February 2013 new home Living  1
VOLUME 9 ISSUE 86 n February 2013
contents
12 cover feature
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The heart of Cochrane Heartland embraces small town charms of Cochrane
feature
The cutting edge 40
Paul Lafrance’s edgy deck designs take centre stage at Calgary Home + Garden Show
PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp. 207 - 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9
February 2013 new home Living 5
contents 70 18
Focus On
10 Seeing red
Throw some red into your décor this Valentine
Show home profiles
18 Side-by-Side action
Brookfield Side-by-Side Homes star in Cranston
24 Riverwood star
Compass Rose’s show home in Black Diamond is simply stunning
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30 Fun and functional
Fantastic family functionality at Genesis’ Evansridge show home
Community Profile
columns
34 Wondrous Walden
61 Hope at Large 63 Around Town
On Trend
Valentine’s Day design may be fun, but a romantic style lasts longer
8 Editor’s Message 66 Maps 67 Advertiser Index
shopping
Shop for the romantic in you
Natural beauty, amenity-rich location keys Walden success
47 Artistry á l’amour
Items
53 Love in store NEWS
58 An Alberta advantage
Industry supports new home warranty program
fave finds
Functional, decorative pieces for a better sleep
70 Sleep easy
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editor’s message n
P UB L I S H ER
Spring in our steps
Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca
Funny to be talking about spring in the middle of February, I know. But the Calgary Home + Garden Show always puts me in a springtime mood, and having HGTV’s popular deck designer Paul Lafrance as one of its headliners is pumping me up even more (you can tell I have my backyard work cut out for me in the months ahead). Talk about Calgary’s continued growth also always puts me in a sunny mood. During a recent dinner meeting hosted by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region, we heard that Calgary is expected to attract 120,000 new residents by 2017, that’s a lot of people needing housing. There are challenges associated with that, of course, and CHBA – Calgary Region president Charron Ungar says he wants a more unified vision between the City and industry that would best address the expected growth. He believes that a balanced approach that nurtures both inner-city and suburban growth is essential to cope with this coming boom. We here at New Home Living can see that strong collaboration between City and industry is the only way to manage growth, but like our good friend, Mr. Ungar says, “ensuring proper and adequate housing in all areas of our city should be our main focus.” It is a sentiment we fully support. This issue gives us a good peek at the growth of Calgary’s suburbs and outlying areas even. First off is our cover feature on Heartland the new Apex development in Cochrane that shows us just how much Calgary’s sister city to the west has grown. The Compass Rose Homes’ show home in Black Diamond also serves to illustrate the popularity of small town living still widely available in the region. We also feature Genesis Builders’ Group’s Evansridge that puts the fun in function with its four-bedroom design. We get to shine the spotlight on Brookfield Homes’ line of Side-by-Side Homes as the line is re-energized with new models in Cranston and Auburn Bay. Jessica Patterson gives us a few tips in raising the romance in the home’s décor in her On Trend feature, while Kathy McCormick lays out the best way to surprise your loved one for a special Valentine’s Day, and keep the romance going the whole year. These are exciting times in Calgary, the condo market is booming, so many terrific options all over the city. One thing’s for sure, the choices are a-plenty, and making a decision to find your new home starts right here.
Ass o c i a t e P UB L I S H ER
Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca Editor
Pepper Rodriguez pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca Art director
Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca g r a phi c d e si g n e r S
Lama Azhari
lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca
Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
Megan Sereda megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca ED I TOR I A L A S S I S TANT
Aaliya Essa
aaliya.essa@sourcemediagroup.ca p r o d u c t i o n a d m i n is t r a t o r
Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca ED I TOR I A L
Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick, Jessica Patterson P h o t o g r a ph y
Jessica Patterson, Pepper Rodriguez A d v e r t isi n g S A L E S
Heather Dougall
heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca Accounting
Donna Roberts accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca D I S TR I BUTED BY
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group ISSN 1918-4441 PRINTED IN CANADA
Copyright 2013 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expresssed written permission of 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.
Pepper Rodriguez,
Editor pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca
Next month: Bathrooms take centre stage Follow us on twitter: CalgaryNewHomes 8 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
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focus on
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Seeing 9
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Throw some red into your décor this Valentine
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By Aaliya Essa
A primary colour indeed, red makes a statement in any home, any day of the year. On Valentine’s Day, especially, red is certainly the reigning colour. Here are some great selections of red décor you can add to your home. The colour red can liven up a room and make any space pop. NL
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5 1] Bowls, set of 3, $4.99 at IKEA. 2] Double Red Twist Gobled Set of 4, $32.95 at Pier1 imports. 3] Red Foil Ceramic Bowl, $44.95 at Pier1 imports. 4] Felt Roses Pillow, $49.95 at Pier1 imports. 5] Red Unscented Pillar Candles, $2.50 - $5 at Pier1 imports. 6] Diamond Etched Stemware, $10 at Pier1 imports.
7] Plantation Shutter Screen, $389.95 at Pier1 imports. 8] Red Birdcage, $79.95 at Crate and Barrel. 9] Le Creuset Signaure Round Dutch Oven 5Qt, $390 at Williams-Sonoma. 10] KitchenAid Pro Line Stand Mixer, $844 at Williams-Sonoma. 11] Red Velvet Twist Pillow, $39.95 at Crate and Barrel. February 2013 new home Living 11
| Advertising cover Feature |
The heart of Cochrane
Heartland embraces small town charms of Cochrane
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ochrane has always prided itself for its considerable small town charms that make it the perfect little community for those looking to get away from the city’s bustle, and Apex Development’s first project here promises to bring this easy living potential to full fruition. Heartland is aptly named, sitting at the heart of the rolling grasslands of the foothills with pristine views of the Rockies, yet just five minutes west from Cochrane’s Main Street. It’s an idyllic 250-acre parcel of land dotted by parks and green space where the dream of putting down roots and raising a family is made manifest. This new community — located between Highways 1A and 22 -— will tie in the features, uniqueness, and history of Cochrane as well as Western Alberta. It is designed to let residents experience a life of exceeding ease with shopping, recreation and entertainment amenities within the community itself and just minutes outside of it. Susan Henderson, senior development manager at Apex, tells New Home Living an even bigger advantage for Heartland is the extensive selection of homes available encompassing a wide range of prices.
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| Advertising cover Feature |
“Phase I will consist of front-drive garage single-family homes, laned single-family homes, and townhomes, there are four multi-family sites,” she says. “Prices for home and GST are the best in Cochrane and northwest Calgary.” She promises that it will have extensive landscaping with numerous parks. “We will be completing a large park by summer 2013 which will include pathways, a soccer field and play equipment.” This will go along with the stylish character of the homes themselves, whether single-family or their attached variations. Homes are offered in Arts & Crafts, Prairie and Homestead architectural styles, all of which blend well with Heartland’s natural setting. There are already several options to move in now, with a selection of “ready-to-go” homes. Henderson says Heartland offers a totally family-friendly lifestyle where you can enjoy a “sophisticated latte in town or hit the trails, rivers and countryside right outside your backdoor.” Excel Homes — Apex’s homebuilder arm — is the exclusive builder in the first phase. “Our Centrex Homes brand has been in Jumping Pound Ridge, but this will be the first time that Excel Homes itself will be building homes in Cochrane,” says Excel Homes’ advertising and on-line strategies manager, Wanda Palmer. The Weston and Ainsworth front-attached garage show homes are the first to open here and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with 28 homes sold in the last couple of months, Henderson says. Excel area manager Nada Elaraj says visitors can also see their line of triplexes and fourplexes, which are basically townhomes, but with no condo fees. “Our homes are all well-designed with no wasted space, and emphasize functionality, perfect for first time homebuyers,” Elaraj says.
Heartland is aptly named, sitting at the heart of the rolling grasslands of the foothills with pristine views of the Rockies, yet just five minutes west from Cochrane’s Main Street.
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February 2013 new home Living 13
| Advertising cover Feature | Apex will have extensive landscaping thoughout the community
They will also be the most affordable in town. The townhomes start from the $250,000s, laned homes in the $280,000s and front-attached homes from the $370,000s. “Our prices are the most affordable in town, you won’t be able to get another townhome here for the price we’re offering,” Elaraj says. Palmer says they also differentiate themselves from other communities by the quality and design they offer. “There is lots of competition in Cochrane but we believe this new community will be different from the rest with a far better accessibility and a unique architectural look.” “We’re also the most accessible, we’re just 15 minutes to Crowfoot, and we’re perfect for the active family who love the outdoors as we are just a short drive down to Bragg Creek and Ghost Lake is just down the road,” Elaraj says. “Whether you’re single or have a family, this is a great community to set down roots, “ Henderson adds. “Home is where the heart is, and in Cochrane, that home is in Heartland.” n
“Our prices are the most affordable in town, you won’t be able to get another townhome here for the price we’re offering.”
New Brighton’s new move-up show home parade
FAST FACTS: Community: Heartland in Cochrane Developer: Apex Developments Builder: Excel Homes Style: Front-attached garage single-family homes, laned homes and semi-attached homes Price: Starts in the $250,000s Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Directions: West on Highway 1A past Highway 22, and left on Horse Creek Rd.
For more information, visit www.heartlandcochrane.com
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| Advertisement |
show home profile n Brookfield Homes
Brookfield’s Linden Side-By-Side model
SIDE-BY-SIDE AC Brookfield Side-by-Side homes star in Cranston n By
Pepper Rodriguez
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Affordability and style go hand-in-hand in Brookfield Homes’ Side-bySide homes, and the line is being re-energized with the introduction of their latest models in the southeast community of Cranston. Brookfield Homes realizes that duplex homes, or semi-attached homes, are ideal for those starting out who want to combine the advantages of single family living with additional financial value. After all, who can understand more about balancing dual roles than the multi-award-winning home builder and land developer? “While we’re crafting our award-winning homes, we’re also a renowned land developer who has had the unique advantage of building communities from the ground up,” says Brookfield Single Family Division Sales and Marketing Manager, Ryan Moon.
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CTION In fact, Cranston is a Brookfield-built community, as is the neighbouring lake community of Auburn Bay, where these new Side-By-Side models will also be released later this year. These homes are two units sharing a common wall, and have a front and back yard with a rear parking pad, and potential for basement development. Pretty much, everything a detached single-family home offers. Its biggest advantage is that it offers condo lifestyle convenience and affordability without the condo fees.
show home profile
Axio on 12th
Moon describes their Side-By-Side product as open-concept and contemporary with stylish floor plans. And what’s more, the homes have been designed for small lots — a particular strength for Brookfield over the years. Brookfield Side-by-Side homes in Cranston offer three timeless architectural styles including French Country, Tudor and Craftsman. The colours and finishes of these homes will be complimentary to, and reflect the natural beauty of the surrounding environment. These beautifully designed homes, with five floor plans ranging from 1,116-1,465 squarefeet, provide a choice of two bedrooms, each with an ensuite; two bedrooms with loft; and three bedrooms with a master ensuite. These personalized homes also come with a front and rear yard, with front landscaping included and a private two-car rear parking pad. February 2013 new home Living 19
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Fast facts: Builder: Brookfield Homes Project: Side-by-Side Homes Communities: Bridgeland, Cranston and Auburn Bay Style: Semi-attached homes Size: Start at 1,116 sq. ft. Price: Starts from the $290,000s, Axio on 12th starts from $655,900 Hours, Address: See website for details WEB: www.buildwithbrookfield.com
Linden’s kitchen
“We are pleased to introduce a new modern 1,400-plus-square-foot floor plan, the Sequoia, which boasts an open concept that includes a large gallery-style kitchen perfect for entertaining,” says Moon. With its advantageous location just outside the new South Health Campus hospital and the massive Seton commercial complex, Cranston has become one of the hottest residential communities around. And these new semi-attached homes line here will surely add to this southeast neighbourhood’s popularity. Brookfield does realize the enormous potential of their semi-attached line and have also introduced the Axio on 12th side-by-side homes in the inner city community of Bridgeland in September last year. Designed for the more affluent sector of the market, Axio on 12th is builder/developer’s first entry into Calgary’s lucrative inner-city residential market. But Moon says the line is meant for much more.
Brookfield does realize the enormous potential of their semi-attached line and have also introduced the Axio...
There will be eight units of Axio on 12th, and construction has already started with possessions expected partway through 2013. The project is located on 12th Street N.E. between Centre and First Avenues. Moon says these models will measure about 1,400 square-feet and come in two- and three-bedroom models with two-and-a-half baths, detached double car garage, and landscaping. Interior finishings include granite in the kitchen and bathrooms, a gas fireplace, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood floors. Show home viewings are available on appointment. The Bridgeland development was just too good of an opportunity to pass up, but Moon says the core market for their Side-by-Side homes remains in the suburbs of the southeast, specifically in the Brookfield communities of Cranston and Auburn Bay. Cranston will have show homes ready in early 2013, although choice lots are being made available this January. “Our customers love all the latest finishes and our Cranston project provides flexibility in the selections available. We have created a one-stop shop for all the most popular finishes, designed by professional interior designCranston Side-by-Side ers,” Moon adds. NL
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show home profile n Compass Rose Homes
Riverwood star Compass Rose’s show home in Black Diamond is simply stunning n
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By Pepper Rodriguez
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iverwood star
Heading down to Black Diamond on a clear, blue day is one of the most relaxing and scenic drives around, and when you’re going home to a Compass Rose Homes’ creation, you know you’ve really got it made. Compass Rose’s homes are a perfect complement to the peace and quiet of the countryside close to the foothills with its unique sense of character and its wonderfully spacious design, but its contemporary bent that fits the taste of modern families is what really distinguishes their homes. Take their Northern Dancer I show home in the Riverwood Estates neighbourhood of Black Diamond — at 2,125 square-feet it has more than enough space to suit the needs of today’s families and is likewise tastefully designed to give it a sense of contemporary glamour. An open concept main floor mirrors the wide, open spaces of Black Diamond — the southern Alberta town that has retained most of the quaint charms of the last century’s small town living, but with the tremendous in-town amenities and superb accessibility to Calgary. Numerous oversized windows and nine-foot ceilings create a very inviting interior with lots of natural light and the engineered hardwood flooring certainly bumps up the elegance factor of the home. “There’s a strong traditional feel to the home, but it is designed to suit the modern needs of today’s families,” says Compass Rose Homes sales consultant, Kimberly Mergaert. “For example, it is a Compass Rose Homes Smart Certified home where you can run all of the home’s features through MAC technology.
Compass Rose’s homes are a perfect complement to the peace and quiet of the countryside close to the foothills with its unique sense of character and its wonderfully spacious design… Buyers are provided with a free iPad with their purchase to connect with our Client Solutions Team 24/7.” The Home Management Center conveniently located off the kitchen is one of its most popular features. “Parents love it ‘cause they can keep an eye on their kids while they’re doing their managing the household,” she says. In all Compass Rose Homes, the kitchen is the heart of the home. The Northern Dancer I has a warm, welcoming vibe that invites hosting large gatherings, but is also comfortable enough for just the family. Granite countertop on the oversized kitchen island and accentuate the elegance of the cabinetry to give it that Martha Stewart sheen of sophistication. The mudroom isn’t just a simple cubicle, but rather a well planned space suited for the family’s arrival with all seasons’ lockers. It is designed with storage solutions in mind, with generous storage convenient to shed coats and shoes, there’s a vented closet for golf bags or hockey equipment, and walk-thru pantry, so bringing in the groceries becomes less of a chore.
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Fast facts: builder: Compass Rose Homes area: Riverwood Estates, Black Diamond developer: Riverwood Estates Inc. style: Triple car garage estate home size: 2,125 sq. ft. Price: Starts at $422,300 including lot and GST address: 729 – 3rd St., Black Diamond Directions: South on Hwy. 7 and left on 3rd St. Hours: Winter hours, by appointment only WEB: www.compassrose.ca February 2013 new home Living 25
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“…it’s what we like to call ‘big life lots’ and Compass Rose Homes can build your personalized home here to fit all your specifications.” 2 6 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
The triple car garage has place for toys, with a drive-thru feature that allows owners to park their additional toys in their backyard. “This is the perfect feature for homes in Riverwood, where lots of families enjoy recreation activities,” Mergaert says. The Northern Dancer I with triple car garage starts at the $422,300 includes lot and GST. “That’s an unheard of price on a wide lot that cannot be matched in Calgary or anywhere in the area,” she adds. Riverwood Estates is the quintessential Black Diamond community; there are two schools within walking distance from this 23-acre family oriented, master planned community. “It’s so quiet around here and you can completely escape the frenzy of city life,” she points out. “And it is still only less than half an hour to Calgary, and with the Stoney Trail extension you can get to the new South Calgary hospital in 25 minutes.” Compass Rose Homes offers a wide range of homes in Riverwood Estates from a 1,302-square-foot bungalow to sprawling move-up two-storey homes. Prices start from $375,000 including lot and GST. “There’s a whole lot more of home you can get in Black Diamond, it’s what we like to call ‘big life lots’ and Compass Rose Homes can build your personalized home here to fit all your specifications.” They also have a 1,850-square-foot spec home called the “Rock a Robin I” in Riverwood with a full walkout basement that also expertly displays Compass Rose’s superior design and finishing quality. “Our buyers span a wide range from young families buying their first home, to active seniors looking to downsize,” she says. The “Rock a Robin I” is listed at $417,000. Compass Rose can build homes in Riverwood Estates starting from $375,000 including lot and GST. What really sets these homes apart is the integrity of its builder, Compass Rose Homes. The company originates from Millarville Alberta, has prided itself as a premier custom home builder with a deep passion for the core values of quality and customer satisfaction. “We have nearly 20 years focused on the design and building of homes and are committed to providing not just building your new family home but building relationships with our buyers and the community as well,” Mergaert says. NL
show home profile n Genesis Builders Group
Fun and functional Fantastic family functionality at Genesis’ Evansridge show home n By
3 0 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
Pepper Rodriguez
The changing demographic of buyers of single-family homes has put the onus on home builders to come up with fresh new ideas to accommodate buyers’ needs. And those needs now seem to have outgrown the traditional three-bedroom home that has long dominated the new home market. Genesis Builders’ Group has prided itself for its ability to constantly meet the changing needs of the market, and they prove so once again with its Varscona show home in Evansridge. This 2,180-square-foot four-bedroom beauty has everything that a young, growing family will need to fit their lifestyle — and
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functional then some. It has style and substance with lots of storage space and the open concept plan of the main floor makes it an ideal entertaining home. But its true appeal is in its ingenious use of space, especially in the upper floor. Even with four spacious bedrooms, the Varscona was still able to include a large, brightly lit bonus room upstairs, which can easily be turned into a fifth bedroom for those who need one. “A lot of the buyers we see here in Evansridge actually have extended families and the Varscona has all the flexibility and
function they need,” says Gertrude Crawford, the Genesis area sales manager in this popular northwest community. Even the basement in the show home was masterfully designed to provide all the free and open space residents may need to maximize their living space. “The mechanicals are all kept in one area leaving a very open space allowing you to put even two more bedrooms in the basement if you really need it,” she adds. “The walkout lots we offer in Evansridge makes this feature even more attractive.”
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February 2013 new home Living 31
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Fast facts: builder: Genesis Builders’ Group area: Evansridge developer: Dundee Developments style: Four-bedroom, two storey front drive home size: 2,180 sq. ft. Price: Front drive homes start at $429,000, laned homes from the $340,000s address: 31 Evansridge Close N.W. Directions: North on Symons Valley Road east on Symons Valley Parkway and north on Evanspark Boulevard and follow the signs. Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.genesisbuildersgroup.com
But let’s not forget the main floor where an open concept plan was used to its full potential to eliminate all wasted space. The kitchen is one of the best features of the home, says Genesis marketing manager, Kristen Wilkinson. She says the Varscona’s kitchen is ideal to host large gatherings but also provides a fabulously functional spot for just the family. “The Scandinavian-inspired interior design of the show home along with the fabulous cabinetry and the granite countertops really bring out the full potential of the home.” The flush-to-the-wall fireplace in the living room adds that executive elegance that blends well with the hardwood flooring and the oversized windows to present a home that hits all the high marks that today’s families are looking for. No wonder that Genesis is one of the leading builders in Evansridge. “We had 42 building permits in Evansridge in 2012, it was a really good year,” Crawford says. Their success here hinged almost totally on referrals, she adds, which speaks volumes about the quality and value buyers are getting from the Genesis home. “Our clients have been very happy and they have been the ones referring their friends and family to us.” Genesis offers a wide range of single-family homes in Evansridge — including bungalows, laned homes, and front drive homes. “We’re the only one building bungalows in the community right now,” Crawford says. Laned homes start in the $340,000s and front drive homes are from $429,000. Wilkinson says that the future even looks brighter for the community with a lot of exciting new developments in the pipeline for the area that will surely turn this part of the city into a more vibrant, amenity-rich part of town. “The Sage Hill Crossing commercial centre is a major piece of infrastructure development that will improve the ease-of-life convenience of this whole part of town. There will be new entertainment and retail options, a major U.S. retailer will have a flagship store here,” Wilkinson says. Construction for a portion of this massive commercial undertaking should begin this spring. NL
The Varscona’s kitchen is ideal to host large gatherings but also provides a fabulously functional spot for just the family. 3 2 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
community profile
n Walden
Wondrous
Walden Natural beauty, amenity-rich location keys Walden success
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By Aaliya Essa
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Inspired by its lush natural surroundings, close to the river with winding paths around tranquil wetland areas, Walden was always envisioned to be an environmentally conscious, sustainable community. That vision is slowly being realized, as they enjoyed their best year in sale, selling 225 homes in 2012. Genstar Development Manager Patrick Briscoe says this “definitely shows that people know Walden is there, and buyers are attracted to the site.” The prestigious land developer is already well into phases 11 and 12 of this southeast community just off Macleod Trail, even as its Gates of Walden commercial centre is already open for business. With an unmistakable emphasis on healthy living and connections to nature, the community of Walden is a model of low-impact urban development. Parks, open spaces, wetlands and a ribbon of trails promote walking and biking while helping to preserve this peaceful setting at the edge of Calgary’s burgeoning south. “There is a lot more to come in the second stage of Walden,” says Briscoe. “The pathways will essentially link a corridor all the way down to the Bow River.” The 5,000-acre smart growth community is conceived as two residential villages anchored by a higher density urban core. The community has been designed to accommodate 4,000 units, housing over 10,000 Calgarians. Homes in Walden also reflect this closeness to nature. “What we have tried to do in Walden is have both the naturalized type parks and combine this with the modern looking homes,” says Briscoe. “Which at the end of the day really comes together quite well, and separates Walden from most of the competition, especially in south Calgary,” he adds.
Walden’s location is one of its most attractive features, it has terrific accessibility to downtown through Macleod Trail, and is an excellent gateway for a quick trip to Kananaskis via Highway 22. “As far as hitting the mountains, you can head directly south to get to Fernie, access from the location is incredible,” says Briscoe. This community has attracted a wide variety of buyers, from young, active families, to first time homebuyers wanting to set down some roots, and professionals working in the south part of the city. Young families especially like the fact that Walden is surrounded by well-established communities with tons of amenities already available, including the Somerset LRT station, the Shawnessy shopping centre, the newly opened South Health Campus hospital, and several schools nearby.
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The community of Walden is a model of low-impact urban development. February 2013 new home Living 35
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Genstar has brought together some of Calgary’s best known quality homebuilders… And now the new Gates of Walden shopping center is open too, which includes 110,000 square-feet of retail space for a Shoppers Drug Mart, Windsor Rose Pub, Pet Planet, starbucks, RBC and a variety of other shops and services to come shortly. “Walden is now making a turn, to a more mature type of neighborhood,” explains Briscoe. “We just opened the Gates to Walden shopping center here, and later on this year we will be under construction for a Save-On Foods supermarket.” Genstar has brought together some of Calgary’s best known quality homebuilders, who are all committed to fulfilling Genstar’s vision for Walden. These include Excel Homes, Homes by Avi, and Cardel Homes. They are also welcoming California Homes to the fold, and its stylish brand of custom built homes is sure to add to the community’s prestige. Also new to the neighbourhood are The Edison townhomes from Avi Urban — Homes by Avi’s multi-family division. “Our semi-estate homes, which will be backing out onto the naturalized parks, will be built by Cardel and California Homes,” says Briscoe. “The starting point for homes in Walden is from $300,000, and $250,000 for townhomes.” As Walden continues to grow and establish itself as a distinguished community, this adds a lot of positive attention to this community, and we’re seeing that it is starting to get a lot more busy, says Briscoe. “On full build out there will 4,000 homes in Walden community, and currently there are about 700 homes built to date,” says Briscoe. This is a great opportunity for buyers to get in and enjoy the newly added amenities, and appreciate the natural landscapes they could call their home. NL
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Fast facts: Community: Walden Builders: Multi-family: Avi Urban Starter Homes: Excel Homes,Homes by Avi Move Up Homes: Cardel Homes, Homes by Avi Estate Homes: California Homes, Cardel Homes Developer: Genstar Development Price: Townhomes start from the $250,000s Single-family homes start from the $300,000s Directions: South on Macleod Trail, left onto 194th Avenue S.E., right onto Walden Gate, and follow the signs Hours: Check with specific builders Website: www.waldenliving.ca
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The cutting edge Paul Lafrance’s edgy deck designs take centre stage at Calgary Home + Garden Show n
By Pepper Rodriguez
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uilding the deck of your dreams with your own hands (and maybe your friends’ as well) is a true Canadian DIY tradition, and Calgary’s premiere home improvement trade expo is putting the spotlight on this particular passion by bringing the country’s best known deck designer, Paul Lafrance, to headline this year’s show. The 2013 Calgary Home + Garden Show — in itself a rite of spring for Calgarians — opens at the BMO Centre and Corral in Stampede Park from February 28 to March 3, and it promises to bring a new understanding of decks and their designs with Lafrance’s brand of “cutting edge” technique during his Main Stage presentation. Lafrance is the star of HGTV Canada’s “Decked Out” outdoor construction program where his out-of-thebox thinking for creating unique backyards has made him a hit with viewers. With his rock star image and downto-earth demeanour, Lafrance has built his thriving business the only way he knows how — with his own hands and creativity. Quite the accomplishment for an admitted high-
school dropout. “I am a high school dropout with absolutely zero design training whatsoever. That’s not something I’m ashamed of, that’s something I’m very proud of,” he says. “The school system didn’t work for me because a lot of the way things are taught these days is through a manual or through a textbook with things that have been done before and my brain was always gravitating toward things that had never been done before. I didn’t like being bound by pre-set parameters. I wanted, even as a kid, to push those parameters and discover new things. I guess that was the adventurer in me.” He has a natural creative streak in him that people respond to, which led him down the path of carpentry and homebuilding, but he didn’t like the design limitations of building houses, either. “In doing interior renovations or doing kitchens, I wasn’t allowed to be as creative as I wanted to be but I found a haven in the backyard because it’s much more of an empty canvas to paint on, so to speak. I was much more able to flow my creative energy into the backyard than any other realm of construction.” It is in this niche market that he began to thrive, but he was by no means an overnight success. Lafrance was perfecting his craft for over 13 years before being noticed by a TV
“I love being creative and designing, but the real pull for me is the ability to create places of rest for people in a world that’s gone crazy.” 4 0 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
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producer. “He saw me on a 24-hour miracle makeover show and said, ‘Hey that guy should have his own show.’ He saw all the unique designs and my ‘very interesting personality’ I guess (so they tell me.) The next thing you know, Decked Out was born and we’re having a lot of fun.” Decked Out follows the charismatic 38-year-old designer/carpenter through the process of creating backyard decks with a “creative edge” for his roster of clients. Lafrance says it is an entertaining, funny, irreverent show for the viewer who can learn about the creative process of designing and building impressively intricate outdoor decks and beautiful backyard spaces. This is the kind of live-wire energy and intuitive thinking that he will be bringing to his show in Calgary this spring. “This is my first time at the Calgary Home + Garden Show but not my first time visiting Calgary, and I am looking forward to returning,” the Ontario native says. “My talk for the show is entitled ‘The Backyard Revolution’ and, at its root, it is about why I do what do for a living. I love being creative and designing, but the real pull for me is the ability to create places of rest for people in a world that’s gone crazy.”
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Decks and private outdoor spaces shown here are examples of Paul Lafrance’s work that showcase his vision and creativity.
Paul Lafrance
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“Our culture has never moved faster than it does now and, with all of the technology we have, people have never been more stressed out. The need to have a place of rest that is easily accessible is paramount. A cottage that is 100 kilometres away that you have to battle through traffic to get to is no longer the best option. I want to show people how to utilize that tiny patch of grass in their own backyard to create a place that they can go to anytime they want any day of the week to just unwind, because that is something that people really need. No matter what your budget is, you have the ability to create that haven for yourself and your family, and that is the very important philosophy behind what I do.” Lafrance is also a musician on the side, and he does get a lot of inspiration from the songs in his head. “One of the wonderful things about music is how it can make you feel, when I write music I’m trying to create an emotional response from people. Someone will know a good song when they hear one because of how it makes them feel. When I design a deck for someone I’m using
“I want to show people how to utilize that tiny patch of grass in their own backyard to create a place that they can go to anytime they want any day of the week to unwind.”
GARDEN GURUS This year’s Calgary Home + Garden Show puts you in the spring mood with it’s emphasis on the pleasures of designing your private outdoor space. Organizers have assembled a stellar line-up of decking, fencing and garden experts to give the latest tips in beautifying your backyard. Paul Lafrance of the hit HGTV show “Decked Out” headlines the Main Stage, while Jeff De Jong, Annelise Doolaege and Joanne Dafoe are the main presenters on the Garden Stage.
Jeff de Jong Jeff’s passion for landscape design has led him to many personal awards and exciting opportunities. He is at home teaching gardening classes in college or to local gardening clubs. Jeff hosts the only two-hour gardening radio program in the West called Gardening 101. He currently is the manager of the World renowned Abkhazi Garden which is rated one of the top small gardens in the world.
Joanne Dafoe Joanne, a born-and-raised Calgarian, graduated from the University of Guelph holding the Ontario Diploma in Horticulture with a major in Landscape Design. After 10 years of experience, including six seasons at Spruce It Up Garden Centre, she now embarks on a new adventure, as she launches her own consultation and design company. Her focus will be on giving expert advice in gardening and landscaping through private consultations and group presentations. More information can be found at www.dafoedesign.com Annelise M. Doolaege Annelise noticed the similarities between the avid traveller and the passionate gardener and she will be exploring their shared interest during her program. “Gardeners and travellers have one thing in common, each enjoys the journey. A gardener often moves step by step down the garden path, whereas the international traveller jets here and there around the globe. Lets travel a few paths together and select the ideas which can work right here in Alberta. Annelise will share images from her recent journeys to gardens in Belgium, Holland, the Canadian west coast, and here in Alberta. You will be inspired for the upcoming season.
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the same principles, I want to change how they feel about their space, I want the space to draw people in and to make them want to spend time there. The musician and artist in me is an integral part of every design and makes me want to evoke that emotional response in people when it comes to their back yard.” The one thing he hopes to accomplish in his talks is to change people’s perception of decks and unlock the potential they have. “Most people think that a deck can only be this utilitarian box, thrown together for a few thousand dollars. My challenge is getting clients to think outside of the box when it comes to their backyard and helping them to see the endless possibilities of their own space. Making clients see the value in transforming their space into a retreat, 20 feet from their backdoor may be my biggest challenge but it also yields the highest reward for homeowners.” NL
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Valentine’s Day design may be fun, but a romantic style lasts longer
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By Jessica Patterson
A Photo by Don Molyneaux
s Valentine’s Day approaches, the word “romance” gets thrown around quite a bit, but when it comes to romancing the design of your home Cupid cutouts and heart-shaped boxes aren’t the way to go about it. Romantic doesn’t mean feminine Victorian style, with matchy-matchy everything, or tassels, flounces or poufs. No, romantic design lends itself to many different styles. Romance involves something that evokes emotion or surprise, something that says ‘I thought about this.’ Decorating the home for a special Valentine, can be a fun, one-off event in the year. It can be a simple bouquet of roses set in the foyer to surprise her when she comes in, or it can be a more elaborate set-up complete with scented candles and romantic music. Olga Brovkina, one of Calgary’s hottest designers and owner of Crave Furniture, says the key — as always — is the thought behind the gesture. “It’s the thought behind it, the preparation,” she says. And although it may be fun to deck out the home for a special Valentine’s Day celebration, a well-designed romantic home should go into much deeper detail than that — and guaranteed to last longer than a bouquet of roses.
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Creating a romantic ambience starts in the entrance of the home, and nothing evokes romance more than a nice piece of art in the foyer. Brovkina’s Crave Furniture store has some very unique pieces that are certainly unique and appeal to the romantic in you. Hand-blown glass balls arrangements are one of the signature pieces there that lends such a personalized touch to any room. Brovkina suggests using colour and texture in your décor to bring about this romantic feelOlga Brovkina ing in the room. “Forget the tried and tired pink,” she says. “Use purples and jewel tones, rich tones like aubergine or a French blue.” The decor doesn’t have to be that cheesy, cartoonish Valentine’s day decor you saw in the drugstore aisle. “Perhaps it’s a much-wanted painting or new floral arrangement, perhaps it’s a memorable photo reframed,” Brovkina says. Romantic design is all about engaging the five senses, too. Nothing puts romance in the air like scented candles, but you shouldn’t be limited to that, the smell of croissants baking in the oven or buttery toast in the morning is a potent aphrodisiac for some. “Romantic breakfast may smell like freshly baked croissants,” Brovkina says. “The interesting thing about smell, in the brain, is that smell gets to you first, before sight, before touch.” The difficult part about fragrance and music is finding something you’re both going to like, or finding something your sweetheart will like.
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With that in mind, know what appeals to your partner. Do they like flowers, or are they allergic? Do your musical likes clash like heavy metal and classical? Once February 14 is over, you can still incorporate romance into your home décor. Romance can transcend different design styles, says interior designer Mia Staysko of White Lotus Interiors. “Romantic is very seldom one style, it is usually a mix of styles, created or accumulated over time,” she says. “When I think of a romantic room — it’s kind of like a good marriage. It’s things you’ve accumulated, and it’s time-worn, and it’s things that are special, cherished, heartfelt.” Traditionally, a romantic style is an accumulation of things and ideas, and styles that are put together in a room, Staysko says. They often involve soft, muted colours and palettes. “They take time to put together. You don’t run down to your local box store and go to the romantic section to find the right furniture... whereas you can do that with a contemporary style.” It’s not just every day we can fly to Paris and hunt
Touches like soft, luxurious fabrics, or cozy blankets you can throw over a sofa or pillows in colours you like up the romance in any room. through flea markets for that perfect romantic, vintage piece. But, keeping that romantic atmosphere in the home after and leading up to Valentine’s Day does still appeal to the senses. Touches like soft, luxurious fabrics, or cozy blankets you can throw over a sofa or pillows in colours you like up the romance in any room. Don’t go overboard when it comes to the soft items, else you’ll create a sofa no one wants to go near. “I think you have to find a balance between what’s cozy and what’s cluttered, and what’s warm and what’s suffocating,” Staysko says. Layering is important in romantic style. “Layers Mia Staysko of soft, like your chair, your pillow and throw — all of those layers create a romantic feel,” Staysko says. Layering creates depth in a space. Avoid liberal uses of the colour red. While it might be a marketer’s darling, red is a young colour, Staysko explains. “Red is a hot, bright colour,” she says. “You don’t need a lot of it to make a big impact.” Lighting is a huge aspect of romantic style, especially if you can control it to create a mood. After all, romance is nothing if not a mood. Create a mood with soft lighting, whether it be from a dimmer switch, candles or a fireplace. Candles give off soft light, which placed strategically, enhance a room’s ambiance. Staysko is a fan of the battery-operated LED candles, including tea lights. “You can put them on bookshelves, without worrying they’re too hot for the shelves.” Appealing to the five senses is a great way to incorporate romance into your home, and how to keep in after Valentine’s Day is long-gone. NL
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COCHRANE BOW RIVER RIVER HEIGHTS DR.
JAMES WALKER TRAIL
Photo courtesy Charleston Consulting Group
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Shop for the romantic in you
By Kathy McCormick
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t’s obvious that romance starts — and ends — in the bedroom, so why not make it as sexy as you are? It begins with you — new lingerie, chocolate-covered strawberries or luscious specialty chocolates on the pillow and rose petals scattered around — but there’s so much more you can do to create that special mood that’s meant for Valentine’s Day — but you may want to keep the romantic look of the bedroom year-round. “Romance is all about intimacy, and creating an intimate environment,” says Kal Macdonald, interior designer with Shane Homes. And that means utilizing everything to tantalize the five senses.
Sight and touch Of course the key is the bed itself, say the experts. “Splurge on linens,” says Macdonald. “It’s worth it. Layer the bed with sheets, duvets, throws, pillows, and cushions. Mix patterns and solids together for
visual interest. Or go all white Romance is all about intimacy, and creating to get that ‘hotel’ look.” an intimate environment. Make it snuggle-icious, says And that means utilizing Cayley Turnbull, selections everything to tantalize coordinator at Stepper Custom the five senses. Homes. “Having soft throw pillows and fluffy comforters is great to add a cozy, comfortable feeling to a room and make couples want to snuggle up,” she says. And, says Alex Scott, show home decorator for Homes by Avi, the bed itself is, “obviously, the pivotal point of the whole décor of the bedroom. Textured silk and satin can be the perfect fabrics for your bed. It will give you
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Photo courtesy Charleston Consulting Group
Photo courtesy Charleston Consulting Group
Photo courtesy Homes by Avi
a relaxed comfort in the bed, making it cosy and thus sexy for the night.” Many sensuous choices await at department stores near you — and they come in every price range. Angela Purschke, sales manager of gift registry, china, housewares, and soft home departments at The Bay, Market Mall, has intimate recommendations to create that romantic bedroom setting. A down (or simulated down) duvet — “it’s heavy and soft, perfect for cozying up together,” she says. Some examples range from $360 to $800 for Hungarian down. Duvet covers — “go for the basic crisp cotton ones or the soft, metallic feel. Both are popular.” Blankets — the ultimate? A cashmere Hudson Bay traditional Point Blanket — queen is $395. Sheets — today’s choices have high thread counts for the most luxurious sleep — “crisp but soft,” says Purschke. “The longer you have them, the softer they get.” An 800-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheet by Hotel Collection is the ultimate in luxury from the Bay, and each sheet is priced separately (a Queen flat, for example, is $215).
Pillows — today’s beds are all about pillows. The more, the better. In fact, says Purschke, some companies actually have ‘pillow collections’ you can buy to match your duvet cover and other accents. “The Euros are the latest pillows that are popular,” she says. Large and square, two of them are stacked at the headboard, and then two high pillows stand up in front of them to allow people to sit up in bed comfortably to watch TV or read. A selection of smaller, different-sized pillows finishes the look. As for the sleeping pillow, it’s all about comfort, Purschke says. “Here in the linen department the staff favourite isn’t the most expensive pillow. It’s a gel fibre-fill firm standard pillow by Distinctly Home.” Its price: $44.99. Beige and white continue to be the favourite bedding colours — and they are spiced up with colours in accents to fit personalities, she says. Some other colours to consider for the bedroom? “Red is a colour that is often used to create a romantic sense in a room,” says Turnbull. “It is usually associated with love, warmth, and comfort. Red can also create feelings of excitement or energy. I wouldn’t suggest someone does their whole room in red, but adding a red accent wall or ceiling or choosing red accessories is nice. “Blue and greens are also great colours for a master bedroom as they are both very calming, which can help alleviate tensions from your day and help play a part with romance.” Adds Macdonald: “Creating an intimate environment in your bed-
“Having soft throw pillows and fluffy comforters is great to add a cozy, comfortable feeling to a room and make couples want to snuggle up.” 5 4 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
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“Blue and greens are also great colours for a master bedroom as they are both very calming, which can help alleviate tensions from your day and help play a part with romance.”
room is best accomplished with dark sensual colours on the wall. Make the bedroom a real nest by painting the walls in a dark tone. Play it safe with dark chocolate or dark, warm grey tones, or be a bit more daring and try dark plum colours, or dark navy.” Lighting is a key to creating that intimate atmosphere. “Dim the lights and place candles on the table and around the room,” says Candiss Bengert, principal of Charleston Consulting Group Inc., the e-commerce store for online staging consultations. “Overhead lighting is notoriously unflattering,” says Scott. “There’s nothing sexy about a well-lit room. You want shadows, highlights and the soft glow of filtered light. Try changing out the light bulb for one with a pink tint to it. This is the most flattering light besides candlelight. Place lamps with ivory shades on each side of your bed, and make sure the bulbs are no more than 60 watts. Also buy easy dim light bulbs so you can control the amount of light you have in the room. “Also hang a chandelier as your main light fixture to add to the whimsical romantic feeling of the room.” And says Turnbull: “Lighting plays a huge role with making a bedroom romantic. It’s best to have a form of ambiance lighting. You could accomplish this by having your main ceiling light with a dimmer. Or you could have wall sconces. If you wanted to do something fun you could have a lamp with a different colour of light bulb to give the room a nice glow.”
SMELL AND TASTE Fragrant scents that tantalize the senses include: cinnamon, pepper, ginger, mace, nutmeg, saffron, and vanilla,
says Bengert. “Have satin sheets on your bed sprayed with your favourite scent and have fragrant, sensual oils for that massage.” Another way to add that element of seductive scents is with your iron, says Macdonald. “Engage another of the senses by using linen water when ironing sheets and pillowcases. They are available in a wide variety of scents.” A time honored device for helping to provide bedding and other types of cloth with a pleasing aroma, linen water is a liquid essence that is sprinkled or misted onto fabric before pressing with an iron. Usually, it is prepared with a pleasing scent that is intended to add a hint of aroma without being overpowering. Scented water may be prepared in the home or purchased at a number of retail outlets. Some traditional seductive flavours include strawberries, whipped cream and chocolate, Bengert says. Candles are a great way to let the stress drain away, says Scott — but beware. “Choose a scented candle with care. One that’s too floral may be off-putting. A better bet is one that smells fresh and clean, like grapefruit or vanilla. The flicker of candlelight will enhance your sexy lighting scheme. Candles can evoke feelings of intimacy.” Setting up a small table or tray with fruits and desserts for noshing can be another way of adding to that romantic air.
L’Art au Quotidien linen water
SOUND Most master bedrooms nowadays have a TV in it. But for goodness’ sake keep it off for that special day. Instead, play some romantic music — even if your room isn’t wired for sound, it’s easy to hook up an alarm clock with a iPod/iPhone dock that allows you to listen to your playlist and wake you up in the morning. It charges your smart device too. There are a variety of models available including one for $31.59 in Walmart, or a Sony model with a remote for $89.99 at the Sony Store. And that’s just the bedroom. The master en suite, of course, plays a major role — but that’s another Sony iPod dock (right) and story. NL one from Walmart (left) February 2013 new home Living 55
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An Alberta advantage
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By Pepper Rodriguez
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magine, you just moved into your new home and you’re prepared to live the life you’ve always dreamed about, then you wake up one morning and there’s water in the basement. The dream can quickly turn into a nightmare when you find out that there’s no warranty covering such structural flaws. Protecting a family’s largest purchase is at the core of new legislation that would establish mandatory warranty protection for new home buyers in Alberta. Starting in the fall of 2013, Bill 5, the New Home Buyer Protection Act, will require all builders to provide home warranty coverage, with the ultimate goal of producing a level playing field where “all new home buyers are protected equally.” It’s a move wholly supported by the new home industry. “This will be good for both the industry and consumers,” says Dave Hooge of Stepper Homes, and current president of CHBA – Alberta. Right now the CHBA – Alberta requires its members to offer a third-party warranty to consumers, but non-members have no such guidelines — leaving buyers to fend for themselves. The new warranty protection doesn’t come without cost though, and it is expected the new legislation would increase costs for new homes by about $1,700 to $2,000, which is less than one per cent of the cost of the average home in the province. The higher cost though is not expected to affect sales of new homes. “Although the new home warranty will represent an additional
cost, there are a number of builders in Alberta who have already been providing third-party warranties for many years now,” says Richard Cho, Senior Market Analyst for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation – Calgary. “One of the good things about Calgary’s housing market is that new homes are available in many different price ranges.” Total housing starts in 2013 are forecast to decline from 2012 levels, he adds, but will still be above the 5-year average. “The decline will be due to fewer multi-family units breaking ground as we had an elevated number of units start construction in the previous year. Single-detached construction in 2013 is expected to remain compared to 2012.” Under the new rules, all new homes, single and multi-family, would see mandatory warranties applied as follows: • A minimum of one-year coverage of materials and labour. • Two-year guarantee on labour and materials related to delivery and distribution systems. • Five-year building envelope protection, with the option to purchase additional years of coverage.
“Alberta builders were the first in Canada to offer warranty protection... they’re still the national leaders when it comes to standing behind their product.”
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WARRANTY FAQ The Alberta Government provides us with some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the new home warranty coverage. What types of homes would be subject to this legislation? This proposed legislation is for single-family homes, condominiums, modular homes, mobile homes, and dwellings on recreational properties. It will not apply to dorms, work camps, hotels and rental apartments. How much would mandatory coverage add to the cost of the average home? It is estimated the cost of warranty for an average house would be $1,700 to $2,000. In January 2012, the average home cost $342,000. Mandatory home warranty will be less than one per cent of that and cost less than many of the upgrades often made to a home during construction. Will the Government of Alberta be the new home warranty provider? No. Private companies will continue to provide warranty coverage for new homes. With the New Home Buyer Protection Act, new home warranty will be mandatory and regulated. Government will ensure compliance with the legislation and track warranties on new homes. What is a home’s building envelope? Building envelope refers to the exterior shell of the home, including the roof and walls.
“Albertans should be reassured that the single largest purchase their family makes will be protected by one of the strongest warranty programs in the country.” • 10-year coverage on major structural components. “Alberta builders were the first in Canada to offer warranty protection,” says Hooge. “And, as this proposed legislation proves, they’re still the national leaders when it comes to standing behind their product.” “While most homes in Alberta are built to stand the test of time, if things do go wrong, homeowners will have stronger protection to get their homes repaired,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs, Doug Griffiths. “Albertans should be reassured that the single largest purchase their family makes will be protected by one of the strongest warranty programs in the country.” NL
What would this proposed legislation mean for people who build their own homes? Owner-builders would not be required to provide warranty coverage unless the home was sold before the warranty period ended. For example, if an owner-builder sold his/ her home after three years, then he/she would have to provide seven years of major structural coverage and two years of building envelope coverage. How will people know if a home has warranty on it? The proposed online warranty tracking system will be available to home buyers, municipalities, realtors, lending institutions, etc. to help them make informed decisions. The system will track warranty only for those homes that fall under regulated mandatory new home warranty. It will not track homes that pre-date the effective date of the legislation. How does Alberta’s proposed coverage terms compare with warranty programs in other provinces? Currently British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec have mandatory home warranty. Quebec requires one year of coverage for faulty workmanship, three years for hidden defects and five years coverage on major building components. Province
Labour & Materials
Delivery Systems
Building Envelope
Major Structural Components
Alberta
One year
Two years
Five years*
10 years
British Columbia
One year (single detatched homes)
Two years
Five years
10 years
Ontario
One year
Two years
Five years
Seven years
*with the requirement additional years of coverage be offered to the home buyer to purchase.
About how many new homes in Alberta have warranty now? It is estimated about 80 per cent of new homes currently have warranty. Currently, building envelope, fit and finish, and delivery and distribution systems are covered for one year. Major structural is covered for five years. When will mandatory home warranties come into force? Pending passage of the New Home Buyer Protection Act and completion of the supporting regulations, builders will be required to provide home warranty coverage for all new homes built in the province starting in fall 2013. For more information: Visit www.alberta.ca, or The Alberta New Home Warranty Program site, www.anhwp.com, or www.chbacalgary.com.
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hope at large By Marty Hope
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Hunting the Big One Albi Homes aims to nab Grand SAM Award An alcove in the lobby of Albi Homes’ headquarters proudly displays the numerous housing awards won by the company — but there is something missing. Since being founded in 1982, the Calgary builder has laid claim to industry awards at the local, provincial, and national levels. Although it has been nominated in the past, the Grand SAM Award as Canada’s top single-family builder has eluded Albi. Come March, company president Allan Klassen hopes to bring that elusive dream to reality. Albi is named as one of two finalists for the prestigious award that will be presented during the national conference of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association being held in Lake Louise. The other finalist is Maric Homes of Winnipeg. “It would be a nice feather in our cap,” says Klassen. “We’ll definitely make a prominent spot for it in the display if we win it.” In addition to claiming a Grand SAM spot, Albi is also a finalist in three other categories. Its 2,432-square-foot Carrara bungalow in Artesia at Heritage Pointe garnered a spot in best single-family home over 2,200 square-feet; the Armento model in Riverstone of Cranston is vying for best single-family home between 1,500 and 2,200 squarefeet; and Albi’s sales centre in Aspen Summit Park is a finalist in that category. It has never been Albi’s goal, says Klassen, to be the biggest builder or to be the answer to everyone’s housing question, but winning national recognition that comes with the CHBA awards does open some doors. “We want to be the most desired brand name in luxury housing in Canada,” says Klassen. “We want to stand out, to differentiate ourselves from others, and raise our profile. Those are our goals.” Klassen has high praise for the Carrara, which
Carrara bungalow
Carrara living room
Albi is using as its show home in the final phase of the award-winning Heritage Pointe golf-estate community by Heritage Pointe Properties Inc. “It’s possibly the nicest house we’ve ever built,” says Klassen. “Our design team did a great job of blending contemporary, modern and traditional styles with some Frank Lloyd Wright detailing.” Priced at $1.7 million, the walkout bungalow is in Albi’s “sweet spot,” says Klassen. The company has 60 homes in progress with price tags of more than $1 million. Referring to his comment about not wanting to be the biggest, Klassen says the company limits its monthly start quota to a maximum of 15 each month, just so it can keep a handle of customer service and its high level quality control. “I think what gives us an edge is our attention to detail in every home we build, and the Carrara is a great example of that,” he adds. For more information of Albi Homes, its models, and communities, visit www.albihomes.com. NL
Allan Klassen
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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around town By Pepper Rodriguez
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Hopewell Residential Communities, Sabal Homes to merge Hopewell Group of Companies (HGOC) announces that it is unifying its residential land development and home building operations to form a unified new company to strengthen their market positions in an increasingly competitive field. In a statement, HGOC says its Hopewell Residential Communities (HRC) land development division and Sabal Homes home building arm will be merged to form Hopewell Residential. Long-time HRC head, Lesley Conway, will be taking over as president of the new company. “The coming together of two separate companies within the HGOC will… create a singular, unified market Lesley Conway force, which will work together towards
common goals and increased competitiveness,” the statement adds. Although some key changes will take place immediately, the timeline for the merger involves a “longer-term view” that will see HRC and Sabal Homes over the next 12 months work “to align the interest of both formerly separate companies.” “This strategic shift is an indication of our continued growth, and will create an even greater opportunity for growth for our company and many of our partners in future,” says HRC’s Scott Hamilton. “We’ll continue ‘business-as-usual’ for both Sabal and HRC in the short-term, and we’re looking forward to building this new company.” HRC is the land developer of such popular communities as Mahogany and Copperfield and the upcoming Hotchkiss, all in Calgary’s southeast and also Reunion in Airdrie. Sabal Homes has built a name for its “uncommonly stylish” townhomes and single-family homes.
Qualico outlines plans for 2013 There are big things in store for Qualico Communities this year, as the multi-awarded land developer announces a host of show home openings and events aimed at creating the close-knit, family-oriented communities they are known for. Qualico’s philosophy has always been that communities are “born, not made: they come to life when a group of likeminded people feel at home in each other’s company.” This is reflected in the wide array of events they are hosting this year. Their community-building efforts blasted off with the opening of the STARS Lottery home by Augusta Fine Homes in the Qualico community of Crestmont in the northwest in January. Spring will see them hosting an Easter-themed event in their Evanston development also in the northwest. They sponsor the Adirondack Art Program gala in the fall as part of their community-building efforts in the Airdrie community of Ravenswood. Qualico also continues to be the title sponsor for the Calgary Children’s Festival happening in May, and the successful “Building Hope for Kids Gala” that raises funds for the Alberta Children’s Hospital. “We raised just over $200,000 at the
event in October last year, we aim to do even better this year,” Qualico’s Tyler Kaluzniak tells Around Town. “A land developer can’t construct goodwill out of bricks and mortar, but we can influence who chooses our communities and how they come together as neighbours.” New show home openings are also in store for Qualico’s Redstone, Ravenswood and Silverado communities this year.
Qualico’s Redstone show homes
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STARS 2013 lottery launches The 20th annual STARS Lottery has launched with 3,200 prizes worth over $5.6 million, including a $1.2 million grand prize show home from Augusta Fine Homes. The STARS Lottery raised over $10 million net during the 2012 campaign and continues to be the single largest source of funding to help keep STARS in the sky in Alberta, organizers say. Having the 2,881-square-foot The Ames as a grand prize will go a long way to perk interest in this lottery event that helps keep the crucial air ambulance service in the air. The home is a masterpiece if there ever was one. The 4-3/4-inch brushed ash hardwood flooring gives it an intimate executive elegance, as do the large windows and the high ceilings. The leather finish of its premium Alaska White granite countertops in its very stylish kitchen is worth just to check out. The show home is located at 22 Crestridge Mews S.W. in the Qualico community of Crestmont. Lottery manager Joan Black told reporters that
Brookfield launches 12 new show homes STARS has a reputation to sell out tickets well before the early-bird prizes are handed out, and that they were already 44 per cent sold. You can buy your tickets at www. starslottery.ca or at the show home. Joan Black
Calgary starts end 2012 on high note
The Ames
CHBA - Calgary calls for better understanding between builders and City Charron Ungar, president of the CHBA – Calgary, says a strong partnership with the city is essential to maintain the affordability and wide selection of homes, especially as Calgary is expecting almost 120,000 new residents by 2017. “That’s a staggering figure and that’s only four years away,” he said at the January CHBA-Calgary Region dinner that hosted Alberta Premier Alison Redford. “What is the plan, exactly, of how we’re proposing to house these people that are coming to our city?” He called for a more balanced way of handling growth than the current Charron situation, which Ungar he characterized 6 4 n e w home liv in g Fe b ruary 2013
Brookfield Residential Communities starts 2013 with a bang, as the renowned land developer opened 12 new show homes in its southeast communities of Cranston and New Brighton. There are six new move-up show homes to open in New Brighton from Cedarglen Homes, Morrison Homes and Shane Homes starting from the $380,000s. Six more move-up show homes are also being introduced in Cranston from Cedarglen Homes, Shane Homes and Trico Homes starting in the $410,000s. To drum up interest in the show homes, Brookfield is running a draw until March 12 for $5,000 for the lucky visitor. Visit www.brookfieldgiveaway.com for more info.
as “essentially a suburban development freeze.” The city’s municipal development plan maps out a balanced, sustainable approach to growth, but Ungar thinks it focuses too much on transit-oriented developments, at the expense of new suburban development. “Currently, there exists a significant (divide) between city hall and our industry on this issue of how we are going to grow. It’s important that the future vision of our city is allowed to transition and evolve over time and not by tomorrow morning,” he says. “Ensuring proper and adequate housing in all areas of our city should be our main focus — and not a byline of a grand experiment in planning.” Without even-handed development in both areas of the city, the Calgary advantage will be undermined, he adds. “Our affordability quotient is eroding — and it’s eroding fast.”
Calgary’s housing market enjoyed robust growth in 2012, with yearto-date housing starts totalling 12,841 in December, higher than the 9,292 housing starts recorded in the same period of 2011. Housing starts in the Calgary Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) were trending at 11,461 units in December, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The trend is a six month moving average of the monthly seasonally adjusted annual rates (SAAR)1 of total housing starts. The standalone monthly SAAR was 10,618 units in December, down from 11,902 in November. “The pace of total housing starts in December declined from the previous month due to fewer multi-family units breaking ground, while single-detached construction increased,” said Richard Cho, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for Calgary. “Despite the moderation, total housing starts in 2012 finished the year above 2011 levels.” CMHC uses the trend measure as a complement to the monthly SAAR of housing starts to account for considerable swings in monthly estimates. Actual total housing starts in December were 866 units with 528 single-detached houses and 338 multiple-family homes. n
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calgary map n Northwest/Northeast
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n advertiser index Apex Developments Heartland FC, pages 12-14
Genesis Builders Sherwood page 71
Melcor Sunset Ridge page 28
Baywest Homes Mahogany page 57
Genesis Land Development Sage Meadows page 45
NuVista page 50
Bri-mor Westgrove Estates pages 2-3 Brookfield Homes Side by side page 33 Brookfield Residential Riverstone of Cranston page 44
Hopewell Copperfield page 39 Hopewell Mahogany page 46 Hunter Douglas page 62
Emerald Sovereign Court page 62
Innovations by Jayman Redstone page 38
Calbridge page 7
Landmark Homes page 27
Cardel Homes page 16-17
Marketplace Events Calgary Home + Garden Show page 21
Cardel Renos page 67, 68 CDR Custom Closets page 65 Cedarglen Homes page 4 Genesis Builders Bayside page 52
Mattamy Homes page 72 McKee Homes page 22
Sabal Mahogany page 9 Tamani Riversong page 51 United Communities Drake Landing page 29 United Communities Nolan Hill page 23 Watermark Bearspaw page 43 Walton Developments Skyview Ranch page 56 Wellspring Toupee For A Day page 37
Melcor Kings Heights page 60
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calgary map n Southwest
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Southeast/Calgary area n calgary map
AIRDRIE
OKOTOKS
COCHRANE February 2013 new home Living 69
fave finds
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Functional, decorative pieces for a better sleep
Sleep easy B
n By
Aaliya Essa
Where we begin and end our day, the master bedroom is the one dedicated room to relaxing and winding down. Adding a few simple luxuries can make this space truly your own, and make getting to sleep a little easier and waking up a little less rough. NL
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A. SULTAN TORÖD. Add a little pillow top to your mattress, for a softer surface to sleep on, without having to by a new bed. $299 at IKEA. B. Spa Sensations MyGel Memory Foam Contour Pillow. Made with premium memory foam infused with gel, this pillow provides cool comfort. $29.97 at Walmart. C. Faux Fur Throw. So soft and snuggly, now you can curl up in bed with a good book and wrap yourself up in a furry layer of luxury. $167.56 at Pottery Barn. D.Men’s Ascot UGG slippers. Comfort and luxury for your feet have been merged for the ultimate slipper, it’s like you didn’t even get out of bed at all. $165 at The Bay. E. Earth Therapeutics® Dream Zone™ Sleep Mask. Sleep blissfully, for mornings when we can push the clock back a little longer, this sleep mask is effective and also extraordinarily soft. $10.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond. F. Slipper Thong. Soft and cushiony slipper thongs make a comfortable base for your feet to rest on, and a lightweight slipper to walk on. $13.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond.
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