VOLUME 15 ISSUE 164 n AUGUST 2019
contents 8
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COVER FEATURE
Dawn of Dawson’s Landing A new era begins in Chestermere with Dawson’s Landing
FOCUS ON
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Making a splash
25 Serious fun
SHOW HOME PROFILE
Style the bathroom to create a more relaxing environment
12 Lofty ideals
Trico Homes surprises with bungalow-loft hybrid in Wedderburn
COMMUNITY
16 MountainView calling
Few chances remain to call Okotoks’ prettiest community home
STYLE
20 Half-bath, full measure
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IN THE CITY
Developers race to include fun amenities in new communities
COLUMNS
29 Around Town 30 Hope at Large
ITEMS
4 Editor’s Message 28 Advertisers Index
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No half measures in styling your half-bath
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editor’s message n
Child’s play
Oh, to be a child again today. Watching my 7-year-old niece who visited us from L.A. last month as she clambered through those wondrous monkey bars and Jungle Gyms of today’s new community playgrounds, and I can’t help asking: “where were all these when I was a kid?” I mean, wow! Cheryl Heilman at Qualico sums it up as like being transported to Dr. Seuss’ world. And she’s right. Qualico’s playground in Redstone is one I mention in my feature story on the new playgrounds that I found in these new communities. They have a new one in Crestmont West that is supposed to be amazing! These new playgrounds aren’t just your seesaw and swing sets, but rather quite the product of imagination (and a considerable investment to developers, I assume). Many are installed even before the community is fully developed — some, even during the initial stages. Most land developers realize the importance of bringing in these kinds of amenities to bring in the young families, but I was surprised that condo communities like Westman Village and the University District had their own — and both are already very popular among residents. Belmont by Anthem United in the southeast also has a great one, Harmony is constructing one right now that will likely rival Callaway Park that’s just across this new community in Springbank. I can’t wait for what Qualico has planned for its latest development of Dawson’s Landing in Chestermere. As we relate in our cover story, everything about this new community seems well thought out as it released the first lots for new homes. Chestermere is enjoying quite the growth spurt these days, with new communities already under construction or deep in the planning stages. You will undoubtedly hear more about it in these pages or in our sister magazine: Townszing. This issue also talks about Apex Developments’ MountainView in Okotoks, which is on the other side of the developmental cycle as it is down to its last few remaining lots. Then we shine a light on Trico Homes’ new show home in Wedderburn which will likely take it’s spot as the premier estate and semi-estate community in town. Trico’s bungalow with loft home certainly shows that. Our STYLE writer Christina Loc pulls our attention on designing your half-bath and giving it the oomph it needs, while Portia Yip shows us the new and amazing accents to style up your bathroom. You want to impress with the half bath as it is the most commonly seen room by guests. I tell you, this job going around Calgary’s new communities does have its perks. Finding out about the latest developments that chart the cities growth is just one of them, now finding out about these new playgrounds is a definite plus.
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
Marty Hope, Christina Loc, Portia Yip PHOTOGRAPHY
Christina Loc, Pepper Rodriguez ADVERTISING
Brandi Holmes brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca
Norma Robertson norma.robertson@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. New Home Living® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to nleditor@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. New Home Living® is a registered Trademark the property of SOURCE MEDIA GROUP CORP. Reg. CIPO TMA 693289. Source Media Group, 6109 — 6th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9. T: 403.532.3101, F: 403.532.3109, TF: 1.888.932.3101 E: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca
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focus on
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MAKING A Style the bathroom to create a more relaxing environment
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WHEN DECORATING YOUR home, a little goes a long way especially for your bathrooms or powder rooms. Add a splash of colour with candles and wall art or pamper yourself with functional pieces that make a statement and double as décor. Keeping things clean doesn’t mean sacrificing on style either since there’s plenty of potential to spruce up these essential and practical spaces. Lucky for us, it’s easier than ever to find a few contemporary or timeless accessories to create a relaxing, spa-worthy ambience. NL
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Portia Yip
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n focus
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SPLASH 7
6 5 [ 1 ] Foursteel Decorative Radiators, $4,000 – $5,000 at Serenity Bath Boutique. [ 2 ] Coqui Coqui Candle, $95 at Lemonceillo Home & Gift. [ 3 ] Ribbed Bath Towel, $14.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 4 ] Julia Knight’s Classic Covered Canister, $80 at Lemonceillo Home & Gift. [ 5 ] Cinier Designer Wall Art Towel Warmers, $7,000 – $10,000 at Serenity Bath Boutique.
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[ 6 ] Coqui Coqui Reed Diffuser, $225 at Lemonceillo Home & Gift. [ 7 ] Water & Soap Hamper, $24.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 8 ] Lacava Solid Surface Bathroom Stool, $490 at Serenity Bath Boutique. [ 9 ] Driftwood and Glass Candle Holder, $49.99 at Bouclair Home [ 10 ] Striped Storage Basket, $10.49 – $13.99 at Bouclair Home. [ 11 ] Scented Pillar Candle, $12.99 at Bouclair Home. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
DAWN OF DAW A new era begins in Chestermere with Dawson’s Landing
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new dawn is rising in Chestermere and it begins with Dawson’s Landing. The new residential community development from Qualico Communities promises to bring a new sense of diversity and opportunity to this vibrant lake town just east of Calgary. Dawson’s Landing will be Qualico’s first major development in Chestermere, and the renowned, multi-awarded developer is very excited at the prospect. “We are very excited to join the City of Chestermere,” says Claudio Palumbo, Vice-President with Qualico Communities Calgary. “This west side of Chestermere where Dawson’s Landing is located is very promising. It’s the closest part to Calgary, proximity to Stoney Trail makes it accessible to almost anywhere, and the fact that it is so close to the employment centres in east Calgary and the airport makes it all that more appealing,” he tells New Home Living. “Dawson’s Landing will be an amazing community!” Chestermere is a “growing, vital” city, and a place where people want to live, says Palumbo. “The city’s administration has also been so welcoming and have been proactive in bringing investment to the
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city. Given these factors, it became apparent that Chestermere is an obvious place for us to develop a great community for people to call home.” he adds. This collaboration with the city is highlighted by the recent signing of a partnership agreement for the construction of the Rainbow Road Sanitary Trunk in Chestermere. The agreement between Qualico, the City and fellow land developer, Anthem United, allows for the immediate construction of this vital infrastructure that paves the way for the further growth of Chestermere.
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
SON’S LANDING The young city has already grown to just under 20,000 residents, a 34 per cent rise from 2011. Future residents of Dawson’s Landing and the other new communities sprouting up beside it are sure to benefit from this partnership, says City of Chestermere Mayor, Marshall Chalmers. “As one of the fastest growing communities in Canada, we rely on healthy relationships with our development community to ensure that together, we create the most amazing neighbourhoods and communities,” he says. Dawson’s Landing is already open for business, as the first group of lots has been released to the builder group. “This is very exciting news,” says Laura Field, Marketing Coordinator for Qualico
Communities, “since last August when we had the groundbreaking ceremony. We 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 for the first phase. 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 spring of 2020. “Prospective buyers can start working with their builder now,” says Field. “Even though the show homes won’t be ready until 2020, buyers can start talking with the builders and beginning construction prior to the show home launch next year.” Builders will include Morrison Homes, who will be offering rear laned duplex homes in the first phase, and Trico Homes who will have laned homes. Broadview Homes, Sterling Homes, NuVista Homes will all have front-attached garage homes. “With the wide array of home styles, frontages will be 20 to 45-feet wide,” Field says. “This will result in a wide variety of homes that can fit any budget.” With infrastructure and servicing now under way on the 267-acre (about 108 hectares) community site, Qualico’s long-term plans are for the construction of approximately 1,300 homes over 14 phases. The community of Dawson’s Landing is one of the first you approach when you come in from Calgary on Highway 1A. It is located in West Chestermere, immediately west of Rainbow Road and adjacent to the communities of Rainbow Falls and Westmere. “The community is approximately 10 minutes away from a movie theatre, Costco, and various Calgary retail options in the East Hills commercial centre,” Field says.
“This west side of Chestermere where Dawson’s Landing is located is very promising. It’s the closest part to Calgary, proximity to Stoney Trail makes it accessible to almost anywhere…”
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
Dawson’s Landing will be a modern, integrated community designed with the existing character of Chestermere in mind. FAST FACTS COMMUNITY: Dawson’s Landing DEVELOPER: Qualico Communities BUILDERS: • Morrison Homes – rear laned duplex • Trico Homes – laned homes • Broadview Homes, Sterling Homes, NuVista Homes – Front-attached garage DIRECTIONS: East on Highway 1A (17th Avenue S.E.) and follow the signs WEBSITE: liveindawsonslanding.ca
She also believes that the recreational opportunities readily available in Chestermere are a big reason why people would want to live here. “We think those that know Chestermere know what a special place it is,” Field says. “Having Chestermere Lake in your backyard is a huge draw. Lake living is something that many Calgarians seek out and Chestermere is the original lake community. The fact that you can use motorized boats, paddleboard, swim, and even ice skate in the winter is amazing. It makes staying active easy.” Besides the 4.8-kilometre lake, there is a beautiful golf course, skate and bike park, and hockey rink for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, there are two schools within walking distance and there are two school sites in the community. A regional Recreational Facility is proposed in Dawson’s Landing for all residents of Chestermere. There is already existing retail that is directly parallel to Dawson’s Landing that has a grocery store, liquor store, daycare, brewery, dental, lawyer, dollar store, nail salon, fitness, pizza shops and dog grooming with incredibly easy access. In addition, there are many other retail and professional options within a five -minute drive.
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Dawson’s Landing will be a modern, integrated community designed with the existing character of Chestermere in mind. But its focal point will be the enhancement of the existing wetland as part of the overall development of naturalized areas within the community. EcoPark, which will cover some 30 acres, will be used for recreation and education. A gathering point for residents, EcoPark will have a boardwalk and sheltered education areas for students to use. Interpretive boards will stress the importance of wetland preservation, rehabilitation, and environmental sustainability and stewardship to residents while providing passive park surroundings. “We are really excited about this community. Not only because it’s Qualico’s first time in Chestermere, but because it’s going to have some really interesting elements that haven’t been done in other communities,” says Thilo Kaufmann, general manager of acquisitions and development at Qualico. n CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
show home profile
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Trico Homes
LOFTY IDEALS
Trico Homes surprises with bungalow-loft hybrid in Wedderburn WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
T H E H AW T H O R N E B U N G A L O W model from Trico Homes has been one of this homebuilder’s most successful homes. Available as a one-bedroom, one-and-a-half -bath home, it has been popular with the downsizer crowd and is available in eight communities where Trico builds. But their new Hawthorne show home in the just-opened community of Wedderburn in Okotoks is different. Showing off the 2,103-square-foot home’s full potential, the new Hawthorne show home not only has a three-bedroom, full-bath loft, it also has a fully developed basement with two more bedrooms and another full bath. “It is a real crowd-pleaser that will certainly attract not just the downsizer crowd but young families and even extended families,” says sales associate, Andee Scaife. “We thought it fits the character of this new community where we see a lot of young families attracted to Okotoks’ growth potential and also for empty-nesters who want to stay in the community. We felt it was a good idea to show it with the loft and the basement development options so people can fully appreciate its full potential,” she adds. Hawthorne is a two-car front-drive garage bungalow that sits on a minimum 38-foot-wide lot. But with the addition of a 725-squarefoot loft and the 1,113-square-foot basement development option, it turns into a family home that fits the needs of buyers with young children or even those with extended families living with them. “It will make a great home for seniors with some mobility issues with the main floor master bedroom and ensuite, and the rest of their family can live in the upstairs or downstairs bedrooms,” Scaife says. It also fits the dynamics of the young community of Wedderburn by Anthem United that’s just by the northern entrance to the town of Okotoks. “Wedderburn is proving attractive to established families with its move-up homes, they see in it a huge potential for growth,” she adds.
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Trico Homes n show home profile
ABOVE Architectural styles in Wedderburn include a mixture of Craftsman, Modern Farmhouse, and Tudor, but Trico Homes’ Hawthorne bungalow with loft show home is a curb-appeal winner in any form. “You can build a Hawthorne on a walk-out lot backing onto a pond with a three-car garage,” Scaife says.
LEFT The impeccable charms of the Hawthorne are evident even just as a bungalow, with its free-flowing, open-concept main floor, which is why it has been a perennial favourite at Trico Homes. “Everything you need is right there, it has a huge centre island that is perfect for entertaining,” Scaife says. Of course the loft option also adds drama to its design with the second floor railings.
LEFT The kitchen is where the magic happens. Notice the stunning quartz countertops with concrete-like finish and the functional galley layout, it is what they call in the industry “a memory point” that show home visitors will surely remember. “We get a lot of compliments for the kitchen, the glass tile backsplash adds a stunning look, and the tall cabinetry ensures the practical needs of families for storage are taken cared of,” she says.
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ABOVE The white brick chimney that stars in the main floor living room accentuates the tall ceilings and large windows of the Hawthorne. The high, vaulted ceiling of the main floor brings an undeniable welcoming charm to the home. Big windows and a glass-inset door leading to the expansive deck allows residents and their guests to enjoy the natural beauty of Okotoks too.
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show home profile n Trico Homes
RIGHT The luxurious master bath and walk-in closet in the attached ensuite on the main floor fully express the estate home qualities of the Hawthorne. The two-person vanity with quartz countertops and full-length mirror coupled by the deep soaker tub and the roomy shower stall with bench are quite grand and the perfect way to start (or end) the day.
fast facts BUILDER: Trico Homes COMMUNITY: Wedderburn in Okotoks SHOW HOME: Hawthorne STYLE: Bungalow with loft option and developed basement SIZE: 2,103 sq. ft. PRICE: From the $550,000s ADDRESS: 6 Highwood Dr., Okotoks HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.tricohomes.com
ABOVE The developed basement shows off the lifestyle potential of the Hawthorne. “It’s the perfect place where the family can gather and unwind, watch a game or binge on Netflix. It’s comfy and very functional,” Scaife says.
RIGHT This next picture also shows the basement development with wet bar and game room features. The laundry room is also downstairs. But the loft option also has a space for a bonus room at the top of the stairs adding to the ultimate lifestyle quotient of the Hawthorne. This hybrid bungalow show home is priced at $720,000, but the Hawthorne can be built in Wedderburn for as low as $550,000. NL
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community profile n MountainView
MOUNTAINVIEW CALLING Few chances remain to call Okotoks’ prettiest community home n WRITTEN BY
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Pepper Rodriguez
AUGUST 2019
STROLLING DOWN THE gently sloping pathway at the end of MountainView Drive in Okotoks, one can’t help but feel one with nature — and one with the community, too. This lush valley, decked in all its verdant summer glory, is a popular spot for residents to jog, walk their dogs or simply enjoy the quietude. Neighbours stop by and say “hello” and even the dogs are friendly — it’s a secret idyllic summer spot, and one that fits into the strong, family-oriented nature of the community. MountainView’s homes enjoy this natural splendour right at their backyard. But just like summers here in southern Alberta, the opportunity to own a new home here is fleeting, as this all-single-family-home community from Apex Developments winds down to its final few lots.
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MountainView n community profile
“MountainView is now over 90 per cent sold with Excel Homes and Sterling Homes in the final phases of building, and a select number of both interior and ridge lots remaining,” says Morgan Gowland, development coordinator at Apex Developments. A hidden gem, Mountainview offers the tranquillity of small town living with the most amazing views of the mountains, the Sheep River and the town of Okotoks itself. Its success hinges on its secluded, family-friendly, close-to-nature features, but the strong bonds of community it has created are nothing short of enviable. “In all my years in the industry, MountainView is the nicest community I’ve ever seen,” says Sterling Homes area manager, Doug Anderson, one of just two home builders here. “People are really friendly, and there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and meet your neighbours.” Ann Pierzchalski, the area manager for Excel Homes, agrees. “It’s a very friendly neighbourhood, everyone seems to know everyone else.”
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This quiet enclave tucked away in the northwest part of town is as exclusive as it gets in Okotoks. It is purely made up of upscale single-family homes — no laned homes, no duplexes nor townhomes and condos — and the low density helps retain its visage of suburban serenity. There are two roads in and out of the community and no through traffic offering residents privacy without compromising convenience. Plus, residents have plenty of space to stretch their legs along the extensive pathway system or at the playground in the heart of the community. With almost half of MountainView dedicated towards green space, this young Okotoks community is indeed a hidden treasure. This seclusion may be its biggest appeal, it may also explain why it has remained one of Okotoks’ best kept secrets. “MountainView is really on a level of its own, people fall in love with the community once they find us,” Anderson says. “We’re down to 20 lots and people are still surprised to find this community at this end of town.” Excel’s Pierzchalski nods in agreement. “People are always complimentary about the community when they visit and wish they had explored it sooner.” Sterling Homes has eight estate lots and 10 semi-estate lots left in MountainView. Both bungalows and two-storey front drive homes are available starting from the low $500,000s. Excel Homes — the home building arm of Apex Developments — says it has seven lots left offering buyers their choice of park backing or culde-sac locations. “We have a 2,600-square-foot two-storey front drive home, the Seabrook, that is available for just $498,900 including GST. It
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community profile
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The community has been a big hit for young families who see the community has the perfect long term setting to raise their toddlers to teens and beyond. comes with a deck and upgraded finishes including luxury vinyl plank floor and granite or quartz countertops throughout,” Pierzchalski, says. Anderson says the amount of customization Sterling Homes is able to provide customers is their biggest edge. “It’s a full customization service, we don’t just move walls around homes, we do everything the customers need that will fit their lifestyle.” MountainView is a welcoming community that has appealed to those looking for space and serenity in their home and surroundings. The community has been a big hit for young families who see the community has the perfect long term setting to raise their toddlers to teens and beyond. It’s also caught the attention of buyers who appreciate the community’s ridge lots, where they can build estate homes with spectacular views and have room for up to 3-car garages. The community also offers a tree planting program to further compliment the existing green spaces and enhance the overall environmental friendliness of the community, Gowland says. There is even a rainwater conservation initiative, with one rain barrel provided to every homeowner. “For people looking to escape the city and live closer to nature, MountainView is the perfect fit”, says Gowland. In addition to the community’s proximity to Calgary and position above the escarpment, it’s also close to schools, recreation centres, golf courses, shopping and restaurants making it the perfect place to call home. Potential homebuyers still have the opportunity to choose their lot and build with Excel Homes or Sterling Homes, she adds. The community has
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fast facts COMMUNITY: MountainView, Okotoks DEVELOPER: Apex Developments BUILDERS: Excel Homes – move-up and semi-estate homes (bungalows and two-storeys); Sterling Homes – move-up, semi-estate and estate homes (bungalows and two-storeys) PRICES: From the $440,000s including lot and GST DIRECTIONS: South on Highway 2, exit to Highway 2A leading to Okotoks, take a right on Elizabeth Street and follow the signs into MountainView along MountainView Gate HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Saturdays, Sundays and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: www.mountainviewokotoks. com
front-attached garage, single-family homes starting from the $440,000s, upscale semi-estate homes from the $490,000s and glamorous ridge-view homes from the $815,000s. Bungalows and two-storey models are both available. NL
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style n
Half-bath, full measure M No half measures in styling your half-bath n WRITTEN BY
Christina Loc
PAINT AND/OR WALLCOVER. If you are up for a challenge, this will be the most difficult and labour-intensive part of transforming your powder room, but probably most rewarding. Splash a can of paint on the walls (and cabinets too if you’d like). The options are boundless and the only limitation is your own imagination. Go bold with dark, rich and sultry jewel toned colours in shades of sapphire blue, emerald green, ruby red or amethyst purple. Dare to be extreme and paint your whole powder room black. Don’t worry, it will look hot (when properly executed)! Just a bit of care, attention to detail, thought and creativity will transform your space. Have fun with vibrant colours. Choose an accent colour that speaks to your personality. Achieve multiple colours with stripes, circles or other painted patterns. Do tone on tone. Play with different paint sheens. Keep it organic-looking, fresh and spa-like with white walls. Add texture or pattern with wallpaper or art decals. Apply it to one, two, three or all four walls. Geometric, metallic, grasscloth, damask or big floral patterns are all a great hit. Again, the possibilities are endless here too. Tip: Peel-and-stick removable wallpaper or removable wall decals are easy options for those who don’t want to commit to a look or are in a rental place.
BEFORE
TOWELS. Look for plush and fluffy towels that will make your powder room look warm and inviting. For a Boho-Chic or Scandinavian look, Turkish hammam towels are good options too. Pull in colour or patterns with towels. Hang bath and hand-sized ones from a towel bar, ring or hook. Roll or fold a few washcloths to place inside a basket, bowl or on a tray for single use. Beautiful towels are worth the investment.
PHOTO BY CHRISTINA LOC
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ost powder rooms begin basic. You have your sink, your toilet and four plain walls. In a condo or smaller home, a main bath may serve as the guest powder room, the only difference is it includes a tub or a shower stall. A powder room is typically small, making it easy and conducive to create a lot of impact in such a tiny space. Regardless of whether you are in a new home, with all the latest bells and whistles, or in an outdated space due for a reno, there are some really simple visual ways to transform your powder from “meh” to ‘WOW’. The plus side to this list of inspirational ideas is that they are cosmetic. That means there is no hacking or sawing involved and you don’t have to break the bank to pack in some punch.
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PHOTO AND ST Y LED BY CHRISTINA LOC
n style
AFTER Being a small area to work with, it doesn’t take much work to transform a basic powder room in to a spa oasis. Have fun with it. Play with colour, texture and patterns. Collect things you love like the beautiful art above the towel rack done by local artist, Cheri Markovich. See her work at www. markovichart.com.
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PULL IN COLOUR OR PATTERNS WITH TOWELS. HANG BATH AND HAND-SIZED ONES FROM A TOWEL BAR, RING OR HOOK.
Ditch the disposable super-labeled plastic liquid hand soap and invest in a decorative and refillable dispenser. Shown here by Pottery Barn is a sleek black marble dispenser.
WALL DECOR. Get creative with wall decor. Hang some of your muchloved art pieces in the powder room. Make it whimsical. Collect art from your favourite artists or frame prints from some of the most memorable places you’ve traveled to. It doesn’t have to be just canvases or framed art. Use shadow boxes, floating shelves, mirrors, metal or resin wall art and other unique items on your wall. HANDLES AND KNOBS. If the handles and knobs on your vanity doors are looking dull, switch them out for new ones. It’s an affordable and simple way to freshen up the powder room. PLANTS. Even if you have no natural light in your powder room, there are plants that will thrive with little to no light. Easy to care for plants that don’t need a lot of natural light include Pothos, Sansevieria, Pepperomia, Bromeliad, Spider and ZZ (Zamioculcasi) plants to name a few. Place plants on your counter, on top of the toilet, on the floor (if space permits) or hang them from the ceiling or wall. There are so many pot options available, you are certain to find one that matches your taste. Air plants and hardy succulents are also another great option. Place them inside glass vessels to create a stunning look. A FEW OTHER ACCESSORIES. While too much stuff in a small space will look cluttered, a few extra accent pieces can heighten the look of your powder room. If you have space on the floor, wooden ladders, decorative mirrors, magazine racks and baskets look good off to a corner. Layering accessories on the counter, over top of a toilet or on some shelves keeps it interesting. Include items like vases, decorative objects, trays, books, diffusers and candles. Tip: Burning candles while entertaining is a great way to keep the air neutral. Odours
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in the air attach to oxygen molecules and by burning a candle, the odours vanish away. LIGHT FIXTURES AND FAUCETS. While designer light fixtures and plumbing faucets can get up in to the thousands of dollars price range, there are still some great products that are not as pricy. Go for a matte black or antique gold, polished or brushed chrome finish. Add crystals. Go industrial. Mix your metals. Inspiration for a powder room can be taken from any design era and so much creativity can go into a powder room. Powder rooms can be mid-century inspired, industrial, moody, spalike, modern or eclectic. Juxtaposing old with the new, glam with the rustic, sophisticated with the whimsical are a great way to be playful with different looks. While there are basic design rules and guidelines, a powder room is the perfect space to think outside the box and to have fun with. Just by accessorizing, the change can be quite dramatic. Don’t be afraid to play dress-up in the powder room. NL
PHOTO COURTESY OF WEST ELM
PHOTO COURTESY OF POT TERY BARN
SOAP PUMP. With plastic being a big threat to our environment and looking rather uninspiring on the vanity, to say the least, now is the perfect time to ditch the disposable super-labeled plastic liquid hand soaps from the supermarket. Do yourself and the environment a favour by investing in a decorative soap pump you can refill or opt for brands that sell liquid soap in glass.
With an array of colours, patterns and texture to choose from, towels are an effortless way to change up the style of your powder room. Shown here are organic towels from West Elm.
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in the city
Serious fun
Developers race to include fun amenities in new communities n WRITTEN AND PHOTOS BY
Pepper Rodriguez
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ommunity playgrounds these days aren’t just some random collection of swing sets and seesaws in an open green space; today these so-called tot lots can be as elaborate and imaginative and colourful as anything from Little Nemo’s dreamland. That reference may be lost to some Gen Xers and Millennials, but the Baby Boomers that grew up with the Winsor McCay comic strip may recognize elements from the enchanted dreamscape of Slumberland come to life in some of the new kids’ playgrounds in Calgary’s young communities. Monkey bars that kids don’t only swing from but can twist and turn around in, imaginative jungle gyms of all sorts of shape and colour that challenge creativity, rubberized mats instead of gravel and sand that reduce the risk of scraped knees and elbows. The common refrain from grown-ups: “where were all these when we were growing up?”
That’s not all, there are also skate parks and water spray parks that have become almost ubiquitous in these dynamic new communities. Humans don’t get all the fun either, as including dog parks as part of in-community amenities have become increasingly popular as well. Developers recognize the need to bring in these amenities — sometimes even ahead of the actual community — to attract the young families that look for just these kinds of family-friendly features that allows them to connect to the community and their neighbours and get the kids (and pets) to burn off some extra energy at the same time.
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Belmont
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PHOTO COURTE SY HARMONY DE VELOPMENTS
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Harmony’s Adventure Zone
Anthem United’s Belmont community in the southeast has one of the most engaging and elaborate kids’ playgrounds around, a collection of custom monkey bars and jungle gyms and other climbing frames set amidst colourful, rubberized hilly mounds. Children young and old can spend hours of fun navigating the maze of fun constructs — including a mini-rock climbing slide! The 17,685-square-foot playground is already an active and popular attraction in the community that is still in its first stages of building. The massive playground is divided into two sections: one is for children ages two- to five-years-old with items like a periscope, wiggle ladder, tic-tac-toe panel and a toddler swing. Another section is for ages up to 12-year-olds includes a wobble pod, a bow ladder, and a hemisphere climber. Anthem also included an accessible and sensory play area. This includes a ‘crazy dome,’ ‘rain sound wheel’ and a ‘marble panel.’ A lot more is planned for Belmont, which will have some 2,000 homes on build-out, including an elementary school, a City of Calgary recreational centre, storm pond and another playground. Everything young families could want. “Often it can take several years for community amenities to be built but it was important to us at Anthem to open this park at the time the first residents started moving in,” says Paul Douglas, Director, Land Development at Anthem United. “Every homeowner has a place to come together, meet their neighbours and start fully enjoying the community right from the beginning.” Mattamy Homes spent a lot of money to build the modern skate park at their Carrington community in the north, and it along with the contemporary sculptures has become not only a well-loved attraction for kids, but a defining feature for the young community. The skate park was up and running even before sales officially launched for the community in the fall of 2017. Carrington residents also get to enjoy Greenway Park, a lushly landscaped area that includes this skate park, a playground, half basketball court and direct access to the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway regional pathway system. The Greenway is a 138-kilometre urban green corridor that winds through
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the entire eastern boundary of Carrington, connecting several new communities. “Moving into a new home is one of the most exciting experiences in people’s lives,” says Joe Case, Mattamy Homes’ director, land development. “You’ve planned your home where your family is going live meticulously for months, if not years, and it’s now immaculate and just the way you imagined. We want people to feel the same way about the community that they move into and we believe that having parks before people is one the keys pieces in making sure that happens.” Carrington’s skate park, in particular, has been so well received that Mattamy is repeating the feat in their new community of Yorkville in the south. Redstone by Qualico Communities in the northeast has its very popular Participark playground that caters to both young and old. It has a lively and engaging playground set (in red, of course) that uses colourful pourin-place recycled tire flooring, a climber with tall slides, overhead features, balance beam, surf board, standing spinner. There is an adult fitness park within sight of the playground, too. And the whole area is connected to the same Greenway regional pathway system. Taking the concept of play area even further is Bordeaux Developments and their much-anticipated Adventure Zone in its exciting lake community of Harmony just west of Calgary. The Harmony Adventure Zone will be a significant amenity to complement the future Beach Club in this community that already includes as one of its main attractions a 140-
Redstone
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"MOVING INTO A NEW HOME IS ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING EXPERIENCES IN PEOPLE’S LIVES." University District
acre lake. Just imagine the recreational opportunities all these can afford a family — and not just for those that reside in Harmony. “The Adventure zone is a significant amenity for the community that ties in the active living component of Harmony,” says Ryan Hall, VP Marketing & Communications, Bordeaux Developments. “We will have conventional playgrounds throughout Harmony but this is a destination zone for all of Springbank. We want to contribute something that is unique to the region which is a park for all ages and a place for people to come and enjoy.” Harmony’s Adventure Zone will have a beach volleyball court, a skating ribbon, All Wheel Flow Plaza, All Wheel Pump Track, Crossfit/Ninja/Obstacle fitness and climbing features, an elevated lookout and toboggan hill and even a Dog Adventure Park/Dog Run. And that’s just phase one. Construction on this multi-stage project is expected to begin summer 2019, with the entire park projected to be completed in three years (2021). It’s not just the single-family communities that are installing playground zones, some multi-family developments are putting in these
features to complete the full lifestyle offerings they have. Westman Village included a big play set in the middle of this innovative multi-family complex that is already replete with entertainment amenities not to mention Mahogany Lake that it backs onto. It’s not all about kids either, as evidenced by the dog parks at University District. Its north urban dog park is already open and has been a popular destination for dog owners in the area. The new children’s playground is also accessible to kids with mobility issues, enabling every child to play at his or her own level. What all of these show is that it’s a great time to be a kid with all these new community playgrounds right at your doorstep. NL
Carrington - Mattamy
Westman Village
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advertisers index n CornerBrook WestCreek, page 31 Dawson’s Landing Qualico Communities front cover, pages 8-10 and 11 Harmony Qualico Communities and Bordeaux Developments, page 23 Legacy Woods WestCreek, page 5 MountainView APEX, page 19 Norma Robertson Calgary Home Seller, page 28 NuVista Homes page 24 Ranchers Rise at Okotoks Air Ranch page 2 Southwinds in Airdrie Mattamy Homes, back cover
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By Pepper Rodriguez
Qualico, Anthem United partner with City of Chestermere for infrastructure project THE CITY OF CHESTERMERE is partnering with land developers, Qualico Commmunities and Anthem United in constructing the vital Rainbow Road Sanitary Trunk. City of Chestermere Mayor, Marshall Chalmers, signed the agreement with Claudio Palumbo, Vice-President with Qualico Communities Calgary, and Bob Faktor, Vice President, Land Development, Anthem United. It is the first time Chestermere is allowing land developers to take
From left: Claudio Palumbo (Qualico), Chestermere Mayor Marshall Chalmers and Bob Faktor (Anthem United).
the lead in constructing vital infrastructure projects that will usher in new growth for this dynamic city just east of Calgary. The Rainbow Road Sanitary Trunk project will be key for the opening of new communities along the west end of Chesteremere, including Qualico’s Dawson’s Landing and Anthem United’s Chelsea. Chalmers says allowing the developers to take the lead in the construction of this utility project lifts the burden of financing from the city and frees up timelines for the construction of residential communities. “As one of the fastest growing communities in Canada, we rely on healthy relationships with our development community to ensure that together, we create the most amazing neighbourhoods and communities. We are proud to stand with Qualico Communities and Anthem
Harmony opens Edgewater Collection THE YOUNG COMMUNITY of Harmony in Springbank opens its latest phase with the launch of the “Edgewater Collection” of homes. These represent the first group of lots on Harmony Lake, which is the jewel in the crown of this community jointly developed by Qualico Communities and Bordeaux Developments. These lots paired with premium custom homes present an exclusive luxury lifestyle opportunity within an award-winning community development. Award-winning builders in this collection include Augusta Fine Homes, Baywest Homes, and Calbridge Homes.
Located on the northern side of the lake, the initial lot release includes 14 waterfront sites on Pike Court, the first enclave of Harmony’s Phase 10. Lot widths range from 46’-60’ with four lots being larger pie shapes. Ten of these lots offer their own private dock. Four homes will face an inlet that offers a large sharable dock that is only accessible privately to those owners. Harmony is a two-time BILD Community Of The Year, Calgary Region, winner and is located five minutes west of Calgary’s city limits, in the community of Springbank, Rocky View County.
For more information visit www.liveinharmony.ca/edgewater
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United to honour our strong relationship and shared vision for building a sustainable, unique and innovative future for Chestermere,” says Mayor Chalmers. Qualico Communities has begun work on its community of Dawson’s Landing in Chestermere (see cover story). “We are very excited to join the City of Chestermere,” says Palumbo. “Dawson’s Landing will be an amazing community, and through this agreement it ensures that the resources and systems for the city can accommodate future growth.” “Servicing both Chelsea and Dawson’s Landing, these communities will contribute positively to Chestermere’s housing options, in addition to providing businesses opportunities to the future Commercial and Retail uses planned along Chestermere Boulevard,” says Faktor.
Brookfield opens new show homes in Artesia BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL OPENS two new show homes in its exclusive estate community of Artesia at Heritage Pointe. Artesia is an estate home enclave just south of the city and Brookfield Residential is both builder and developer here. New are the Catania bungalow and Imperia two-storey homes. The Catania is 1,654 squarefeet with an over-sized main-floor master bedroom and triple-car garage. The Imperia is 2,700 square-feet with another 900 square-feet with basement development. Both are designed for buyers looking for more space than what’s typically available in the city. Home prices in the community start in the $800,000s. Find the new show homes at 5 and 9 Sweetwater Place, Heritage Pointe. NL For more information visit www.liveinartesia.ca AUGUST 2019 NE W HOME LIVING
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By Marty Hope
SHOPPING AROUND Homebuyers today can choose from a variety of deals for their new home SO, THE SINGLE-FAMILY market is still working diligently to find its way back to a more normal housing market — whatever normal might be, and to move it along builders are offering a wide range of incentives as an enticement. At least that’s what builders I contacted passed along to me. And, by the way, those incentives are pretty much all value-based. “You name it, it’s out there. Large discounts, free basement development, and best price first,” says Howard Tse, president of Cedarglen Homes, in assessing the strategy being used to bring more potential buyers to the signing table. “Home buyers still want a new home featuring all the bells and whistles. Something family-sized that can accommodate an expanding family whether it’s children or parents,” he adds. Over at Mattamy Homes, Alberta division president Don Barrineau says that while the profile of the single-family homebuyer hasn’t changed all that much their behaviour has. They are doing more “cross-shopping” of Mattamy communities looking for the best deal, which includes incentives. “We are offering everything, including the kitchen sink — designer centre discounts, price discounts on inventory homes, special interest rates are very common today,” he says. Brookfield Residential says that what those shopping the single-family market are looking for changes constantly, so the company has to adjust its incentive offerings.
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“Builders are trying to be flexible in the packages they offer, with incentives ranging from landscaping and interior design to the inclusion of basement development and move-in concierge packages,” says Doug Owens, senior director of single-family homes at Brookfield. Modern floor plans that incorporate flexible living spaces are among the wants and needs of many looking to buy new. “Buyers are value-conscious and want to have a home that, as life happens, will meet the changing needs of their families. Just as importantly, they want to know who they are buying from and spend a lot of time doing research before arriving at a sales centre,” Owens says. Value is a big part of today’s market, says Sam Hudson, director of marketing for Morrison Homes. “At a minimum, buyers want a home that fits their needs and lifestyle, and at a price they can afford — and any builder can offer that. However, because the building process is so involved and the investment of time and money is so great, buyers are looking for a builder they can trust,” he says. Morrison’s philosophy, Hudson says, is to offer a wide range of incentives in order to “individualize” the value to the buyer. The company’s strategy has included the price of a rear detached garage in the price of some home styles, reducing the overall impact of real estate commissions, free upgrading packages, and gourmet kitchen and ensuite packages. At Broadview Homes, the emphasis is on value.
“Buyers are still looking for homes that will facilitate their lifestyle and that will stand the test of time, Sure, price is important but value, perhaps, value is even more so,” says company vice-president Peter-John Woolf. He says it is important to always remain mindful of customers’ needs and budgets at all times. So Broadview’s approach is to ensure that probably the biggest purchase of the homebuyer will ever make will be an investment they will be happy about moving forward. “A well-designed home with features you love and in a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle is always going to be winning combination,” Woolf 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. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM