New Home Living - May 2019

The Oxford TRICO’S HOME OF THE YEAR

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 161 n MAY 2019

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COVER FEATURE

Building the dream home Trico Homes finds the formula for building dreams FOCUS ON

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Furniture with stories

Freshen up your interior spaces with upcycled home furniture and décor pieces SHOW HOME PROFILES

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Pinnacle of style and comfort

Homes by Avi in Livingston open doors to affordable luxury family living COMMUNITIES

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Creating a community Residents of Carrington South have high hopes for the new community

22 Welcome, Wedderburn!

Okotoks rolls out welcome mat for Anthem United’s newest community

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STYLE

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Renewed purpose Bring renewed energy into design with repurposed furniture IN THE CITY

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Summer fling Top things to try out this summer in Calgary NEWS

36 2018 BILD Calgary Region Awards

COLUMNS

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Around Town Real Estate Insider Hope at Large ITEMS

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Editor’s Message Advertisers Index

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PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011.

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp.

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editor’s message n

Sweet spring!

New Home Living has always prided itself for giving our readers the full rundown of what’s going on in the world of Calgary’s new home market. We’ve always striven to present the best options in which communities to live and what options are out there for single-family homes. Whether you want a laned home, a duplex or an estate home, trust that you’ll find in our pages a builder that has one that fits your lifestyle.

This is why a lot of our home builder advertisers choose to debut their latest singlefamily home designs and show homes in our pages. Take for example our cover feature this month on Trico Homes. The awardwinning builder just came up with their latest innovation in family home design with The Oxford. By combining all the most popular features that their buyers have loved, Trico may have just found the key to building a home that would please almost everyone.

We talked with Trico vice-president Wanda Palmer to see just what kind of innovations they have to offer, and The Oxford has a lot.

Its first show home will open later this year, but you can find out more about it at all of the Trico show homes.

Homes by Avi is also choosing to debut their latest show homes in Livingston in this issue. The Hemsworth and Rosemont, both of which presents a stylish edge in family living in the new west section of Livingston.

Carrington South, just across the road from Livingston, is also featured inside and we get a front row seat on how young families are flocking to this new community and the appeal it has to fit their lifestyles.

Anthem United also chose to let readers know for the first time of about their newest community of Wedderburn in Okotoks in this issue. The follow up to their hugely successful D’ARCY just across the road, Wedderburn further shows their commitment to this picturesque small town of southern Alberta where they have been building for the past several years.

The BILD Calgary Region Awards (formerly SAM Awards) also just concluded with winners feted during the annual gala night on April 13. It was another milestone year for the industry judging from the number of entries and continues to provide a bright spot in the market. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists! We have a partial list of the winners inside.

Finally, thanks to all the readers who continue to pick up Source Media Group’s publications, we continue to try to do our best in giving you the relevant information you may need. Happy house-hunting!

PUBLISHER

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITOR

Pepper Rodriguez pepper@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRECTOR

Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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

Katherine Andrews, Marty Hope, Christina Loc, Mario Toneguzzi, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY

Christina Loc ADVERTISING

Andrew Best andrew.best@sourcemediagroup.ca

Brandi Holmes brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca

Jennifer Mills jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING

accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY

Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSN 1918-4441 PRINTED IN CANADA

©2019 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.

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Furniture with stories 11

Freshen up your interior spaces with upcycled home furniture and décor pieces n BY

Portia Yip

WOVEN WITH SUSTAINABILITY and handcrafted with passion, these local businesses are pushing the boundaries of what it means to reduce, reuse and recycle. If you’re looking to freshen up your interior spaces and make a statement, look no further than these one-of-a-kind upcycled home furniture and décor pieces. From old skateboards and wine barrels to metal pipes and vinyl records, these repurposed products tell quite the story as they transformed from ordinary or damaged to stunning and stylish. NL

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[ 1 ] Wine Barrel Dog or Pet Bed, $320 at Burgundy Oak. [ 2 ] R5 Coffee Table, $4,500 at AdrianMartinus. [ 3 ] Recycled Skateboard Bowls, $250 – $500 at AdrianMartinus. [ 4 ] Stewart Cardboard Safari® Bear Head, $15 – $85 at ReWorks Upcycle Shop. [ 5 ] Recycled Deer Figurine, $65 at ReWorks Upcycle Shop. [ 6 ] Mosaic Waterfall Coffee Table, $3,500 at AdrianMartinus. [ 7 ] Reclaimed Pipe 3 Hook Coat Rack, $95 at ReWorks Upcycle Shop. [ 8 ] Wine Glass Bridge Display, $71.99 at Burgundy Oak. [ 9 ] Vinyl Genie 45 Record Clock, $36 at ReWorks Upcycle Shop. [ 10 ] Brickburn Side Table, $850 at AdrianMartinus. [ 11 ] Jack Daniel’s Side Table, $600 at Burgundy Oak. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM

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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |

Building the dream home Trico Homes finds the formula for building dreams

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reating the ideal family home has always been the goal for all homebuilders. Finding the perfect balance between style, comfort, practicality and affordability is the objective of any floor plan. But coming up with a universally accepted design is as difficult as trying to please everyone.

Trico Homes though may have come close to building the quintessential family home with their new Oxford model.

The Oxford, Trico Homes’ 2019 Home of the Year, is destined to be a classic. It takes all the popular features from Trico’s top selling models and combines them into a timeless design that listens to the wants, needs and budgets of today’s homebuyers.

At 1,943 square-feet, The Oxford hits the sweet spot in size for a move-up family home. It comes standard with three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and a front, double attached garage.

They even created The Oxford Essentials Specification, an exclusive for this home. It includes granite kitchen countertops with undermount sink, solid core plank flooring throughout the main floor, nine-foot knock-down ceilings on the main floor and tile in the laundry room and bathrooms.

“The Oxford was created to fulfill an essential niche we felt was not readily available in today’s market,” says Wanda Palmer, vice-president for marketing at Trico Homes.

“The size and price of the Oxford offer optimal value for those in the market for a single family home. We are seeing more people

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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |

seeking out homes in the 1,900 – 2,000-square-foot size and who prefer not to pay for extra space they don’t really need. In creating the Oxford, our designers started with one of our most popular, top-selling homes and introduced the most desirable options and features that potential buyers were looking for based on feedback and market research. The Oxford definitely checks all of the boxes for this essential niche.”

Affordability was key in The Oxford’s creation, with prices starting from $399,900 (including house, lot and GST). But it wasn’t the main criteria in fulfilling its design.

“Affordability played a major role but it was even more important for this new home to offer the highest value for the price. We asked our customers and prospects what was most important to them, we identified the top selling features and options in our homes and incorporated the best of the best into our new Oxford home,” Palmer says.

Flexibility is also a hallmark in The Oxford’s design, as it still offers several options that allow buyers to personalize the plan to fit their lifestyle. Buyers can still get a luxurious ensuite option, which Palmer says is equal to those seen in a semi-estate home. She adds that they can also get “a convenient main floor pocket office, CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM

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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |

FAST FACTS BUILDER: Trico Homes MODEL: The Oxford SIZE: 1,943 sq. ft.

PRICE: From $399,900 including house, lot and GST COMMUNITY: Available in a variety of Trico communities SHOW HOME: To open in fall in Pine Creek and Wolf Willow WEBSITE: www.tricohomes.com

a spacious second floor central bonus room that creates separation between the master bedroom and secondary bedrooms as well as a developed basement including a large recreation room perfect for games night with the family.”

The Oxford will be available in many of the communities Trico will be building in this year, and can fit on both traditional and zero-lot line home sizes.

“We will be building Oxford show homes in the new south Calgary communities of Pine Creek and Wolf Willow this fall,” Palmer says. The most affordable model will be available in Heritage Hills in Cochrane.

The Oxford selling price varies by community lot prices and exterior architectural controls, according to Palmer.

“The Oxford will appeal to a wide range of homebuyers including couples buying their first single family home, families looking to move up to accommodate the needs of their family and even those looking to downsize from a larger single family home,” she says.

The Oxford represents the evolution of design for the awardwinning builder. “At Trico we believe in doing things right for all the right reasons,” Palmer says. “This thinking is reflected in our

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home designs that are created for the way people want to live, in our craftsmanship, our customer relationships. We continue to stand by our pledge to create lasting value, and remain committed in our conscious desire to build the very best places to live.” n CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM

show home profile

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Homes by Avi

PINNACLE OF STYLE AND COMFORT Homes by Avi in Livingston open doors to affordable luxury family living WRITTEN BY

Katherine Andrews

T H E R E ’ S S O M E T H I N G C O M F O R T I N G about a house designed to last a lifetime while standing up to the highest standards of innovative modern family living.

Homes by Avi has been doing just that through its 40 years in the business, creating some of Calgary’s most stylishly practical family homes. But they may have just reached a pinnacle with their new show homes in Livingston.

Combining stylish, high-quality interior design with functional, practical floor plans, the new Rosemont and Hemsworth show homes in this dynamic, young community in the northwest are the perfect examples of Homes by Avi’s ability to conform with the changing needs of today’s homebuyers.

As always, Homes by Avi exceeds all expectations when it comes to designing a stylish home that is not only user friendly in its comfort but is also packed with abundance of high quality features that come standard.

The four-bedroom Rosemont is a new model that at 2,887 square-feet has the size to accommodate future growth for the family, and its three-and-a-half baths makes it even more appealing to bigger families. The 2,052-square-foot Hemsworth has been a perennial best-seller at Homes by Avi and the dramatic nature of its open-to-above main floor captures hearts and minds of homebuyers.

These new double front-drive garage show homes in Livingston are located at 28 and 32 Lucas Crescent N.W., traditional and zero-lot line homes are available. The Hemsworth on a zero-lot line starts under the $450,000s, a

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very appealing price considering the fantastic standard features offered.

“These show homes are packed with amazing design features in order to really showcase the benefits of customization in the space,” says Sylvia Lee, area sales manager for Homes by Avi. “We want visitors to see their full potential.”

ABOVE Rosemont’s spice kitchen is a great addition to a family home and is an option more and more families are looking for, Lee says. “Spice kitchens are great for keeping your house smelling fresh while you cook aromatic traditional dishes,” she adds. Quartz countertops keep it easy to maintain. Check out the standard eight-foot tall doors that add to the homes living-large look.

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Homes by Avi n show home profile

LEFT The contemporary black-and-white design of the Rosemont brings a sense of comfortable stylishness. The open concept design is abetted by the tall ninefoot ceilings and capped by the optional coffered accent. Big windows add a sense of sunny optimism to the interior.

ABOVE A big window in the fivepiece ensuite is a great source for natural light and fresh air. This bathroom has more than enough room for two people getting ready for a busy day. A deep bathtub is a main feature and brings the focus to the window. Its fresh and clean feel is again being accented here with the black cabinetry for the his-and-hers vanities.

LEFT The Rosemont’s main floor wows instantly — a spacious kitchen, a huge centre island, and tall cabinetry capped at the top for a seamless look — all blend into an entertaining whole. The window wall is a fantastic backdrop that lets in tons of natural light.

“The Rosemont is practical and functional but it does have a lot of stylish punch,” Lee says.

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PHOTOS ON THESE PAGES ARE OF THE ROSEMONT SHOW HOME

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show home profile

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Homes by Avi

fast facts BUILDER: Homes by Avi COMMUNITY: Livingston DEVELOPER: Brookfield Residential STYLE: Two storey, double-attached front drive homes

ABOVE The Hemsworth’s dramatic open-to-below living room has made it one of Homes by Avi’s most popular models. The design is not just aesthetically pleasing, but it brings tons of character to the home. “The Hemsworth still offers plenty of flexibility, as we can add a room over that space for families who need an extra bedroom,” Lee says.

SIZE: 2,003 to 2,176 sq. ft.

PRICE: From the $450,000s PRESENTATION CENTRE: 28 and 32 Lucas Crescent N.W. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. Friday to Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

WEB: www.homesbyavi.com

ABOVE The fully developed 525-square-foot basement suite shows the Hemsworth’s full potential. “Buyers can still get nine-foot ceilings down here so it doesn’t really feel like a basement, and we do offer lots with side entrances for private access to the basement suite,” Lee says. “It’s perfect for families with extended relatives living with them, or as a potential rental suite to augment the household’s income.”

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RIGHT The impressive floor-to-ceiling fireplace design is the defining feature of the Hemsworth, which along with the soaring ceiling and matching windows stretching the full two storeys create a jawdropping home.

LEFT The modern ensuite of the Hemsworth is not only luxurious with a spa-like ambience, its practicality cannot be denied either. It is a straight shot from the master bath to the laundry room at the centre of the second floor, making it easy for the whole family to keep everything nice and tidy. NL

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community profile n Carrington South

CREATING A COMMU Residents of Carrington South have high hopes for the new community

n WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez

RAISING A FAMILY is the biggest step in adulthood, finding the house that best suits this new life is the next. But, maybe even more important is finding the right neighbourhood to call home.

The dynamic, new community of Carrington South in Calgary’s rapidly developing northwest has become a hot spot for new opportunities with plenty of young families starting to lay down their roots here.

Ivy and her partner are a young couple with a bright future ahead of them, and the newness of Carrington South appealed to them. “With a newer community where we had the option to build, we were able to personalize our home. We were able to choose the finishes that we wanted and have a home that won’t need renovations anytime soon,” she tells New Home Living. “Although the neighborhood will take a few years to completely develop, it will also be nice to witness the growth of the community.”

Sherie, with her family of four, agrees. “We like to see the growth in the community,” adding that the promise of new amenities coming up in the future — like playgrounds

and commercial areas — are worth waiting for.

While David, his wife, and young child were already living in the northwest quadrant, they loved the idea of starting fresh in Carrington South while staying close to family and friends in the area. “The location is great and we loved the layout of the community,” he says. “At the same time, we will still be able to frequent all the same grocery stores and other facilities that we currently do.”

They are all among the growing number of buyers living or moving to this new community, which launched in October of 2018.

Its popularity shouldn’t come as a surprise, after all, Carrington South has all the prerequisites to be Calgary’s next up-and-coming community. A rare accessibility abetted by its proximity to Stoney Trail and Deerfoot Trail, two landscaped ponds and pathways that connect to regional walking trails, and tons of commercial, entertainment and shopping

Excel Homes

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Carrington South n community profile

UNITY

opportunities nearby give it the necessities of a safe, secure, family-oriented design that homeowners want.

Topping that all off is the builder group consisting of some of Calgary’s best home builders, including Excel Homes, Trico Homes, and Truman Homes. Each have two single-family front drive garage (FDG) show homes in the community’s first phase, showcasing an impressive parade of models available. Plus, Excel Homes also has two duplex show homes for buyers to explore.

The wide range of styles, designs and floor plans available in this FDG category are meant to fit a variety of lifestyles from young families looking for their move-up home, for downsizers craving the space that no multi-family option can offer, and even for multi-generational families that require all the space they can get in one household.

Excel Homes has single-family FDG homes and laned duplexes in Carrington South. Their

front-drive garage homes are perfect for families looking to move up from their first homes. They have fourteen FDG models to choose from in Carrington South, and two duplex models.

Sherie, who built with Excel says they weren’t actually looking to buy a home when they visited the show home but built an instant rapport with area manager Leon Kang. “We went to the Carrington area just to look, not really planning to buy, but we felt the connection with Leon.”

They now live in their new three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath home.

“We felt like Excel really maximized the space in our new home, plus we like that amenities are nearby and of course the green space,” Sherie says.

Ivy, who is building with Truman Homes, says she likes Carrington South’s proximity to her and her partner’s workplaces.

“We mainly liked the accessibility of Carrington South. We learned about the planned developments for Carrington a little later, and we think it will definitely be something to look forward to.”

Truman Homes has eight FDG models to choose from in Carrington South and offers custom design options. They are also the exclusive builder of no condo-fee townhomes in the community with show homes opening later this spring. Their contemporary, urban style is something that has connected with the younger generation.

“We chose Truman because we were able to customize our home with them and we liked the specifications that they offered,” Ivy says.

Trico Homes, who owns all the pond lots in the first phase, offers eleven FDG models in Carrington South. The Concord, one of their show homes in the community, is one of Trico’s newest designs and features a modern, open concept look.

David says they bought their “forever home” with Trico because he felt

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Show home parade in Carington South

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community profile n Carrington South

“Our experience with all three builders has been extremely positive and we would encourage potential buyers to explore with all of them to find the one that would best suit their needs. Every family is different and each builder has a slightly different type of offering…” that it suited their needs best, a “house that would evolve with our family for the next 25-plus years.”

He did talk to all three builders here before purchasing with Trico.

Adding that he felt all the builders in Carrington South offered compelling advantages.

“Carrington South is unique because it has three reputable builders for single family homes that all offer competitive products. We spent time with each of them and chose Trico for the lot location as well as their willingness to make small changes in their floor plans to meet our preferences,” he says.

“Our experience with all three builders has been extremely positive and we would encourage potential buyers to explore with all of them to find the one that would best suit their needs. Every family is different and each builder has a slightly different type of offering. We continue to enjoy working with Trico and their responsiveness thus far has been top notch.”

Jointly developed by H3 Developments and Apex Developments, Carrington South will be home to 800 residential units upon completion.

Residents here will enjoy future connections to countless commercial areas, employment opportunities and an LRT station. Plus, a new pilot transit service between Carrington and the North Pointe bus loop has just been announced.

Best of all, prices are more than just affordable they are attainable with no-condo-fee street towns starting from the $320,000s, laned duplexes from the $330,000s and FDG single family homes from the $460,000s.

Come find your home in Carrington South at the community’s next showhome event being held on Saturday, May 4th from 12 – 5 p.m. This family friendly event is not to be missed! NL

Concord by Trico Homes

fast facts COMMUNITY: Carrington South DEVELOPER: Apex Developments and H3 Developments BUILDERS: Excel Homes: Laned Duplex and FDG Single Family Trico Homes: FDG Single Family on Interior and Pond Lots Truman Homes: Street Towns (no condo fees) and FDG Single Family PRICES: Townhomes from the $320,000s (no condo fees) Laned Duplex from the $330,000s FDG Single Family from the $460,000s FDG Single Family, Pond Lots from the $620,000s SHOW HOMES: 73 – 101 Carringvue Manor N.W. & 883-887 Carrington Boulevard N.W. DIRECTIONS: From Stoney Tr. Exit at northbound Centre St. and follow the signs HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays 12 to 5 p.m.

Trico Homes

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WEBSITE: www.carringtonsouth.com

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community profile n Wedderburn

WELCOME, W

Okotoks rolls out welcome mat for

n WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez

OKOTOKS HAS ALWAYS been a jewel of a town in southern Alberta.

The majestic views of the Rockies, lush nature at its doorstep with winding river, walking paths and biking trails, and an undeniable small town charm that shines through even as the town continues to grow.

It’s a lot of what people want in a community, and now there are even more opportunities to call Okotoks home, as Anthem United launches their new community of Wedderburn, which celebrates its grand opening on Saturday, May 25.

Named after one of Okotoks’ well known farming families, who once owned the community land, Wedderburn is envisioned to combine southern Alberta’s small town charm with a modern community fit for the future.

Wedderburn is a 160-acre subdivision in North Okotoks, just 15 minutes from Calgary.

DOWNTOWN OKOTOKS

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Wedderburn n community profile

EDDERBURN!

Anthem United’s newest community

Once developed, the community will be home to over 1,200 residents, park space, and Gateway Village — a mixed use retail/commercial/office in the heart of the development at the entrance to Okotoks. Gateway Village is expected to open with a grocery store in the next two years. A brand new school will also be opening this fall next to Wedderburn; this

will allow the first homeowners to walk to school from day one.

Development of the community is well underway and showhomes are officially opening on Saturday, May 25. For its initial release, Wedderburn will have front-drive homes starting from the low $500,000s by award winning builders, Prominent Homes, Sterling Homes and Trico Homes.

Architectural styles will include a mixture of Craftsman, Modern Farmhouse, Tudor, and French Country. Both two storey and bungalow options are available, and in the first phase there will be walk out lots

NORTHRIDGE DRIVE

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14 MINUTES TO SOUTH HEALTH CAMPUS

W EDDERBURN

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community profile n Wedderburn

on the pond in addition to larger lots that are 40 to 48 feet wide. A wide variety of the home designs can be seen in the new showhomes, opening May 25. Prominent Homes has built a bungalow while Sterling Homes is showcasing one of their two storey homes. Trico Homes has opted for a mix and will be showcasing a bungalow with loft option for their showhome.

Wedderburn is only the latest among several communities that the developer has undertaken in Okotoks, including D’ARCY which launched

last year. “Anthem United is very invested in the growth of Okotoks. People are drawn to Okotoks for its distinct character and picturesque location. It offers residents big city amenities without the hustle and bustle of being in the city,” says Anthem United’s Megan Starke.

Anthem United’s association with the southern Alberta town began when it was still United Communities prior to its merger with the real estate developer, Anthem Properties Group. Their other developments in Okotoks are Drake Landing (down to its final phases) and the completed communities of Crystal Ridge and Crystal Shores.

Wedderburn is one of the remaining parcels of residential land in north Okotoks, all other residential areas nearby are completely built out or nearing build out.

“We just love Okotoks,” Starke adds. “It’s a town with its own unique character and identity. And for us the north side is a plus with its proximity to Calgary for commuters and sweeping views of the Rockies.” NL

Hawthorne by Trico Homes

fast facts COMMUNITY: Wedderburn DEVELOPER: Anthem United BUILDERS: Prominent Homes- Andrea Zacharias andrea@prominenthomes.ca Sterling Homes- Ron Palmer wedderburn@sterlinghomesgroup.com Trico Homes- Clint Pilon clintpilon@tricohomes.com STYLES: Front-drive garage homes in the first phase PRICES: Starting from low $500,000s WEB: www.wedderburnokotoks.com Baker by Sterling Homes

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n style

RENEWED PURPOSE

Bring renewed energy into design with repurposed furniture

n WRITTEN BY

Christina Loc

Artists are repurposing product you typically wouldn’t think to use.

Shown here are galvanized oil drum lids that have been painted gold to make a bold statement.

R

eused, recycled, reclaimed, repurposed, upcycled — have all become very popular terms in the world of furniture. What may be one man’s trash could become another man’s treasure.

At a time when people are increasingly conscientious of what’s being thrown in to our landfills, manufacturers, designers, artists and DIYers (Do-It-Yourselfers) are

getting very creative with their design ideas.

Manufacturers are using reclaimed lumber salvaged from places like old houses, barns and factories to boat wood, shipping crates and wine barrels to create beautiful office, dining room, living room and bedroom furniture.

Some designers love going to consignment stores, thrift shops and garage sales to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces to incorporate in to their client’s space. These original items might include things like an antique Queen Anne chair, a mid-century sideboard or rustic storage bench that will most likely need to be reupholstered, painted or stained. Other great finds can include decor pieces like vintage crystal barware, macrame planters and hardcover books that have made a very strong come back.

Artists are using scrap metal, newspapers, denim, kitchen utensils and really anything they can get their hands on to create wall art and sculptures.

PHOTO COURTE SY OF ME TRO ELEMENT

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style

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BEFORE AFTER

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA LOC

This table in dark espresso served its purpose for ten years as a dining table in the old house.

FOR ALL OF YOU DIYERS, GET INSPIRED AND GIVE IT A TRY: Replace old handles and knobs for new ones on dressers, nightstands, coffee tables and sideboards. Typically, this will instantly update your furniture piece and is so easy to do.

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F R EC L A I M T O FA M E

Refinish or paint old furniture to give it new life. If it is a wood piece you are working with, sand it down and give it a new stain. Older furniture pieces typically have a semi-gloss or high gloss stain with a red, brown or orange undertone. To update your dresser, bookshelf or

Recover upholstery. Update the look of your dining chairs with new fabric. It’s amazing what just recovering a seat cushion on your old dining room set can do to freshen up a space. Perhaps you have an heirloom chair that you just don’t have the heart to throw out but are tired of storing it away because it doesn’t fit your decor. Recover, and refinish it too if need be, so that you can show case it in your home. At local business, Reclaim To Fame, they specialize in original Danish, mid-century, vintage and retro furniture built in the 1950’s to 1970’s and can help you restore your furniture upholstery pieces.

Paint your accessories. This is a trade secret that is done all the time to give decor new life and it’s not even necessarily old items we do it to. When gold decor was not so popular a few years ago and difficult to find, we sprayed newly purchased items gold. There are so many great paints out there, including Plutonium Paint, which can be found at Anilin Decorating Centre, that make this process very addictive — just spray and watch the paint stick to the surface for an instant and gratifying transformation. It’s like hitting a gold mine! Just like that, you now have gold (or any colour of your choice) vases, sculptures and bowls to

Update the look of your chair with new fabric so that you are proud to showcase it.

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coffee table, tone down the level of sheen by going with a matte or satin finish in a grey, natural or washed stain. Another option too is to go with a good primer that will cover the grains of the wood and then paint it a nice neutral or accent colour to suit your decor.

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Ask yourself: what can I do to make it functional and appealing, what can I take away, what can I add to enhance it?

LEFT Manufacturers are using reclaimed lumber to create beautiful furniture.

Pinterest is always a good source to go to for inspiration for many ideas including some of these: • Use an old headboard and footboard to turn in to a bench.

• Turn a dresser in to a nightstand and pet bed.

• Convert a coffee table in to an ottoman.

• Make a coffee table from shipping pallets.

• Transform a crib in to a desk.

• Refinish indoor furniture to withstand the elements for outdoor use.

A good way to assess whether a furniture piece can be repurposed is to imagine all of its possibilities. Ask yourself: what can I do to make it functional and appealing, what can I take away, what can I add to enhance it?

For example, you may have an old 6-drawer oak dresser lying around and may think it would be so much more functionalfor you if it were a book case. The oak may be too heavy looking and is

looking a bit tired so to make it appealing you will paint it white. You may decide to keep the top two drawers but will take away the bottom four drawers to turn it in to shelving space. To make it more interesting, you will add some decorative legs to the base as well as a nice patterned contact paper behind the shelves to enhance its aesthetics.

In a consumer-driven world, upcycling or recycling things has a positive impact on the environment and can also be budget-friendly.

From a design perspective, however, remember that like any furniture piece you introduce in to your home, make sure it’s the right scale and that it compliments the aesthetics of your surroundings. NL

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F R EC L A I M T O FA M E

work with. Spraying things black is also a new love right now.

Use old materials. Okay, these DIY tips are what I consider manageable and easy enough to do or source out. If you are really keen and want to take on a true repurposing furniture project using old things lying around in the house or have found at a garage sale, I say go for it. Just keep in mind, it will require time, patience and some acquired skill.

PHOTO COURTE SY OF ME TRO ELEMENT

RIGHT The gold galvanized oil drum lids featured on the first page are also available in assorted colours (oil drum lids in their raw state) and silver. The various depths to each piece makes it that much more interesting and can be hung in any pattern.

Original pieces from the 50's to 70's are carefully curated at Reclaim To Fame to give nod to mid-century era.

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in the city

SUMMER FLING Top things to try out this summer in Calgary n WRITTEN BY

Katherine Andrews

S

ummer is fun, summer is about trying new things, but summer — especially in Calgary — can be over before you know it.

After waiting through all winter for warm weather to arrive this side of the Rockies, we thought to come out with an early list of some of the most exciting things to try out this summer in Calgary. It’s not all about camping, as we found out. There’s a lot more options out there, but “roughing it” is still a part of the deal.

Here are some activities available in and around Calgary this summer that the whole family can enjoy.

THE RUGGED MANIAC RACE www.ruggedmaniac.com Go above and beyond your own limits in a fun obstacle race this summer with the Rugged Maniac Race. This is one of the biggest outdoor parties for the entire family.

It gives participants an opportunity to have loads of fun while exercising and relishing the great outdoors.

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, the Rugged Maniac was founded in 2010, by Rob Dickens, an outdoor enthusiast and fitness advocate.

“I wanted to bring fun back into the fitness,” says Dickens.

“People nowadays have become too serious about their fitness abilities. This competitive spirit makes it harder for some people to start exercising.”

“We are dedicated to creating a fun and safe environment for all ages and fitness levels to engage in an amazing outdoor activity.”

The Rugged Maniac Race is a five-kilometre obstacle

Rugged Maniac Race

race that includes children starting from 12 years old and adults of all ages. What makes the Rugged Maniac different from other races is that it does not have any strict rules. Every participant will receive a medal and a free beer for the grown-ups in addition to being a part of an immersive experience with great music, food and other activities available for free for everyone.

There are currently 32 races that are taking place throughout North America. Most of the summer races are taking place in Canada due to a climate difference.

Every year the company innovates the race by adding new obstacles and making it a fun outdoor activity for the entire family.

In the four years of coming to Calgary the Rugged Maniac Race has become one of the most popular and anticipated summer events. It will be taking place in Spruce Meadows on July 27, 2019.

»

Sundance hot air balloon ride

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The Rugged Maniac Race

Outdoor yoga classes in the park

HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE www.sundanceballoons.com Venture out on a new adventure in the sky on a balloon ride and experience the joy of flight in a different — safer — way than jumping out of a plane. If you’re not afraid of heights, this may be the most relaxing, romantic thing to do on a bright, sunny prairie day.

Some people might still want to experience the world from the birds’ point of view, while remaining in a comparably safe environment.

Getting in the hot air balloon might be a great thing for them.

Hot air balloons were invented in France in 1783, as a part of a science experiment. It was soon established to be not viable for transportation due to its lack of steering. It became a popular recreational activity due to a number of people who wanted to experience the sky in a quiet, relaxing and safe environment.

“It is a unique once in a lifetime experience you will not be able to forget,” says Lisa Alfred, a corporate program coordinator at Sundance Balloons, Calgary.

“It is a great gift for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and weddings.”

Sundance hot air balloon ride

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Balloon flies in the same direction with the wind creating a feeling of standing on the ground and leads us to forget about being immersed in the air. The ride usually lasts about an hour and covers approximately 10 kilometres. Due to air density changes the safest time to fly is early in the morning. The whole experience takes about three hours.

A hot air balloon ride is a once in a lifetime experience to create long lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

RIVER SURFING www.albertariversurfing.com Alberta River Surfing Association is Calgary’s river surf wave builder.

Surfers from all over Canada love having fun on the river, especially those who reside in the landlocked Alberta.

Neil Egsgard, founder of Alberta River Surfing Association, dedicated his life to providing people from all over the world with a safe and fun water surfing experience. Egsgard founded Alberta River Surfing Association in 2005, which has since become a non-for profit organization.

His company Surf Anywhere builds river surf waves all over the world. Surf Anywhere is known for projects like The Mountain Wave in Lower Kananaskis River located in the Bow Valley provincial Park near Canmore, Alberta, as well as other projects all over Europe and the U.S. “River surfing is an amazing way to explore the outdoors and a fun activity for people of all ages,” says Egsgard.

“We want river surfing to be accessible for all youth. We will keep building the waves, while inspiring people to engage in more fun outdoor activities.”

His next project is planned to be developed on 10 Street S.W. in downtown Calgary. It will feature an urban beach with the river waves, estimated to improve lives of Calgarians by creating a more accessible free facility to river surf in the summer and add more leisure areas to the riverbanks.

Alberta River Surfing Association works closely with Outlier River Surf, a Calgary based educational organization, dedicated to educate and grow surfing community in Calgary.

“Outlier River Surf will play a pivotal role in helping shape the inland surf culture as a fun, friendly, and inclusive sport. Building community, and making gear accessible are our top priorities.”

You could support Alberta River Surf Association by attending Slam Festival in August.

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in the city

River Surfing

Panda at Calgary Zoo

This is a free event, providing Calgarians with lots of outdoor fun, great music and local vendors.

With support from the public Alberta River Surf Association will be able to speed up the building of their new project, which will combine the waves built in the river with an urban beach located at 10 Street downtown Calgary.

“This project will give the people a place to surf and do other leisure activities in the summer,” said Neil.

“Calgarians deserve to have an urban beach.”

CONSIDER BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE CALGARY ZOO www.calgaryzoo.com With a variety of summer camp programs, Calgary Zoo has become one of the top attractions and a family destination for outdoor activities.

Their summer camps are tailored to fit all age groups, starting with the Tots Zoo camp for children ages four and five and finishing up with educational programs for teenagers, where they get to experience what it’s like to work at the zoo.

Calgary Zoo offers a variety of membership programs, to ensure that regular visitors get the most value out of their purchase. Memberships offer discounts, free tours, and exclusive offers.

One of the newer members of the Calgary Zoo family, the giant pandas are now also could be visited as a pat of the Panda Breakfast.

This breakfast buffet offers its visitors a variety of gourmet foods, an educational lecture about the pandas and an opportunity to visit pandas in the morning in a small private group.

Both Panda Breakfast and the Safari Lunch programs are widely popular for family gatherings, work parties and all kinds of reunions.

URBAN HIKING IN WEASELHEAD www.theweaselhead.com Going for walks in the nature has been proven to bring many of the benefits to our overall well-being. Canadian hiking trails are filled with hikers all summer long.

Many of the most popular trails are located outside of Calgary. However, you can experience the wilderness without leaving the city limits by visiting the Weaselhead Flats.

Weaselhead Flats area used to belong to Tsuu T’ina Nation. In 1994 The Weaselhead Preservation Society was founded by a group of people who wanted to protect the natural area surrounding Glenmore Reservoir and insure quality drinking water. Weaselhead provides its CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM

visitors with an opportunity to observe wild animals in close proximity.

The Weaselhead Preservation Society provides free tours for children and adults of all ages and is fully ran by volunteers.

It is located in Lakeview at 37 Street and 66 Avenue S.W.

Children at Calgary Zoo

OUTDOOR YOGA CLASSES IN THE PARK www.outdooryogacalgary.ca www.friendsoffishcreek.org It is a well-known fact that a consistent yoga practice has an immense amount of positive affect on our overall well-being.

It has proven to improve our physical, emotional and spiritual state while helping people to overcome common health issues such as depression and sleep disorders, among many other physiological problems. A consistent yoga practice can improve our quality of life by making us less susceptible to social conditioning factors.

There is no bad time to start practising yoga.

At any age anyone can receive the benefits of yoga.

Summer is a great opportunity to include most of the family members in this activity starting with the little ones and ending with the seniors. There is a variety of classes taking place all over the city. Some of the admissions are open by donation and usually contribute to a non-for profit organization. NL

This article was shortened for space considerations. For the full text, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com

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2018 BILD Calgary Region Awards

Winners announced for the 2018 BILD Calgary Region Awards n STORY BY

Pepper Rodriguez

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othing brings together Calgary’s new home industry better than the BILD Calgary Region Awards. Formerly known as the SAM Awards, the annual event brings together the finest home builders in the region to honour achievements and acknowledge accomplishments. And there were a lot this year.

Over 1,000 guests gathered at the Telus Convention Centre this year for the gala held on April 13, that had a 717 entries vying for 64 awards in 14 categories.

“The BILD Calgary Region Awards Gala did not disappoint,” says Brian Hahn, CEO of BILD Calgary Region. “The Awards have the ability to bring our industry and community together to celebrate and recognize the best in a hugely competitive field where quality, design and innovation prevail in every way.”

Following is a partial list of this year’s winners, for full list go to bildcr.com.

GRAND AWARDS Partner of the Year INTEGRITY BUILDING PRODUCTS Multi-Family Builder of the Year Small Volume RNDSQR LTD. Single Family Builder of the Year Small Volume RIVERVIEW CUSTOM HOMES Renovator of the Year KAY2 CONTRACTING LTD. Multi-Family Builder of the Year Large Volume BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL (ALBERTA) LP

Single Family Builder of the Year Large Volume Morrison Homes

Single Family Builder of the Year Large Volume MORRISON HOMES

INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Best Innovation: Idea/Product Brookfield Residential (Alberta) LP Symons Gate Passive Haus

DEVELOPER AWARDS Community of the Year - Calgary Region Artesia by Brookfi eld Residential

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Show Home Parade of the Year Cardel Homes Inc. Shawnee Park by Cardel Homes Inc.

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Community of the Year - City of Calgary Cardel Homes Inc.

MULTI-FAMILY HOME AWARDS

Shawnee Park by Cardel Homes Inc.

Best Town Home/Villa - New Community Up To $374,999 Brookfield Residential (Alberta) LP

Community of the Year - Calgary Region Brookfield Residential (Alberta) LP Artesia

MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNITY AWARDS Best Multi-Family Community Concept Jayman Built Westman Village

MULTI-FAMILY DESIGN AWARDS Best New Design-New Community Up to 599 sq. ft.

Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. Emerald Sage Meadows, 298 Sage Meadows Park NW, Calgary

Best New Design - New Community 600 sq. ft. to 899 sq. ft.

Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. Charlie, Sage Meadows, 298 Meadows Park NW, Calgary

Best New Design-New Community 900 sq. ft. to 1199 sq. ft.

Brad Remington Homes (2010) Ltd. Ashley, Sage Meadows, 298 Meadows Park NW, Calgary

Best New Design - New Community 1200 sq. ft. and Up Remington Development Corporation Gatestone Townhome Collection 3 bedroom (Plan D), Quarry Park, 360 Quarry Park Blvd., SE, Calgary

Best New Design - Established Area Up to 699 sq. ft.

Minto Communities

The Crimson at Retreat Cranston’s Riverstone, 1114 Cranbrook Walk SE, Calgary

Best Town Home/Villa - New Community $375,000 to $509,999 Remington Development Corporation Gatestone Townhome Collection 2 bedroom (Plan A), Quarry Park, 354 Quarry Park Blvd.

SE, Calgary

Best Town Home/Villa - New Community $510,000 and Over Brookfield Residential (Alberta) LP The Olivine at The Ivy in University District, University District, 4005 32 Ave. NW, Calgary

Best Apartment Style - New Community Up to $249,999 Jayman Built Westman Village Calligraphy Mahogany, 188 Mahogany Gardens SE, Calgary

Best Apartment Style - New Community $250,000 to $379,999 Logel Homes The Cohen, Auburn Bay, 100 Auburn Meadows Common SE, Calgary

Best Apartment Style - New Community $380,000 and Over Jayman Built Westman Village Refl ection Mahogany C, 188 Mahogany Gardens SE, Calgary

Best Town Home Style - Established Area Up to $579,999 RNDSQR LTD. Mount Pleasant, 05 Mount Pleasant 2022 5 St NW, Calgary

Thompson Annex, 327 9A Street NW, Calgary

NEW HOME AWARDS

Best New Design - Established Area 700 sq. ft. to 899 sq. ft.

RNDSQR Ltd.

Best New Home - up to $254,999 Jayman Built

GROW Unit 303, Bankview, 2502 16A St. SW, Calgary

Sonata, Sunset Ridge, 248 Sundown Road, Cochrane

news

Best New Home - $255,000-$294,999 Mattamy Homes The Madison End, Yorkville, 19537 Sheriff King Street SW, Calgary

Best New Home - $295,000-$349,999 Jayman Built Lauren, King’s Heights, 91 Kingfi sher Cres, Airdrie

Best New Home - $350,000-$414,999 Brookfield Residential (Alberta) LP Carlisle II in Seton, 41 Seton Manor SE, Calgary

Best New Home - $415,000-$484,999 Morrison Homes Private Residence, Calgary

Best New Home - $485,000-$549,999 Baywest Homes LP The Weston in Ranchers’ Rise Okotoks, Ranchers’ Rise, 123 Ranchers View, Okotoks

Best New Home - $550,000-$619,999 Urban Indigo Fine Homes “Phung-Shui”, Private Residence, Chestermer

Best New Home - $620,000-$719,999 Riverview Custom Homes Ltd. Charleston, Private Residence, Calgary

Best New Home - $720,000-$849,999 Riverview Custom Homes Ltd. York, Private Residence, Calgary

Best New Home - $850,000-$999,999 Crystal Creek Homes Inc. Currie Showhome, Currie, 105 trasimeno Crescent, SW, Calgary

Best New Home - $1,000,000-$1,499,999 Alloy Homes Incorporated Laneway House, Private Residence, Calgary

Best New Home - $1,500,000-$2,299,999 Calbridge Homes Ltd. Mahogany, Private Residence, Calgary

Best New Home - $2,300,000 and over Riverview Custom Homes Ltd. Chateau West, Private Residence, Calgary NL

Best New Design - Established 900 sq. ft. to 1299 sq. ft.

Minto Communities Essex The Annex, 327 9A Street NW, Calgary

Best New Design - Established 1300 sq. ft. and up RNDSQR LTD. Peaks + Plains Unit 1

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Best New Home - $485,000-$549,999 The Weston in Ranchers’ Rise Okotoks

by Baywest Homes

Show Home Parade of the Year - Shawnee Park by Cardel Homes

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nuvistahomes.com

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around town n

By Pepper Rodriguez

Rivercrest in Cochrane coming SLOKKER HOMES AND Qualico Communities launch their new community of Rivercrest in Cochrane, Alberta. Groundwork has already begun with plans to open showhomes in the summer of 2019.

“Cochrane has grown substantially over the past decade, it has essentially doubled in size,” says Thilo Kaufmann, Director of Asset Management with Qualico Communities. “Rivercrest will help meet the need for homes in one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada.”

With work on the nearby Bow River Bridge underway, Rivercrest residents will have quick, easy access downtown, Spray Lakes Sawmills Recreation Centre, and the Bow River pathways.

“We are excited about the timing of this development at Rivercrest,” Slokker Homes president Peter Paauw said. “Bike and pedestrian pathways across the bridge will increase outdoor adventure and recreation opportunities

for Rivercrest families.”

The community of Rivercrest borders River Heights Lane to the East, River Heights Drive to the South and the existing community of Riversong. At final build out, there will be 328 single-family and duplex homes in the community, with another 87 townhome dwellings.

Builders include: Sterling Homes, Broadview Homes, Kingsmith Homes, Trico Homes and Timbercreek Homes, as well as townhomes from Slokker Homes.

Prospective residents can visit the newly launched website homeisrivercrest.ca to learn more about Rivercrest. Registration for the monthly email list is available through the website.

Lakewood, Strathmore’s first lake community, holds grand opening STRATHMORE WELCOMES ITS first true lake community, as Lakewood opens the doors to four new show homes.

Lakewood is the first community in this dynamic town just east of Calgary that will have its own swimmable lake, says Steve Seiler, a spokesman for the developers of this private lake community, Lakewood Meadows Ltd. Partnership.

“Lakewood will truly be a lake community for all seasons, where people of all ages can enjoy all the benefits of living in a beautiful lake that you can swim, sail or paddle around in at a fraction of the cost that a similar lake communities in Calgary have,” he tells Around Town.

Lakewood will have approximately 33 acres of water features, including a 16.5-acre recreational lake. There is also a wraparound island beach with prime lots for truly astounding dream homes.

Phase One of the community features 77 lots and they are already 60 per cent sold. The completed community will offer a variety of housing types for all lifestyles, and all lots are backing on to green space. Price are from the low $400,000.

Mahogany celebrates biggest show home parade launch of the year HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL HOSTED the biggest show home event of the year so far, with the launch of 22 brand new paired, laned and front-garage show homes in Mahogany on April 13.

The new parades feature homes from three award-winning builders — Hopewell Residential (paired, laned and garage); Jayman BUILT (laned and garage) and Excel Homes (laned and garage), each of whom will be showcasing brand new models and finishings.

“There was a lot of excitement at the event, it was a nice day and people turned out for the first spring party in the community,” Hopewell Residential’s Senior Marketing Manager Nicole McLaws told Around Town.

“Visitors saw the most current design and décor, with a number of never-before-seen models opening, and a wide range of beautiful new finishings and selections.”

“Mahogany is a completely affordable choice, with condos from the $190,000s, paired homes from the $330,000s, laned homes from the $360,000s, front-garage homes from the $400,000s, and estate homes from the $700,000s,” McLaws says.

Presenting a fun, carnival-like atmosphere, the grand opening event will take place at 9 Magnolia Terrace SE in Mahogany on Saturday, April 13, 2019, from noon to 5 p.m. Visitors will enjoy tasty treats, activities and games for the whole family, plus giveaways and an exciting ballot-entry grand prize. NL

For more information visit www.lakewoodstrathmore.ca

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advertisers index n Anthem United page 3 Belmont Anthem United inside front gatefold Calbridge Homes page 40 Carrington South Apex Developments and H3 Developments back cover Cedarglen Homes page 35 Chelsea Anthem United inside front gatefold

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Cornerstone Anthem United inside front gatefold

Hopewell Easy Hopewell Residental page 13

Sirocco at Pine Creek Anthem United inside front gatefold

D’Arcy Anthem United inside front gatefold

Lifestyle Funiture Galleries page 34

Wedderburn Anthem United inside front gatefold

Evanston Qualico Communities page 43

Mountainview Okotoks Apex Developments page 21

The Willows of River Height LaVita Land Inc. page 30

Excel Homes page 7

NuVista Homes page 38

Harmony Harmony Developments page 26

Pine Creek Anthem United inside front gatefold

Wolf Willow WestCreek page 25

Homes by Avi page 17

The Rise Bri-mor Developments page 4

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real estate insider n

By Mario Toneguzzi

LAKE LIFE Chestermere growth on the horizon

PHOTO COURTE SY CIT Y OF CHE STERMERE

CHESTERMERE DESCRIBES ITSELF as a dynamic recreational city with all the ambiance of a laid-back lakeside community.

“Here you will find endless opportunities to relax and unwind,” it says on its website.

“Chestermere is a sustainable lakeside recreational community that is safe and family oriented . . . Chestermere is creating an amazing place to call home through innovation and community collaboration.”

Located just minutes east of Calgary, the City of Chestermere has become an attractive place to call home for people interested in living in a smaller community but within striking distance of all the amenities of the big metropolis.

“Chestermere has always been an appealing place to live — we are one of the fastest growing communities in Canada and have evolved from a summer village to a city in less than 25 years. Whether you are watching the sunset from a kayak, enjoying a picnic on the beach or teaching your kids to waterski before supper, Chestermere is a community where you can relax and reconnect with family and friends,” said Mayor Marshall Chalmers.

“Coming into our community feels like

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you’ve found a haven the way time seems to slow down here. Quiet streets and friendly neighbourhoods create a peaceful setting but when you’re ready to be active, a five-kilometre lake surrounded by pathways and family friendly events are right outside your door.”

In fact, there are several new community development projects that are scheduled to launch this year or have already broken ground.

Chelsea by Anthem United will be launching soon. It is a 320-acre master planned community that on completion will have over 7,000 residents in a variety of housing types near schools, parks, neighbourhood shopping, pathways and an eco-park.

Qualico Communities has Dawson’s Landing which launched last year and has infrastructure and servicing now under way on the 267-acre community site. Qualico’s long-term plans are for the construction of approximately 1,700 homes over 14 phases.

WestCreek Developments, meanwhile, is developing Bridgeport — one of their two planned communities here.

But Chestermere has not been immune to the economic challenges that have consumed the Calgary region in recent years which have put a squeeze on housing demand. Although the economy has rebounded into positive territory, it’s been a slow and cautious climb out of the depths of the recession.

According to the Calgary Real Estate Board, there were 29 MLS sales in Chestermere year-to-date until the end of

February compared with 46 for the same period in 2018.

The average MLS sale price of $479,924 was down from $515,437 last year while the median price dipped to $470,000 from $493,750.

CREB uses what it calls a benchmark price to look at the typical home in a market. And that benchmark price so far in 2019 until the end of February was $474,050 in Chestermere — down just slightly from $478,650 in 2018.

James Cuddy, senior market analyst with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, said year-to-date until the end of February there have only been nine single-detached home starts in Chestermere compared with 17 for the same period in 2018.

For the entire year in 2018, there were 74 starts in the single-detached market which was down from 105 in 2017 — a 30 per cent decline. 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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hope at large n

By Marty Hope

THE SUN IS KING Solar power, energy efficiency still tops in Knightsbridge’s homes JOE STARKMAN HAS never been shy about pushing the envelope when it comes to home design.

“We are not trying to change the world, we are just responding to a world that’s changing,” says the president of Knightsbridge Architecture and Construction in introducing the two latest housing ventures.

Knightsbridge was one of the founding builders of Built Green Alberta in 2005 and has always constructed to this higher standard, he says.

“With these new projects, Knightsbridge is focusing on even more energy efficiency,” says Starkman.

Spring Glen View Estates and SOL Discovery Solar Townhomes are located on Calgary’s desirable west end — and both feature solar panel technology as one of their many unique elements.

The showhome for Spring Glen View Estates is the 1,963-square-foot IKAROS bungalow model — named for the Japanese spacecraft powered by solar sales to orbit the sun in 2010 — that has 32 solar panels.

Computer modeling provided by Knightsbridge solar provider Skyfire Energy shows the setup at the show home will generate approximately 12,300-kilowatt hours of electricity in its first year.

“This is significant in that the average home in Calgary uses around 7,400-kilowatt hours of electricity per year — albeit the IKAROS is larger and will use more than the average, perhaps up to double,” says Starkman.

“However, as you can monitor your electrical use, the educated homeowner will be

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able to achieve a net-zero electrical consumption.”

Net-zero simply means the system produces as much energy as the house consumes on an annual basis.

The home is “super-insulated” and comes with triple-glazed windows, low-E glazing for windows and doors, LED lighting, and high-efficiency mechanical components.

The IKAROS home is situated on one of seven estate-sized cul de sac lots in the Springbank Hill area. Starkman says the “contemporary, funky-style” home has been designed for a two- or three-child family whose bedrooms are on the lower level, and the master bedroom, with an island vanity, on the main floor. All bedrooms have their own ensuite.

“As the kids grow and leave, the parents don’t have to move from a house that is too big as their essentials — and an elevator — are contained on the main floor,” says Starkman.

The package of show home, lot, and landscaping is priced at $1.5 million.

Just a bit to the south and east of Spring Glen View Estates in the last phase of Discovery, Knightsbridge is the 47-townhouse project called SOL — Discovery Solar Townhomes.

There will be two models. The first is the SOL-18 measuring about 1,600 square-feet in either two- or three-bedroom layouts.

The SOL-16 has two or three bedrooms across 1,320 square-feet.

“But both models come with six solar panels that, according to computer modelling will generate up to 40 per cent of the annual electrical requirements,” says Starkman.

The homes will come with two full baths and a half-bath, vinyl plank flooring and a single-car garage.

“Our key feature, though, is affordability. Preliminary pricing runs from the $360,000s to the $480,000s, plus GST,” says Starkman.

As well, the homes will target two buyer groups: one is the active empty-nester couples or singles, downsizing and changing to a more leisure lifestyle and who have lived in the west end and want to remain there, and the “older” millennials.

“This group is in their late 20s or early 30s and generally grew up on the west side and would love to live there again but can’t afford the resale single-family market. SOL Townhomes lets them into the market in Discovery or Sienna Hill where in five years or so they can move up to a single-family, if they wish,” Starkman says. NL

Marty Hope. For more than two decades Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry.

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SHOWHOME EVENT 4, 12-5p