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VOLUME 9 ISSUE 95 n November 2013
contents
14 cover feature
14
Eye for grandeur Grand home designs is the hallmark of 2012 SAM Builder of the Year
News
Land controversy 52
The battle for Calgary’s growth boils down to who has the right numbers
PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp. 207 - 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9
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contents 19 Focus On
12 This is the end
Bookends make their case for shelf décor
Show home profiles
19 Breezy ambience
Stanford has the style to match Kinniburgh’s relaxed lake town vibe
24 Williamstown hit
The Bridges astounds with four new show homes
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30 Darby’s appeal
Excel Homes’ EvansRidge show home has all the family’s “must-haves”
Community Profile
34 Ranchers’ Rise takes off
This estate Okotoks community is a launch pad for dream homes
Lifestyle
40 New opportunities
Finding the perfect home and community for their family in EvansRidge
Shopping
44 On the shelf
columns
55 Around Town 61 Hope at Large
Items
10 Editor’s Message 56 Maps 60 Advertiser Index
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In the age of e-readers, who needs bookshelves? Turns out we still do
On Trend
48 Cut and paste
Today’s wallpaper design makes it easier than ever to change your home’s look
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editor’s message n
Land locked Some say it’s urban sprawl, some say it’s a market-led progression of growth; either way, land development and the shepherding of Calgary’s future growth has been one of the most contentious issues besetting our fair city. By the time you read this, Calgary would have a new City Council. But the battle for Calgary’s future growth, however, will probably last much longer. Our own Marty Hope tries to explain what is at the core of the dispute between the home building industry and the City in his news feature this issue. He spoke with Mayor Nenshi and industry officials and it looks like it boils down to a disagreement on whether we have enough land supply in the next few years to sustain our growth (the City says we do, industry begs to differ). That may be an oversimplification of the issue, but both sides seem still willing to work with each other to resolve the dispute. The important thing is that you, our readers and the public at large, are informed about the matter and what its consequences may be. We at New Home Living have always been of the opinion to let the market determine where homes are built. What we’ve been witnessing is a steady trickle of new developments going on in the surrounding towns of Cochrane, Airdrie and Chestermere, as new land developments become scarcer in the city. In this issue, we profile new show homes by Broadview Homes in EvansRidge, Excel Homes in the new community of Kinniburgh in Chestermere, The Bridges by Vesta in Airdrie’s Williamstown, and the exciting new community of Ranchers’ Rise in Okotoks. These represent an indication that people are willing to live further from the core, and builders are obliging. Our cover feature on Calbridge Homes displays how craftsmanship and an eye for detail has been key to the success of the 2012 SAM Builder of the Year. Their final three opportunities to build a dream home in the Hamptons is showcased here. This issue’s not all about new home developments either. We also have wallpaper design tips from Jessica Patterson. And Kathy McCormick explains the new design uses of bookshelves as e-books slowly erode the popularity of actual books. Aaliya Essa’s photo essay on bookends though has me thinking that maybe all is not lost yet for home libraries. Calgary really is an amazing city, and the range of new home options available is nothing short of astounding. I can’t wait to see what other developments are coming down the line. Whether inner-city or suburban. You better believe that New Home Living is your best source for the latest happenings in the industry.
PUBLISHER
Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca A s s o c i a t e PUBLISHER
Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca Editor
Pepper Rodriguez pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca Art director
Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca graphic designerS
Lama Azhari
lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca
Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
Megan Sereda megan.sereda@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
Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Karen Durrie, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Kathy McCormick, Jessica Patterson, Jennifer Seamone Photography
Don Molyneaux A d v e r t i s i n g SALES
Heather Dougall
heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca Accounting
Donna Roberts accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED 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 expressed 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: The Christmas issue has tons of gift ideas @CalgaryNewHomes 1 0 n e w home liv in g Novem ber 2013
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 propperty of SOURCE MEDIA GROUP CORP. Reg. CIPO TMA 693289. Contact: Source Media Group, 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9 T: 403.532.3101, F: 403.532.3109 TF: 1.888.932.3101, E: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca
NewHomeLivingCalgary s o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r
focus on
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Bookends make their case for shelf décor n
By Aaliya Essa
In these days of Kindle and other tablet readers, the physical manifestation of books may be a thing of the past, taking bookends with it into the antique past. But then again, maybe not. Love for books is still alive, and what better way to display
your passion and your character in your home than showcasing the books you love? A pair of bookends adds a punctuation mark to its decorative value — and reveals your tastes as much as the books themselves. NL
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1] Harley iron bookends, $113 at Cushy Life. 2] Bicycle bookend set, $49.95 at Pier 1. 3] Read book ends, $22 at Urban Barn. 4] Stanton photo bookends, $129 at Bombay Company. 5] Monkey bookends, $45 at Chapters Indigo. 6] Love bookends, $64 at Pottery Barn Teen. 7] Gauge hammered iron bookends, $198 at Cushy Life. 8] Jacque iron bookends, $198 at Cushy Life. 9] Cityscapes bookends set of two, $102.50 at Pottery Barn.
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Eye
2013 Grand Prize lottery home in Mahogany.
| Advertising cover Feature |
for grandeur Grand home designs is the hallmark of 2012 SAM Builder of the Year
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n unerring eye for magnificent home design has been the signature trait of Calbridge Homes — whether it’s a townhome, starter home or million-dollar estate home, with the award-winning builder it will always be a dream home. Fresh from its big win as the 2012 SAM Builder of the Year, Calgary region, Calbridge recently outdid themselves anew, as their $2 million grand prize lottery show home in Mahogany was instrumental in helping this year’s Hospital Home Lottery sell out earlier than expected. In fact, their years of partnership with Calgary Health Trust lotteries have created some of the most memorable and distinctly unique grand prize homes that have helped make their twice a year charity event one of the most successful in Calgary. These qualities of superb craftsmanship and eye for detail has made those Calbridge lottery homes so popular are what come to the fore in their lavish creations in the upscale enclave of The Hamptons in the northwest. In fact, living here would be, in many ways, like winning the lottery, too. Calbridge is the exclusive builder of the 10 homes in the very private, gated Via Ultima enclave of The Hamptons. All of them are found in the intimate cul-de-sac of Hamptons View N.W. that runs along a gently sloping hillside with breathtaking views of the manicured greens of The Hampton’s Golf and Country Club below.
There are only three more opportunities to build in this most exclusive area, and the Birkdale show home opening on October 17 is one of them. The Birkdale sits on the ridge backing right onto the greens, overlooking the fourth and fifth holes of this award-winning golf course, and the views alone are worth the $1.54 million price. Besides its pristine location, The Birkdale is a brilliant showcase of the builder’s winning style and functionality. The 2,019-squarefoot bungalow with a three-car side-drive garage and a 1,666-squarefoot developed, walk-out lower level. The handsome stone detail over the smooth acrylic stucco exterior along with the carriage style doors of the side-attached garage gives it amazing curb appeal that makes it stand out even in this upscale enclave. The clean flowing lines of the open concept main floor along with the soaring, vaulted ceilings are complemented by the oversized windows that dominate the front and back of the home. “They’re Triple-paned, Low-E insulated windows add to the year-round comfort of the home,” says area manager Jack Stricharuk. The sun-splashed interiors exude an executive mien with the 3-1/2inch hand-scraped hardwood flooring that runs through the main floor. The classy custom-made cabinetry, the granite countertops, and the elegant railing along the stairway to the lower level — all add to the dramatic magnificence of the Birkdale.
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| Advertising cover Feature |
The Hamptons
The Hamptons’ Via Ultima is a hidden gem especially when new homes in northwest Calgary are getting scarce. Stricharuk says this home suits both empty nesters and families with teenaged children. “The master bedroom is on the main floor to give more privacy to owners, and three more bedrooms are in the lower level, which would be perfect for families with teens — who probably like this separation — and it also makes it easy for empty nesters to entertain guests who are staying over.” Calbridge does offer a home here that suits families with small kids. The Custom Maserati III is a 3,281-square-foot two-storey, three-bedroom, triple car garage home that promises to be as sleek and luxurious as the Italian sports car its named after. The Custom Maserati III is facing the golf course and has an upper floor balcony off the bonus room to take full advantage of the view. It’s designed with a higher than average ceiling (10 feet on the main floor and nine feet in the second floor), and a curved staircase to add dramatic appeal. The construction of this custom home is already underway for new home purchasers who are looking for quicker possession by early next year. It is being offered for $1.4 million. Calbridge’s last remaining lot here is reserved for the Oakmont, which is a 2,113 square-foot triple-car garage bungalow that also backs onto the golf course. “This area has really been popular with a mix of empty nesters and families because they all cherish the quiet privacy of this highly secured gated community.” The Hamptons’ Via Ultima is a hidden gem especially when new homes in northwest Calgary are getting scarce. “These homes are a rare find offering maintenance-free living. It’s supremely accessible because The Hamptons is located in the heart of the major infrastructure and local conveniences.” Jack adds. It is just a few blocks from Country Hills Boulevard and all the amenities of the area, including the Beacon Hill shopping centre. Calbridge CEO Larry Thomson sums up their winning philosophy. “We believe in challenging the status quo by thinking differently. The way we challenge the status quo is by turning ‘what if’ into ‘what is’.” n 1 6 n e w home liv in g Novem ber 2013
The Birkdale
FAST FACTS: Area: Via Ultima gated community of The Hamptons Builder: Calbridge Homes Developer: Tirion Properties Style: Luxury bungalow and two-storey estate homes size: Starts at 2,113 sq. ft. Price: Starts at $1.46 million Address: 26 Hamptons View N.W. Directions: From Country Hills Blvd. N.W., north onto Hamptons Dr. and right at Hamptons Way and follow signs. Show home hours: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Phone: 403-453-1083
For more information, visit www.calbridgehomes.com s o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r
Broadview Homes n show home profile
Breezy ambience n By
Jennifer Seamone
Stanford has the style to match Kinniburgh’s relaxed lake town vibe
In the beautiful lakeside town of Chestermere, nestled on the eastern boundary of Calgary, Broadview Homes has brought its innovative style of home designs to the brand new community of Kinniburgh. And in keeping with the nautical tradition of the area, the award-winning builder has created a home as distinctive as the broad sails of the sailboats that fill the nearby waterway. Broadview’s newly designed show home, the Stanford, sits at a spacious 2,686 squarefeet. Open and bright the home showcases a vista of windows across the back of this California inspired home. “They really focus on an open living space in California, and I feel like we really achieved that in the Stanford,” says Design Manager, Carah Barth. “Many people come in and say it feels much more like a bungalow,” explains Area Sales Manager, Deryk Treasure. “It is so open and spacious with lots of natural light, and the central staircase with an open to below area from top to bottom really gives an expansive feel.”
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show home profile n
Fast facts: builder: Broadview Homes area: Kinniburgh, Town of Chestermere developer: Pollyco Developments style: Two Storey semi-estate size: 2,686 sq. ft. Price: From $602,000.00, including lot and GST address: 165 Kinniburgh Blvd, Chestermere, AB Directions: Off Deerfoot Trail, take the 17th Ave exit going east, proceed to the Town of Chestermere, turn right on East Chestermere Drive, and follow the signs Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.
From a generous foyer, the home opens onto a large office on the left. Then the glow of beautiful light-toned, painted maple cabinets complemented by the contemporary stainless steel appliances and stunning tile backsplash creates an environment of pure elegance in the ample U-shaped kitchen. Those are just a few elements of the truly superb open-concept main floor. The real show-stopper is a floor-to-ceiling, stone-tiled, two-way contemporary horizontal fireplace, dividing the living room and kitchen/ nook. As Barth explains, “it allows the space to still be open but allows for some privacy.” Adding to the appealing and peaceful ambiance, deep and varied hand scraped farmhouse oak floors hearken back to traditional East Coast yacht clubs, adding a drop of heritage into all the convenience of modern living. After winding along the large central staircase, highlighted with maple and wrought iron rail and spindle, the upper floor of the Stanford unfurls itself gracefully. Looking across the stairwell and long lengths of railing, to the lofty ceilings of the vaulted bonus room, it is easy to be impressed by the sheer vastness of the home. Further along, one finds a spacious upstairs laundry with sink and cabinet options, and lots of storage. A main bath is
WEB: www.broadviewhomes.com
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n show home profile
conveniently located near bedrooms two and three. “It was very important to make sure the kid’s bedrooms were larger than the ‘typical’ room size to allow for a family to expand,” says Barth. “The master bedroom area and the main floor are the two most talked about features of this house,” says Treasure. “The master suite is uniquely designed and people really love it.” The owner’s quarters, extending along the side of the home, front to rear, are a treat for the senses. Inside the entry door is a short hallway. Directly ahead is the bright, airy and restful master bath, featuring a curbless glass shower. To the left is a spacious walk-in closet with his and her sides. The already large master bedroom, explains Barth, features an optional tray ceiling, making the room feel even bigger. Topping off the home, sublime and understated décor throughout is reminiscent of the gentle hues of a ships sails. Sailing and boating is a very prominent activity in the area, explains Treasure. “On a summers day there are boats of every kind on the water and it is a beautiful thing to see, very peaceful.” The Calgary Yacht Club is only a three minute walk from Kinniburgh. To ensure smooth sailing, a one year membership to the historic club, established in 1933, is included with each
purchase. With 50-foot wide lots, there is also the opportunity to expand to a three car garage, making loads of room for a lake faring vessel. “Besides the lake and tons of amenities and restaurants, there are so many reasons to build here with us in Kinniburgh,” says Treasure. In 2014 a public K-9 school will be opening in the community with a specialized recreation facility, rumoured to be indoor soccer, adjacent to the school. Further down the road is a full medical facility slated to be open this fall, indicates Treasure. “There are so many advantages to living here,” he says. “The commute is only 24 minutes to downtown, if you are in the deep south of Calgary, the commute is twice as long.” The Stanford starts from $602,000 including lot and GST. No matter which way the wind blows you in, it is assured that Broadview’s Stanford in Kinniburgh will provide a strong and graceful home to weather any storm, and more importantly, a place to celebrate life’s bright moments. NL
“The master bedroom area and the main floor are the two most talked about features of this house.”
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show home profile n Vesta Properties
Classic Collection — Plan 4
Classic Collection — Plan 1
The Bridges astounds with four new show homes
Williamstown n By
Pepper Rodriguez
The success of Vesta Properties’ Bridges at Williamstown seems to have been pre-ordained. After all, who can resist the charms of this singular, nature-inspired, master planned community in Airdrie? But the spectacular sales of these new townhomes were still a pleasant surprise. Vesta Properties sales manager, A.J. van der Linden tells New Home Living that the past summer when Bridges began selling was probably the busiest he’s seen. “It has been exceptionally busy, and with the recent opening of our new show homes in Bridges at Williamstown, we expect to be even busier.” Four new show homes showcasing the Bridges at Williamstown’s Classic Collection and Three-Storey Collection have just opened. There used to be an Urban Collection too, but those were so popular that they sold out almost immediately. “About 70 per cent of the initial release has already sold and we are releasing more as we open the new show homes,” says van der Linden. He adds that the 81-unit Bridges development is being snapped up by a lot of young families, couples and even downsizers who love the stylish functionality they offer and the fact that almost all units back onto Williamstown’s lush environmental reserve. 2 4 n e w home liv in g Novem ber 2013
Bridges features remarkable townhome choices surrounded by park space and walking distance to a new school. Each townhome has been crafted to include rich exterior architecture with upscale detailing, cultured stone accents, fenced yards, additional driveway parking and exceptional standard finishings. “The Bridges improves on our previous townhome designs in the Trails, and they have a lot more space to offer, you can realistically park up to four cars as some of the homes have a full driveway to go with a double attached garage,” van der Linden says. The Three-Storey Collection has townhomes from 1,300 square-feet starting at the $274,900 mark. The Classic Collection has models from 1,569 square-feet from $325,900. “The price point, the product that we offer and the high-end standard specifications that go with it have all been a big part of our success,” van der Linden says. Williamstown’s location, however, is still cited as its single most captivating feature. Located close to 8th Street and Veterans Boulevard, it is central to all of Airdrie’s best amenities, yet, it remains a world of its own with a tremendous connection to nature. Williamstown dedicates 40 per cent, or almost 60 acres, of the 160-acre community to scenic nature paths, ponds, playgrounds and park space. The 45-acre Nose Creek Environmental Reserve is the focal point of the community, and tranquil ponds and lands o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r
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hit Classic Collection — Plan 2
scaped nature trails further enhance this appeal. Adding another level of family and lifestyle convenience, Williamstown’s new school, Herons Crossing Elementary, is already open. The school, initially a K-5 public school, is expected to grow into a full K-9 elementary school over time. Williamstown offers homes for first time buyers, and for families needing to move up and down with enough space to fit their lifestyle and at all value levels. Since Vesta is the exclusive builder, they have that much more control on how the streetscape shapes up. “Thoughtfully planned high-end exteriors showcase a mix of Craftsman, Arts & Crafts and Colonial architecture along heritage inspired streetscapes,” says van der Linden.
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“The price point, the product that we offer and the highend standard specifications that go with it have all been a big part of our success.” s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
Classic Collection
Fast facts: builder/developer: Vesta Properties area: Williamstown in Airdrie Project: Bridges at Williamstown Size: Classic Collection starts from 1,569 sq. ft., Three-Storey Collection starts from 1,300 sq.ft. Price: Classic Collection starts from $325,900 and Three-Storey Collection from $274,900 Directions: Take Hwy. 2 to Airdrie. Exit west onto highway 567. Follow to Veterans Blvd. west and follow past Main St. Follow the signs to Williamstown at 8th St. and Veterans Blvd. Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays Noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.vestawilliamstown.com
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show home profile n Three-Storey Collection
Three-Storey Collection — Plan 1
Three-Storey Collection — Plan 2
Three-Storey Collection — Plan 2
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Upscale architecture and rich, natural color schemes are featured throughout the development. Amidst all this serene beauty, Bridges at Williamstown offers a wide range of features that buyers find irresistible. The Three-Storey Collection is a new design in Airdrie available in two- and three-bedroom variations with three baths. The Classic Collection features three-bedroom plus loft plans. Both collections feature soaring nine-foot ceilings on the main floor with big windows to take advantage of southern Alberta’s sunny days and brighten interiors naturally. They also have stylish hardwood-like laminate gracing the main floor with plush carpeting for the upper floors. They also come with open-plan kitchens with convenient breakfast bars, contemporary flat-panel maple kitchen cabinetry with brushed nickel hardware, that complement the stylish hand-set, designer selected tile backsplash. James Hardie fibre-cement board is used for all exteriors for a durable and classy look that accentuates Williamstown’s heritage look. From starter homes, to move-ups, to luxury homes, Williamstown features the full gamut of housing choices that will appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. NL
Amidst all this serene beauty, Bridges at Williamstown offers a wide range of features that buyers find irresistible.
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Excel Homes n show home profile
Darby’s appeal Excel Homes’ EvansRidge show home has all of the family’s “must-haves” n
By Elizabeth Chorney-Booth
There are a few things most prospective homeowners put on their wish list when shopping for a new home — for example, a roomy master bedroom, extra pantry space in the kitchen, an upstairs bonus room, and a second-floor laundry are among them. Most know full well that it can be difficult, if not impossible, to fulfill that whole list with a house sized to fit within their budget constraints. But with the new Darby laned home in the prestigious community of EvansRidge in the northwest, Excel Homes manages to fit all of the “must-have” features into a beautifully designed 1,723 square-foot two-storey home. “This is a brand new plan that we built specifically for this area,” says area manager Brian Walsh. “We were listening to clients about what they were looking for in a home and we tried to achieve all of those things within this home.” The Darby’s clever design is apparent before you even walk into the show home, thanks to a spacious front veranda. Large enough to entertain on, the veranda is surrounded by high siding that gives the feeling of complete privacy as you sit down to enjoy the luxury of an extended outdoor living space. Once inside, it’s clear that the theme of making the most of the square footage is continued throughout the floor plan. Immediately you’ll find a foyer with a convenient bench seat (with a storage option available) and a half-bathroom discreetly tucked away from the living space. The kitchen, complete with a large island and plenty of cupboard space, flows into a comfortable great room with an optional corner fireplace. With its stainless steel kitchen appliances and more than 100 available finishing choices, the kitchen can be customized with two-tone cupboards and other details to reflect your personal style. The star of the kitchen is an enormous corner pantry that can also be tailored to meet individual storage needs. In the dining room, which sits just off of the kitchen, you’ll find a door leading to a covered deck that comes standard with the home. With an optional privacy screen, the deck is another way to extend the home’s living space outdoors and is the perfect spot for a barbeque.
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show home profile
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Once upstairs, the possibilities of this home really begin to shine. At the top of a stairwell beautifully illuminated with an optional skylight, you’ll find what Walsh describes as the Darby’s “wow factor”: an 11-by-14-feet-plus bonus room, large enough for a full media-set up and enough seating for the whole family! The media room also provides a good buffer between the master and secondary bedrooms, giving additional privacy for all. The master retreat is spacious with a large window facing the street, allowing for plenty of light, especially for the properties in EvansRidge with south-facing fronts. The luxurious ensuite has a separate tub and shower, and the bedroom suite is completed with a large walkin closet that can be customized to your own needs. The secondary bedrooms are angled off of the bonus room to maximize space, making them large enough for kids or any age, or to serve as comfortable guest rooms. A main bathroom with a large tub and a standard linen shelf, and a laundry room with an optional 33-inch deep countertop complete the second floor over the washer and dryer. Unlike many show homes, the Darby has a completely finished basement so that potential owners can envision extending their living 3 2 n e w home liv in g Novem ber 2013
space even further. Again, the layout options are customizable, but the show home showcases a large recreation room big enough for a second media room, a sitting area, and a gorgeous fully-functional wet bar. The basement option also includes a full bathroom, and a well laid-out utility room, full of energy-saving insulation and appliances, including a 95 per cent high-efficiency furnace. Walsh says that Excel is particularly proud of this home and the way the designers have managed to make the most of every square foot of the building plan. “Excel is a market leader in the overall design and layout of homes and it’s really obvious in the Darby show home,” he says. “And also the value we deliver with what’s included.” With the combination of extra outdoor living areas and a design that maximizes the space, the Darby really does offer the feel of a private oasis right in the middle of one of Calgary’s most sought-after new neighbourhoods. NL
Fast facts: builder: Excel Homes area: EvansRidge developer: Dundee Developments size: 1,723 sq. ft. Price: $412,300 address: 805 Evanston Drive N.W. Show Home Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Directions: North on Symons Valley Rd., east on Symons Valley Pkwy. N.W. and left on Evanston Dr. and follow the signs WEB: www.excelhomes.ca
The Darby really does offer the feel of a private oasis right in the middle of one of Calgary’s most sought-after new neighbourhoods. s o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r
community profile
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Ranchers’ takes off This estate Okotoks community is a launch pad for dream homes
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lose to nature? Check. Tons of amenities nearby? Check. Stately estate homes on oversized lots? Check. How about a nearby airstrip where you can land your private plane to get home? That’s a check, too! Like a pilot ticking off a checklist before taking off, its all systems go for Ranchers’ Rise at Okotoks Air Ranch. This community, managed by Bordeaux Properties, on the northern side of town has everything you need for a family-friendly estate community that’s, at once, close to nature as it is to everyday conveniences that makes life a smooth flight. Air Ranch is a dream come true for original landowner, Orville Rowland, an avid pilot and crop duster, who had envisioned a community where families can grow, with a nearby golf course, a wildlife refuge and a private airport. And this is exactly what Ranchers’ Rise now offers. Crystal Green Golf Course is just down the road in the neighbouring Crystal Shores lake community. Air Ranch’s backyard is a bird sanctuary and natural wetlands, accessed by an extensive nature trail network that runs through the neighbourhood. And then there’s the nearby CFX2 — Okotoks Air Ranch Airport which gives rise to the community’s name. “The bird sancatuary and wetlands have long been the focal feature of this project
Air Ranch’s backyard is a bird sanctuary and natural wetlands ...
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community profile
By Pepper Rodriguez
— with a heavy emphasis on nature at your doorstep. There is also a secondary wetland complete with walking paths around it, as well a full playground and sportsfield,” says says Ryan Hall, Vice President, Marketing and Communications for Bordeaux Properties. “Of course the Okotoks Airport is the primary landmark, which provides a unique residential option for private pilots.” He adds that Ranchers’ Rise “was designed and sculpted with exceptional care and respect for nature and your family in mind.” The amenities mentioned above aren’t the only ones nearby either. Within minutes from Ranchers’ Rise is the community recreation center and curling rink. The D’Arcy Ranch and River’s Edge golf courses afford close-by variety to the avid golfer. Downtown Okotoks’ unique shops and amenities is just a short drive away, as are the big box stores of Walmart and Costco on the south part of town. “With all of these amenities located so close, Ranchers’ Rise is a perfect spot to live, with the space and tranquility of the small town,” Hall says. There will be approximately 600 homes spread over 11 phases when this 240-acre development is finished, Hall says. They will be mainly made up of estate and move-up single-family homes with larger lot sizes then what you’d find in most new communities in Calgary. Lots are from 40 to over 50-feet wide, many can accommodate triple-car garages. Lots range in price from $162,000 to $170,000.
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s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
Ranchers’ Rise is a perfect spot to live Fast facts: community: Ranchers’ Rise Developer: Bordeaux Properties Builders: Baywest Homes, Sterling Homes and Wolverine Custom Homes Style: Two-storey or bungalow move-up and estate single-family homes Size: Bungalows from 1,350 sq. ft. and two-storeys from 1,900 sq. ft. Price: Starts from the $550,000s Directions: East on Milligan Dr., Okotoks, left on Ranch Rd. and follow the signs hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Fridays closed, weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.okotoksranchersrise.com
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Bordeaux has assembled a stellar builder group they know they can trust in building quality, awe-inspiring homes that adhere to Ranchers’ Rise’s vision. Baywest Homes, Sterling Homes and Wolverine Custom Homes all have show homes in the community that just brings out the beauty and comfortable livability qualities of the neighbourhood. Homes in Ranchers’ Rise start from the $550,000s including home, best-priced lot and GST. Some residents have spent upwards of $800,000 on their custom luxury homes, so the community enjoys beautiful curb appeal. Stucco, fiber cement board, brick and masonry products shall be incorporated to ensure a high level of lasting visual appeal, Hall adds. Two-storey homes in Ranchers’ Rise are a minimum of 1,900 square-feet, while bungalows are a minimum of 1,350 square-feet. “Ranchers’ Rise’s success as a community is achieved by the high standards established in the Architectural Design Guidelines which aim to foster pride in the neighbourhood, promote quality of life for the residents and protect the long-term investment of each home,” Hall says. NL
... homes built in Ranchers’ Rise reflect a Canadian heritage detailing while allowing for individual preferences to be incorporated.
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New opportuni Finding the perfect home and community for their family in EvansRidge Story by Karen Durrie n Photos by Don Molyneaux
For Arleen and Sergio Manipon, everything they do, from moving to Calgary from the Philippines nine years ago to their recent purchase of a new home, has been done to give their four children the best life possible. Their move to a new two-storey, double-attached garage home from Landmark Homes in EvansRidge does give more room for this family of six, and opens up more possibilities. Arleen and Sergio with their kids — a girl and three boys ranging in age from 15 to 25 — outgrew their old home in Coventry Hills and they knew it was the time to move up. Having an attached garage was important so their eldest son, Kris, a car aficionado, could store the nice cars he aspires to buying. They wanted to stay in the same general area where many of the friends and relatives are, and they found all that they were looking for in the Nexus 2 from Landmark Homes in this growing community of EvansRidge. The community was also right for them as they can remain close to all their favourite amenities, and to stay in close proximity to the university, where their two middle boys attend, and to daughter Angeli’s northwest high school.
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The Manipons moved to Calgary in 2004 from the Philippines, encouraged by an uncle living in the city who told them of the plentiful opportunities found here. “He told us it was nice, especially the schooling and work. In the Philippines, even if they do great in school, it’s difficult to find a good job,” Arleen says. They have not been disappointed. The couple was successful finding work in the city. Arleen, who comes from a family of engineers, is a structural designer, while Sergio works at the Peter Lougheed hospital as a pharmacy technician. The Manipons looked at a number of floor plans before they found the one that was just right for them. “We were very particular in what we wanted. We wanted something more open and bright,” Sergio says. “And in so many models, you see the kitchen right away. Most Asians don’t want to see the kitchen as soon as you walk in,” Arleen adds. The Nexus 2 fit the bill perfectly. Walking into the home, a bright foyer with a stub wall looks into a flex room, beyond which a cutout wall leads to a spacious living room with cozy fireplace on the left, and a beautifully appointed kitchen to the right — a kitchen which cannot be seen when one enters the home. The family was able to view versions of the model via show homes in the south and in Cochrane to make sure it was exactly what they wanted. They started construction in February, and finished six months later, moving into their new home in August. Then began the task of personalizing all their choices in finishes and upgrades for the 2,332-square-foot, $610,000 house. The couple says they were glad to have Landmark’s help with their choices. “It took a lot of discussion. We’re not good at visualizing, and we’re not good interior decorators,” Sergio laughs. The pair enjoys a high-contrast look with lots of black and s o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r
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white, which was brought in through cabinetry, lighting, window treatments, railings and furniture. The walls are painted a warm white, and the floors are a mahogany-hued hardwood. The black fireplace and mantle stand out against the light wall, and a bright, modern orange and red carpet brings a big, juicy pop of colour. Though the Manipons enjoy a minimalist look throughout their tidy home, they definitely max out on the quality of their furniture and finishes. They ordered Italian white granite shot with veins of black from Graniteworx, which was all cut from the same slab, and features on the large island and kitchen countertops, and in bathrooms throughout the home. Polished stainless Samsung appliances were upgrades for the kitchen, and they picked several light fixtures from Signature Lighting, including a mod drum chandelier with a black-and-white pattern for the dining room. They’re also loyal customers of EQ3 furniture store, and own several pieces, including a white leather sectional sofa in the living room, and a funky black-and-white patterned chair in their master bedroom. Down below, the home’s finished basement features a nine-foot ceiling upgrade, and an extra window, which makes it feel less “basementy.” “That was our first argument,” Sergio laughs. “Whether to finish the basement or not. But I think if you don’t develop the basement, it’s a wasted space. It should be used.” The rooms are still sparse so soon after the move, as the family brainstorms about new furniture purchases, but the basement level is intended to be son Kris’s “mancave.” The home’s second storey includes a large master bedroom with furniture in the couple’s signature black, white and grey shades. s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
Sergio and Arleen
A bright ensuite includes a massive soaker tub and shower, and two windows. Because the home is on a corner lot, the architectural controls called for an extra window, so the layout of the bathroom was changed to accommodate it. Down the hall, Angeli’s bedroom continues the black-and-white palette, with newspaper-print bedding. A hot pink desk and chair brighten up the room, as does the girl’s collection of One Direction memorabilia, including a life-sized standup of one of the members. The experience buying with Landmark was a good one, Arleen says. “They were every accommodating people, and we’re very satisfied, plus they gave us a good deal.” After a chat and a tour of the home, the Manipons set out an array of delicious snacks for their visitors — a hallmark of Filipino hospitality. Amidst the shades of black, white and grey, the Manipon family itself adds plenty of colour and warmth to their new home. NL
“We were very particular in what we wanted. We wanted something more open and bright.”
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On the shelf In the age of e-readers, who needs bookshelves? Turns out we still do
Brosna Bookcase at Urban Barn.
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By Kathy McCormick
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o here it is. Technology has changed everything — even things you wouldn’t have thought about. If the thought of curling up in front of the fireplace in your warm, cozy home library that has books stacked to the ceiling on wall-to-wall shelves is your dream, it may not be that easy to duplicate in today’s world. Bookshelves have, by and large, gone the way of the dinosaur — at least in many stores today. People are reading fewer and fewer books, opting instead for the latest e-reader or electronic device to get their storytelling experience in a new way. Top that off with the popularity of modern design today — simplify and get rid of clutter. That ‘clutter’ might be your treasures — your collections that you’ve taken years to accumulate and want to put on display. It’s a little trickier, especially if you want to stick to the old traditional way of displaying things. But that’s not to say that it can’t be done and in a way that will keep your look fresh and contemporary, say some of the experts in home décor and design. “In my opinion, bookshelves are never out of style, mainly because they bring that certain warmth and your own personal style into the home,” says Jordan Bondar of Bondar’s Furniture and Home Evolution. Reclaimed wood is a popular choice at Bondar’s. “Being in Alberta, lots of people want to bring rustic elements into their home — and an easy way to do that is with reclaimed furniture,” says Bondar. At Jayman MasterBUILT, the builder was known for putting in built-in bookshelves in unlikely places — places that would normally be wasted space — such as the first landing going upstairs. But not today, says Stephen Barnecut, director of product development for Jayman.
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Top photos courtesy Bondar’s Furniture.
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“It’s all about editing. Think of what represents you, your family and your values... Change your accents with the seasons. It will cheer you up.” “Both e-reading and minimalist looks are phenomena that have helped nudge the bookshelf out the door,” he says.” However, I don’t think it would be true to say that bookshelves have entirely seen their day. Many people, young and old, have books and need a place to keep them. While some do indeed keep them in boxes, under the other boxes, others are quite fond of them and want to have them easily accessible, or at least on display. Open shelving is a hit with customers at Urban Barn, says its creative director Sebastien Fauteux. “In an open concept space, an open bookcase would be a great addition. An open bookcase can be used to create ‘rooms’ within a large, open floor plan. They also add height and dimension.” Candiss Bengert, owner of Charleston Consulting Group Bibliotheca Bookcase Inc., agrees. “Shelving can make at Urban Barn. a statement as a design feature making a space feel larger.” For the most part, the traditional bookshelves have declined in popularity at Urban Barn, says Fauteux. “The most popular bookcases we offer are pieces of furniture that are adaptable and can be used in almost any room in your home. I have seen our Bibliotheca Bookcase being used everything. I mean everywhere!” And there’s a big trend toward making something what it’s not. “I have noticed that most people don’t want their bookcases to look like typical bookcases — just like they don’t want their sideboards to look like a typical sideboard,” says Fauteux. “Some sideboards are even doubling up as bookcases. Some of this has to do with the ever-popular open-concept floor plans.” That goes with the shape of the bookshelves, too, says Bondar. “What we are seeing more of these days are not just basic shaped bookshelves, but ones with more intricate design and shapes. So not only are the bookshelves functional, but they bring a unique design into the room.” s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
At Jayman MasterBUILT, “we are seeing some other incarnations of the bookshelf. Many people are asking for floating shelves. While not strictly for books, these shelves complement a contemporary look, and seem to fit in anywhere, whether above the fireplace or instead of some upper cabinets in the kitchen,” Barnecut says. “Also, people are choosing hidden shelves. Everyone Photo courtesy needs to store their stuff, but not everyone wants to look at it Bondar’s Furniture. or show it off. It’s possible to line an entire wall, or perhaps an entire corridor, with shelving behind doors and have all that stuff simply disappear. Omit the knobs, and now you have a very modern look.” As for knick-knacks and sentimental collections: Keep it simple, say the experts. “I believe we still should have them, except the ones you choose should be much larger — and only display a few to enhance an area of your home where it may need a burst of colour or may need to fill up a bare space,” says Bengert. “It’s all about editing,” agrees Fauteux. “Think of what represents you, your family and your values. Be selective; don’t rush the process. It should come organically. Change your accents with the seasons. It will cheer you up — guaranteed.” It’s all about simplifying today. “We have noticed an increase in demand for multi-purpose storage cabinet and shelving units,” says Fauteux. “Yes, we have fewer books Photo to put away, but it seems like our homes are still invaded by things courtesy Bondar’s and stuff. Furniture. “The need to get organized and de-clutter is growing.” And that means shelving units everywhere to display, but also to organize, hide and clean up your space. “Family room bookshelves can be turned into a feature, says Bengert. “Add doors, repaint in a neutral colour and possibly expand floor-to-ceiling; turn it into an entertainment centre for the flat-screen TV and all the electronics to provide a home theatre concept; or display black-and-white photos of your family that are framed in one colour.” And don’t forget “It’s also important to note that not everything has to sit on a bookshelf,” says Barnecut. “Credenzas and benches are a great place to show your conversation pieces, or perhaps even a few books.” NL november 2013 new home Living 45
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By Jessica Patterson
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hen Marie-Claire Williams, sales and design consultant with Cardel Renovations, first got into interior design seven years ago, wallpaper was starting to make a comeback. “There was a little hesitation when it first came back into fashion, but the thing I love about wallpaper is that it’s not what it used to be,” she says. “The beauty of trends is that when things come back, they usually come back better.” Wallpaper designs in 2013 have bold and bigger prints and tribal influences. What’s trending in fashion is trending at home, Williams says. “Usually in interior design, you’d see fashion trends occur and a year later, they’d make their way to design,” she says. “Now, they’re happening at the same time because of social media and because everything is so much faster.”
This season, and into 2014, the trend in wallpaper is excessive and extreme, the interior designer says. “We went through a really big minimalist phase, when everything was high-gloss, and simple and clean, and now, definitely this year and for 2014, everything is more over-the-top.” And, the beauty of wallpaper is that you can use it on walls, but also in other ways. Use wallpaper to bring in an on trend colour or theme to one room in your house. It’s easier than remodeling your entire home to reflect a trend. Adding a statement wall — that is covered in a bold paper — will change the whole look and feel of the room. “If you have niches, like a four-inch recess, you can showcase art, but you could do a really beautiful wallpaper on the inside wall,” Williams says. “It’s a beautiful way to show that bit of interest without breaking the bank.” For winter, textured wallpaper is huge. Not only does textured wallpaper feel interesting, it also adds almost an ornamentation to your walls. It grabs attention and makes spaces visually interesting. “The beauty of wallpaper is that there can be visual texture, but there’s also tactile texture,” Williams says. “You can touch it and it gives it a little more depth to the space.” If you like to change your walls as frequently as the seasons, there’s a wallpaper for that, says interior designer Melinda Richardson of Premise Designs in Calgary. “There are peel-and-stick wallpapers,” she says. “You can remove them or reposition them if you want and they come off easier than they used to.” Better yet, there are websites like MuralsYourWay.com and Eazywalls.com that allow you to upload your own images, and the companies will make personalized, peeland-stick wallpaper for you. Hygge & West sell removable wallpaper, and removable wallpaper tiles as an alternative (which are easier to install than a roll of wallpaper), and come in beautiful patterns like Petal Pusher and Otomi.
This season, and into 2014, the trend in wallpaper is excessive and extreme.
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Today’s wallpaper design makes it easier than ever to change your home’s look
All photos courtesy Cardel Renovations.
“It’s a way to create more personality than just paint,” Richardson says. “You can get creative, show your personality, your fun side and your imagination.” Wallpaper is also easier on your budget, because it lasts longer than paint does. “You should freshen up your paint every five years, because it starts showing wear, but wallpaper can last 10-15 years.” And, if you really want something that will last, with texture and can change colours like the seasons, look into paintable wallpaper. Yes, it does exist. It’s called anaglypta. “You can get them so they’re embossed in a pattern and if you want to change colour but don’t want to change all of your wallpaper all of the time, you just paint it,” Richardson says. “You can even do that on your ceiling. If you have a flat ceiling, you could paint it metallic, then you’ve got a tin ceiling without it being a tin ceiling.” Trends Richardson sees for the winter season include damask and stripes, which are timeless and classic designs for wallpaper, while novelty prints, photo and cityscapes are coming into fashion. Colours for the season include blue-greys, teals, and cool pastels like lavander and ice blue. “It used to be you’d get one colour predominantly during a season, and it would last for a few years,” Richardson says. “I’ve heard it’s due to the economic state, that people can’t afford to keep changing with the seasons, so things are lasting longer, because orange is still around. Orange used to be around for half a year and then it was gone and considered a faux pas.” The bottom line with wallpaper: hire an installer if you don’t have the time, patience or desire the mess. If you want something fancy, use a designer because they often have access more than retailers in Calgary. Break out the rich, luxurious patterns to make your space cozy for the colder months. You won’t regret installing wallpaper in your life. NL
Colours for the season include bluegreys, teals, and cool pastels like lavander and ice blue. s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
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Land controversy
By Marty Hope
L to R: Alderman Richard Pootmans, GMH Architects owner Ed Gooch, Mayor Naheed Nenshi, Truman Homes founder George Trutina and AHCC president and CEO David Watson at the Westbury Park ground breaking ceremony. Photo courtesy Attainable Homes Calgary Corporation.
The battle for Calgary’s growth boils down to who has the right numbers
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algary’s residential development industry and home builders say ongoing differences with City Hall could well impact housing affordability and choice. On the other hand, Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi believes industry fears of a serviced land shortage are unfounded. “We want to build what people want and can afford to buy, and where they want to buy,” says Guy Huntingford, chief executive officer of the Urban Development Institute (UDI)-Calgary. “We want to develop land and build homes that offer affordability and choice.” And while joint discussions continue in an attempt to bring both sides together, there is still a lot of ground to cover before any resolution is reached. On one side of the fence is the housing and development industry and on the other side are Mayor Nenshi and his supporters in City Hall. Among the barbed wire issues separating them are city growth, the limits placed
on that growth, red tape in getting development and building approvals, and an industry concern about serviced lot shortages. A UDI-Calgary report shows there is enough serviced land actively being developed to house 110,000 people in slightly more than 33,000 single-family homes. In addition, single-family capacity in planned communities that need City approval for servicing and funding sits just over 72,300 people in 22,000 homes. Then there is the planned communities with area structure plans in progress but not approved by city officials that accounts for another 84,400 people in nearly 25,800 single-family homes. Information from the City, shows planned and actively developing communities have a capacity of an estimated 310,000 residents, while communities with area structure plans in progress will have a capacity of 97,000 more. The City, according to data presented in its Draft Suburban Residential Growth 2013 – 2017 document released earlier this year, is forecasting population growth will top 118,000 over the next five years with about 94 per cent of them going to new communities. With the addition of 29,327 people between April 2012 and April 2013, Calgary’s population has reached 1.15 million. In its residential growth report, the City says there will be 2,400 hectares of serviced land by 2014 — enough for up to 160,000 people.
“…the City works closely with a broad group of industry partners to ensure we have an adequate amoust of serviced land available to meet market demands.” 5 2 n e w home liv in g Novem ber 2013
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“I’m happy with where we are now,” says Nenshi. “However, I often hear that industry is concerned about serviced land supply, especially in the near future. That’s why the City works closely with a broad group of industry partners to ensure we have an adequate amount of serviced land available to meet market demands.” Huntingford at UDI-Calgary is adamant that unless the city loosens its approval strings and approves more serviced land “we’ll be out of serviced lots by early 2018, at current absorption rates. The point is with the time it takes to get approvals and do the engineering to get land ready for servicing — we must act now to avoid a real crisis.” Doug Whitney, president of Canadian Home Builders’ Association-Calgary Region concurs, adding that avoiding this “looming challenge can only be averted by immediate action by City Hall.” Nenshi says city council has approved enough land for 200,000 people in the suburbs, adding that “I’m not that concerned” about a possible shortfall in serviced lots. Wrapping up his one-year term as president of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association-Alberta, Dave Hooge, who is also president of Stepper Custom Homes, says a lack of serviced lots can’t help but have an impact on housing affordability. And he’s less optimistic than Huntingford, saying that partly because of bottlenecks in the approvals process that by 2015 to 2017 there will be “next to nothing” in the way of serviced lots. “If we don’t get to the point where we’re working on some of these new developments and area structure plans shortly — in fact, they’re already overdue — we’ll be out of lots,” Hooge was quoted as saying in a recent newspaper interview. Hooge’s comments were greeted with doubt by Nenshi. “(The land shortage) facts don’t hold up (Hooge’s) assertion. They are operating without the full facts in their hands,” the mayor says. He did admit that in some areas of the city, like the Qualico Communities’ development of Redstone in the northeast, sales activity has been very brisk “and we will have to be nimble to keep up with absorption.” Whitney says that his members, along with other stakeholders like UDI, have been working with City officials on its Framework for Growth and Change in an attempt to align infrastructure needs with costs of growth. He also says that consumer choice in housing and affordability in all areas of the city are necessary to ensure Calgary’s continued economic prosperity, adding that s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
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“If we don’t get to the point where we’re working on some of these new develompments and area structure plans shortly … we’ll be out of lots.” his association recognizes the need for sustainability and innovative development, as well as the rising costs of infrastructure. “But at the same time, the projected high rate of in-migration over the next five years as a result of the positive economic climate and job growth in the province means the industry needs to plan now for future growth,” Whitney says. The building industry has to be certain it has a continued supply of lots moving well into the future so it is better able to plan and to ensure jobs for the more than 37,000 people employed in the residential construction industry. “It’s not just about builders needing inventory; it is about businesses of all kinds, from banks, to oil companies needing the ability to house their expanding workforces in attainable housing with variety and choice, if this city is going to be the vibrant center that we all desire it to be. The economic impact of short-sighted planning will be far more impactful than some may think,” says Whitney. Huntingford says that both industry and the city want the same thing — adequate levels of housing, affordability, and choice. “The contentious issue is what does that choice look like, and where will it be built. The City wants managed growth and we’re building to that plan, but we have to create the potential for growth,” he says. NL november 2013 new home Living 53
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By Pepper Rodriguez
Shane Homes donates $1 million for greening of Stampede Park
New show homes open in Cooper’s Crossing
Shane Homes founder and CEO/CVO, Cal Wenzel, announced that his company is committing $1 million to create Shane Homes Park, a key element in the Stampede’s larger plan to create a new green space along the eastern edge of Stampede Park. “This will be a new urban oasis in downtown Calgary,” said Wenzel. “Parkland and green space adds to the quality of urban living. This is a great fit for us. We are proud to help create a great new gathering, recreation and celebration place for Calgary.” “We welcome Shane Homes as a partner in this project. This is a significant contribution
WestMark Holdings, the developer of the award-winning Cooper’s Crossing neighbourhood in Airdrie, is proud to announce the grand opening of The Estates at Cooper’s Crossing. The exclusive builders in this upscale enclave in Cooper’s Crossing are Crystal Creek Homes, Harder Homes and Canterra Custom Homes. “This is the finest show home parade that has ever been built in Airdrie and one of very few parades in the entire Calgary region with a million dollar plus showhome,” says Paul Gerla of WestMark Holdings. “The Cooper’s Crossing estate parade is a must see for anyone searching for a true estate home.” WestMark has released 24 very large estate lots on what Gerla says is “Airdrie most prestigious street, Cooper’s Park.
to our Riverfront Park project,” said Vern Kimball, CEO, Calgary Stampede. “We are truly fortunate to have a generous and visionary corporate partner willing to work with us to create a world class, year-round gathering place in the heart of Calgary.” The Shane Homes Park is part of a larger plan that calls for the restoration and remediation of what is now mixed use land along the river to restore and create traditional and new natural environments best suited to a river area. “The area is part of the flood plain but not the flood way, as such we have take precautions to flood-proof the area, like putting the electricals at higher ground,” Stampede Park Vice-President for Park Development, Warren Connell, tells Around Town. Shane Homes Park will be a welcoming and attractive destination for Calgarians and Shane Homes’ Cal visitors alike to celebrate, learn, Wenzel with Calgary Stampede’s Ann McCaig, recreate and gather with friends and Vern Kimball. and family.
Starts stabilize in September Housing starts in the Calgary Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) were trending at 12,198 units in September compared to 12,190 in August, 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 trend in total housing starts in September remained stable compared to the previous month as the gain in single-detached starts offset a reduction in multi-family construction,” said Richard Cho, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for Calgary. “Demand for new housing continues to be well supported by growth in employment, strong migration, and relatively low vacancy rates,” he added. CMHC uses the trend measure as a complement to the monthly SAAR of housing starts to account for considerable swings in monthly estimates and obtain a more complete picture of the state of the housing market. The standalone monthly SAAR was 10,829 units in September, down from 11,442 in August. s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
Landmark Homes opens new Mount Pleasant show homes Landmark Homes continues to make waves in the inner-city with their line of utterly distinctive infills, including their latest show homes in Mount Pleasant. “Our inner-city homes focus on executive single and multi-family dwellings,” says Landmark’s Stuart Wen. There are 11 homes available in Mount Pleasant, including The Kelby 2 and The Dawson attached homes, which serve as their show homes at 2220 5th Street N.W. Landmark’s renowned attention to detail and lavish design work comes to fore in the show home, that comes with all the refinements of a modern, upscale family home — but it’s location in Mount Pleasant is its biggest advantage. “This home is an investment that can only increase in value,” says area manager Sergio Russo, and at $899,000 including home, lot and GST, he says it is a great deal. NL november 2013 new home Living 55
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Chestermere
Rainbow Falls · Westcreek · Westmere
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OKOTOKS
COCHRANE s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
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advertisers index  n Apex Developments Heartland page 33
Cardel Homes Quarry Park page 37
Innovations by Jayman Redstone page 23
Apex Developments Hillcrest page 54
Cedarglen Homes page 46
Jager Homes Nolan Hill page 51
Apex Developments Mountainview page 28 Brimor Developments WestGrove Estates page 42 Brookfield Homes page 27 Calbridge Homes FC, pages 14-16 Cardel Homes Highlands of Canmore page 4
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DS Homes page 57 Dundee Developments Evansridge page 60 Emerald New Homes Sovereign Court page 50 Hunter Douglas page 17 Hopewell Communities Copperfield page 9 Hopewell Communities Mahogany page 47
United Communities Drake Landing page 19
Jager Homes Rainbow Falls page 6 Jayman MasterBUILT page 43 Macdonald Development Corp Watermark at Bearspaw page 50 McKee Homes page 11 NuVista page 29 Sabal Homes page 39
Shane Homes New Brighton page 64 Tamani Communities Riversong page 22
United Communities Nolan Hill page 63 Vesta Williamstown page 5 Walton SkyView Ranch page 38 West Creek Developments Legacy pages 2-3
s o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r
hope at large By Marty Hope
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Not your dad’s duplex New generation of side-by-side homes has become a popular choice Homes with shared walls — whether you call them semi-detached, semi-attached or side-by-sides — are laying claim to a larger piece of the housing pie as builders move to respond to a changing market elements. Gone are the days when these homes with a shared wall were thought of simply as a more affordable option to single-family ownership. Lifestyle, aging populations, and politics are all part of the semi-detached equation that is seeing more Calgary and area builders competing in this market segment. Max Saleh, area sales manager for StoneHedge, a semi-detached product being offered by Creations by Shane Homes in southeast Legacy by WestCreek Developments, says he has had great success with their two-storey models. “The majority of our buyers are downsizing from larger homes because their lifestyles have changed,” he says. “And they wanted something appealing, they didn’t want to downgrade, just downsize, so our specifications are very high, the same as Shane’s single-family.” The buyer profile, he adds, is made up mostly of semi-retired and retired people, as well as first-timers. The first phase of 20 homes was sold within the first month of opening the four show homes. Phase 2A has 50 per cent of 28 units already snapped up, with 2B scheduled to come on this coming January. As for the affordability factor, the homes — which measure from 1,372 to 1,594 square-feet — are priced between $340,000 and $348,000, including lot and GST. “I think pricing, the appeal of the Legacy community, and the specs we have included are working together s o u r c e me d i a grou p: ce lebrat ing it s 10t h y ear
to bring us the success we’re having,” says Saleh. Over at Broadview Homes, vice-president Peter-John Woolf says that in addition to providing a well-designed product at an affordable price, the growing semi-detached marketplace is the result of planning decisions made by City administration. “Duplexes are gaining in popularity with consumers, but they are also a response to land-use changes and the requirement by the City for more density — and we’re going to be seeing a lot more multi-family housing, including semi-detached, as we move forward and as the city continues to grow,” says Woolf. With sales wrapped up in The Village segment of northwest Evanston which had 18 semi-detached units, Broadview Homes is almost ready to break ground on similar product in Redstone by Qualico Communities in the city’s northeast, and could have another project, this one in Ravenswood in Airdrie by the middle of next year.
Top photo: Creations by Shane Homes in Legacy. Lower photo: Sorrento semi-detached homes by Broadview Homes.
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“From a pricing perspective, we found our sweet spot was in the $380,000 to $390,000 range in Evanston,” says Woolf. “And what was appealing to our buyers was that they could buy a home with a front-attached garage for under $400,000.” So, was there a specific buyer segment that bought in The Village? “That’s the crazy thing, we got buyers from all over the demographic map — people moving out of condos, young couples and families, empty-nesters, and people who don’t plan to spend all winter here in Calgary,” Woolf says. In that mix, as well, were those who had been shopping the single-family market but decided to buy from Broadview because the well-finished, eye-appealing designs measuring between 1,300 and 1,500 square-feet also came with that double front-attached garage — a far cry from on-street, parking pad, or underground parking. “No doubt, the garage was a big selling point for us,” says Woolf. Sean Nolan, president of Innovations by Jayman says semi-detached housing has captured the appeal of consumers while answering the densification requirements put forward by City administration and politicians. “It’s a healthy and viable market and they address affordability issues,” he says, adding that Innovations by Jayman will have more homes available in Riversong, a Tamani Communities project in Cochrane, and coming up shortly in Qualico’s Redstone development. “With the crunch on for affordability, it’s likely semi-detached homes will appeal to a larger number of people, who might otherwise have bought a single-detached home. As I say, it is a viable segment and one we think will 6 2 n e w home liv in g Novem ber 2013
continue grow,” says Nolan. Like other builders, Nolan has seen a cross-section of buyers scooping up the semi-detached homes they’ve brought to the market. “I’ve seen a shift, though, in the buyer profile with about half of our buyers being first-timers — with somewhere around 80 per cent of them putting 10 per cent down and the other 20 using five per cent,” he says. The other half of the buyer demographic is “a blend of people moving from apartments or condos, and empty-nesters moving down.” Erin Jorgensen, area manager for Trico Homes and selling that company’s semi-detached homes in Legacy, says the 24 homes built have all been sold. She also says that while no plans have been made to offer more of that home style, Trico will be building and selling “semi-attached” — similar to semi-detached but with front attached garages. So a new generation of semi-detached housing has claimed its spot on the Calgary area housing map, and by the sounds of things that spot will continue to grow. According to figures from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., construction of duplexes (semi-detached) in and around Calgary gained 26 per cent for the first eight months of this year compared to a year ago — from 720 in 2012 to 908 this year. “They continue to be a good option for a number of buyers,” says CMHC’s Calgary-based senior market analyst Richard Cho. “Especially for those looking for something larger than a townhouse or apartment.” While construction of semi-detached homes has increased, CMHC noted that for the first eight months of this year, overall multi-family construction is down 36 per cent to 3,701 units by the end of August. NL
Sorrento (top photos) and Claremont (lower photo) show homes by Broadview Homes.
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.
s o u r ce m e di a g r o u p : ce l e b r at i ng i ts 10th y e a r