VOLUME 14 ISSUE 151 n JULY 2018
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COVER FEATURE
Scenic idyll MountainView is a world of its own
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FOCUS ON
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Cowboy couture
Western style isn’t just about denim and plaid. SHOW HOME PROFILE
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Grand dreams
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Homes by Avi’s grand prize show home in Harmony is the stuff of dreams COMMUNITIES
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Cornerbrook beginning
WestCreek Developments unveils new northeast community
26 A soaring start
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D’A RCY is off to an amazing beginning FEATURE
22 Going to market
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Western chic
Yee-haw, stylish cowboy designs are in!
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IN THE CITY
36 Giddy Up
Where to go horseback riding around town
Calgary has tons of choices to get your fresh goods etc.
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STYLE
NEWS
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The passing of the torch
Charron Ungar takes over mantle of leadership at Homes by Avi
COLUMNS
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Around Town Real Estate Insider Hope at Large ITEMS
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Editor’s Message Advertiser Index JULY 2018 NE W HOME LIVING
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editor’s message n
New communities rising
It’s been a hectic spring for sure in the new home market. The spring market, though not as robust as in previous years, has still met expectations of many and the frenetic pace of openings of new show homes and new communities still has had us jumping through hoops to try to attend them all. I am still astounded by the number of new communities that have opened up this year. We’ve got Yorkville by Mattamy Homes and Belmont by Anthem United in the south. Cornerbrook by WestCreek Development is the latest one in the north. New developments in areas outside the city has also got us piling on the mileage in the old
PUBLISHER
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
jalopy — D’ARCY also by Anthem United just opened in
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca
Okotoks, and Heartland and Heritage Hills in Cochrane
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
introduced new show homes. Our cover feature on Apex Developments’ MountainView in Okotoks is about a community that’s about to wrap up, with the last two phases offering some of the best lots in this idyllic family-centric neighbourhood off the beaten track in this small prairie town south of Calgary. Excel Homes and Morrison Homes have some of the most unique models that take advantage of the peaceful, nature-filled location. We have features on D’ARCY and Cornerbrook in this issue and you can read about Belmont, Yorkville and many other new neighbourhoods that we’ve covered previously in our www.calgaryhomeliving.com website. We also feature Homes by Avi’s exciting new Children’s Hospital Lottery Home inside. Can’t say enough about the grandeur of this home in the award-winning community of Harmony, but the altruistic spirit that Homes by Avi has displayed here and in their Stampede Rotary Dream Homes is truly commendable. Speaking of Homes by Avi, there’s new blood in its ranks, as Charron Ungar takes over as CEO from the retiring Monte Kendall. Check out our interview with him inside. With the onset of Stampede season, we thought it would be a good way to help
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 CONTRIBUTORS
Shelley Boettcher, Brandi Holmes Marty Hope, Mel Ladner Christina Loc, Mario Toneguzzi ADVERTISING
Andrew Best
andrew.best@sourcemediagroup.ca
Brandi Holmes
brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca
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celebrate by talking about the horseback riding outfits that can be found in and around the city, and also what adventurous new cuisine are available this year at the Stampede Grounds. Mel Ladner tells us of fashion and art choices to help us look the part and Christina Loc gives us pointers on styling your home for Stampede. Me, I’m all about the pancake breakfasts, say hi if you see me in line.
©2018 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
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Western style isn’t just about denim and plaid. n BY
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Mel Ladner
LONG-TIME CALGARIANS know the tricks to pulling off the cheap Stampede outfit. You put on jeans and a plaid shirt, grab your dirtiest shoes and off you go. Wouldn’t it better if you had gold boots, leather accessories, or a local specific belt buckle? Top it off by bragging about your new western art hanging in your home or office. These items update the image of the urban (or is it urbane?) cowboy. The best part? All of these items are locally created or sourced right here in Alberta! NL
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[ 1 ] Paige Leather Corset Belt (Beige), $330, at Paige Leather. [ 2 ] Baily Renegade Hickstead Cranberry Cowgirl Hat, Tack. [ 3 ] 2018 Calgary Stampede Poster Buckle – Pewter, $49.95, at Lammle’s $139.95, at Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack Western Wear & Tack. [ 4 ] Simpler Times by Jennifer Mack, Acrylic on Canvas, $2,280, at Art On Ninth. [ 5 ] Paige Leather Fringe For Days Saddle Bag, $495, at Paige Leather. [ 6 ] Moving On by Judie Popplewell, $699, at Art On Ninth. [ 7 ] Dan Post Mae Bone & Tan Cowgirl Boots, $339.95, at Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack. [ 8 ] Ariat High Desert Brown Cowboy Boots, $289.95, at Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack. [ 9 ] Black 3X Smithbilt, $159.99, at Alberta Boot Company. [ 10 ] OK Corral Basket Weave Chocolate Brown Leather Belt, $51.95, at Alberta Boot Company. [ 11 ] Art print – Cowboy Crossing by Paul Van Ginkel, $150, at Vin Ginkel Art Gallery. [ 12 ] 716 TN Cigar Brown Cowhide Ladies Boots, $385, at Alberta Boot Company. [ 13 ] Corral Gricelda Geometric Embroidered Cowgirl Boots, $349.95, at Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
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SCENIC IDYLL
MountainView is a world of its own
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he tranquil idyll of a small town with the most amazing views of the mountains, the Sheep River and the town of Okotoks itself, MountainView is a hidden gem of a family community. This secluded enclave tucked away in the northwest part of town is as exclusive as it gets in Okotoks. It is purely made up of upscale single-family homes – no laned homes, no duplexes nor townhomes and condos
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— and the low density helps retain its visage of suburban serenity. It’s well on its way to being completed too, and the last chance to own a new home here is fast dwindling. “With the last phase of development launched last year, MountainView is already an established community within Okotoks,” says Apex Developments’ sales and marketing coordinator, Morgan Gowland. “For people looking to escape the city and live closer to nature, MountainView is the perfect fit. Nearly 50 per cent of the community is open space and the beautiful escarpment overlooking the Sheep River provides for great views of the foothills as residents take a walk on the pathway system here.” Potential homebuyers still have the opportunity to choose their lot and build with Excel Homes or Sterling Homes, she adds. The community has front-attached garage, single-family homes starting from
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the $430,000s, upscale semi-estate homes from the $490,000s and glamorous ridge-view homes from the $815,000s. Bungalows and two-storey models are both available. “Both young families and established households are building in MountainView,”
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Gowland says. “People like that they can come into an upscale, established community and enjoy the feel of quiet countryside living, that’s both close to nature and to the city.” Both of Sterling Homes and Excel Homes representatives agree with her. “It’s a place where young families can set down roots in,” says Doug Anderson, area manager for Sterling Homes. “It’s its own town in many ways, it’s a secluded neighbourhood where you can enjoy the quiet of the countryside, but it’s also easy to get into town or access Highway 2A to Calgary.” “It’s a community inspired by nature with lots of room to explore, perfect for active, recreation-minded families,” says Emily Prud’homme, area manager at Excel Homes. “Play hard at local recreation centres, work on your short game at neighbouring golf courses, and indulge in the shopping, dining and retail centres that are just a short drive from home,” she says. With much wider lots and lower land costs than Calgary, home prices are not only relatively more inexpensive but
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FAST FACTS:
allows for more expansive homes. Sterling’s popular 2,655-square-foot Berkshire and 2,383-squarefoot Kingston 2 show homes give an excellent preview of the lifestyle one can expect here. “This quiet family community is a perfect location for everyone from young families to retirees,” Anderson says. Sterling Homes is now offering their Signature Series Estate Homes. These limited lots are located along the ridge overlooking the breathtaking mountains and nature reserve, and, can accommodate triple attached garages. Excel Homes, Apex’s home-building arm, also chose MountainView to launch its line of semi-estate homes. “It’s the perfect community to introduce our semi-estate line, we feel buyers will respond well to its closeness to nature and the feel of exclusivity it projects,” says Prud’homme. “Our large front garage three and four-bedroom residences are thoughtfully designed with spacious open-concept chef-style kitchens, flexible use bonus rooms and beautiful master retreats with walk-in closets and spa-inspired ensuites,” she says.
“This quiet family community is a perfect location for everyone from young families to retirees.”
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COMMUNITY: MountainView, Okotoks DEVELOPER: Apex Developments BUILDERS: Excel Homes – move-up and semi-estate homes (bungalows and two-storeys); Sterling Homes – semi-estate and estate homes (bungalows and two-storeys) PRICES: From the $430,000s including lot and GST DIRECTIONS: South on Highway 2, exit to Highway 2A leading to Okotoks, take a right on Elizabeth Street and follow the signs into MountainView along MountainView Gate HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Excel Homes is open 12 to 5 p.m. on Fridays WEBSITE: www.mountainviewokotoks.com
MountainView is located in a secluded part of town but remains conveniently accessible with two major roads leading into the community. Residents have the quickest access to the highway if your destination leads you out to Calgary, a mere 20 minutes away, but is also walking distance to historic downtown Okotoks and several other popular destinations. Apex Developments has a long history of developing some of Calgary and area’s most family-friendly neighbourhoods. Besides MountainView, their current developments include Hillcrest and Midtown in Airdrie, Heartland in Cochrane, and Carrington South in Calgary. The Apex group is also active in metropolitan Victoria as the builder and developer for Royal Bay, a seaside community. n
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Homes by Avi
GRAND DREAMS Homes by Avi’s grand prize show home in Harmony is the stuff of dreams
WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
HOM E S B Y AV I challenges itself every year to come up with fantastic home designs for the Children’s Hospital Lottery, and every year always seems to top the one before. Their 2018 grand prize home — The Wakefield in Harmony — brings this innovative spirit to a whole new level and anyone can win it for just $50. This $1.2 million grand prize home for the Children’s Hospital Lottery has been getting a lot of positive feedback, says Homes by Avi area manager in Harmony, Chris Stock. “People just love how grand it feels, its open concept design that brings the entire main floor into a cohesive whole is something that people are looking for and enjoy,” she tells New Home Living. “And of course, living in Harmony just adds to its feel of grandness.” The 3,357 square-foot home includes an amazing, fully developed basement level and is perfect home for indoor or outdoor entertaining. It comes fully landscaped and winners this year get the home fully furnished.
It has three bedrooms on the upper floor plus another in the finished basement, and everything else that a growing family needs, including a huge bonus room at the top of the stairs. Homes by Avi builds an average of about 300 homes a year, but the Children’s Hospital Lottery grand prize home and the coming Stampede Rotary Dream Home have a special place in their hearts. “It’s a great way
for us to support our community, and bring attention to such worthy causes,” Stock says. The grand prize home is open for visiting on Fridays from 1 to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m., and is located at 75 Prairie Smoke Rise in Harmony, just west of Calgary, in Rocky View County. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.childrenshospitallottery.ca.
RIGHT The delightful mix of shades of blue from cerulean to turquoise in the sunlit living room blends well with the touch of metallic gold accents in The Wakefield. Wide plank oak flooring and a stone tile central fireplace introduce natural elements to the design.
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Homes by Avi n show home profile
ABOVE Again, the gleaming modernity of a contemporary home is captured in the kitchen design with its quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and array of cabinetry that reaches the ceiling. But the wood elements in the dining room and the woven fabric of the area rug add warmth to it. “The kitchen and dining area is one of the most popular features of the home, people can see themselves living here,” Stock says.
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BELOW Young families have fallen in love with the new community of Harmony. Located in Springbank, on the western outskirts of Calgary, this new community by Bordeaux Developments and Qualico Communities, will have a 56-hectare lake, a village centre, work campuses and schools and is next to the Mickelson National Golf Club, set to open soon.
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show home profile n Homes by Avi BELOW The Wakefield is part of Harmony’s Tamarack Collection of estate homes, and they all feature upscale living on luxurious country sized lots. Contemporary or traditional architecture sitting on 60- to 70-foot-wide lots can accommodate the most ambitious of imaginations and budgets.
ABOVE The stand-alone tub is the crowning glory of the master ensuite, but functionality is never far behind in any Homes by Avi deisgn. The miles of storage available in the vanity and the spacious walk-in closet next to it are details that are dear to growing families.
fast facts BUILDER: Homes by Avi MODEL: The Wakefield COMMUNITY: Harmony SIZE: 3,357 sq. ft. including developed basement PRICE: Worth $1.2 million ADDRESS: 75 Prairie Smoke Rise, Springbank DIRECTIONS: West on Hwy 1, exit at Springbank and follow the signs WEBSITE: ww.homesbyavi.com or www.childrenshospitallottery.ca to buy tickets.
ABOVE The basement development is more than just a man-cave, it’s also a kid’s rumpus room, which is quite fitting as this home literally helps sick children. “Some houses we build are the biggest yet, or first in a community, but one house in particular helps support the vital work and ground-breaking initiatives of the Alberta Children’s Hospital,” Stock says.
LEFT The fun design of the feature wall in The Wakelfield’s formal dining room captures the utter joy of life here. “You can just imagine the parties you can hold here for your family and friends, it’s a memorable room where memories are made,” Stock says. NL
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community profile n Cornerbrook
CORNERBROOK BEGINNING WestCreek Developments unveils new northeast community n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
WESTCREEK DEVELOPMENTS UNVEILS their newest community, Cornerbrook, and it is literally on the corner of everything. With its amazing location by the corner where Stoney Trail and Country Hills Boulevard meet in the northeast, Cornerbrook gives its residents enviable accessibility to everything. From the airport, several employment hubs in the northeast, and all the shopping, entertainment and recreational amenities that this growing sector of the city offers, Cornerbrook is at the centre of them all.
WestCreek Homes
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Cornerbrook n community profile
Cardel Homes
This latest community by WestCreek Developments aims to bring a wider range of housing options, style, and affordability to this “boutique” community of the New North. “But our prime location near some of Calgary’s busiest thoroughfares gives our residents quicker access to wherever they need to go,” says Kalida Goldade, WestCreek Developments’ marketing manager. “It will be a boutique community of only 1,500 households that will initially offer duplexes, laned homes and move-up homes from some of Calgary’s most prominent homebuilders.” Pre-sales have started with show homes expected to be available by mid July with a grand opening celebration in September. “Some buyers have already taken advantage of the wicked pre-construction deals that our builders are offering,” she adds. Duplexes from WestCreek Homes and Stepper Homes are among the first to debut
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here and they start from the $320,000s. WestCreek Homes, the homebuilding arm of the developer, will launch their new line of duplexes here. “We’re very excited to introduce our line of duplexes here. We will have four different models with three- and four-bedroom models available. We will also have side entrance and basement development options that many in this market are looking for.” She adds that all four floorplans will work with the three elevations that they will have available, and range in size from 1,200- to 1,500-square-feet. “They are all designed with lots of wood and stone accents that will give them very appealing street fronts and enhance the family-friendly streetscapes of the community,” Goldade says. “We’re also known for the extended, covered entrance features for all our homes, and we will carry this through in our duplex models in Cornerbrook.” Cardel Homes, Stepper Homes and Trico Homes will be building laned homes here as well. While move-up frontdrive garage homes will be from Cardel Homes and Trico Homes. The inherent connectivity of Cornerbrook will be a big
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community profile n Cornerbrook
Stepper Homes
benefit to its residents. Goldade says it is designed to connect to the Cornerstone community that lies directly to its west and south. “Our residents will have access to the Major Activity Centre (MAC) going up in Cornerstone, which will offer plenty of shopping, commercial and employment opportunities, making it a true live-workplay community. “ The MAC will straddle Country Hills Boulevard and be a commercial, residential and social hub for WestCreek Homes-Craftman the community and beyond. Cornerbrook itself has 30 per cent of its land devoted to its central park — which together with the parks in the adjoining communities creates a total of 180 acres of recreational green space. They are also connected to the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway regional pathway system. Cornerbrook represents a return to the northeast for the esteemed developer, “and we couldn’t be more excited with what we have to offer this time,” she says.
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“Cornerbrook is designed for families, large and small, and offers a lifestyle for nature lovers with plenty of nearby amenities that makes life easier,” she adds. “It is easily accessible via Stoney Trail, Sountry Hill Boulevard, Deerfot Trail and metis Trail.” WestCreek Developments, which also de-
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Cornerbrook
“They are all designed with lots of wood and stone accents that will give them very appealing street fronts and enhance the family-friendly streetscapes of the community.” velops the two-time SAM community of the year award winner, Legacy, has plenty more going on. “Legacy is opening its new ridge lots with estate homes from Crystal Creek Homes and Morrison Homes this summer. A new commercial centre will also open later this year,” Goldade says. It is also deep in the preparation stage for Wolf Willow, a reclaimed gravel site incorporating the beauty of the Bow River with the serenity of natural parks and landscape. Pathways stretching along the Bow lead to vast open spaces that will connect the entire community. Wolf Willow is by 194th Avenue in the southeast, and will have homes from Jayman BUILT, Morrison Homes, Shane Homes, Stepper Homes and Trico Homes. “Pre-sales will begin at Wolf Willow in the fall,” Goldade says. NL
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COMMUNITY: Cornerbrook DEVELOPER: WestCreek Developments BUILDERS: Duplexes – Stepper Homes and WestCreek Homes Laned homes – Cardel Homes, Stepper Homes and Trico Homes Front-drive move-up homes – Cardel Homes, Trico Homes PRICES: From the $320,000s DIRECTIONS: North on Deerfoot Tr., east on Country Hills Blvd., and follow the signs HOURS: 2 – 8 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekdays and holidays WEBSITE: www.liveatcornerstone.ca
WestCreek Homes-Prairie
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Going to market n WRITTEN BY
Shelley Boettcher
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here’s something wonderful about wandering through a farmers’ market in Southern Alberta. You’ll find bright baskets of berries, peaches and apples. Potatoes and strawberries. Freshbaked bread and pies, homemade sausages and homemade pickles. It’s enough to make a food lover’s mouth water, just thinking about it. And Calgarians are lucky. We have wonderful farmers’ markets in every corner of the city, as well as most of the small towns that surround the city. Here are just a few of our favourites.
Grassroots/Deerfoot Farmers’ Market
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P H OTO CO U RT E S Y D EER F O OT C I T Y
Bridgeland Riverside Farmers’ Market brcacalgary.org | 917 Centre Avenue N.E. Bridgeland Riverside Farmers’ Market Rain or shine, you’ll find everything from homemade pickles to baking and produce here every Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. until October 14. Calgary Farmers’ Market Worth noting, too, are a couple of special dates: August 16 is Wheels calgaryfarmersmarket.ca | 510 77th Avenue S.E. and Wheelies and October 4 is the fall harvest festival. Each special date Established in 2004, the Calgary Farmers’ will feature live music, free kids’ activities and food trucks. Market features more than 80 food purveyors and craftspeople, selling Western Canadian produce, doughnuts, cheese, spices, wine, tea, meat, coffee, kettle corn and more. Hungry yet? Of course you are. Every month, you’ll find special events, such as live music showcases and kids’ gardening classes and, from November 15 to December 23, the market transforms into the Calgary Christmas Market. In September, organizers will make a special announcement. No word on what it will be yet, but we’re intrigued. Crossroads Market crossroadsmarket.ca | 1235 26th Avenue S.E. A venerable year-round inner-city market, Crossroads expands in the summer, when CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
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Calgary has tons of choices to get your fresh goods etc.
Farmers and Makers Market at cSpace farmersmakersmarket.ca 1721 29th Avenue S.W. One of the newest players on the market scene, the Farmers and Makers Market is located outside at cSpace, the former King Edward school-turned-arts hub. A partnership between cSpace and Calgary Earth Market Society, it aims “to make your weekly visit to the market
Farmers and Makers Market at cSpace
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day fantastic,” according to the news release. Stop in to hear local bands and buskers, bring the kids for free children’s arts and culture programming, and, of course, shop for food from local growers and producers. A must: whatever’s in season from Blue Mountain Biodynamic Farms. Granary Road Urban Butcher’s Bison granaryroad.com | 226066-112th Street Saskatoon Bratwurst at Granary Road West, MD of Foothills Located just south of Calgary, Granary Road is a food lover’s oasis in the country. The Loft has good food, while indie wine shop Bin 905 has a second location here, too. But at its heart, Granary Road is a market, with fresh food vendors and handmade wares. Food purveyors include The Loft Bakery, The Perogy Guy, Going Nuts, A Taste of Quebec, Calgary Mini Doughnuts, The Chocolate Lab and Urban Butcher. (Don’t miss Urban Butcher’s cold-smoked steaks. The Loft Bakery at Granary Road Best. Ever.) And there’s more: the Active Learning Park features animatronic spiders, bats and frogs, plus three kilometres of trails and 11 exhibits geared toward kids of all ages. Plan on spending a few hours here.
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the outdoor booths are set up. This place has everything: produce, cheese, meats, ethnic cuisine, coffee. Noteworthy vendors include Broxburn Veg- Jebb Fink etables, Regina’s Fine Meats, Billingsgate Seafood Market, Anatolia Turkish Cuisine and Paolini’s Sausage and Meats. Then there’s local actor/comedian Jebb Fink; you’ll find him selling fresh pasta, pasta sauces and barbecue sauce at Jebb’s Joint.
Grassroots/Deerfoot Farmers’ Market northlandmarket.ca | Deerfoot City (Deerfoot Mall), 901 64th Avenue N.E. For 24 years, this market — Calgary’s oldest and largest summer outdoor market — was located at Northland Village Shoppes in northwest Calgary. But in 2016, the market relocated to Deerfoot and, by all accounts, it’s thriving. Vendors include Field Stone Fruit Wine, Innisfail Growers’ Co-op, Italian Extra Catering, Prairie Girl Artisan Jams and Preserves, Tim’s Gourmet Pizza and more.
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Hillhurst Sunnyside Market
Hillhurst Sunnyside Market farmersmarket.hsca.ca This market has live music and a gentle small-town feeling and takes place on Wednesdays from 3 to 7 p.m. through October 10. (A portion of the market stays open year-round; check the website for details.) You’ll find local fruit and vegetables, and ready-made dishes from local producers including Shammi’s Kitchen Hillhurst Sunnyside Market (East Indian food and spices), Noble Gardens (a southern Alberta family farm), Tatiana (Moldovan cuisine) and Prairie Mill Bread Co. (awesome organic breads made in Calgary). Ride your bike or walk, and enjoy the friendly neighbourhood vibe. Inglewood Night Market inglewoodnightmarket.ca Located just off Ninth Avenue and Tenth Street S.E., this popular evening street market takes place on July 13, August 10, September 14 Hillhurst Sunnyside Market and September 15 from 5 to 11 p.m., rain or shine. Hosted by the Calgary Multicultural Arts Society, it features live music, food, handcrafted items, vintage clothing, antiques and food trucks. Symons Valley Ranch Farmers’ Market symonsvalleyranch.com 14555 Symons Valley Road N.W. The Symons Valley market was destroyed in a fire in 2017, but vendors
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have come together to sell at the Mercantile building on site. Producers includes Bauer Meats, Sylvan Star Cheese, Taste of Ukraine, Wildhouse Honey, Kruse Bakery, A Taste of Quebec, Rustic Sourdough Bakery, Shirley’s Greenhouse and more. And yes, the full market will be rebuilt. Watch the website for details. NL
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community profile n D’A RCY
A SOARING START
D’ARCY is off to an amazing beginning n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
THERE IS MUCH to love about the small town character of Okotoks, but don’t mistake its quiet, unassuming character for idleness, as underneath that quaint picture of a small southern Alberta prairie town is a thriving area of growth. The new community of D’ARCY by Anthem United is the embodiment of the town’s bright future and a steadfast commitment to Okotoks’ heritage. And it is off to an amazing start.
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Just ask Morrison Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes and Trico Homes, the first three builders to have opened show homes in this new northwest Okotoks community. “We’re beyond ecstatic,” says Jodi Kellog, area manager for Morrison Homes, as sales for their paired homes have exceeded all expectations. “We had 32 lots for our paired homes in the first phase and we’re down to
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D’A RCY
our final two lots to build in the and one for quick possession,” she tells New Home Living. Morrison Homes has six paired home models here from 1,400 to 1,600 square-feet starting from the $320,000s. “We can’t wait for the next phase and the villa models that back onto green space that are launching this summer.” Laned homes from Pacesetter and Trico are also moving at a good clip. “We’re getting
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a lot of traffic through the show homes,” says Trico Homes’ Clint Pilon. “People are responding to the vision of D’ARCY.” Trico has laned homes from 1,540 to 1,820 square-feet from $362,900 including GST. Pacesetter offers eight laned home models, including bungalows from 999 square-feet and starting from $370,000s, including GST. They also have two-storey models from 1,228 square-feet from $379,000. “These product types will offer great affordability and choice for buyers looking to get into the Okotoks market,” says Steve LePan, development manager at Anthem United. “Close proximity to Calgary, future school sites, neighbourhood retail, and vast open spaces make D’ARCY a perfect spot for a young family to lay down roots.” Construction is well underway for D’ARCY’s second phase. “We are servicing and beginning construction in D’ARCY’s second phase in order to build D’ARCY Ranch Boulevard to the golf course and will bring on villa bungalows, front- and reardrive single-family lots, and two-storey duplex lots on a lane,” he says.
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community profile n D’A RCY
IN ADDITION, D’ARCY WILL HAVE ITS OWN RETAIL AREA, GATEWAY VILLAGE, THAT WILL OFFER RESIDENTS A WIDE RANGE OF RETAIL, AS WELL AS OFFICE SPACE AND A COUPLE OF K-9 SCHOOLS. Eventually, D’ARCY will have housing styles for all budgets and lifestyles, — everything from street towns and other townhouse types, to single-family homes COMMUNITY: D’ARCY with rear-detached or front-attached DEVELOPER: Anthem United garages, move-up, and estate homes, BUILDERS (FIRST PHASE): according to LePan. Laned Homes – Pacesetter by Sterling Anthem United has projected there Homes, Trico Homes will be approximately 2,000 homes in Paired Homes – Morrison Homes D’ARCY spread over several phases PRICES: Starting from the $320,000s in the coming five to seven years of WEB: www.darcyokotoks.com construction. In addition, D’ARCY will have its own retail area, Gateway Village, that will offer residents a wide range of retail, as well as office space and a couple of K-9 schools. D’ARCY is located on 280 acres of land bounded on the north by the town boundary, on the south by Sandstone Gate, on the east by Northridge Drive, and on the west by the D’arcy Ranch Golf Club. This new community can be seen as a milestone to Okotoks’ continued growth. “Okotoks is an incredibly special place,” says LePan. “It’s rich with history and has a strong community identity. In putting
fast facts
together the designs for D’ARCY we knew we wanted to create a neighbourhood centred around lifestyle; a place that would inspire connections and community.”
D’Arcy Ranch golf course
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It is Okotoks’ nearest new community to Calgary and takes just a 20-minute drive to the big city. “We anticipate a lot of interest from buyers
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who would otherwise be looking at some of south Calgary’s newer communities. Moving to Okotoks offers them the chance to be at the centre of a small, connected community, rather than the outskirts of big one,” he adds. NL
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style
Western chic Yee-haw, stylish cowboy designs are in! Christina Loc
RIGHT: Country Living Furnishings & Design has a lot of great accent pieces including this beautiful cow skull.
BELOW: Balance is created with exposed beams in the ceiling running parallel with the hardwood flooring while the stone wall and fireplace detail adds drama to the room.
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his month, good ol’ country music and western wear will soon fill the streets as our city gears up for the greatest outdoor show on earth, the Calgary Stampede! In honour of this annual rodeo, exhibition and festival, we’ve dedicated this issue to styling your home with a western flair. Traditionally, when it comes to western design, what comes to mind is bulky traditional furniture placed in a dark and heavy setting, but lucky for all ya’ cowboys and cowgirls, modern-day western chic is a thing. And, it’s more popular than ever!
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Without going over the top and making your home look like the stage set of an old cowboy movie and being too kitschy, there are many great ways to give nod to and take inspiration from western design. And even if Stampede just comes once a year, this new age of western home design can be timeless. Natural Earthy Colours lend itself to a rustic western feel. Choose earthy colours for paint and bring local natural elements from outdoors in to the home. Elements that create a natural rustic feel include wood, stone, metals and natural fibres like wool, linen, cotton, hemp and leathers. Exposed Beams create interest, warmth and add a hint of rusticity to a home. Installed on the ceiling or framed around an opening, use rough timber or reclaimed wood to drastically transform a room. Stone Detail on fireplaces, walls, pillars and on the floors of bathrooms or an entry way is a subtle and practical way of bringing nature inside. Use bigger scaled stones for wall applications and opt for small river stones for flooring. There are some great ceramic tiles that look like hardwood planks. Mixing that on a shower wall with river stone flooring in a shower evokes nature and tranquility. Rustic Hardwood Flooring, like hand scraped oak, will give your home a nice rustic lodge, cabin or ranch feel. Because it already has JULY 2018 NE W HOME LIVING
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PHOTO COURTESY OF COUNTRY LIVING FURNISHINGS & DESIGN
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Metal is a natural material frequently used by cowboys back in the day. Wrought iron, copper and rusted metals in lighting fixtures, lanterns, furniture legs and decor pieces are a great addition to achieving a western look in the home. RIGHT: Each cowhide is unique and two cowhides are never the same. Buckskin Leather Company has a wide of range of hides at reasonable prices to choose from and is worth the trip.
BELOW: This rustic-chic stool called the Nutmeg features a cowhide seat with iron legs finished in antique gold and is available at Metro Element.
natural imperfections, it is very forgiving. Consider carrying rustic wood up a wall as a feature wall. Barn Doors come in an array of materials and styles. To keep with the western feel, choose reclaimed wood, or even hunt for one that is made from an old stable or barn. Heavy Wood Pieces like solid wood dining or coffee tables help anchor a space. Furniture made of pine or hickory is domestic to North America. Logs cut to the right height are being used as end tables and stools. Live edge dining, coffee and console tables make for a beautiful statement and are easier than ever to source due to its current popularity. Just an organic rustic piece of raw wood on a stand or placed on a table is stunning in itself. Leather Goods, especially vintage leather, is a beautiful contemporary way to add leather to a home whether it’s in the form of a sofa, chair or bench. Because it is soft and scratch sensitive, the leather develops a natural patina creating a worn look, which is the desired effect. Distressed vintage leather is warm, rich and inviting. Another way to achieve the look of leather is by using vegan leather (also known as faux leather, leatherette and pleather) which is a man-made material that has advanced so much over the years that it really does resemble leather while being incredibly durable. Cow Hide & Furs are trendier than ever in home furnishing. Each piece is so unique that no two hides are ever the same. For extra chicness,
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PHOTO COURTESY OF DHILLON LIGHTING
style
choose a cow hide that has been dyed with accents of metallic silver or gold. Furs or faux fur, are another great way of achieving rustic coziness. There are many beautiful ottomans, toss cushions and throws made of cow hide and fur that will accentuate your space. Metal is a natural material frequently used by cowboys back in the day. Wrought iron, copper and rusted metals in lighting fixtures, lanterns, furniture legs and decor pieces are a great addition to achieving a western look in the home. Skulls & Antlers have been collected by tribes and hunters for centuries. Because of its popularity, it now comes in many forms whether it is the actual skull or antler of an animal to finding reproduction pieces in a trendy boutique made from ceramic, metal, wood or resin. Navajo Patterns in toss cushions, throws, rugs and blankets are a great way to introduce native art to your western themed interior. Originating from one of the largest groups of indigenous Americans, the Navajo tribe is well-known for their artistic textiles typically having geometric patterns and are made
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The Menlo Park Chandelier with its dark metal frame has an old-world rustic feel that looks great hanging from a tall ceiling. This chandelier is available at Dhillon Lighting.
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B
Natural earthy colours and accent pieces are placed together to create this contemporary office giving nod to the old world.
GRASS NURSERY
Photo credits were inadvertently switched in error in the STYLE feature on gardens in the New Home Living May 2018 issue. Photo A was supposed to have been credited to Urban Oasis Developments and Landscaping and Photo B was for Blue Grass Nursery. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BLUE
CORRECTION
DE VELOPMENTS AND L ANDSCAPING
reflection of this history, all the while keeping your space contemporary, on trend and fresh. I wish y’all a great time during the Stampede. Put your cowboy boots on, visit the rodeo, eat corn dogs and mini doughnuts while listening to artists like Elle King and Sheryl Crow on the Coca-Cola stage this year. Wet your whistle with a pint or two, or maybe a few — yes, for the better and worse — of beer and be sure to drink responsibly. Happy Stampeding! NL
PHOTO COURTESY OF URBAN OASIS
from natural materials such as hemp, cotton and wool. Western Themed Wall Art includes renderings of rugged outdoor landscapes like the mountains, rivers, trails and prairies to famous cowboys and North American wildlife. Animal Statues of the wild wild west include mustangs, bulls, bison, bears, big horn sheeps, elks and moose. Statues can be made of iron, stone or wood and is a great addition to western decor. Rustic Flowers is an easy way to bring a bit of western in to your home if all else is too much. Visit your local florist to pick up a bouquet filled with daisies, sunflowers and hydrangea accented with cotton, wheat or eucalyptus placed inside a rustic metal container with optional burlap and set it on your counter, coffee or dining table. If you’re a seasoned Calgarian, you know that Stampede is a time known for excess — for the better and worse — but its origins are deeply steeped in our culture and geography. Not needing to go over the top, you can make your home a natural and harmonious
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in the city n
GIDDY UP n STORY BY
Brandi Holmes
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ith the world-famous Calgary Stampede fast approaching, the city starts to turn a little more cowboy than usual. Everyone starts dusting off the old cowboy boots and hats, plaid/flannel shirts and anything denim — because that’s what we all wear for those 10 days straight in July. If you are looking to get a little more into the spirit of Stampede and have decided you want to try some horseback riding, we have just the right places for you to go. There are tons of trail riding facilities outside of the city limits — most are located in Kananaskis
Where to go horseback riding around town
country and allow you to ride through the picturesque Rockies. The trail guides and horses are seasoned on the trails and are sure to give you the riding experience you are looking for. A notable company that offers all around activities would be Moose Mountain Adventures located in Bragg Creek. They offer everything from day rides, backcountry pack trips, and ranch vacations, lessons and even off-season programs. For more information head to www.packtrips.ca
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STAMPEDE STOMPIN’
What’s happening at the Calgary Stampede
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t’s about that time again when all of Calgary starts to celebrate the best ten days of the summer. As always the Stampede brings with it the midway we all know and love — with thrill seeking rides for all ages and skill testing games. Tons of live music events are happening across the ten days from bi g country names to local Alberta bands — there is entertainment for everyone. We also can’t forget the Grand Stand Show that is celebrating its 50th year so it is sure to be something special. The Rodeo and Chuck wagon race hardly needs to be mentioned since anyone and everyone knows about it. What a lot of people look forward to is of course, the food. The midway always brings with it new and crazy eats that some people are daring enough to try. Here are a few that caught our eye: CRICKET GRILLED CHEESE: A classic four-cheese blend with a little extra kick, served on thick Texas style
soup from Jamaica featuring tripe, dumplings, carrots and yams in a goat’s head broth.
SMOKING CHARCOAL ICE CREAM IN A CUP: Coconut flavoured
PRAIRIE OYSTER BALLS: It wouldn’t
bread.
soft serve infused with charcoal — so it is completely black! Spooky.
UNICORN BUCKETS: Jumping on the unicorn craze — a whole two litre bucket filled with soda, boba and fresh fruit.
GIANT SQUID ON A STICK: Breaded with
If you are looking to get a little more into the spirit of Stampede and have decided you want to try some horseback riding, we have just the right places for you to go.
GOAT’S HEAD SOUP: A hearty
flour and spices and then deep fried for maximum crunch, foodies can then pick a finisher — salt & pepper or curry pepper. Oh, and don’t forget, it is conveniently served on a stick.
KANGAROO PIZZA: Made by Avatar Pizza, there signature crust is topped with sweet tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil, banana peppers, local mushrooms and cured kangaroo sausage.
TWO-FOOT MINI DONUT TOWER: Self-explanatory, roughly 24 cinnamon mini doughnuts
be Stampede without deep fried Prairie Oysters. The oysters are then drizzled with house-made blueberry compote, a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkled with crushed nuts.
THE HANG OVER MAC & CHEESE: Everyone needs a good hangover cure, and during Stampede this might just be it. Creamy gourmet Mac & cheese blended with beer and topped with smashed potato chips and pretzels.
CHEESY CHICKEN HEARTS: One more deep fried dish that the Stampede is daring you to try. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and a little spicy on the inside, maybe these hearts are your next snack.
For more information on all the crazy snacks on the midway this year visit www.calgarystampede.com NL
skewered two-feet high.
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P HO TO S C OUR T E S Y C A LG A R Y S TA MP EDE .C OM
If you are looking to stay closer to the city limits and something that offers other activities to keep the kids busy, give Horsin’ Around a try. They offer 45-minute trail rides with views of the city, birthday party packages, wagon rides and they even have a petting zoo. For more info on Horsin’ Around visit www. horsinaround.ca Brewster Adventures located in iconic Lake Louise offer visitors to take part in daily trips to famous locations such as the Plain of Six Glaciers, Lake Agnes Tea House, Paradise Valley and the Giant Steps. Brewster has been run by six generations and is sure to give you an unforgettable horseback riding experience. For more of what Brewster Adventures has to offer go to www.brewsteradventure.com All in all, there are tons of places to check out when you want to go horseback riding and trying different facilities and companies will give you a new experience every time. Yee-haw! NL
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n news
THE PASSING OF THE TORCH
Charron Ungar takes over mantle of leadership at Homes by Avi n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
P
eople may mistake incoming Homes by Avi CEO Charron Ungar as a kid born with a silver spoon. But rather than a silver spoon, it was more like a broom. Or a hammer, or a shovel or whatever his dad, Avi Amir, Homes by Avi Chairman and founder, gave him to work with during the early years of the company. Sweeping up the job sites was one of the first things a young Charron remembers doing at the then fledgling company during his formative years. And now, taking over the reins of the respected, multi-million dollar new home building enterprise, he offers extraordinary insight in leading the much-respected, Calgary-based company forward. However, getting the job from the retiring CEO Monte Kendall — who led Homes by Avi through some of the most difficult times in the industry — was never a sure thing. “The opportunity to lead our organization has long been my goal, however the fact I grew up in the business did not determine that I would get the nod,” Charron tells Calgary Home Living.
Charron Ungar
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“Over the past 26 years of working at our company I have spent the greater part of the last decade in a leadership position as president of our multi family division, Avi Urban. When our long time CEO, Monte Kendall decided it was time to transition into a different role alongside our board of directors, our executive team offered the role to me, and after considering the possibility for some time, I accepted.” His father though has hopes. “(Charron) developed our multi-family company, Avi Urban, and served as its president for the last six years. As such, he has created many attractive multi-family neighbourhoods.” Avi also cited Charron’s extensive volunteering work, including serving successfully as a president of the Calgary Home Builders Association. “With Charron at the helm, we are looking forward to continued growth and success throughout our group of companies,” Avi says. Charron, now in his late 40s, says the success that Avi Urban has experienced over the years is his proudest achievement outside of being a father and helping raise his two boys. Charron moulded Avi Urban’s reputation in bringing stylish urban chic to its suburban townhomes, and condos like Maverick at Livingston, JULY 2018 NE W HOME LIVING
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Duke at Mission
“It will be important moving forward to be relevant to buyers’ expectations. Design and technology, not to mention the buying process, are shifting dramatically.” and Jackson and Edison at Walden; while their inner-city developments — including Duke at Mission — brings needed affordability in the much sought after areas close to downtown. Stylishly innovative and always attuned to market needs, Avi Urban under Charron, was in a class all its own. “I have worked in the industry for almost 30 years. I have been leading our product development teams for the greater part of my career and have been the president of our multi family division, Avi Urban, since 2008.” Now as Homes by Avi CEO, Charron is bringing fresh momentum in the homebuilder’s drive to remain at the top of the ultra competitive industry. “As CEO my purpose will be to maintain our group of companies on a focused and strategic path forward. We have an amazing group of individuals working in our three major centres (Calgary, Edmonton and Austin, Texas), and I am surrounded by a highly skilled and committed executive team. Together we will start by getting through the downturn in the Alberta economy. After that, it’s all about staying rel-
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evant and continuing to push the envelope through our commitment to innovation.” Charron believes that it is important to be at the leading edge of innovation and getting ahead of current trends in design and the home-buying process itself. “It will be important moving forward to be relevant to buyers’ expectations. Design and technology, not to mention the buying process, are shifting dramatically. We will need to continue innovating and find new and better ways to do the things we do well even better, quicker and more efficiently.” But he thinks there is opportunity in the downturn. “First and foremost I intend to use the forced opportunity of an economic downturn in Alberta to improve all aspects of our business process and product line-up. We have been working very hard over the past two years on improving all aspects of our business.” The future for the company, he says, remains bright. Their expansion in Austin, Texas, is making significant headway, and their young land development division is also benefiting from an improving Alberta economy. “Homes by Avi is fortunate to be working in Austin where the economy is firing on all cylinders. We will need to find the balance between seizing opportunities in one market and strategically repositioning in another. We also have a growing land division, which will focus on exciting boutique housing communities that will allow us to bring our vision forward on a larger scale than we have traditionally been doing in the past.” He is leaving Avi Urban in good hands though. “Our GM, Victor Mutambo, has been by my side in growing Avi Urban for over a decade now and he will be stepping into the role of Vice President as I settle into my new role. I know he will do an amazing job and help take Avi Urban to amazing new heights. Plus, it’s my baby, so I will still be quite involved moving forward.” NL CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
around town n
By Pepper Rodriguez
Heritage Hills welcomes new laned and paired homes STEPPER HOMES AND Trico Homes introduce new laned homes and paired home models in Heritage Hills, as this popular Cochrane community approaches its final phases. Highfield Land Management, Heritage Hills’ developer, recently opened their latest show home parade that puts a punctuation mark on the family-friendly and idyllic, small town character that has made this community on the western edge of Cochrane such a hit. Stepper Homes has the 1,622-squarefoot Apex laned home that features an open plan with box office, great kitchen layout with large island, window at kitchen sink, beautiful spacious ensuite. They also have the 1,562-square-foot Weston paired home model that is on a walkout lot with fabulous mountain views backing onto Horse Creek Road on the west side of Cochrane. Trico Homes has the McKenzie, coming in at 1,649 square-feet, this laned home has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms,
a fireplace with elite stone finish, full tiled shower, laminate flooring throughout the main floor, flex room, 9-foot main floor and basement ceilings, and granite kitchen countertops. But more than just beautiful suburban homes, Heritage Hills is all about living a life of adventure. It’s location right at the heart of all of Cochrane’s many and varied recreational opportunities make it the ideal home for the active family. Still available are townhomes from the low $300,000s, duplex homes from the $340,000s, laned homes from the $340,000s and front garage homes from the $460,000s.
Mattamy Homes introduces Yorkville MATTAMY HOMES OPENS its newest MasterPlanned Community in southwest Calgary: Yorkville. Exclusive Brownstone architecture, popular professional services and shopping amenities across the street, quick access to Highway 22x, and choice between Urban Townhomes, Duplex, and Single Family Homes. It will have a future Central park area with skateboard park, water features, playground, walking paths, and more. Early exclusive opportunities are available for a limited time, so visit their five single Family show homes on the corner of 194th Avenue S.W. and Sheriff King St. For more information, visit www.mattamyhomes.com/calgary
McKee Homes’ Building Futures AIRDRIE’S OWN hometown builder, McKee Homes, recently completed their newest Building Futures’ homes, a program that has not only added to the community bonds of the city but has paved the way for future trades in the field. Over 160 students have already gone through the program that now includes students from four Airdrie and Crossfield Rocky View High Schools. This year they built new homes in the Ravenswood community. “Building Futures teaches students home building from the foundation up. Students are introduced to every angle of home construction, in a classroom they help to build themselves, and in two new homes they help build to completion,” says McKee Homes President, Elaine Doel. “All this, while getting their high school education right on site. It’s a special program, and we’d like to thank our past and current partners and sponsors for their vision and support —and we’d like to congratulate and commend Building Futures students and their supportive parents for their initiative.”
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Homes by Avi opens 2018 Stampede Rotary Dream Home STAMPEDE WOULDN’T be complete without the Stampede Rotary Dream Home, and this year Homes by Avi promises their most exciting plan yet. This year, the home encompasses a theme of mid-century sophistication elevated by the home’s clean lines and glass features, evoking a moody elegance, Homes by Avi says in a statement. They further describe it as “a modern and distinctive floor plan that combines clean architecture with intricate functionality.” Valued at just over $1 million, the winner also gets $100,000 in cash.
The 2,438-square-foot home is going up on the Stampede grounds and will be open to visitors throughout the 10 days of Stampede. It will be transferred to the popular southeast
community of Walden. Homes by Avi has built the Dream Home for the last 23 years, in support of the Rotary Club of Calgary South.
For tickets, go to www.calgarystampedelotteries.ca
Mahogany’s latest show homes HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL RECENTLY opened four new front-attached garage show homes in Mahogany, Calgary’s best-selling lake community. The new parade offers singleand double-front-attached garage models by Hopewell Residential, and is conveniently located across the street from six other front-attached garage show homes, built by Hopewell, Excel Homes and Jayman BUILT. “Hopewell Residential is proud to open brand new front-attached garage show homes in Mahogany, Calgary’s favourite new community,” says Hopewell Residential’s Marketing Manager Nicole McLaws
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“These new homes start in the amazing $430,000s, and are within moments of the city’s largest lake, 74 acres of wetlands, shopping, restaurants, playgrounds and more.” The new show home parade includes brand new models, spacious floorplans, designer details and newly released lots. “This is an exciting opportunity for home buyers in Calgary,” McLaws says. “You don’t need to settle for another home or community - you really can have it all in Mahogany.” In addition to the lake, homeowners will be within minutes of the Mahogany wetlands, parks, shopping, restaurants, and a
school that’s slated to open in Fall of 2018. “People love living in Mahogany, and you’re sure to see why when you visit our brand new show homes on May 26th,” McLaws says. “There’s an incredible sense of community that pairs impeccably with the four-season lifestyle Mahogany offers.” Bustling with activity, Mahogany is already home to residents who appreciate its Village Market, two welcoming beaches, 22,000 sq. ft. Beach Club, community HOA events, and more. “Residents truly love Mahogany,” McLaws says. “And this grand opening just provides one more thing to love about the community. NL
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real estate insider n
By Mario Toneguzzi
NEW HOMES PROP UP ECONOMY A look into how building new homes help propel the economy HOMEOWNERSHIP IS A key economic driver in this country. How much of a role does the real estate industry play in the overall economic health of Canada? Let’s take a look at some interesting numbers released recently by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association. In its report Economic Impacts of the Housing Industry 2017, it found that 69 per cent of Canadians own a home; four in five Millennials want to buy a home; and there is $4 trillion in assets in Canadian homes. The new home building industry is essential to Canada’s economic strength and prosperity, says the CHBA. And that is clear by the numbers. Let’s first look at the national data and then filter that down to the Calgary region. New housing starts is a key to economic growth in our country and in 2017 there were 220,158 residential units that began construction across Canada. On-site and off-site jobs in new home construction is a major source of employment in Canada and in 2017 that total was 539,963. The industry had $32.3 billion in wages that show up in purchases across the entire national economy. And there was $73 billion in investment value which is the largest single wealthbuilder for most families. “Residential renovation is essential to Canada’s economic foundations, job creation, housing quality and long-term prosperity,” says the CHBA. And that too added an immense amount to the Canadian economy in 2017 — CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
690,418 jobs; $41.3 billion in wages; and $77.9 billion in investment value. The Calgary region numbers are equally impressive for new home construction: • 11,534 new housing starts; • 25,675 on-site and off-site jobs; • $1.7 billion in wages; and • $4.2 billion in investment value. For renovations in the Calgary region: • 21,260 jobs; • $1.5 billion in wages; and • $3 billion in investment value. With such a level of activity, the homebuilding industry is very active in seeking out exactly what homebuyers are looking for in a product these days. And the industry for the past four years has been doing that through the Canadian Homebuyer Preference National Study conducted by Avid Ratings Canada. “CHBA members work hard to provide Canadians with the homes and features they desire. This fourth annual Canadian Homebuyer Preference Study, developed in partnership with Avid Ratings Canada,
provides unique insight into what new home buyers are looking for and what their priorities are,” says Kevin Lee, CEO of the CHBA. “CHBA is committed to providing members with information to help them manage their businesses and succeed in today’s competitive marketplace, and this Study is an important part of delivering on that commitment. NL This article was shortened for space considerations. For the full text, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com
Mario Toneguzzi Based in Calgary, Mario Toneguzzi has 37 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist and editor. He worked for 35 years at the Calgary Herald covering sports, crime, politics, health, city and breaking news, and business. For 12 years as a business writer, his main beats were commercial and residential real estate, retail, small business and general economic news. He nows works on his own as a freelance writer and consultant in communications and media relations/training. Email mdtoneguzzi@gmail.com
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advertisers index n
Genesis Land page 7
Anthem United D’ARCY page 25
Genstar Savanna page 45
Apex Developments Hillcrest page 3
Qualico Communities Crestmont page 17
Apex Developments Heartland page 30
Hopewell Residential Mahogany page 4
Apex Developments MountainView front cover, pages 10-12
Mattamy Homes back cover Trico Homes pages 38
Métis Trail
Brookfield Residential IVY page 34
Country Hills Blvd
88 Ave
Saddleridge
Stoney Trail
Anthem United Cornerstone page 35
Cedarglen Homes The Parks of Harvest Hills page 47
60 St
Anthem United Belmont page 2
Brookfield Residential Live Auburn Bay page 44
52 St
Alberta Health Services page 45
McKnight Blvd
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hope at large n
By Marty Hope
HOWLING FOR MORE Wolf Willow brings new life to former asphalt plant
LIKE EVERYTHING IT creates WestCreek Developments has put a lot of thought and effort into the final design of its Wolf Willow community in southeast Calgary. Given some of the obstacles the award-winning developer faced in creating the community, maybe even more time and thought was dedicated to getting it right. “Wolf Willow lines the Bow River from 194th to 210 Avenues SE with entry from the community of Chaparral and is being done with significant challenges to the site,” says WestCreek’s marketing manager Kalida Goldade. In another life and prior to a massive reclamation, the Wolf Willow site was the location of an asphalt plant and commercial gravel pit. And because it’s on a flood plane, it has been raised dramatically, with more than four million cubic metres of dirt getting hauled onto the site. With a promise of more information on the southeast community being released later this year as the Wolf Willow launch date gets nearer, Goldade did announce some of the development plans. Wolf Willow will stretch across an estimated 500 acres and will have some 3,500 homes. Moveup homes will be built by JaymanBuilt, Trico Homes, and Morrison Homes. Starter homes will be by Jayman, Morrison, and Stepper Homes, while Trico and Stepper will offer townhomes. WestCreek will begin presales later this year with 18 show homes opening in early
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2019 in three separate parades, says Goldade. “Wolf Willow has been designed with a pedestrian environment and connectivity as the primary focus by linking residential areas to parks and natural areas including Fish Creek Park and a dog park that south Calgary very much needs,” she adds. As for the reclamation, its Cornerbrook show home roots go back beyond the time of the concrete facility, to a time when the be building the townhomes; Cardel Homes, silvery-green wolf willow plant with flowers Trico Homes and Stepper showing starter and berries covered the property. product, and Trico and Cardel will provide “Bringing the community back to its roots the moveup homes. and natural state is very important to us. “Fourteen show homes will be opening Therefore, naming it after a native plant this summer, and all of our builders have with important ties in the past, was chosen,” started pre-selling,” says Goldade. says Goldade, adding that the plant will Cornerbrook is surrounded by commurun along the natural park surrounding the nities that will include schools, shopping, river when the community is complete.” two future LRT stations and includes the Meanwhile up in the northeast, WestGreenway through the community — with Creek is readying to open show homes this Stoney Trail and Country Hills Boulevard a summer in its Cornerbrook development. short drive away. NL Located at the intersection of Country Hills Boulevard and Stoney Trail, Cornerbrook will feature 800 detached and 200 Marty Hope. For more than two decades multi-family units over its 140 acres. Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing “There will be a large central park taking and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In up about 30 per cent of the community that March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf will run through its centre, connecting to Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ other parks in the area,” she adds. Association which is given annually to a The builder group is made up of Westnon-builder member in Canada for Creek Homes and Stepper Homes who will contributions to the industry. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM