New Home Living - June 2019

MARTY HOPE: HOPE AT LARGE

FOYER STYLE

NEW SHOW HOMES AND COMMUNITIES

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13 New Showhomes Now Open

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 162 n JUNE 2019

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COVER FEATURE

Live in Walden Nature-filled, amenity-rich lifestyle awaits in Walden

FOCUS ON

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Stay-cation

Give your patio that all-inclusive resort look

A stylish, welcoming foyer sets the stage for the home

SHOW HOME PROFILES

IN THE CITY

14 Estate of the heart

Calbridge Homes offers luxury and glamour in Fireside Estates

STYLE

26 First impressions

29 The heat is on!

COLUMNS

33 Around Town 34 Hope at Large

ITEMS

6 Editor’s Message 32 Advertisers Index

Fun in the sun, YYC style

19 Bungalow love!

Genesis Builders Group’s Aspen bungalow wows in Bayside Estates

COMMUNITY

22 Crowning glory

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Hillcrest’s full potential plain to see as it nears completion

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editor’s message n

Reflective pond

There’s little in life I am beginning to find more pleasure in than in my early morning or late afternoon walks with my faithful canine companion, Bucky. Our usual 20-minute jaunts (double that if the weather’s good) usually take us to the numerous duck ponds scattered around our deep south neighbourhood.

Those aesthetic water features that developers have included as an amenity in many suburban communities gives one a chance not only to reflect on life but also enjoy the surrounding nature. I’ve come to enjoy bird-watching on these jaunts and although I can’t differentiate a finch from a warbler, I do get a kick from the joyous bird song that accompanies these walks. It’s a different kind of Twitter-verse. Then again, maybe I’m just a boring old suburbanite who finds pleasure in the mundane.

There is no denying that those daily walks are good for the health, and many of the newly developed suburban (and even urban) communities emphasize this feature.

Walden — our cover story this issue — takes this design well beyond all expectations.

Project Manager, Travis Putnam, of Genstar Development Company says Walden goes way over the 10 per cent of green space that the City says every new community should have. It’s as close to nature as you can get in the city, and their wide selection of homes makes it attainable to everyone.

We also feature Hillcrest in Airdrie. This nearly completed community by Apex Developments has certainly come a long way and is now replete with life-affirming amenities. There are still some choice selections of homes from Excel Homes and Shane Homes here that await buyers.

Genesis Builders Group knows how popular bungalows are and they have found a way to offer them in budget friendly ways, just check out their latest in Bayside Estates. The Aspen wasn’t just designed for the downsizer crowd but for families as well. Calbridge Homes brings their grand prize lottery home expertise to their estate homes in Fireside in Cochrane and the triple garage homes they offer is a rarity in this town just west of Calgary.

All these show homes and communities have their own reflective ponds where the kind of peaceful enjoyment I am fond of can be found. And we hope our community features and show home profiles give you an insight on what we’ve found out for ourselves.

But this is what we really know: whether in the inner-city or in the suburbs, there’s a life of homeownership waiting for you that fits your lifestyle. Until next time.

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, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY

Katherine Andrews ADVERTISING

Andrew Best andrew.best@sourcemediagroup.ca

Brandi Holmes brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca

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focus on

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Stay-cation station

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Give your patio that all-inclusive resort look n BY

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Portia Yip

IT’S FINALLY that time again. Time to jazz up your outdoor spaces, adorn your patios, and sit back in a comfy lounge chair with your favourite bevvy or book. As the sun invites us to get out and enjoy more time outside, why not start with your very own backyard or balcony? Whether you want your own private retreat or a weekend barbecue with family and friends, you can create the perfect vibe for any evening, all summer long, with these eye-catching yet functional local patio finds. NL

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[ 1 ] Aurora Cantilever Umbrella, $4,000 at Patioline. [ 2 ] Madras Outdoor Lanterns, Starts at $120 at Patioline. [ 3 ] Brown Jordan Deia Sofa, $9,302 at Maria Tomás. [ 4 ] Gas Fire Pit Table, $3,000 – $3,300 at Patioline. [ 5 ] Porto Club Chair Set, $1,340 at Patioline. [ 6 ] Cane-line On The Move Tables, $450 – $675 at Maria Tomás. [ 7 ] Brown Jordan Still Lounge Chair and Ottoman, $5,222 at Maria Tomás. [ 8 ] Brown Jordan Kantan Chair and Ottoman, $1,425 at Maria Tomás. [ 9 ] Cane-line Divine Outdoor Pouf, $695 at Maria Tomás. [ 10 ] ART Furniture Chrysler BAR Set, $5,136 at McArthur Furniture.

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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |

Life in Walden

Nature-filled, amenity-rich lifestyle awaits in Walden

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he southeast has always been a heaven of sorts for homebuyers looking for affordable choices, and Walden has always provided that in spades with the incredible range of home options it offers.

Beyond that is the ultimate suburban lifestyle of close-to-nature serenity and an amenityfilled, family-oriented living that residents are already enjoying.

Yet, there’s more to come.

Walden’s developer, Genstar Developments, has unveiled its much-anticipated pond feature complete with two kilometres of pathways that joggers, dog-walkers and nature lovers have already fallen in love with.

“This will be the first year residents can enjoy the beauty of the newly constructed pond. Part of this feature includes a two-kilometre pathway that wraps around the pond. Great place to run, walk, picnic and let your dog run,” says Genstar Development project manager, Travis Putnam. “Also included here is a soccer field and a baseball diamond with views of the mountains to the west and the Bow River valley / Fish Creek park to the east.”

This illustrates the love and care that Genstar has invested in this young southeast community that has only grown in popularity since it launched in 2008.

About 75 per cent of the 411-acre

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community just off Macleod Trail and 194 Avenue S.E. is built out with approximately 600 more homes to go.

A big part of its success has been the huge emphasis Genstar has placed on developing a close-tonature identity, putting in millions of dollars to make Walden as environmentally attuned as it is.

“Any new community needs to have 10 per cent of their lands allotted for municipal reserve (green open spaces). Walden is well over that. Genstar believes that in any community green open spaces are one of the most important features of a community and we put a lot of

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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |

effort and capital into making them the best around,” Putnam points out.

This isn’t the only feature that has made Walden special, and Putnam says the “unique” vibe that the community has is apparent as soon as you enter.

“You notice it as soon as you drive into Walden. It has a small town feel with winding streets that slow down traffic. The architecture is a first of its kind in Calgary. You can have a home that stands out from the rest and is not lost in the sea of suburban development and call it your own,” he says.

“The walkability and connectivity in Walden is the best you can get in suburban Calgary. Pathways that connect to the regional pathway system will give you access to the city core in a 30-minute bike ride.

Groceries at your doorstep and major thorough fares to your mountain getaway or your

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morning commute are all right there.”

Adding to the appeal is the coming of Township, a 65-acre, 700,000-square-foot regional commercial centre that has started construction on 210 Avenue S.E. and due to be completed in 2021. It will include some of the most popular big box stores in the city and provide a ton of convenience to residents.

Coming up, Walden is also bringing in three new phases this year that Putnam says will provide “new and innovative” housing options for future residents.

“The most unique phase is phase 35 where Baywest Homes is crafting one of a kind villa bungalow homes that front onto a park that is connected to the rest of the park system in Walden,” he adds.

Walden’s price point advantage cannot be overemphasized, and Putnam says that

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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |

FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: Walden DEVELOPER: Genstar Development Company SINGLE-FAMILY: conditions in Calgary’s new home market puts all the advantages to the buyer.

“What people need to realize is that it is actually a buyers market and a great time to get into a home,” adding that prices are holding steady.

“Price point is an important distinction for us. Actually, Walden is the only place in Calgary where you can get a home on the ridge under the $1-million mark.”

Those one-of-a-kind ridge lots present stunning views of downtown and the Bow River valley.

These lots will back onto a pathway system that connects to the river valley and to Fish Creek Park that is about a 15-minute walk or five-minute bike ride away, Putnam says.

Beyond those is a wealth of multi- and singlefamily offerings that span the whole range of price points. Walden offers everything from apartment condos, townhomes, duplexes, laned homes, move-up homes and those aforementioned estate homes on the ridge.

The builder group in Walden includes Avi Urban, Rockford Developments, Cardel Lifestyles, and Excel Homes for multi-family homes; and Baywest Homes, Excel Homes, Homes by Avi, California Homes, Cardel Homes, Daytona Homes, Prominent Homes and Arcuri Homes for singlefamily and duplex homes.

“There is not one set of select buyer group that has been consistently buying in Walden,” Putnam says.

“I think this is due to all the different products available.

If I had to pick, we see a lot of first-time buyers and new families starting out here in Walden.” n

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• Duplex from the $300,000s – Homes by Avi, Excel Homes, Cardel Homes, • Laned from $400,000s – Homes by Avi, Excel Homes, Cardel Homes, • Front drive from $500,000s – Daytona Homes Homes by Avi, Excel Homes, Cardel Homes • Bungalows from $500,000s – Prominent Homes, Baywest Homes • Move up- semi estate from $600,000s • On the ridge: California Homes, Arcuri Homes, Baywest Homes, Cardel Homes from the $700,000s MULTI-FAMILY: • Cardel Lifestyles’ Walden Place – condos from the $130,000s and townhomes from $300,000s • Excel Homes’ Holland Park – townhomes from the $290,000s • Avi Urban’s Jackson and Winston – townhomes from the $290,000s • Rockford Developments’ Axis – townhomes from the $290,000s DIRECTIONS: All new show homes can be conveniently accessed from 210th Avenue (keep left into Walden onto Walgrove Boulevard. S.E. or Walcrest Gate S.E. for the ridge homes) WEBSITE: www.waldenliving.ca

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show home profile

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Calbridge Homes

ABOVE The Denver show home is replete with all the bells and whistles one might expect of a luxury estate home. The stylish laminate flooring of the Denver goes well with its estate character. “We offer three types of flooring for our purchasers to choose from — laminate, luxury vinyl plank or hardwood — and all are offered standard here.”

TOP RIGHT “Homebuyers are choosing Fireside because of the value they’re getting for their money.

People are able to get more for their dollar in terms of size and square footage in Fireside compared to similar communities in Calgary,” Kelly says. The Denver’s dining room provides a pleasant vantage point where residents can bask in the nature-filled beauty of the community.

RIGHT The nine-foot ceiling on the main level is standard and creates a feeling of sunny optimism with the oversized windows throughout the home. The designer fireplace and stone countertops and the opento-above foyer of the Denver all combine to bring lots of character to the home.

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Calbridge Homes n show home profile

ESTATE OF THE HEART Calbridge Homes offers luxury and glamour in Fireside Estates

WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez

F I R E S I D E I N C O C H R A N E has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best communities where homebuyers can start putting down roots in, and the addition of estate homes to its repertoire has added to this lustre.

Calbridge Homes has especially won over the luxury homebuyer crowd with its pleasing triple-car garage estate homes that exude opulence, style and functionality that many look for in a forever home.

Their Denver show home that opened last fall exemplifies these ideals and has become one of Calbridge Homes’ most popular models in a short time. “The Denver is a brand new model that was inspired by one of our most popular and award-winning homes,” says Ariana Kelly of Calbridge Homes, adding that it was tweaked a little to meet the exacting standards of Fireside’s estate area.

The Denver is a two-storey estate home at 2,466 square-feet with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, and a triple front attached garage — a rarity in Cochrane. And it is the perfect fit for the naturally endowed beauty of Fireside.

Surrounded by prairie landscapes, hills and natural wetlands, Fireside already provides a warm and inviting setting to call home.

Further blessed by the scenic backdrop of the Rockies, it’s only a quick drive down Highway 1 for a mountain adventure.

Now, Fireside has even more to offer as this first community development by La Vita Land in Cochrane has recently opened estate lots. These are oversized lots ranging from 38- to 40-feet wide and some can have walkouts. Many can accommodate triple car garage homes that not many communities in this town west of Calgary can.

“Many of these estate homes back onto greenspace and wetlands, and all homes are just a couple minutes from the new school,” Kelly says. “There are walkout opportunities. These homes are tucked away from the main streets so traffic is quieter and there’s more privacy.”

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show home profile n Calbridge Homes

BELOW Flexibility is always key in the design of Calbridge’s homes and in the Denver this is shown through the main floor den that is outfitted as an artist’s studio. The Denver starts in the $590,000s including GST. Kelly says they also have other move-up homes from the $420,000s that back onto the new community school and playfields.

ABOVE Nothing denotes luxury more than the Denver’s spa-inspired ensuite.

“We were excited to show people what we are capable of bringing in this new estate area in Cochrane,” Kelly says. After all, Calbridge Homes is the award-winning builder of the grand prize show homes for the annual Foothills Hospital lotteries and it is this expertise that shines in the Denver.

RIGHT The bonus room on the second level provides a big space where families can gather for movie nights or game nights and the tray ceiling detail overhead just exemplifies the mastery Calbridge has in making such spaces come alive.

BELOW The Denver’s living room is as comfy as it is stylish and designed to welcome guests in a wholesome environment. Calbridge offers 12 front-drive models (both two-storey and bungalows) in Fireside’s estate phase. “We also offer laned models in this phase from the $360,000s,” Kelly says. NL

fast facts BUILDER: Calbridge Homes COMMUNITY: Fireside in Cochrane DEVELOPER: La Vita Land STYLE: Two storey estate home with triple garage SIZE: 2,466 sq. ft.

PRICE: The Denver starts in the $590,000s including GST, but other estate models can be from $510,000.

ADDRESS: 3 Fireside Terrace, Cochrane HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Fridays, weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.

WEBSITE: www.firesidecochrane.com

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Genesis Builders n show home profile

BUNGALOW LOVE! Genesis Builders Group’s Aspen bungalow wows in Bayside Estates WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez

B U N G A L O W S H AV E A LWAY S been one of the most sought-after homes because of the carefree single-level-living lifestyle it offers. Although a staple of the downsizer crowd, Genesis Builders Group has perfectly illustrated that this type of single-level living can just about fit any homebuyer.

Aspen, Genesis’ new bungalow show home in Bayside Estates in Airdrie, demonstrates that the bungalow doesn’t just have to be for the Baby Boomer crowd, and that its inherent grandiose style and practical features fits varied wants and needs of single-family home buyers.

Loaded with some of the most sought-after, eye-popping features, the 1,686-square-foot Aspen is as dramatic and full of character as it is functional. High ceilings — reaching 19 feet at its pinnacle — give the main floor a feeling of executive luxury, and exposed beams denote a further richness to its design.

Functionality is never far behind though, as the open-concept flow of the main floor is perfect for entertaining, and the optional basement development — which adds another 912 square-feet of living space — is just what growing families need.

“Demand for bungalows continues to rise, but not many builders are able to offer it because of the high cost of land bungalows need, along with lot size required to build a bungalow. But because Genesis is the land developer and one of the home builders in Bayside Estates, we are able to provide this to our buyers,” says Genesis Builder Group’s Kelsey Orvis.

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The two-bedroom, two-bath Aspen masters main floor living, everything denotes a spacious, functional design — even the pantry and the laundry are big and roomy with lots of storage space. “That’s always essential, whether you’re a downsizer or a family with kids, there’s never enough storage space, but the Aspen provides plenty of this,” Orvis says.

There are still a few select lots left in this exclusive community, including walkout lots and there are three bungalow models to choose from.

The Aspen starts from $608,000, and Genesis also offers two-storey estate homes in Bayside Estates, including the new Charlesmark show home. The show homes are located at 1311 Bayside Drive in Airdrie.

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ABOVE The Aspen show home opened to rave reviews in April and people really loved the well-appointed design style inside. But its beautiful exterior with plenty of designer stone accents cannot be overlooked. “It really blends well with the scenic streetscape of Bayside Estates,” Orvis says.

RIGHT The warm, welcoming foyer is a joy to behold with lots of style and practicality packed into this crucial space that sets the tone for the entire home. There is also a flex room next to it that can be styled any way that fits the homeowner’s lifestyle.

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Builders LEFT The master bedroom is all about relaxing and the wonderful design provided by Kevin Gray Interiors brings the full potential of the Aspen to life. “They have captured the essence of luxury and comfort that Aspen is all about,” Orvis says.

fast facts BUILDER: Genesis Builders Group COMMUNITY: Bayside Estates, Airdrie DEVELOPER: Genesis Land Developments SHOW HOMES: Aspen (bungalow), Charlesmark (two-storey) SIZE: Aspen is from 1,686 sq. ft., Charlesmark is 2,454 sq. ft.

PRICE: Community starting from $500,000s ADDRESS: 1311 Bayside Dr., Airdrie DIRECTIONS: From Highway 2 (Deerfoot Tr.) exit west on Yankee Valley Blvd, turn north on 8th St., and left at Bayside Dr. and follow the signs.

HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.

WEBSITE: www.genesisbuilds.com ABOVE LEFT The playful and cosy design of the basement development brings a familial character to Aspen. But even without this optional development, Aspen still fits needs of a family with a college- or high school-age child.

“There are two spacious bedrooms on the main floor and two full baths that come standard with this plan, so it’s perfect for those families,” she adds.

ABOVE RIGHT The master retreat is where the owner can find some solace after a busy day. “It’s a peaceful spot meant for relaxation, but it has its practical side too with its roomy walk-in closet.”

LEFT “Families are falling in love with the bungalow all over again,” Orvis says and the Aspen show home details just how main-level living can combine with a developed basement to become a complete family home. “Bayside Estates is the perfect community for young families and Genesis has the home that can meet their needs, and the Aspen is a great option.”

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Genesis Builders

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home profile

ABOVE Built with entertainment in mind, the Aspen excels in establishing a feeling of grand luxury everywhere you look. From the seamless array of wall-mount stainless steel kitchen appliances to the majestic 20foot long centre island with granite tops, the Aspen is luxury personified.

LEFT Natural light floods the main floor through the oversized windows that grace the entire home. Engineered hardwood flooring blends well with the exposed beams and designer stone fireplace that gives Aspen a luxurious country cottage look. NL

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community profile n Hillcrest

CROWNING GLORY

Hillcrest’s full potential plain to see as it nears completion n WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez

WHEN APEX DEVELOPMENTS began developing the land that would become Hillcrest almost 10 years ago, they knew they had the opportunity to create something special. And they did.

Set on one of the highest points in Airdrie, Hillcrest has now become everything that the developer had first envisioned it to be — a family-oriented, amenity-rich community that has everything residents love. And as it approaches completion, Hillcrest’s full potential is plain for all to see.

Located in southern Airdrie, Hillcrest will be home to just under 900 homes on build out and is now over 85 per cent sold. Through it all, Apex has stuck to its vision to provide a nature-enriched environment that encourages connections and engagements between neighbours.

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To do that, they knew it was important to follow the contours of the land. “Apex felt it was really important to not only preserve the natural topography of the area but also to enhance it through extensive park landscaping and a tree planting program,” says Apex’s Morgan Gowland. “It’s meant more engineering work and maintenance in public spaces, but we love what a beautiful community Hillcrest has become and are really proud it has stayed true to its roots.”

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Hillcrest n community profile

Now, Hillcrest’s landscaped storm pond and central gazebo are popular gathering spots where you will often find joggers, dog-walkers and young families out strolling with their baby carriages. There are two playgrounds for families to enjoy and walking paths throughout, connecting residents to all the community has to offer. And, there is more coming, with the addition of a new K-8 school opening in January 2020. Gowland says there is an authentic feel to Hillcrest that

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community profile n HillCrest

Apex has taken pride in creating and nurturing over the years.

“There is the convenience of grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants and daycares within walking distance. Plus, living just off 8th Street and 40th Avenue means hopping onto the QE2 to head into Calgary, or over to CrossIron Mills or Costco for Saturday shopping is a breeze”, Gowland says.

It’s also worthwhile to note that even with all these in-community amenities, Hillcrest doesn’t have community fees, Gowland adds. “We’ve been attracting a lot of young families in Hillcrest, and they are by far our biggest demographic,” she tells New Home Living.

Jaime Ivey, area manager for Shane Homes in the community agrees that Hillcrest has been a success. “Hillcrest has been even busier than some of our other communities in Calgary,” he says. “The community really is perfect for young families with all the amenities that are readily available.”

Shane Homes has both laned duplex and single-family laned showhomes in the community’s final phases, offering buyers some impressive choices in their search to call Airdrie home. With designs to creatively maximize living space and the flexibility to customize your floor plan, Shane Homes works with you to shape the home of your dreams.

Excel Homes, who is building single-family laned, front-drive garage duplex and townhomes in the final phases, also agrees Hillcrest has been a hit. “This community offers big city living with a slower pace of life, and residents love coming home to Hillcrest at the end of a long busy day,” says Excel Homes area manager Doug Judd.

“Our townhomes, starting from the $280,000s, offer buyers a single front attached garage and front yard landscaping, all without condo fees, making it a perfect choice for first-time buyers looking for a space of their own” Judd says. This includes the 1,389-square-foot Hollywell and the 1,542 square-foot single-garage Monterey. “Plus, our charming duplexes and spacious single-family homes are the perfect places to lay down roots and start the next chapter of your life,” he says.

“This community offers big city living with a slower pace of life, and residents love coming home to Hillcrest at the end of a long busy day.”

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For buyers in Airdrie, the architecture of Hillcrest’s character homes, spacious and stylish floor plans, and the overall pristine nature of the community have been key selling features. With duplexes and single-family laned homes starting from the $290,000s, life in Hillcrest is both affordable and achievable.

With only four opportunities left to own a front-drive garage single-family home in Hillcrest, starting from the $390,000s, don’t miss your chance to be a part of this exciting new Airdrie community.

Stop by one of the community’s eight show homes open Monday-Thursday from 2-8 p.m., or weekends from 12-5 p.m. to see why so many others have already chosen to call Hillcrest home. To learn more, visit www.hillcrestairdrie.com. NL

fast facts COMMUNITY: Hillcrest DEVELOPER: Apex Developments BUILDERS: Excel Homes, Shane Homes PRODUCT TYPES: Townhomes, laned and front-drive duplexes, laned and front-drive single family homes PRICE: From the high $200,000s DIRECTIONS: From Calgary: Take the QEII north and take exit #275 heading west towards Balzac. Make a right turn onto Range Road 11 and continue onto 8th Street SW. Turn right onto Hillcrest Avenue SW, then right onto Hillcrest Road SW. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays 12 to 5 p.m.

WEBSITE: www.hillcrestairdrie.com

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First impressions A stylish, welcoming foyer sets the stage for the home n WRITTEN BY

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PHOTO COURTE SY OF UMBR A

Christina Loc

here is only one chance to make a first impression and intentionally or not, we are wired to know whether we like what we see within a matter of seconds. Quickly following that decision, we then assume how much we will enjoy the rest of our experience based on those very first impressions.

When it comes to your home, it is no different. How many times have you walked in to a show suite or viewed homes with your realtor and without barely a few strides in, had positive or negative vibes about the whole property without seeing the rest of it?

An entryway is literally the gateway to the rest of your home. It is that small window during which first impressions of your style become known the second your guests walk through the door.

For feel-good first impressions, consider implementing some of or all of these ideas in to your entryway:

When you’re tight for space, use your imagination to create a simple front entry way with an all-in-one shoe rack and bench accented with decorative hooks and plants.

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PHOTO COURTE SY OF W U AND MCHUGH

n style

PHOTO COURTE SY OF W U AND MCHUGH

HAVE ADEQUATE AND STYLISH LIGHTING. Who possibly likes to walk in to a dark and dingy space? Ensure your entryway is well-lit to reveal what’s more to come with a fixture that radiates your personality.

A simple utilitarian light above does not suffice anymore. There is no excuse. Even for low ceilings, there are beautiful flush-mount options that aren’t your boring builder’s grade domes.

Other options for lighting up your entryway is to include one or two table lamps on a console

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table setting. If you’re tight for space, consider wall sconces. The efforts you put in to decorating your front entrance can only be appreciated if it is bright enough to be seen.

DEFINE YOUR SPACE WITH A RUG. Regardless the size of your entryway, having a rug at the entrance door makes your guests feel welcomed and at ease when stepping in to your home.

Choose a decorative and functional rug that is indoor/outdoor rated to compliment your style with a sufficiently busy pattern to hide dirt and stains. Even with a small entryway, a decorative 2-foot-by-3-foot rug adds detail to your space and is enough for your guests to know where to wipe their shoes before taking them off. For a grand foyer, consider layering rugs of different materials, colours and patterns to make it that much more interesting.

Be sure to use an anti-slip rug pad underneath to prevent the rug from sliding. This minimizes damage to the rug itself and your floor.

ABOVE Here, Kalina Herman, beautifully curates a front entry with the use of stunning artwork, lighting, mirror, bench, ottoman, baskets while layering a combination of rugs together.

For unique and one-of-a-kind bench, visit Wu and McHugh for their collection of antique and vintage furniture handpicked from the Chinese countryside.

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TREAT YOUR WALLS. Give life to your walls by adding wainscoting or wall trim moulding.

Take it almost half-way or all the way to the top.

Add metallic, geometric, abstract or textured wallpaper to compliment your style. Splash paint on the walls or on your front door as an accent. Use one or all of these mediums to create impact.

SQUEEZE IN SURFACE SPACE. Console tables look stunning in entryways. They add true elegance and are very functional. Opt for one with drawers or go for a chest if you need extra storage space. Console tables come in various lengths and depths, but if you are really tight for space, floating shelves are a great alternative.

MOUNT WALL HOOKS. What once was just for function, wall hooks have become a category unto themselves, as the choices go on and on. It’s great when items can serve as both function and beauty.

A Canadian company, Umbra, has been around for a long time and are world-renowned for their stylish, affordable and functional designs. They offer a variety of wall hooks, found at local retail shops like Twisted Goods.

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL. An absolute must-have in an entryway. Not only are they good for the final once-over before leaving, but mirrors make a space appear bigger and brighter. Choose a full length, wide or skinny, mirror to lean against or hang on the wall.

Place a round, square or rectangular mirror above your console table or bench. Build a collage with smaller mirrors or pick one bold statement piece. You can’t go wrong with a beautiful mirror.

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS TOO MUCH STORAGE. Baskets to hold extra blankets, storage ottomans for seasonal items, bowls for keys and shoe racks are just some essential

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PHOTO COURTE SY OF UMBR A

style n

ways to make your space more functional and clutter-free.

Remember, every item in your home needs to serve a purpose. After a long day, at work or being out, coming home should feel relaxing, unencumbered and free of any objects, that can leave you feeling frazzled.

PLEASE HAVE A SEAT. With so many benches and seating varying in size, style and material, surely you will find one that your guests would appreciate using to take off and put on their shoes.

I love tucking benches or ottomans underneath console tables to really maximize space and create impact.

A bench is also great for extra surface space especially for those big shopping days where you really need to set stuff down.

For unique and one-of-a-kind benches, visit Wu & McHugh for their collection of antique and vintage furniture that has been handpicked and salvaged from the Chinese countryside. You will love how rustic some of their pieces are and how they have weathered beautifully over time.

LOVE PLANTS. There is nothing like plants to liven up a space. From floor to wall-mount to macrame and ceiling planters, your options are endless to the type of vessel that can hold your plants. Even if you have little to no lighting, plants like Mother-In-Law Tongues (also known as Snake Plants or Sansevieria), Bromeliads, Dracaena, Philodendron, Hawarthia or Air Plants will still thrive.

GIVE IT PERSONALITY. Alright, now that you have everything you need, pull it all together with additional personal touches. Add artwork, vases and decor objects to give your space a final polished look.

As the saying goes, don’t judge a book by its cover, but it is only natural to have first impressions of everything we embark on. And just like first impressions, your guests will also depart through that same door with a lasting impression, doubling the reason to spruce up your entryway worthy of the beauty and effort put in the rest of your home. NL

ABOVE Cleverly designed by one of Umbra’s designers, the Cubby Mini Key Hook & Organizer is multi-functional and is comes in three different colours: walnut (as shown here), white and natural.

Available at Twisted Goods and other local retailers.

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P H OTO B Y K AT H E R I N E A N D R E W S

n in the city

The heat is on!

Fun in the sun, YYC style n WRITTEN BY

Katherine Andrews

F

inally summer has entered our hemisphere and people all around get excited about the variety of fun events going on in the city.

Every year the Calgary introduces new family fun activities.

Most of these include music, games and artisan markets. Here’s a list of our favourite activities to enjoy for this most awaited season.

JANE AUSTEN’S SUMMER BALL Have you ever wondered what life was like in the times of Jane Austen?

Have you ever wanted to experience the time before our society was spoiled by the comforts of the digital era and production motorization?

Jane Austen’s Summer Ball is a great opportunity to get immersed in a fun dancing experience for just one night.

Event founder, Tara Rout was inspired to create Jane Austen’s Summer Ball after attending the Regency Costume Ball in the U.K. and the Jane Austen Festival in Bath.

Her mission is to introduce as many people as possible to the world of Jane Austen and help people to build a like-minded community.

This event is about appreciating history and literature while spending quality time with the family and friends.

It does not require any dancing experience, as dance classes are provided a few days before the event.

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in the city n

With an average attendance of over 200 people, Jane Austen’s Summer Ball is a place where everybody is welcome. It provides a diverse demographic and an opportunity to meet and connect with others.

The goal of the event is to introduce as many people as possible to the fun from the Regency Era. Rout also says that this is not a ballroom dancing event, it is not a requirement to dance, but it will make the experience much more enjoyable.

At the end of the night attendants are provided with professional photos and an opportunity to purchase a printed copy in order to preserve their memories for years to come.

More information can be found on their website at www.prideandprejudiceball.ca LILAC FESTIVAL Every year for the last three decades, Calgarians have turned out to celebrate summer at the Lilac Festival. The popular street festival is being held this year on June 2, between 13 Avenue S.E. and Elbow Drive, S.E. It kicks off with a parade at 10 a.m. on June 2.

Beginning at 25th Avenue S.W. along 4th Street and finishing at 13th Avenue S.W. Lilac festival is dedicated to providing small business and artists with an opportunity to gain more customers, engage with the community and showcase their work.

This year Lilac festival is celebrating 30 years of service.

Jane Austen’s Summer Ball It takes an immense amount of planning and logistics to make it happen.

The festival is featuring 550 vendors located in the area of 13 blocks.

It takes three hours to set up all the vendors and two hours to pack everything up, and requires a lot of work from dedicated workers and over 300 volunteers that help this event happen every year.

There’s a wide variety of volunteer opportunities open for those who are interested starting from the kids entertainment, marketing brochure distribution, information booths and so much more.

“Our goal with the Lilac Festival is to provide a higher quality of merchandise, grow to full potential and to introduce more entertainment stages to make sure that our visitors get the full value of a summer festival,” says event coordinator, Jennifer Rempel.

“The greatest thing about Lilac Festival is that it creates organic growth and supports entrepreneurship. It gives emerging artists an opportunity to perform in front of wide audience.”

“This festival welcomes everyone, as it is not juried.”

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INGLEWOOD NIGHT MARKET Unlike any other Calgary summer events, the creation of Inglewood night market was inspired by a European love for night lifestyle.

Inglewood Night Market gives visitors an opportunity to spend the night out and enjoy great food along with performances from local bands.

It showcases a selection of fine artisan food makers and local artists, with two stages of live music.

This year there are more opportunities to attend the night market as it will be happening every month during the summer and will end the summer with the two events in September.

The dates from 2019 Inglewood night market are June 7th, July 12th, August 9th, September 13th and 14th.

SOUNDS OF SUMMER AT FIASCO GELATO Summer is the time of great joy. Calgarians, especially learned to appreciate it because they feel a shortage of it. Many people have been waiting for it all year.

This means there is a lot to experience with the weather in town getting warmer.

Nothing is better than a pint of ice cream on a hot summer day. It becomes even more exciting when it’s Fiasco Gelato.

Since 2010 Fiasco has grown exponentially. Their innovative approach gives them unstoppable improvement and the means to give back to the community.

Fiasco has become a B Corporation. Since 2015 Fiasco’s home has become Fiasco Gelato Factory and Coffee. This is the place where all are welcome. Besides serving Gelato and Rosso Coffee, customers are also able to have a few drinks at the bar.

With all this happening in their home office every day it is hard to predict what other amazing new will be coming out in the near future.

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One of these great news is the always wished for the festival of summer music, that will be happening outside of Fiasco on June 15.

“Even though we are now a national brand, we will not forget where we came from,” says Pinder. “We are proud to call Calgary our home and we appreciate all the people who have supported us over the years. Without them our success wouldn’t be possible.”

Visit Fiasco Gelato website to find out more upcoming news and a line-up of artists expected to perform at Sounds of Summer.

CALGARY FOLK FEST Calgary Folk Festival is a not-for-profit organization and is completely ran by dedicated volunteers. This year Folk Festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary. It is nationally and internationally acknowledged as one of the greatest events for performers and for visitors.

It is created by Folk Festival Society of Calgary. Since the society was given a space in Festival Hall in 2015, Calgary Folk Fest started operating all year round.

It now offers other events during the year, including the famous Block Heater Festival, a two day event welcoming artists from all over the world.

In 40 years Calgary Folk Festival has be-

Fiasco Gelato

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come the most anticipated summer event of the year and is held at the Prince’s Island Park Festival Grounds. It is an amazing way to spend the day with the family while enjoying great music, food and artisan arts and crafts.

“Our volunteer community is our second family,” volunteer coordinator, Emily McCormick.

“We create a fun and safe environment for all attendants of the event.”

Calgary Folk Fest tickets go on sale April 11, 2019. It runs from July 25 to 28 this year, and performers include Tal National, Belle & Sebastian, Charlotte Day Wilson, Sharon Van Etten and many more.

All information can be found at www.calgaryfolkfest.com

Calgary Folk Fest

VEG FEST CALGARY Calgary is stepping up with the mission to grow love and compassion in our community.

The third annual Veg Fest is creating amazing fun experience for the entire family. This event welcomes people of all ages to engage in a day filled with summer activities for the entire family. Starting with an interactive art installation of scrabble and finishing up with the performances of local musicians and speakers educating the public on the issues of health and wellness, animal justice and ethically sourced products.

This year Veg Fest is expected to welcome up to 10,000 people.

Veg Fest is dedicated to creating a fun and welcoming community of people sharing compassion for the world while indulging in an amazing plant-based locally sourced foods.

This event creates support for local entrepreneurs and helps to grow Calgary’s expanding vegan community.

Come out on June 15 at the Shaw Millenium Park on 1220 9 Avenue S.W. and meet over 70 vendors at the Veg Fest and take a step forward to implementing a healthy lifestyle for the entire family.

Admission is always free with optional donations and an opportunity to win great prizes.

Veg Fest is also looking for volunteers to expand their growing team and everyone is welcome. Please visit their website for more information at www.vegfestcalgary.com NL JUNE 2019 NE W HOME LIVING

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PHOTO COURTESY TOURISM CALGARY

n in the city

advertisers index n Anthem United page 3

Excel Homes page 17

Belmont Anthem United inside front gatefold

Harmony Qualico Communities and Bordeaux Developments page 35

Chelsea Anthem United inside front gatefold Cornerstone Anthem United inside front gatefold D’Arcy Anthem United inside front gatefold Evanston Qualico Communities page 18

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Pine Creek Anthem United inside front gatefold

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The Rise Bri-mor Developments oversize insert

Hillcrest Apex Developments page 25

Rivercrest in Cochrane Qualico Communities page 7

Lifestyle Funiture Galleries page 32

Shane Homes Cornerstone page 4

MountainView in Okotoks Apex Developments back cover

Sirocco at Pine Creek Anthem United inside front gatefold

Norma Robertson Calgary Home Seller page 13

Walden Genstar front cover, pages 10-12

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around town n

By Pepper Rodriguez

Dawson’s Landing rising QUALICO COMMUNITIES’ NEWEST development is open for business, as the developer announces that the first group of lots have been released to the builders in Dawson’s Landing community in Chestermere.

“This is very exciting news,” says Laura Field, Marketing Coordinator for Qualico Communities, “since last August when we had the ground-breaking ceremony. We (Qualico Communities) have been getting lots of calls and emails, from people wanting to know more about the community.”

In total 53 lots were released to the builders. Broadview Homes, NuVista Homes, and

Sterling Homes will be building single-family front-attached garage homes while Trico Homes will build laned homes, and Morrison Homes will build rear- drive duplex homes.

There will be 10 show homes, slated to open in early 2020.

“Prospective buyers can start working with their builder now,” says Field. “Even though the showhomes won’t be ready until 2020, buyers can start talking with the builders and beginning construction prior to the show home launch next year.”

For more information, go to www.liveindawsonslanding.ca

Ario by Morrison Homes

Brentwood by NuVista Homes

Ronan by Trico Homes

Canmore: a housing market bright spot THE BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN resort town of Canmore provided a bright spot in the otherwise slow housing market with an 11 per cent rise in total residential sales for the first quarter of 2019.

Condos and townhomes comprise 70 per cent of active listings in Canmore and are leading the way, according to Ross Jansen, sales director for Spring Creek, Canmore, who tracks local sales statistics for the town just west of Calgary.

“Spring Creek is the preferred address in Canmore. From 2013 right to now in 2019, sales for our condos and townhomes have been consistent, says Jansen, “We have seen steady price growth for our new lodges and resale homes in Spring Creek are keeping pace.”

The trend is continuing as sales statistics released at the end of April from the Calgary Real Estate Board, (CREB) shows that year to date sales in the Bighorn region which includes Canmore, Exshaw, Ghost Lake, Harvey Heights, increased by 9.7 percent from April last year.

Luxuria Homes opens in Legacy THE ESTATE ALLURE of Legacy comes through, as Luxuria Homes opens their first show home in this popular southeast community that displays all the bells and whistles of a forever home.

The 2,401-square-foot Valentia II show home with 800-square-foot developed basement dropped a few jaws and popped a few eyes when it opened its doors to the public in May. Its inspired take on European Farmhouse interior design will certainly continue to do so, as will its elegant French Country exterior.

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“As with all our homes, this particular plan maximizes usable living space with a fresh and inviting design,” says Harpreet Randev, Director, Operations & Client Services at Luxuria Homes.

“The Valentia II was built specifically for the community of Legacy and reflects the vibrant community it is a part of,” she adds.

The show home is at 116 Legacy Mount S.E.; or visit www.luxuriahomes.ca for more information. NL

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hope at large n

By Marty Hope

CHESTERMERE ON THE RISE New housing options tabled to improve affordability in Chestermere IT’S TIME FOR a change to Chestermere’s housing landscape, says the city’s mayor — and he’s not going to get much of an argument about that.

By changing the makeup of the housing options to bring on much-needed multi-family homes Mayor Marshall Chalmers hopes to attract even more to the city that has grown 34 per cent since 2011.

After all, it’s been three years since any multi-family construction has occurred.

“In recent months, the City has put a new emphasis on diversifying our housing options, so we are pleased when new multi-family sites are brought forward for approval,” he says. “However, we are also cognizant that development happens at the pace developers choose to proceed according to their building cycle, the market and their financial situations.”

Housing affordability has been an issue that Chalmers and his council cohorts have taken to heart as a problem that has to be resolved.

“One of the things brought to our attention as a new council is the need to focus on getting more diversity of housing available so people of all ages can live here,” he says.

Currently, the city is very top-heavy in single-detached homes that in December had an average selling price of $672,800.

But the re-introduction of multi-family developments will change that, somewhat.

The most recent multi-family launch the $11-million Skylar Townhomes by Alture Properties that will see 58 three-storey townhomes created on Kinniburgh Boulevard just three blocks off the lake.

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Featuring two- and three-bedroom homes ranging in size from 1,240 to 1,700 square-feet, they will be priced from $277,880 to more than $351,000 and will include a central courtyard and full landscaping.

“The vision for Skylar was to build beautiful homes that meet the community’s need for attainable living,” says Daniel Langevin, Alture Properties project management. To date, he says, 18 townhomes have been sold.

“We will be building them a building at a time with start dates based on presales. It’s a rough estimate but we would start a building every six months and there are seven buildings left. so remaining homes will be built over next three years,” Langevin says.

The development fills a niche in the Chestermere market, says Alture.

“We’ve been shown where the gap is and we’re encouraging developers to help in serving our residents,” says Chalmers.

“One of this Council’s top priorities is increasing housing diversity, which includes new types of multi-family dwellings. We want residents of all ages and stages to find a home in Chestermere. In our new developments, you will find a variety of unique housing types including live-work units, secondary suites, cottage cluster housing, laneless townhouses, back to back townhouses and other multi-dwelling projects.

We are especially pleased that these options will provide a broader array of choices

Skylar Townhomes

for the seniors of our community.”

Information provided b the city shows that within six approved outline plans there are nearly 237 hectares designated as multi-family that will hold about 5,800 homes.

Langevin says the Skylar buyer profile has been a mix of young families, first-timers and downsizers, and investors.

The show suite and sales centre for Skylar Townhomes is at 248 Kinniburgh Boulevard in Chestermere. It is open from Monday through Thursday from noon to 6 p.m. and noon to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. It is closed Fridays. Information can be found at www.skylarliving.ca. NL This article was shortened for space considerations. For the full text, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com

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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