remember when I was happy with my 21-inch RCA box type colour TV with the tinny speakers growing up back in Manila. It’s probably a collectors’ item now… With the advances in sound attenuation technology, even duplex dwellers can enjoy 5.1 channel surround sound without getting into fights with their next-wall neighbour. And with new wireless speaker technology, you can move the speakers away from the common wall without worrying about wires and cables running all over your floor. That will probably come in handy when you move in Jayman BUILT’s most ambitious project yet — Westman Village. Made up of four home components, including upscale estate bungalows, low-rise condos, rentals and adult active living suites, Westman Village presents the very best of a modern lifestyle in an amenity-rich suburban area. It’s located along the shores of Mahogany Lake community and will have the massive Village Centre state-ofthe-art two-storey recreation building at its heart. It’s one amenity on top of another in this community of the future. We also feature show homes from Augusta Fine Homes and Brycor Homes that show just how spectacular a custom home can be. You can see how much importance home entertainment is given in these two fine examples of modern single-family living. We also have some industry news to pass along regarding the new board of directors for the newly amalgamated CHBA – UDI Calgary, which will help forge the path for home builders, community developers and their partners in the challenging future ahead. In case you think I’m just encouraging people to just Netflix and chill with our home entertainment features, we also have Shelly Boettcher’s write-up on the numerous city parks we as Calgarians get to enjoy so easily. This reminds us how lucky we are to have these indoor and outdoor entertainment opportunities so easily available to us, but maybe it’s time to put down my TV clicker and go for a walk in one of those parks. Have a great summer, Calgary
Source Media Group
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
Vivian Zhang vivian.zhang@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
Shelley Boettcher, David Crosson, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick PHOTOGRAPHY
Shelley Boettcher, Earl Raatz ADVERTISING
advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSN 1918-4441 PRINTED IN CANADA
©2016 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, 6109 — 6th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9. T: 403.532.3101, F: 403.532.3109, TF: 1.888.932.3101 E: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca
NEXT MONTH:
The back-to-school issue
@CalgaryNewHomes
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1 The digital age is in full bloom with a host of personal electronic devices n BY
Aaliya Essa
SURE TECHNOLOGY has come a long way, from smart phones to televisions, and even computers. Personal accessories have followed along with this new wave, with more and more gadgets that allow consumers to have access to fun toys to play with, and even simple devices that allow you to monitor your home with a simple application on your phone. Here are some great products that will surely pique your interest. NL
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4 [ 1 ] iHome Color-charging Clock Radio, $44 at Walmart. [ 2 ] FitBit Blaze, $249.97 at Walmart. [ 3 ] Orbotix BB-8 App Enab Droid by Sphero, $189.95 at Apple. [ 4 ] GT BT Suction Speaker, $24.99 at The Source. [ 5 ] Nest CAM-CAF, $249.95 at Apple. [ 6 ] Bose Soundlink — Blue BT Speaker, $149.95 at Apple. [ 7 ] Water Speaker 20, $39.99 at The Source. [ 8 ] Light up Mouse, $9.96 at The Source. [ 9 ] SOLO 2 WL — Red, $329.95 at Apple. AUGUST 2016 NE W HOME LIVING
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
VILLAGE FOR
Westman Village
A NEW GENERATION Westman Village introduces new community living concept for the 21st century
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or 36 years, Jayman BUILT has informed the way Calgarians want to live with their award-winning array of homes from starter products all the way up to million-dollar estate homes. Now, the renowned familyrun home builder is bringing all their insight and expertise in creating lifestyle-centric living in their most ambitious project yet — Westman Village. Westman Village, in fact, takes the concept much further, as it sculpts a lifestyle for an entire community, and across generational lines. The development takes up 13-and-a-half acres of beachfront property in Mahogany, Calgary’s largest lake community. It’s a visionary project that will be made up of 887 multi-family units on build out and will include condos, active living, rental, and estate bungalow components.
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“We are very fortunate to have a location second to none — Mahogany being a national award winning neighbourhood and Westman Village positioned beautifully within at the lake side,” says Lisa Feist, Vice-President for Sales and Marketing of Jayman BUILTs Planned Communities. “This affords Westman Village residents not only an ideal community but a plethora of choice in suites, financial format, interior design selections, activities and wellness, personal and professional services, boutique retail and the already established amenities within Mahogany. A truly amenity-rich lifestyle to call your home.”
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Bringing the community together is an ultra-modern 35,000-squarefoot amenity complex — the Village Centre — which is essentially a state-of-the-art rec centre with gym, fitness centre, two swimming pools, a two-storey water slide, indoor garden and library, among various other amenities that make it an essential gathering spot for communitybuilding. “This is where you can interact with your neighbours, bring your friends and family, and where new friendships can happen. It is where you can find people of your same persuasions and hobbies and where the beginnings of a community bond are forged,” Feist notes. A two-level underground parkade underneath the Village Centre will have tunnels leading to various other developments within Westman Village. There will also be two Plus-15like above-ground sky walks that
will provide various connectivity points through the mini-community. Community is about connections; connections to your neighbours, connections to amenities that make life better. And the Village Centre brings all this to the fore. This is why this central amenity is already being constructed. “It’s important to us that buyers are able to enjoy this facility as soon as they move in or while their home is being constructed,” she says. Westman Village will put Jayman BUILT’s indelible stamp on the city; it’s a legacy that can be directly traced to AC
Artist render of The Journey Club Active Living
» Artist render of Village Centre
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Artist render of Calligraphy Condominiums
Westman, company co-founder and father of current chairman and CEO, Jay Westman. “Those fortunate to have known AC Westman, know he had a way with people, he just knew their hearts, related naturally to anyone and had a natural, authentic knack for understanding people — their wants, their needs, their desires for lifestyle at all the various life styles and ages,” Feist says. “This understanding became the foundation on which the company was built and AC’s DNA is in every brick, stone, lumber and mortar of Westman Village, it is the foundation of what will make it the most special home for so many,” she adds. Westman Village gathers the Calligraphy Condominiums, the Lyric Choice Rentals; The Journey Club Active Living residences; and the upscale Reflection Estate Bungalows. Calligraphy continues Jayman BUILT’s tradition in offering stylishly functional and innovatively designed low-rise wood-frame condos and will offer apartmentstyle suites from 559 to 1,135 square-feet. Lyric is very similar, but offers rental opportunities instead. “Westman Village choice rentals is unique in that you are treated just as an owner would be – choose your interior selections, enjoy the same amenities, have financial flexibility and call Westman Village home,” Feist says. Staying true to the multi-generational and integrated design, Westman Village offers the Journey Club — a unique adult active living concept with units ranging from 696 to 1,097 square-feet. Particular, on-purpose design elements and a la carte services will invite those who call Journey Club home to engage in what suits
Westman Village is focused on connection and convenience.
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their particular lifestyle needs — whether actively engaged or quiet reflection, the choice is theirs. The absolute gem of this enclave is the Reflection Estate Bungalows — which are garden and lakeside homes with limited number of walk-out basements that start from 1,267 square-feet. “Every home embracing open concept spaces that combine elegance with functionality, choice, quality and purposeful design that Jayman BUILT’s name was built on,” Feist says. Westman Village is focused on connection and convenience. Thus hand-selected boutique style retail is positioned on the community’s walkable main streets — including a premium dining lakefront experience at the Chairman’s Steakhouse. “It’s a beautiful vision that AC Westman had always believed in. And now, after 36 years of building awardwinning homes, it’s all come down to bringing his vision to life by creating a community like no other at Westman Village,” Feist says. Reservations have started for all four residential components. Interested buyers for the Calligraphy apartment condominiums and Lyric rental apartments can visit the on-site sales centre with two show suites in Mahogany. While those interested in the Journey Club active living apartments and the Reflection estate bungalows can go to the Jayman BUILT headquarters in Douglasdale, where two show suites are also available to tour. Both locations are paramount to visit, each centre offers insight into Westman Village — see replica’s of elements within the project and learn more about the Village Centre, the connectivity, the community programming, the concierge and so much more out your door. n
FAST FACTS: DEVELOPMENT: Westman Village COMMUNITY: Mahogany STYLE: apartment-style condos, rental suites, active living residences and executive bungalow estate homes SALES CENTRES: Calligraphy Condominiums and Lyric Choice Rentals ADDRESS:1955 Mahogany Blvd. S.E. HOURS: Monday to Friday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends noon to 5 p.m. The Journey Club Active Living suites and Estate Bungalows — Jayman BUILT Centre ADDRESS:1100-3132-118th Ave. S.E. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 9a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays 9 to 5 p.m. Weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, register at www.westmanvillage.com
show home profile n
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Augusta Fine Homes n show home profile
Effortless elegance Augusta Fine Homes’ Westwood brings magical style to bungalow living n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez Earl Raatz
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
ELEGANCE AND FUNCTIONALITY come hand in hand in Augusta Fine Homes’ Westwood show home in Artesia at Heritage Pointe, as the renowned custom estate home builder makes its debut in this enclave for luxury living in dramatic fashion. Augusta has always known how to take traditional designs and make them into something special with their tried and true custom home finesse, and the masterful craftsmanship of the Westwood brings this all together. The 2,076-square-foot main floor simply takes the breath away with its outstanding finish. The Westwood show home also has 1,617 square-feet of developed
basement space that shows the vast potential of the home and makes complete use of the walkout lot that backs onto a pond. “It’s meant for people who want to take it easy,” says area manager Cabby Zecca. “It’s perfect for people in their late 40s or early 50s who might be contemplating retirement and now have more time to think of themselves than just raising a family or their careers.” And with Augusta’s expertise in building custom homes, buyers will have the opportunity to modify the designs to fit their own lifestyles, Zecca says. “At Augusta, we always aim for a higher standard.” The scenic, country club beauty of Artesia at Heritage Pointe adds to the allure. “Artesia is such a friendly community, there are a lot of young families that bring an energy to the area, while the ponds, grween space and pathways add a rare park-like lifestyle to the community.”
OPPOSITE PAGE The 24-by-24-inch tile flooring that is used through most of the main floor brings a sense of executive elegance to the home, and the master ensuite with its tray ceiling and double-sided fireplace cranks this to an even classier level.
TOP LEFT The stately ambience of the kitchen comes through with the stacked upper cabinets that run the height of the 10-foot ceiling, with grey waterglass in the uppers. A tone-setting mosaic backslash completes the splendid scene. LEFT The massive island features black granite with white quartz veining. It ha a raised bar at the end features a sink and seating, so food preparation can be a communal event with family and friends. “It’s a great spot for entertaining, and we saw how wonderfully it worked during the well-attended launch party for the show home,” Zecca says.
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show home profile n Augusta Fine Homes
fast facts BUILDER: Augusta Fine Homes COMMUNITY: Artesia at Heritage Pointe STYLE: Custom estate bungalow SIZE: 2,076 sq. ft. main floor, 1,617 sq. ft. developed basement PRICE: Show home is at $1.8 million, but can start from $1.4 million ADDRESS: 102 Waters Edge MD of Foothills, Alberta DIRECTIONS: South on Deerfoot Tr., exit at Dunbow Rd. east, left on Artesia Blvd. and follow the signs HOURS: Monday to Thursday noon to 6 p.m., Friday, weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.augustafinehomes.ca
LEFT It is a modern kitchen displaying the finest appliances with maple cabinetry with licorice finish and a Richmond profile.
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TOP The double-sided fireplace gives the master bedroom its wow factor, but it’s is doubly gorgeous with its tray ceilings and wood shutters, but its calming view of the pond right outside is worth something owners will look forward to most.
ABOVE The beautiful Nana wall at the back of the main floor folds completely open to extend the living space to the outdoors. “The great room and kitchen nook both have a droppeddown bulkhead defining the areas with LED rope lighting that tucks up and in,” Zecca says.
n show home profile
ABOVE The developed basement has a dedicated home theatre for magical movie nights with the family, Just outside is a glass encased wine room that makes this the perfect entertaining home. The only problem might be guest may never want to leave.
LEFT The wide, welcoming foyer is open to above with a dainty chandelier and glass doors that add to the executive look. The show home itself is at $1.8 million though Zecca says Augusta can build a similar model from $1.4 million.
BELOW The dignified curb appeal of the Westwood adds to the lovely streetscape of Artesia at Heritage Pointe, which boasts impressive mountain and Bow River views, and is just minutes from the open-tothe-public Heritage Pointe Golf Course. NL
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news
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A bold, new era begins CHBA – UDI Calgary Region elects first board members, names executive directors
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he CHBA – UDI Calgary Region Association took the next big step in achieving its mandate to lend a bigger voice for Calgary’s housing industry, as the first board of directors of the newly amalgamated organization was announced. Allan Klassen, senior vice-president, Calgary Homes for Brookfield Residential, will be the chair of the new 15-member board that brings together representatives from home builders, land developers and renovators; suppliers and trades; and service and professional consultant sectors. “It is my honour to be the first Chair of the newly amalgamated organization and to finally get to realize the dream we have been working towards for so many years,” Klassen says. “I have always believed that an industry that works together can create a stronger more united voice, the more unified we are, the greater impact we can make.” Klassen will be joined by Darryl Conroy (VP Allan Klassen Operations, Borger Group of Companies) as 1st Vice Chair; Paul Boskovich (Vice President Alberta, Genstar Development Partnership) as 2nd Vice Chair; and Mark Wynker (Senior Principal, Stantec) as Secretary/Treasurer. Donna Moore and Guy Huntingford remain co-executive officers for CHBA – UDI Calgary Region. “This term I’m looking forward to two outcomes, the successful integration of the two organizations [UDI – Calgary and CHBA – Calgary Region], and enhancing the relationship with our stakeholders,” says Klassen, who had been a past president of CHBA – Calgary Region in 2004. For decades both former organizations have been building Calgary and its regions, providing quality neighbourhoods and homes for all. “CHBA – Calgary Region and Urban Development Institute (UDI) – Calgary were critical parts of the economic engine of this great city, the province and the country,” Klassen says. “And now we are beginning a new era, building on what many great industry leaders have accomplished before us, and setting ourselves up for future success.” CHBA – UDI Calgary Region Association has 745 member companies in Calgary and the region. It is a not-for-profit organization representing the building industry in Calgary and the surrounding regions. The association has a membership base that includes all facets of building, from single and multi-family builders, renovators, and land developers, to trades, suppliers, and professional companies involved in some aspect of home building. Its vision: “To create the most liveable communities in the world.” NL
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Pepper Rodriguez
BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE Chair – Allan J. Klassen, Senior Vice President, Calgary Homes, Brookfield Residential 1st Vice-Chair – Darryl Conroy, VP Operations, Borger Group of Companies 2nd Vice-Chair – Paul Boskovich, Vice President Alberta, Genstar Development Partnership Secretary/Treasurer – Mark Wynker, Senior Principal – Stantec Guy Huntingford, Co-Chief Executive Officer, CHBA – UDI Calgary Region Association Donna Moore, Co-Chief Executive Officer, CHBA – UDI Calgary Region Association
BOARD MEMBERS BUILDER/DEVELOPER/RENOVATOR • Paul Boskovich, Vice President Alberta – Genstar • Ryan Boyd, Vice President Calgary Communities – Brookfield Residential • Collin Campbell, Vice President, Land Development – Mattamy Homes • Brett Friesen, General Manager, Community Development – Hopewell • Jill Huber, Vice President, Land – APEX • Allan Klassen, Vice President – Brookfield Residential • Sean Nolan, President and COO – Jayman BUILT • Carolina Oxtoby, President & CEO – Heritage Pointe Properties • Shane Wenzel, President – Shane Homes
SUPPLIER/MANUFACTURER/TRADE • Darryl Conroy, VP Operations – Borger Group of Companies • Wayne Copeland, Director, Business Development – Double R Building Products Ltd. • Ryan Erickson, President – Kidco Construction
SERVICE/PROFESSIONAL/CONSULTANTS • Fraser de Walle, Director Sales and Marketing – The Alberta New Home Warranty Program • Jane Power, Senior Planner/Principal – Urban Systems Limited • Mark Wynker, Senior Principal – Stantec
show home profile n Brycor Homes
CUSTOM-FIT HOMES Brycor Homes puts the ‘custom’ in customer-focused n WRITTEN BY
Jim Zang “WE LITERALLY TELL our customers to draw on the walls,” says Jeff Finemore, president of Brycor Homes, “if it helps them tell us what they want.” Before they’re painted, of course. “Customers can change their minds,” he says. “If we haven’t already built it, we can do it.” And therein lies the not-so-secret secret to Brycor Homes success: complete flexibility in the design process. When they say “custom”, they mean custom. Oh sure, they’ve got some 10 or so model plans available, but for many customers, those are just the jumping off points. “The buyer is part of the process every step of the way,” says Finnemore. “From choosing a location to customizing a home down to the last detail. Everything from production schedules to fixture and finishing selections.”
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Buyers can even follow along with the progress of their home with a unique website tool. “It’s all about keeping open lines of communication,” says Finnemore. Although they’ve got a couple of quick possession homes available right now, the bulk of their work remains in the custom market, including both inner-city infills and acreage homes. Right now, he says, they’re working on a couple of acreages, a duplex in Renfrew and a fourplex just north of Marda Loop in Knob Hill. They’ve built homes all across north Calgary and are also building at Lakes of Muirfield, out in Lyalta, where the huge lots — in a gated community and all backing onto golf course or ponds — at affordable prices hold tons of potential.
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“The value for your home dollar is really, really good.” Whatever the location, style or size, each Brycor home features the same high level of craftsmanship as their largest home to date, a sprawling 4,800-square-foot luxury estate home in Briar Hill. Brycor is bullish on infills, and even have their own Upgrade Your Home program to encourage people who might otherwise renovate to consider a re-build. “We walk you through the process, step-by-step, to show you can have a brand new home. “It’s not just about what you need,” Finnemore says, “it’s also about what you want.” Another helpful program is Brycor’s No Draw Financing plan, which basically has them covering building costs during construction, not the buyer. They’re experts at getting all the proper permitting and financing in place, having done it many a time. That kind of customer-centric corporate philosophy and their can-do attitude have made the company extremely popular with their past and present customers alike — just check out the testimonials on their website at www.brycorhomes.com. One such happy couple was James and Stacey Rivett. After building a custom home with Jeff when he worked with a previous builder, they were quick to jump on board when they heard he was starting his own company “because we knew about the creavity and level of service Jeff provided us,” says Stacey, “and we were on board with his vision.” After meeting with the very affable Finnemore, it’s easy to see the appeal of working with these folks. They’re real people, building homes for real people’s lifestyles. You can pick up the phone and call the president about anything, any time. And if you can’t reach him, you can always call his boss, as Finnemore’s wife, Wanita, is creatively listed in the corporate directory. “We don’t build houses,” says Finnermore, “we build homes.”
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home profile
ABOVE Cat doors are just one way Brycor Homes tailors homes to meet customers’ lifestyles.
INSET All Brycor Homes feature the same high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
OPPOSITE PAGE Kitchen features granite-topped island with seating for four or five, stainless steel appliances including five-burner gas stove. Cupboards are dark maple to match the stairway.
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show home profile n Brycor Homes
ABOVE The main living room is highlighted by the nine-foot tall Eldorado stone fireplace surround which matches the exterior accent stone. LEFT Staircases have been opened up and feature dark maple woodwork. BELOW Exterior is solid with Hardie Board siding, Edorado stone accents and poured exposed concrete aggregate sidewalk and steps. Double unattached garage is in the rear off the lane. NL
fast facts COMMUNITY: Renfrew BUILDER: Brycor Homes MODEL: Dorado STYLE: Infill duplex, 3 bdrm, 3.5 bth SIZE: 2,582 sq. ft. PRICE: depends on lot ADDRESS: 435B 12 Avenue N.E. SHOW HOME HOURS: By appointment WEBSITE: www.brycorhomes.com
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feature
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Nature all around Calgary city parks keep urban denizens close to nature
n STORY AND PHOTOS BY
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Shelley Boettcher
very community in Calgary has a park. A place for kids to play. A place to toss a ball, go for a run or walk your dog. Our versatile, beautiful green spaces are a big part of what makes our city so special. “It doesn’t matter where you are in the city, you should be able to find a park that meets your needs,” says Keath Parker, a manager and parks planner with the City of Calgary. “And we try to work with the landscape to leverage the existing beauty that it provides, everything from the river valley system to the wetlands and trees.” With that in mind, here are some of the city’s finest parks. And if you don’t see your favourite on the list, don’t despair; this list is short and Calgary’s parks are many. Just get outside and enjoy the natural beauty that is found within our city limits.
BOWNESS PARK One of Calgary’s oldest parks, Bowness is also one of the city’s most beloved parks. The University of Calgary’s Outdoor Centre operates a boat house here in the summer. Nose Hill Park
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Try your hand at paddling by renting a pedal boat, canoe or kayak. And in the winter, rent a pair of skates or bring your own, and tootle around the lagoon. Obviously, this depends on the weather; it has to be cold enough for the ice to freeze.
CONFEDERATION PARK In December, thousands of cars stop along this park’s 14th Street N.W. strip to admire the massive Christmas light display. But year-round, this park is wonderful. There’s a golf course, and in winter, you can cross-country ski. Go for a picnic here, or ride your bike on paved trails. And find the time capsule, located in the circle of flags off 10th Street N.W. Buried in 1967, it will be opened next year to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary.
EDWORTHY PARK This gorgeous park has lots of typical big-city amenities, including a playground, picnic sites, shelters and tables. But it also has plenty of woodsy charm and good places to hike and bike. Plan to spend a few hours here, as there’s a ton to see and do.
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FISH CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK You can hike or run. You can ride your bike or take the dog for a stroll. And on a hot day, you can swim at the Sikome Aquatic Facility. The man-made beach is a favourite amongst Calgarians in the summer and yes, there is sand. The weather isn’t warm enough for swimming? Head to Annie’s Bakery for nosh. Or book a table at Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant for a romantic meal. The house dates back to 1896, when it was built by rancher William Roper Hull.
NOSE HILL PARK The sprawling Nose Hill covers 11 square-kilometers and includes tons of hiking trails, off-leash areas and wildlife. This is a terrific spot for taking photos of the city skyline and wildlife. I’ve lived near here for more than a decade, and I have seen many coyotes, deer, porcupines, mice and birds over the years. Keep your little dog on a leash.
Confederation Park
And while you’re there, check out River Café (river-café.com), an excellent stop for fans of good food and wine.
RILEY PARK Located in Hillhurst Sunnyside, this pretty park is a wonderful place for a picnic with friends. On a hot day, the free wading pool is filled with kids, and the playground is popular, too. Maybe you’ll see a cricket game, or a wedding party getting photos taken by the flowers.
PRAIRIE WINDS PARK
RIVER PARK, SANDY BEACH AND BRITANNIA SLOPES
Part of Prairie Winds is closed for redevelopment, but when it reopens, there will be a new (and improved) wading pool and spray park. The baseball diamond will become a cricket pitch, and new washrooms, drinking fountains and a tandoori oven will be installed. This winter, however, you’ll still find the toboggan hill if you’re looking for some snowy fun.
This trio of adjoined parks is always busy with people walking their dogs, going on picnics or just having fun. If you haven’t been for a while, check out the renovations, which were mostly completed last year and include upgrades to the bathrooms, picnic shelter and pathways. If you’re a kid, or a kid at heart, it’s a great place on a hot day.
PRINCE’S ISLAND PARK Prince’s Island is gorgeous on a nice day, and in the summer, it’s festival central. The Calgary Folk Music Festival will take place in July, while the 2016 Afrikaday Festival will take place August 10 to 13.
Sikome Beach
ST. PATRICK’S ISLAND One of the city’s newest parks, St. Patrick’s Island features public art, a popular playground, a cool hill with great city views, and nice spots to stick your feet in the river on a hot day. Bonus: It’s a stone’s throw (a.k.a. a pretty walk over a bridge) to the Simmons Building. Stop by for pastries and coffee from Sidewalk Citizen Bakery and Phil & Sebastian, or a meal at Charbar. NL
Riley Park
St. Patrick’s Island
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WIRELESS LIVING
The digital age allows for wireless home entertainment
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David Crosson
n praising a structure or space it’s often said that it has “good bones”. Rarely, if ever, do you hear people speak favourably about the “veins” of a space — namely the endless tangle of wires that somehow keep everything running smoothly. Fortunately, in recent years this nuisance network has begun to diminish as more advances are made in the area of wireless technology. I welcome this on two fronts: one, as a Luddite (I can barely dial a smartphone) and, two, as a person who can make a space look great provided it’s not tethered Gulliver-like by a mess of cords. Well and truly, wireless
technology (or even judiciously wired counterparts) is a designer’s dream: no more awkwardly placed plug sockets or oddly positioned cable jacks to trip up my plans for an exquisite room. Simply put, on the freedom scale it’s like being able to fly a kite without a string. Being obviously limited in my tech-savvy, in pursuit of greater understanding I turned to Andrew Donald of K&W Audio, Calgary’s 38-year-old A/V institution, to help educate me on the latest and greatest. And educate me he did, showcasing the very best in televisions, stereo systems and media furniture. Better still, he did it all without using confusing tech-jargon — which is why you are reading this story right now and not my obit… On the sound front, when it comes to wireless technology, Sonos speakers rule the roost in terms of outstanding results and ease of use. Unlike other product lines that rely on available Wi-Fi connections
Although it’s no longer considered “bleeding edge” in the world of technology, 4K resolution offers broader colour gamut and contrast boost, only rivalled by its 8K cousins.
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ABOVE Sonos Speakers, aside from being sleek and elegant, offer superior sound and can create their own robust transmission network in primarily wireless settings.
PHOTO COURTESY BDI FURNITURE
PHOTO COURTESY BRENT WOOD CL A SSICS
BELOW BDI Furniture has been making media units — and the rooms they inhabit — look great for more than 32 years.
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(often tricky in high-density dwellings), Sonos creates its own robust network for transferring data provided only one of its component units is plugged directly into a router. In fact, they were so self-reliant in creating an untethered sound experience that it wasn’t until 2014 that they began incorporating Wi-Fi-only options into their systems. Of course, hearing music play is the true test and I cannot stress enough how superb the Sonos experience really is. Obviously, sound only addresses one of our entertainment senses; when it comes to appreciating new ‘toys’, seeing really is believing. Despite the fact that more and more people are tuning in to watch their favourite programs and movies on computers, tablets and phones these days, televisions are still big players in the world of big-ticket electronics. With the advent of
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PHOTO COURTESY BDI FURNITURE
ABOVE Low-slung, modern and functional, BDI’s Signal media stand (available in walnut and graphite finishes) adapts itself beautifully to many interior schemes and surroundings. LEFT A leader in the Ultra High Definition (UHD) industry, Samsung’s curved television sets offer outstanding picture quality even when viewed in close quarters.
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4K technology (not new but the new-est), portable devices still cannot measure up to the absolutely immersive experience of watching something in breathtaking clarity on a large screen. If you have ever watched anything in 4K resolution (and I mean anything), then you know that the latest sets make up in sheer dazzle what they lack in portability. I was mesmerized as I watched looped content on a 78-inch curved screen Samsung in the K&W showroom, trying to focus on Andrew’s explanation as images of nature and travel dominated the screen with stunning displays of minutiae. Samsung, and to some extent LG, pretty much dominate the marketplace in terms of display clarity and technological advances, although really anything in this realm is sure to impress. Encouragingly, the price point on these televisual wonders has dropped significantly in recent years — hardly to bargain basement levels but in many cases four figures down from five, depending on screen size. Despite being quite smitten by all the great bells and whistles on offer, my ears really perked up when we got to the furniture part of our tour. For those who have A/V components they need to centralize, options abound beyond the ubiquitous IKEA TV bench. Two in particular are BDI and Salamander Designs. BDI has been making exceptional media furniture for 21 years and it is clear they are committed to their craft. Not only are the pieces beautiful and adaptable to a variety of décor styles, they are purpose-built to handle the specific demands of housing electronics. Most models feature concealed venting to allow for proper air circulation and are designed to allow infrared remote beams to pass easily through their facades, either
through decorative slats or tinted glass. More importantly (at least from this Luddite’s perspective) BDI units are crafted of beautiful materials such as walnut and white oak and engineered to a level that ensures they will serve the spaces they occupy for decades to come. Although I entered K&W on a mission to research this story, I exited a changed man. Looking at my unobtrusive 32-inch television nestled in a bookcase (just above the miniature CD player), I can’t help but wonder if it’s time to join the 21st century and trade-up in my electronics choices. My head fairly spins at the prospect of watching The Great British Baking Show in 4K resolution. I guess life really is too short to be lived as a Luddite… NL
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Crosson is a freelance design writer and principal of the David Crosson Design Collective. He is a frequent media commentator on matters of life and style as well as a regular guest on CTV Morning Live.
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The continued evolution of the television makes home entertainment affordable, indispensable n WRITTEN BY
Kathy McCormick
s we continue headfirst into the Electronic Revolution, it’s hard to know what to buy. Today’s darling is tomorrow’s nightmare… and you don’t want to be caught with yesterday’s Edsel. The good news is, prices continue to decline and products continue to expand, so everyone can have their dream home theatre, even if that just means a bigscreen TV to them. “The first thing we see when someone moves into one of our condo units is a huge brand-new TV box being hauled to the recycle bin,” says Brayden Logel, marketing manager of Cardel Lifestyles, which specializes in affordable living products that appeal to first-time buyers and those looking for pricepoint living. “For sure it definitely takes on a role within the potential buyer’s decision to purchase.” And that’s the beauty of the evolution of TVs, says Jason Abrams, vice-president of merchandising at Best Buy Canada. “It’s really exciting today for new homebuyers, whether they’re moving to a condo or a big home. The newest thing in TV is 4K UHD, four times the resolution of 1080P, which is the highest resolution in the market. The quality of the picture and the amount of detail is incredible.” That means not only a much better, clearer picture, but the ability to get a bigger screen, no matter the size of the room, he says. “4K technology certainly builds the case for bigger TVs in homes because viewers can enjoy stunning clarity and detail at any distance.”
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Photo courtesy Best Buy Canada
A Sony 55-inch 4K TV is available at Best Buy starting at $1,599.99.
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Screen Size (Inches)
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The 4K content is continually expanding, with some movies released now, live TV and sporting events, as well as virtual content, says Abrams. “Several cell phones and cameras shoot 4K video as well, so viewers can create their own high-quality content.” A good quality 55-inch TV can be purchased for under $1,500 today. While that technology is still in its early stages, other advances might suit a viewer since it’s all about personalization today. The most common TV available today, for example, has LED (light emitting diode) technology, says Trevor Williamson, operations manager for TRECC Electric.“LCD (liquid crystal display) with LED back lighting provides a brighter screen with fewer hot spots. They are furthering this technology with different LED placement to provide a better overall image. LED TVs will be around for a long time.” Another new technology incorporates an Organic Light Emitting Diode, great for high ambient light rooms because of its contrast “however, it’s very pricey at the moment,” Williamson says. But stay tuned… like other electronics, prices are expected to drop in the near future. Another new feature is the curved TV, but says Williamson,
“Smart TVs are actually a smart purchase.”
RIGHT: Most new homes now have media outlets placed in living rooms or bonus rooms with option to have outlets elsewhere.
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“You need a very large size to make it worth it.” So, while distance from TV to viewing spot isn’t as much of a factor as before, there is a basic formula that is helpful to determine the right size for the space. Take the diagonal size of the TV (in inches) and divide by 0.84 to get the optimum viewing distance in feet. For example, a 50-inch TV should be five to seven and a half feet away. Perhaps the biggest innovation has been the Smart TV, which is built into almost all TVs sold today, changing the way TVs are used in homes today — and changing the way homes are built for electronic use. “Smart TVs are actually a smart purchase,” says Williamson. “They often include applications like Netflix and other media services, avoiding the need for additional devices like Apple TV or Roku media players. Most on the market today are Wi-Fi enabled, so all you need is a power point to plug the unit in.” Most new homes now have media outlets placed in the living rooms or bonus rooms, with options to have outlets elsewhere. “Brookfield Residential provides options for media conduits for wall-mount TVs to hide cables,” says Devin Dyler, manager of design. “Living rooms have media placement 66-inches above the floor for wall-mount TVs.” And that technology means built-ins, including those around fireplaces, or stand-alone TV cabinets aren’t as common any more, and it makes for a cleaner, less-cluttered look, says Adam Lo, senior architectural designer with Stepper Homes. “When you are building new you have the opportunity to
Photo Courtesy Satellite City
Viewing Distances of the TVs
The experience of watching any TV broadcast or Blu-ray player or high-def PVR is limited by how good your TV set is.
shopping
Photo courtesy Best Buy Canada
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is a revolutionary cinema sound technology that adds more speakers to certain locations of a home theatre to bring the image to life.” Ceiling speakers, for example, make the sound of a helicopter taking off so realistic you’re sure to look up to see those blades cutting through the air! Check out all the latest at the electronics stores, where the experts will be happy to help you create the perfect audio/visual electronics experience for your new home. NL
TOP: An LG 65-inch 4K smart TV at Best Buy is available starting from $3,299.99.
BELOW: 3D capable Sony BRAVIA LCD TV’s called “3D Experience,” includes a selection of movies, music, sports and documentaries.
Photos Courtesy Sony
Photo courtesy Albi Homes
add a power outlet at the correct height and a conduit for the cables so there aren’t any visible cords.” Bedroom TVs are not as common today, say the experts, in part because of the advent and popularity of tablets, iPads and other streaming devices. In the smaller condo units, the size of the bedrooms deters wall-mount TVs as well. But a condo dweller can take heart in the new construction techniques to make their big-screen living-room TV work well, says Logel. “People need to be cognizant of the fact they are living in a condo and noise is a factor with big-screen TVs, but today’s builders do a much better job on sound attenuation, design and engineering.” Another factor is some of the floorplans available today have the bedrooms separated one each side of the unit for privacy for the owners — but it also means the TVs are in the middle, less likely to affect side neighbours. If you’re in the market for the piece de resistance of viewing experiences, the ultimate home theatre is for you — and the innovations make viewing a luxury experience today. “Today, it’s all about audio,” says Abrams. “It’s especially exciting for the homebuyer because content can stream wirelessly through multiple rooms. There’s a lot of demand for that technology and its all wireless. Just plug and play in any room.” One of the biggest changes in home theatre technology is the sound, and Dolby Atmos is the crowning glory, says Williamson. “Dolby Atmos
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Community education is the key Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre takes their program to whole a new level n WRITTEN BY
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Aaliya Essa
he Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC) has been helping adolescents with drug and alcohol addictions here in Calgary for the past 24 years. For over two decades they have been treating the kids and supporting parents and families with a great deal of success, all the while innovating and improving their program as part of a natural progression to bring their program and findings to an even larger audience. “Every year we see the devastating impact of drug and alcohol addiction on young people and their families,” says Dr. Jackie Smith, Director of Community Education and Research at AARC. “Addiction does not play favourites.
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It impacts youth and families from all walks of life, income levels and demographics. “We are fighting against very real issues”, she says, “like the growing use of fentanyl, the proposed legalization of marijuana, and alcohol and drug addiction. It is AARC’s goal to engage Calgarians in advocacy on issues related to adolescent addiction and mental health,” she adds. One of the ways AARC provides support is by offering free workshops, about eight every year, where parents, families, and the public at large are invited to sign up and welcome to attend. “Our presenters include visiting scholars and experts in the field of addiction and mental health and have covered topics including, but not limited to: Fentanyl Abuse, Marijuana’s Impact on the Developing Adolescent Brain, Crystal Meth and Ecstasy and Youth and Gangs,” she says. These workshops offer a great deal of valuable information, as AARC aims to increase awareness regarding early intervention, prevention
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strategies, and family centered treatment approach. “Our greatest prevention tool in the battle against addiction is education,” says Dr. Smith. AARC also actively goes out into the community, offering 10 to 12 offsite workshops a year at schools, community agencies, post-secondary institutions, and parent groups. This community education initiative is focused on educating parents, teachers, the public and especially youths with the goal of combatting adolescent drug addiction right from the root of its existence. The tools and information offered at these workshops give all affected parties a background knowledge about addiction, facts about how drugs affect youth, and clues on how to spot addiction. On top of their goal of prevention through education, AARC is often a last resort for many families and youth dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. For them, it’s important the program here is much more extensive and rock solid for the long term. “No one is ever turned away from AARC because they can’t afford help,” says Darryl Power, Manager of Business Development at AARC. “Everyone that comes to AARC gets the opportunity to receive treatment. “We cater to the underserviced population of vulnerable youth, that unfortunately have caused a lot of burden to society, schools, the legal system, and the healthcare system, a lot have tried to get treatment elsewhere, or parents have tried to help their kids redirect their lives, with little success, and then they come to us,” he says. “We treat clients that have no other options, and that’s
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AARC’s Board Chair, Mrs. Ann McCaig & AARC’s Executive Director, Dr. Dean Vause
the cliental that we are good with, because we provide a very unique service,” he adds. Treating addiction takes time, however, and a strong support system. At AARC part of what sets them apart is their unique approach to treating and combating addiction by extending treatment to family and friends, because they’ve got a role to play in the recovery process too. AARC is able to provide this continued necessary treatment with the help of donations mainly through their two annual fundraisers. Earlier this year they held their Annual Gala dinner, which is a night of celebrating graduates, creating awareness, and raising funds. On August 22, AARC is holding their 18th Annual Tournament of Miracles, at the Silvertip Golf Resort in Canmore. This event is a full day of fun, including golf on a stunning mountain course, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. There are raffles, a silent auction, and a door prize draw. Inspirational guest speakers will briefly share their personal experiences, giving a first-hand perspective on how AARC changed their lives. 100 per cent of funds raised will go to AARC programs. AARC’s own long-term goal as an organization is, simply, to be able to continue to provide treatment for every family that walks in their door. Their community education initiative is just one example of how they’re trying to get information out, to try and stop addiction before it starts. For information on the upcoming Tournament of Miracles, AARC services and workshops , or how to donate, visit aarc.ab.ca. NL
On top of their goal of prevention through education, AARC is often a last resort for many families and youth dealing with drug and alcohol addiction.
AARC’s Ben Story, Darryl Power, Alex McNichol & Jon West AUGUST 2016 NE W HOME LIVING
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Southwest | Southeast | Calgary Area
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By Pepper Rodriguez
HGTV stars Mia Parres & Rob Evans to headline Calgary Home + Design Show MARKETPLACE EVENTS ANNOUNCES that HGTV’s Mia Parres and Rob Evans of The Expandables will make their Calgary debut at the upcoming Calgary Home + Design Show, happening September 22-25, 2016 at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park. The dynamic duo will headline the Trail Appliances Main Stage, appearing Friday, September 23 at 7 p.m. and Saturday 24 at 1 p.m., with autograph signings to follow both presentations. On HGTV’s hit series The Expandables, designer Parres and Master Contractor Evans work against the ultimate challenge: designing and building new
spaces without adding one extra square foot! When homeowners can’t make their houses bigger, Parres and Evans make them better. “We’re so excited to welcome Mia and Rob to Calgary for their very first Calgary Home + Design Show appearance,” says Micheline Picot, operations manager for Marketplace Events, producers of the Calgary Home + Design Show. “Their ability to create new, seemingly larger spaces within the existing footprint of a home is something that is certain to appeal to Calgary homeowners, especially those who find themselves living in close quarters.”
Rob Evans and Mia Parres
Peanut Butter Classic surpasses fundraising target THE PEANUT BUTTER Classic Golf Tournament did better than expected during its 13th annual all-ladies event, raising $19,000 more than its $150,000 target. “We made $169,000 which was huge with economy the way it is, extremely grateful for the support,” says Heather Forsythe chair and founder of the Peanut Butter Classic. The Peanut Butter Classic Golf Tournament, held at the Elbow Springs Golf Club, continue to set the pace for supporting women and children in need. The Peanut Butter Classic is a ladies only charity golf tournament for women with passion: a passion to help and a passion to golf. Now in its 13th year, this event, run and organized entirely by volunteers, has raised over $1,377,000 to support programs for women and children in need, and contributed over 2,700 jars of peanut butter to the Calgary Interfaith Food Bank. This remarkable achievement has been made possible with the
help of our generous sponsors, golfers and volunteers. “Since our 2004 inception, we’ve worked incredibly hard to make a remarkable difference to the lives of local women in need,” Forsythe adds. Shane Homes, a leading residential home builder constructing quality family homes in premier communities throughout Calgary and Airdrie since 1979, has been major sponsor since 2010. Shane Wenzel, president of Shane Homes says, “At Shane Homes we have a passion for helping organizations that help women and children in need. In looking at donations, we also like giving to charities where a large percentage of the funds go to helping the charity versus administrative fees. The Peanut Butter Classic has been a perfect fit in achieving these goals. “We are into our seventh year as major sponsor of the best ladies charity golf tournament in Calgary. It continues to amaze me that this tournament is organized entirely by volunteers with 98 per cent of the funds raised being given to charities that help women and Peanut Butter Classic committee children in need.”
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Brookfield Residential unveils Livingston CALGARY’S NORTHERN EDGE will look so very different a few short years from now, as Brookfield Residential launched Livingston, their first Master Planned community in north Calgary since Tuscany in 1995. The launch culminates the long, arduous initial development process that began in 2007 to get this new 1,284-acre community off the ground. And now that it’s a reality, it will be a game-changer for north Calgary. “Livingston is Calgary’s new north,” says Trent Edwards, Chief Operating Officer, Brookfield Residential Alberta. "It's the next generation community built with extensive input from Calgarians. From concept and design, there are mindful touches that will create greater connections among residents, whether it's the streetscape, home entrance design, green
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spaces or gathering places like the resident association. Livingston, off Centre Street N.W. and Stoney Trail, is 25 minutes from the downtown core. When fully developed, it will be home to 30,000 Calgarians and become one of the most significant residential, employment and commercial hubs in the city. The first phase of Livingston will include almost 400 homes, and sales are expected to start in late 2016 or early 2017. The community will offer a range of housing, including apartment-style condos, townhomes, fee-simple townhomes, duplexes, and single-family homes. The builder group in the first phase of development includes Cedarglen Homes, Jayman BUILT, Brookfield Residential, Homes by Avi, Morrison Homes and Avi Urban.
Calgary housing starts trend slightly higher in June HOUSING STARTS IN the Calgary Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) were trending at 7,850 units in June compared to 7,735 in May, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The trend is a six-month moving average of the monthly seasonally adjusted annual rates (SAAR) of total housing starts. “Total housing starts trended higher in June as the pace of single-detached and multiple construction increased slightly from the previous month,” says Richard Cho, CMHC Principal Market Analyst. “The pace of new home construction thus far in the year still remains relatively low due to weaker labour market condtions, declines in consumer sentiments and more supply in the market.” Actual starts from June 2015 to June 2016 show a 13 per cent uptick for single-family homes from 300 units to 339, respectively. Year-to-date numbers though show that single-family home starts in Calgary are down 32 per cent from 2,161 in the January to June 2015 period, to 1,466 in the same months this year. NL
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advertisers index
APEX Land Hillcrest, page 47
Grasslands of Beiseker page 40
Medical Travel Show page 25
Vesta page 4
Brookfield Residential Fireside, page 21
Harmony Park Boulder Creek Estates, page 42
Melcor Sunset Ridge, page 28
Walton Cornerstone, page 3
CHBA – Calgary page 45
Harmony Park Heritage Hills, page 15
NuVista page 44
Westcreek Developments Legacy, page 32
DREAM Evans Ridge, page 9
Jayman BUILT Cornerstone, page 7
Shane Homes Midtown, page 2
DREAM Vista Crossing, pages 41, 43, 45
Mattamy Homes Back Cover
United Communities Nolan Hill, page 39
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By Marty Hope
PRAIRIE HARMONY All the amenities that make for a comfortable, modern life are found in Harmony NO MATTER the dictionary, the definition of the word harmony is pretty much similar: a pleasing, or congruent arrangements of parts. The vision for Harmony, being created on farmland west of Calgary by joint-venture partners Bordeaux Developments and Qualico Communities, is a blending of lives, lifestyles, and Springbank area history — a tapestry on display in the upscale community’s recently unveiled Discovery Centre. “There is no one defining feature underpinning Harmony’s vision,” says Birol Fisekci, president and chief executive officer of Bordeaux. “It’s about creating a very special place for both residents. By providing a rich tapestry of amenities and design features people will know they have arrived somewhere that is unique.” You want unique? What Harmony has in unique goes way beyond its Mickelson National Golf Club where more than one-third of the 18 holes have been completed. How about the fact that Springbank’s first lake community — filling of the 56-hectare recreational lake is well under way — will be have a 14-hectare village centre on its shores. And while we’re on the subject of water, how about this: plans call for a small island in the lake, and for some homes to have private docks. Harmony has also taken some of its elements from other successful communities in and around Calgary: like employment centres — a la Quarry Park by Remington Developments — where office space will be
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available for people those who want to live and work in the community. Then there is the 25-kilometre pathway system that has incorporated the fitness station idea in Redstone by Qualico Communities into Harmony’s version. The 15 show homes currently open cover two product lines. The Aspen Harmony’s Discovery Centre Collection has laned, rear-garage homes, and the Tamarack Collection has three-car At the same time, he adds, there has been front-drive garages on 60-foot lots. Depend- a lot of “fact-finding, research, and curiosiing on the type of home, prices range from ty” by consumers who are continuing to put $600,000 to more than $1 million. more time into homework before making The current builder group includes any buying decisions. There are those who Augusta Fine Homes, Baywest Homes, have decided to stay where they are until Broadview Homes, Homes by Avi, and the resale market becomes more favourSterling Homes. able. Villas will be added to the housing mix “(But) it’s that rich mix of housing and later on, says Fisekci. “There is a lot of the amenities that go with it that are key to demand for the villas,” he adds. withstanding economic cycles like this one The homes and amenities have been and in creating a dynamic, thriving commudesigned and developed to support pretty nity,” says Fisekci. NL much any demographic in the marketplace from families with young children empty-nesters and retirees from both the Marty Hope. For more than two decades Springbank area and throughout Calgary. Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing So, what impact has the economic downand development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In turn had on Harmony and its development March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf plans moving forward? Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Fisekci says show home traffic has been Association which is given annually to a strong and the level of interest in the comnon-builder member in Canada for munity as a whole hasn’t waned. contributions to the industry.