Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024 by NextHome

Edmonton 2024

THE BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL Discover Edmonton’s builders, developers & new communities one story at a time

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table of contents

16 6

Editor’s Note

Built for real life

24 Brookfield Residential

40 White Eagle Homes:

Qualico Communities

We create what we believe in Building with flexibility since 1976

Excel Homes:

Excel Homes builds on accomplishments of milestone year

18 Rohit Communities: Bold goes further

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Impact Homes

property and community features 10 Coventry Homes

Confident of new growth in Edmonton in 2024 Elevating luxury living

43 Akash Homes

Akash Homes ready for big step in 2024

features 16 Edmonton Outlook 2024: Affordability holds key for Edmonton in 2024

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Jacky Hill jacky.hill@nexthome.ca EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Susan Legge susan.legge@nexthome.ca EDITOR

Pepper Rodriguez pepper.rodriguez@nexthome.ca EDITOR AT LARGE

Salina Yara Halabi SALES MANAGER

Nancy Chemait 780.619.3241 nancy.chemait@nexthome.ca SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATORS

Gary Chilvers Vi Nguyen DISTRIBUTION

distributionteam@nexthome.ca ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES

accountingteam@nexthome.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yvonne Poon, Mike Terentiev Published by

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10 36 New Technology

Latest technological advancements helping homebuilders, buyers

38 Salina’s Corner

expert panel 27

Introduction

Laura Bruno, CHBA-ER

Justin Castelino, Brookfield Residential

Scott Fash, BILD AB

Charles Fay, Jayman BUILT

Jacq Lakusta, Akash Homes

Mark Rodier, Coventry Homes

Luciano Salvador, Rohit Communities

Ryan Smith, Cantiro

2024 Home decor edit

47 Splurge or Save Laundry Cycle

48 Home Decor

Personality Pleaser

50 Top 10

Space saver

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editor’s letter PEPPER RODRIGUEZ EDITOR NextHome

Forging ahead in 2024 Edmonton’s housing market sprinted along in 2023, setting a breathless pace that became the envy of the country. Everything went just as we at Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual forecasted last year, with Edmonton proving to be the best place in the country to achieve homeownership. As we look to the year ahead, we are mindful of the challenges that we are facing - inflation, rising interest rates, continuing supply chain issues, and the heavy influx of new residents to the capital region itself, are combining to put pressure on affordability. However, the industry remains confident that it has the tools necessary to deal with the challenges. To help guide us, we’ve gathered a stellar group of industry leaders for our Expert Panel, who all agree that Edmonton will still have the best opportunities for new homebuyers in

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Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

2024. Check out how each of them is dealing with the challenges and what they expect in the year ahead. The Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual is all about giving readers much-needed insights from the best in business to help them in their decision making. While many still caution against the dangers of overextending finances, it’s important to note that if you are in the position to buy a home now, take it. Lock in at an interest rate you are comfortable with and start building equity. This annual issue will also give readers some of the latest design trends, and the best places to live in and around the city. As always, we at NextHome strive to give our readers all the options that are available as far as new home buying is concerned. And there is no shortage of that in Edmonton.

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For over 70 years, Qualico has been developing communities with pride. We understand that a solid foundation is always the key to greatness, which is why we put strong vision, planning, and ample resources behind every project. We know we’re creating more than neighbourhoods. We’re developing a place where you’ll make memories. So we go beyond the status quo. As the largest developer in the region, we build communities using skilled expertise in technology, design, and service. By offering diverse new Home Styles and access to amenities such as soothing creeks, naturalized ponds and safe playgrounds, there’s truly a community for everyone from the trusted name of Qualico Communities. We create a place for life. We create what we believe in. We create exceptional communities for you to call home. Visit QUALICOCOMMUNITIESEDMONTON.COM to learn more. nexthome.ca 7

POINT AT GLENRIDDING RAVINE • Natural surroundings including a park, storm pond, environmental reserve, and multi-use trails with a scenic view of Whitemud Creek Ravine. • Single Family Homes and ravine backing lots available.

MARQUIS

• Over 80% sold.

• Northeast Edmonton's newest community.

• Final lots are selling fast.

• Brand new playground with Western Canada's first Yalp Memo – an interactive playground feature that exercises body and mind.

POINTATGLENRIDDING.COM

CRIMSON IN CREEKWOOD CHAPPELLE • Located in Southwest Edmonton, nestled in Heritage Valley, north of 41 Avenue. • Peaceful community with serene landscapes, endless recreation opportunities, shopping, and entertainment minutes away. • Duplex and Single Family Homes. • Last phases now selling! CRIMSONINCREEKWOOD.COM

EDGEMONT PLACE • Coming soon to West Edmonton! Located just off Lessard Road. • Close to established shopping, restaurants, schools, and more! • Easy access to Anthony Henday. • Single Family and Townhomes. • Register for more information. EDGEMONTPLACE.COM

• Bordered by the North Saskatchewan River with easy access to the Henday. • Just 5 minutes from the newest City park – Northeast River Valley Park. • Townhomes and Single Family Homes. LIVEINMARQUIS.COM

LAUREL CROSSING • Final phase now selling in this Southeast community. • Parks, beautifully landscaped ponds, green spaces, and trails. • Close to Meadows Recreation Centre, shopping, and easy access to major roadways. • Svend Hansen K-9 school located within the community. • Single Family and Executive Home Styles. LAUREL-CROSSING.COM

CY BECKER • Located in Northeast Edmonton. • Fully integrated walking paths, parks, ponds, and green spaces. • All Seasons Park: Outdoor skating ribbon, tobogganing, spray park, and more. • Close to Clareview LRT, easy access to major roadways, and shopping centres. • Duplex and Single Family Homes available. • Last phases now selling! CYBECKER.COM

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

THE UPLANDS AT RIVERVIEW

ASTER

• Located in West Edmonton, “upland” from the North Saskatchewan River.

• Southeast Edmonton's fastest growing community.

• Pond, creek, and ravine backing lots; the opportunity for walkouts.

• Future parks with close proximity to Mill Creek Ravine.

• Connective trail system.

• Townhome, Duplex, and Single Family Homes.

• Two inclusive playgrounds. • Features a pollinator corridor to attract bees, butterflies & birds, a wildlife crossing, and is part of the Yellow Fish Road Program. • Executive, Single Family Homes, Streetscape Single Family Homes, Duplex, and Townhomes. LIVEINTHEUPLANDS.COM

RIVERS EDGE • West Edmonton's newest community. • Experience the outdoors with a community pond, future top of bank trails, and close proximity to the North Saskatchewan River, and future Big Island Provincial Park. • Single Family Homes and Townhomes. • Future school site directly within the community. EXPLORERIVERSEDGE.COM

• Future K-9 school. LIVEINASTER.COM

VERGE AT STILLWATER Coming soon!

More communities in thriving cities and towns packed with charm, green spaces, convenient commutes and peaceful lifestyle within commuting distance of Edmonton: City of Beaumont: • Ruisseau City of Leduc: • Meadowview Town of Devon: • South Ravines and Ravines of Devon Town of Stony Plain: • Silverstone, SouthCreek and Westerra City of Spruce Grove: • Easton and Springate City of Fort Saskatchewan: • Forest Ridge and Sienna Sherwood Park: • SummerWood 9

Coventry Homes:

Building with Flexibility since 1976 EMBRACING INNOVATIVE DESIGN and unwavering flexibility remains the cornerstone of Coventry Homes. With a legacy spanning almost five decades, this Edmonton-based homebuilder continues to redefine customization in the region, by offering unparalleled quality, adaptable floor plans, and exceptional client service through every step of the homebuying journey. Continuously evolving to surpass buyer expectations, Coventry has never hesitated to redefine its product offerings and services to meet customer needs. One of their newest options will be an additional specification package to choose from – Pointe, which brings an economical finishing package to homebuyers, while also fast-tracking the quick possession process.

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Pointe joins the Pinnacle and Prestige specifications, which offer various levels of the highest fit and finishes for all Coventry Homes. “Flexibility is at the core of what we offer”, explains Tara Van Horn, Director of Marketing and Communications at Coventry Homes, “and we are always keeping a close eye on market trends and customer feedback to help guide us on enhancements in our products and process.” Thoughtfully adapting to buyers’ needs is what also lead to the new direction of having all new Quick Possession homes include a side entrance. Tara explains that “customer’s like having the option of having a revenue suite available if they needed it, and it also helps cater to the needs of maturing families and multi-generational living”.

At the heart of Coventry’s allure are their bespoke Lifestyle Packages, representative of the seamless home customization journey the homebuilder provides. Elevating personalization without the stress, these curated upgrades empower homebuyers to tailor their homes to their unique preferences. From energy-efficient solutions like the advanced solar panel options within the Radiant Series to culinary havens such as The Executive Chef Built-In package, Coventry Homes ensures a tailored living experience for any lifestyle. Notably, as the Official Homebuilder of the Edmonton Oilers, Coventry can exclusively create an immersive fan experience in their homes with a showstopping Oilers Fan Cave option – which, to no surprise, is a top-choice among Edmontonians.

Coventry Homes unveils an enchanting array of home styles across 18 remarkable communities in the Edmonton area, including their newest showhomes in Marquis and Marquis West. In 2024, expect the debut of new showhome featuring an Oilers Fan Cave in Rosemont, Edmonton’s newest west-end amenityrich community. Beyond creating exceptional homes, Coventry remains steadfast in its commitment to community enrichment through various collaborations and donations to worthy organizations. The Building Futures program, in partnership with the Spruce Grove school division, is one of those collaborative opportunities where Coventry provides high school students a hands-on learning experience. Previously just focused on Grade 10 students, the

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

program is now expanding to include more students at various high school grades. Building Futures allows students to learn from Coventry staff and trades, earning credits while contributing to constructing a home—a tangible testament to Coventry’s dedication to nurturing the future generations of our communities. Coventry Homes’ unwavering dedication to innovative design, personalized experiences, and community engagement solidifies its standing as a pioneer in homebuilding. As they look forward to 2024, Coventry promises an exciting journey into tailor-made living experiences that are focused on flexibility. To lean more about Coventry Homes, or for a list of showhomes, visit coventryhomes.ca

Excel Homes builds on accomplishments of milestone year 2023 was a big year for Excel Homes, the renowned homebuilder celebrated its 35th anniversary, saw the expansion of its market in Edmonton, and brought added value to its buyers with sustainably designed homes. And in 2024, Excel Homes is aiming for more. They are off to a good start already, as Excel Homes’ Edmonton division became a top industry leader in green initiatives, receiving over 40 BUILT GREEN® Platinum certifications. “Excel Homes stands as the Number 2 BUILT GREEN® builder in Canada,” exclaims Marketing Manager, Kristina Plank. “One of Excel Home’s

values that we live by is responsibility. We consider the impact of our actions and choices, today and tomorrow, and lead the industry in many areas including safety and sustainability. We are truly passionate about building sustainable homes that will be beneficial to our customers.” Excel Homes also introduced new and improved standard specif ications, and a variety of brand-new anniversary models that will be sure to fit everyone’s lifestyle. “The feedback has been great, and we have seen substantial growth for Excel Homes this year,” Plank says.

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EXPANDING IN EDMONTON Today, Excel Homes are available in more Edmonton communities, as they opened three new showhomes in the capital region this year. The first was a 35th year anniversary home, the Lakeview located in Edgemont, Plank says. “Later in the year, we opened two new duplex show homes in The Orchards, the Bentley, and the Emerson. To celebrate our 35th year anniversary, we released six brand new, versatile front garage anniversary models this year that were designed with the changing needs of our customers in mind.” Stylishness and functionality go hand-in-hand in Excel’s homes and can be easily seen in all these showhomes. Currently, they are building front garage, laned and/or duplex homes in Vita Crystallina, Edgemont, Keswick Landing and The Orchards. “Buyers can look forward to more growth and expansion for Excel Homes in 2024. We are anticipating new communities and brand-new models, designed with over 35+ years of experience and feedback - stay tuned for details!” Plank says.

AFFORDABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY Affordability and style are the hallmarks of each Excel Home but their efforts to bring more

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

sustainability is being rewarded and has appealed to today’s more environmentally minded buyers. “Our homes are Built Green certified with an EnerGuide rating and include green initiatives like Energy Star rated appliances, a high-efficiency combo furnace and hot water tank, a smart thermostat, and a video doorbell, plus all homes are third-party blower door tested. We continue to provide best in class services like including legal fees, additional new home warranty and a move in concierge service with Virtuo.

DARLING DUPLEXES Excel Homes just opened two new duplex showhomes in The Orchards. (Sales centre: 2371 Chokecherry Close SW), starting from the mid $400,000s, Plank says. The first one is The Emerson, a 1,462 square-foot two-storey attached home with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. “The Emerson is a functional and fashionable duplex home with an attached double-car garage. At the heart of your new home, you’ll find your kitchen, complete with a walk-in pantry and additional storage. This area is the ideal space for bringing families and friends together to share a meal and make new memories. The second-floor features three bedrooms, two

bathrooms, two walk-in closets, as well as your laundry room and two linen closets.” Next is The Bentley, a 1,555 square-foot two-storey attached home that allows buyers to experience all that duplex living has to offer with this spacious and modern floor plan. “The Bentley is made for families, so we have included an attached doublecar garage for functionality and convenience,” Plank says. “Our duplexes have 3 bedrooms as a standard and side entrances with a legal basement suite development are available in communities where zoning is permissible.” Go to excelhomes.ca for more information.

LOVING THE LANED HOME Excel Homes offers four models of laned homes in Edmonton currently, ranging from 1,226 to 1,636 square-feet. They can be built in the communities of Vita Crystallina in the northwest, and Edgemont in the southwest. “Our top selling laned model in Edmonton is the Sienna – a 1,636-square-foot home with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths,” Plank says. The Sienna is a bright, open, and fully loaded laned home designed with families in mind. The main floor offers flexibility and a great place to

entertain with a central kitchen and plenty of seating in the great room. A main floor flex room provides the perfect space for a home office, or it can be turned into an extra bedroom. The second floor has an inviting bonus room and laundry, which separates the additional bedrooms from the spacious master suite. An optional developed basement can accommodate a full legal suite, or simply more room for fun and games with the family! It starts from the high $400,000s.

ALBERTA ADVANTAGE Edmonton, and all of Alberta, remains to be an extremely desirable place to live,” Plank says. “The province has a strong economy and high demand for employment,” she adds. “We have many people relocating to our province from other parts of Canada and worldwide. With this influx, the demand for housing will only get stronger.” And that is a demand Excel Homes can certainly meet. “At Excel, we have strong, long-standing relationships with our trade partners. This ensures that we get the best people in the industry to help build your home for the best price,” Plank says.

Go to excelhomes.ca for more. nexthome.ca 15

EDMONTON OUTLOOK 2024

Affordability holds key for Edmonton in 2024 by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

Edmonton is thriving in the spotlight, as the Alberta capital region remains one of the few places in the country where the dream of buying a new home remains attainable. The entire province is expected to continue to star in home affordability through 2024 and even beyond. Edmonton came in second, in fact, in a recent global study that compares where in the world buying property has become more or less affordable. The study from UK-based Online Mortgage Advisor has investigated where buying and renting property has become more or less affordable for average workers globally over the last few years, by comparing ever-fluctuating house prices and average salaries. Edmonton comes in second on the list, beaten out only by Johannesburg, South Africa. It reveals that in 2023 the average worker in Edmonton could afford

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

8.1 extra square meters of property compared to 2018 among 219 other global cities. Calgary ranks sixth in the same study with a 2.9 score. This matters as Alberta led all provinces in population growth this year. The influx of new residents is fueling consumer spending and housing demand. As of July 1, 2023, an estimated 4.7 million people called Alberta home according to annual population estimates released by Statistics Canada. That is 4.1 percent higher than the same time last year— or an additional 184,400 people. CHALLENGES IN 2024

With demand climbing, and the double whammy of high inflation and rising interest rates, there are challenges in keeping Edmonton homes affordable. The industry, through the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region (CHBA-ER) is taking

steps to keep the capital region’s affordability edge. According to CHBA-ER CEO, Laura Bruno, the Edmonton market has not been immune to the effect of interest rate increases and housing supply crunch, but it is better positioned to weather these challenges than most. “The Edmonton Region is fortunate to have supply keeping up with demand, but it’s critical that we continue to maintain a healthy housing supply as we are experiencing record high migration into Alberta,” she tells Edmonton New Home + Condo Guide. “The residential construction industry continues to work on innovative and affordable products that will enable new homebuyers, firsttime homebuyers, and new residents of Edmonton to afford a home. We remain committed to maintaining Edmonton’s economic advantage

as one of the most affordable cities across Canada.” HONING THE AFFORDABILITY EDGE

CHBA-ER says its role in keeping a lid on housing costs is clear. “Our role is to assist in managing cost pressures as much as possible at the local level. This includes exploring strategies like process improvements, innovative product types, and facilitating secondary and garden suites,” Bruno says. Cantiro, one of Edmonton’s most prolific homebuilders, is assuring that it can help keeping its homes affordable by introducing innovative home designs and simplifying the homebuying process. “We have invested heavily in our home designs, processes and support services over the past few years to make the buying process as simple as possible,” says Cantiro Homes President, Ryan Smith. “One of the advantages that we have as an integrated organization is our Homes and Communities teams collaborate to create the most efficient lot designs – most notably in our townhomes and three-storey single family homes – and pass along those land costs savings to the customer. This also allows us to offer single family attached garage homes for under 500k – a unique value in this market,” he says. Charles Fay, Vice-Presdent Edmonton for Jayman BUILT, says

affordability will be their focus in 2024 and intend to introduce more attainable home types in 2024. “While all housing types will still be in demand, street towns and smaller laned homes will see an increase in demand. In 2024 we are also bringing Villa Bungalows to the Edmonton market.” Jayman BUILT, which builds homes in both Edmonton and Calgary, says the ability to offer a wide choice of home types is key. Jayman has close to 60 new showhomes in Edmonton and Calgary, each one showcasing new floorplans, new layout options, leading edge design and finishings, the latest in smart home technology and of course the most energy efficient inclusions. NEW ZONING BYLAW

Edmonton’s new Zoning ByLaw that will come into effect in January 2024, is also expected to help keep Edmonton’s homes affordable. The City says this new bylaw gives them the “opportunity to align city-building tools to ensure all Edmontonians and property owners have the necessary tools to build and experience the city envisioned in The City Plan.” CHBA-ER’s Bruno says it is a move that they wholeheartedly support. “The new Zoning Bylaw will enable the delivery of new product types across all areas of the city resulting in more housing choice for Edmontonians now and in the future. It’s all about

ensuring a high quality of life for the residents and businesses in Edmonton, providing people with choices, attracting talent and skills, and fueling economic success.” PATH FORWARD

Overall, Edmonton’s new home industry is well-balanced and should be able to withstand 2024’s challenges. “We are confident in the positive direction the industry is going,” Bruno says. “We are balancing new construction initiatives with effective growth management to ensure the continued affordability of new homes.” She also points out that the stabilization of interest rates is anticipated to instill confidence in the market. While the recently enacted Zoning Bylaw is expected to streamline processes by reducing red tape to bring new types of innovative housing products to market. “Edmonton and the Metro Region continues to attract people from across Canada and internationally as a destination where people can have a great life for themselves and their families,” she points out. “Our partners in home building are all committed to making sure that it stays that way, and that people can count on finding a place that allows them to thrive in affordable and healthy communities across the city. We see a bright future here in Edmonton.”

CITY

COUNTRY

M2 AFFORDABLE PER SALARY 2018

M2 AFFORDABLE PER SALARY 2022

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2018 AND 2022

Johannesburg

South Africa

14.6

23.2

+8.6

Edmonton

Canada

11.7

19.7

+8.1

Denver

United States

10.4

15.6

+5.2

Liverpool

United Kingdom

4.2

8.6

+4.4

Bangalore

India

5.1

8.7

+3.6

Calgary

Canada

8.9

11.8

+2.9

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia

4.0

6.6

+2.6

Dubai

United Arab Emirates

9.7

12.2

+2.2

Caracas

Venezuela

0.4

2.7

+2.3

Kolkata

India

4.2

6.3

+2.1

RANK

WWW.ONLINEMORTGAGEADVISOR.CO.UK/CONTENT/PRICED-OUT-PROPERTY-2023

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ROHIT COMMUNITIES BOLD GOES FURTHER

18 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

023 was a banner year at Rohit Land Development. The year saw the multi-awarded land developer change its name to Rohit Communities, but more importantly saw the launch of a string of successful communities in and around Edmonton that continues to provide world-class homes and lifestyles. The rebrand unifies the Rohit real estate group’s land development and homebuilding divisions under the Rohit Communities banner that strengthens its marketing position in 2024 and beyond. Even as the renowned land developer opened the new communities of Chérot, and Cambrian, and celebrated awards for its Kinglet Gardens development. All these communities offer their own unique charms but are designed very much in keeping with Rohit Communities’ commitment to family-oriented, nature connected, recreation-minded lifestyles. They are also replete with in-community

amenities that are put in place even before the first residents move in.

CAMBRIAN ROCKS One of their blockbuster launches this year is the community of Cambrian in Sherwood Park. Cambrian prides itself as one of the most exclusive enclaves in Sherwood Park, where homes offer an escape from the urban jungle into an urbane, peaceful residential neighborhood that works with nature rather than against it, says Scott Rudman, Senior Project Manager, Rohit Communities. Cambrian is a ravine community - one of the very few available in Sherwood Park, Rudman says - where residents can find everything in one place. “This master-planned community has a variety of home styles to choose from with future commercial sites, a school, multifamily apartments, parks and open spaces, and more. There are mixed-use trails that meander

along the Oldman Creek Ravine and through the neighbourhood’s rolling landscape connecting the parks and other amenities.” Since its launch in early fall 2023, Cambrian’s first playground installation has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the community’s development. The first phase has launched over 200 lots this year, with plans to ultimately accommodate 4,500 future residents. The community will offer a diverse range of housing types and amenities, including business employment opportunities, a school site, church site, and neighborhood and grocery-anchored commercial spaces. “Moreover, future phases will feature ravine lots, which have been scarce in Sherwood Park for some time,” Rudman says. “The combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, and thoughtful planning positions Cambrian as an appealing destination for a wide range of potential residents and investors.”

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MORE TO LOVE There are a variety of home styles offered to suit every lifestyle, including single-family front attached garage homes, Zero Lot Line front and rear detached garage homes; as well as duplexes (Front Back Duplexes) and townhomes. Residents get to choose among award-winning builders, including ART Homes (which will be building their biggest showhome yet), Bedrock Homes, Gill Built Homes, Rohit Homes, San Rufo Homes, and Victory Homes. There are showhomes open to view in Cambrian, says senior marketing coordinator, Trisha Poitras. “Our community’s website, liveincambrian.com, invites visitors to explore these showhomes, indicating their current availability for viewing.” Rohit’s dependability in putting the residents’ needs first also comes into play in Cambrian. “We ensure amenities are ready before the first residents arrive, a principle we follow in all our communities,” Rudman says. “The state-of-the-art Cambrian Wave

20 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

playground, just opened, and is designed for kids who love swings, climbing, and parkour adventures. Additionally, one of the four ponds in the neighborhood will be fully completed this fall. The dog park is set to open next year.” He adds that 27 per cent of the total land in Cambrian has been set aside for recreation through open spaces including parks and playgrounds, and ponds. Sherwood Park is also one of the best cities for families in Alberta with incredible opportunities for recreation, and sporting activities. “Sherwood Park is a wonderful community known for its safe neighbourhoods and being recognized as one of the happiest places in the Prairies to live,” Rudman says.

BUILDING ON 2023 ACCOMPLISHMENTS Rohit Communities’ other notable accomplishments for the year includes their Kinglet Gardens winning the Best Showhome Parade category at the 2023 CHBA Edmonton Region Awards of Excellence in Housing It was also a

finalist for the Best Showhome Parade at the BILD Alberta Awards the same year. One of Kinglet Garden’s biggest advantage is its proximity to nature. As part of the Big Lake community, Kinglet Gardens is close to wildlife and lake activities for the whole family, making it the ideal home for the outdoorsy and recreation minded. Find out more at kingletgardens.com. Another big launch is for the new community of Chérot in St. Albert. This municipality just northwest of Edmonton had long been one of the most sought after residential destinations in the Edmonton area, as the balanced lifestyle it offers of big city amenities with a small-town heart appeal to many new home buyers. Now, the new amenity-rich community of Chèrot brings an elevated European flair to the design. With an emphasis on French architecture, Chèrot brings a little bit of Parisienne flavour to the prairies. Pronounced like “merlot,” the community, just like a fine wine, can only get better with age. Get more information at cherot.ca.

IMPACT HOMES: BUILT FOR REAL LIFE

Celebrating 20 years of exceptional homebuilding, Impact Homes has focused on quality craftmanship, innovation, and delivering a personalized homebuying experience. Locally owned and operated, their unwavering commitment to both building with excellence and staying in-tune to homebuyer’s changing lifestyles has elevated the homebuying journey for customers, providing a distinctive experience from the start to completion. At the core of Impact’s process lies a dedication to moving past traditional constraints and controls in the industry, resulting in homes that aren’t just built but curated to resonate with individual lifestyle needs. nexthome.ca 21

Setting them apart from other builders, Impact Homes isn’t afraid to break free from the conventional molds of new home designs. Their emphasis? Tailoring homes to mirror the unique preferences of each homeowner. As part of the esteemed Coventry Group, Impact Homes brings over 60 years of collective expertise to the table, ensuring every homebuyer receives an extraordinary experience. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of homeowner desires, each residence reflects the unique identity of its owners. Looking ahead to 2024, the Impact Homes team is eager to welcome a new option to their specification packages – Essential, which brings a more budgetfriendly finishing package to homebuyers, while maintaining the signature stylish look and quality that Impact is known to deliver. This new addition also allows homebuyers to fast-track the quick possession process and get into a new home even quicker. Essential joins the Essence specification which now give Impact Homes the flexibility to offer various levels of fit and finish. 22 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Identifying the current needs of homebuyers in today’s market and adapting towards them is integral to Impact’s success. Tara Van Horn, Director of Marketing and Communications at Impact Homes, explains that “today’s buyer is looking for more affordable and value-driven options as well as flexibility. In addition to bringing in a more economical specification package with the Essential, we are also building all new Quick Possession homes with side entrances to allow for homebuyers to have a revenue suite or convenient generational living available in their home.” Nestled within a variety of thriving communities, Impact Homes are proud to bring single-family detached homes that are built with exceptional craftsmanship and flexible floor plans—and ready to be tailored to personal lifestyles. Find their homes within the Edmonton communities of Aster, Crystallina Nera, Marquis, Laurel Crossing, Hawks Ridge, Village at Griesbach, West Secord, and South Pointe. You can also find them in Spruce Grove within the communities of Easton & Copperhaven, as well as in St. Albert within Nouveau and Riverside. Explore their homes via immersive 3D virtual tours on the Impact website and start your new home search anytime and anywhere.

To learn more about Impact Homes and the vibrant communities they build within, visit impacthomes.ca. nexthome.ca 23

Brookfield Residential confident of new growth in Edmonton in 2024 Edmonton isn’t the only city in North America that Brookfield Residential builds in, but it is one where the multi-awarded land developer and homebuilder has the most confidence in this year for continued growth. “Edmonton is Canada’s next hot bed for affordable housing, matched with a city that has a thriving arts and culture scene, flourishing employment sectors, prominent sports events, family amenities and much more,” says Justin Castelino, Brookfield Residential Senior Marketing Manager for Alberta Homes. 24

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

“Despite the challenges posed by the current interest rate climate, the value in Edmonton is unsurpassed across any major Canadian city – this bodes well for a city that is ready to grow, with a steady supply of great communities and home choices.” DEVELOPER OF CHOICE Brookfield Residential develops five communities in Edmonton today, including The Orchards, Paisley and Chappelle Gardens in the south; and Parkland and Edgemont in the West. “We

EDGEMONT

The Purcell

The Rundle

still have a lot of land opportunities in the capital region, so future growth is definitely in the cards,” Castelino says. Brookfield Residential added a few more feathers in its cap last year, taking home awards in the national and provincial stage. They won the Developer Pinnacle award at the BILD Alberta Awards last September, and two of their Edmonton communities also took home major awards in 2023. The Orchards won Best Showhome Parade at the BILD Alberta Awards; and Chappelle Gardens, which took home Best Growing Community Award at the CHBA National Award. Brookfield Residential also opened new showhomes in Edgemont that are sure to be contenders in next year’s awards season. And it isn’t even about winning, Castelino points out. “The focus remains on creating belonging, places for gathering, connecting neighbours and providing amenities that make you love where you live.” HOMEBUILDER MAGIC Brookfield Residential builds homes in all of the communities they develop and prides itself as a “something for everyone builder,” Castelino says. In Edmonton, Brookfield Residential offers one- to three-bedroom townhomes, duplex, laned and front drive garage homes. “We offer higher specifications to give the buyer what they want,” he points out. Brookfield Residential also now offers solar panels as an option in all their single-family

homes. “We also completed out first Net Zero Home in Edgemont,” Castelino says. BETTER TOOLS TO HELP CUSTOMERS Castelino says Brookfield Residential is also making it easier for homeowners to shop for and live in their new home in a couple of ways. First is the myHome Certified Maintenance program. “Our exclusive myHome Certified Maintenance program brings peace of mind to our homeowners, with service intervals provided throughout the first three years of ownership, above and beyond our warranty program,” he says. “Services are designed to monitor and maintain the key elements of the home, including heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, doors and windows, roofing and eavestroughs, and more. The program also gives an opportunity to add items to your home, “using our trusted trade partners, such as barbecue or patio gas lines, air conditioning, and more.” Learn more at BrookfieldmyHome.ca. Castelino says they are also excited with their partnership with Homewise, which will provide quick, accurate mortgage pre-approvals to help shoppers know their purchasing position. “Brookfield Residential and Homewise work with over 30 lenders and have saved our homebuyers thousands on their mortgages,” he says. “We also provide a trusted, no-obligation second opinion ‘Rate Check’ to ensure customers are getting the best rate and mortgage – crucial in these times of rate volatility.” nexthome.ca 25

DEVELOPING TRUST For Brookfield Residential, it really is about providing a simple, straightforward path to homeownership. “From when our customer’s first start browsing on our website to the day they take possession, and for years after that, we are there to guide and support them in every way,” Castelino says. “We partner with great companies like Virtuo, who provide move-in concierge services to make the transition to your new home as seamless as possible. And with Homewise, who have helped our homeowners save thousands on their mortgages, with quick and easy pre-approvals.” He adds that Brookfield Residential builds quality homes in great communities, and “strives to create an experience that our customers will be proud to tell their friends and family all about.” Find out more at alberta.brookfieldresidential.com.

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

FEATURE

Edmonton in the spotlight in 2024 Last year, Edmonton stood alone in the spotlight as the hottest housing market in Canada, maybe the world. Alberta’s capital region held all the cards as far as housing market appeal goes, and the ace is its affordability. Compared to other major cities in the country, Edmonton remains one where owning a home is attainable. But in 2024, that same affordability is coming under pressure. In this issue of the Edmonton Builders Annual, we gathered a selection of movers and shakers in the local housing industry in our Expert Panel to speak of the challenges in the coming year and how they are preparing to face them. These experts are the very people who would know – coming from industry associations to those in the forefront of homebuilding and land development themselves. They are the people who build the homes and communities in the greater Edmonton area, and they can speak with confidence and proficiency on everything about the market. Here’s what they have to say:

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Expert Panel How will Edmonton face the challenges of 2024 including affordability and lack of inventory? A: Housing affordability and choice are top of mind for the residential construction industry and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region. Fluctuating interest rates have impacted housing affordability across the county, and Edmonton’s market felt the effect of the interest rate increases. The Edmonton Region is fortunate to have supply keeping up with demand, but it’s critical that we continue to maintain a healthy housing supply as we are experiencing record high migration into Alberta. The residential construction industry continues to work on innovative and affordable products that will enable new homebuyers, first-time homebuyers, and new residents of Edmonton to afford a home. We remain committed to maintaining Edmonton’s economic advantage as one of the most affordable cities across Canada.

Laura Bruno CEO, CHBA – ER

Give us a recap of what the CHBA ER and the industry was able to accomplish last year. What are its plans for 2024? 2023 was a very busy year across the landscape of the residential construction industry. We celebrated Edmonton ranking #1 in the CHBA Municipal Benchmarking Study; an acknowledgement met with excitement from the City of Edmonton and industry. This recognition is a great example of the benefits of the private and public sectors working together. One of CHBA-ER’s priorities throughout the past year and into 2024 includes work on the City of Edmonton’s City Plan Implementation, which outlines how the City of Edmonton will grow to 2 million people. The work under the City Plan included the passing of a new Zoning Bylaw, which will benefit our community’s development, sustainability, and overall well-being. Additional work throughout 2023, and into 2024 will continue to focus on reducing red tape through permit process improvements, inspection consistency, the impacts of energy efficiency, and fostering relationships with regional administration and councils. How is CHBA Edmonton helping members meet these challenges? What is the biggest challenge it is facing? Our role is to assist in managing cost pressures as much as possible at the local level. This includes exploring strategies like process improvements, innovative product types, and facilitating secondary and garden suites. These approaches aim to offset the rise in mortgage rates by providing additional income through renters or offering more affordable

28 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

housing options for the average consumer. In addition, the mission of the Association is advocating and collaborating in pursuit of our members’ success by working with city administrators and elected officials, so they understand the impact of policy changes they are considering on the home building industry. Some of the biggest challenges facing the industry include increasing interest rates, the mortgage stress test, labour shortages, and maintaining housing affordability while mitigating external cost pressures. Is there reason to be confident? Do you think the City and the industry is heading in the right direction? We are confident in the positive direction the industry is going. We are balancing new construction initiatives with effective growth management to ensure the continued affordability of new homes. The stabilization of interest rates is anticipated to instill confidence in the market. The recently enacted Zoning Bylaw is expected to streamline processes by reducing red tape to bring new types of innovative housing products to market. Edmonton and the Metro Region continues to attract people from across Canada and internationally as a destination where people can have a great life for themselves and their families. Our partners in home building are all committed to making sure that it stays that way, and that people can count on finding a place that allows them to thrive in affordable and healthy communities across the city. Going in the right direction is rarely a straight line, so while every decision and outcome might not be perfect, the direction overall is positive, and we see a bright future here in Edmonton.

Justin Castelino

SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER, ALBERTA HOMES, BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL What’s the biggest challenge Brookfield in Edmonton faces in 2024? How are you planning to handle this? The biggest challenge that we see in Edmonton is market confidence. A number of the key indicators show that Edmonton is Canada’s next hot bed for affordable housing, matched with a city that has a thriving arts and culture scene, flourishing employment sectors, prominent sports events, family amenities and much more. Despite the challenges posed by the current interest rate climate, the value in Edmonton is unsurpassed across any major Canadian city – this bodes well for a city that is ready to grow, with a steady supply of great communities and home choices. Our plan to address the affordability issue revolves around prioritizing our best prices and delivering an unparalleled customer experience. What’s your most important tool in 2024 in helping customers with their homebuying decisions? Are there new innovative technologies you are bringing into the homebuilding process? Our biggest tool remains our people. From our online sales team, our teams in the showhomes, to our construction teams and trade partners, we really aim to make sure we are working with our customers to provide them with the guidance, support and assurance they need throughout their entire homebuying journey. As an example, having our website provide accurate pricing for our homes, we want our customers to be informed and empowered. They can see which homes are available, timelines for possession, option pricing, and even build their home with the pricing clearly displayed.

Expert Panel

Additionally, this year we rolled out our myHome Certified Program. MyHome offers semiannual checkups, and convenient, proactive services like filter changes, cleanings and inspections of core items in your home. This enhanced level of service is included for three years on every new Brookfield, above and beyond industry standards, assuring your biggest investment is protected for years to come. What home types do you see will be in demand this year, and why? How are you adapting to this need? Each buyer has unique needs for their family and new home. We have something for everyone, in five amazing communities. There is currently a growing interest in basement suites within our homes. Legal basement suites offer enhanced living flexibility and the added advantage of potentially increasing mortgage qualification, along with the opportunity for supplementary rental income. We have a number of plans that can accommodate a fully enclosed, legal suite. From an affordability standpoint, our Everly townhomes, in the community of The Orchards, offer a two- and three- bedroom townhomes that start in the low $300s, and include an attached garage. Overall, we are striving to provide Edmontonians with a variety of housing options and budgets. How are you helping buyers achieve the homeownership dream? It really is about providing a simple, straightforward path to homeownership. From when our customer’s first start browsing on our website to the day they take possession, and for years after that,

Our plan to address the affordability issue revolves around prioritizing our best prices and delivering an unparalleled customer experience. we are there to guide and support them in every way. We partner with great companies like Virtuo, who provide move-in concierge services to make the transition to your new home as seamless as possible. And with Homewise, who have helped our homeowners save thousands on their mortgages, with quick and easy pre-approvals. We build quality homes in great communities, and strive to create an experience that our customers will be proud to tell their friends and family all about. nexthome.ca 29

Expert Panel

How will Alberta face the challenges of 2024 including affordability and lack of inventory? Are the Edmonton and Calgary markets in danger of overheating? Industry is responding to the increase in population and demand by increasing housing starts and inventory across the province. Calgary is seeing unprecedented growth and in return we are seeing record breaking housing starts and in particular, the highest number of purpose-built rentals in the City’s history. Programs including CMHC MLI Select provides beneficial lending rates and amortizations of up to 50-years if the project includes below-market rental units, enhanced energy efficiency and/or improved accessibility. This has led to historic levels of new purpose-built rental construction in Calgary and Edmonton, many of which will include 10-25% of units rented at 30% below the median renter income. Both markets could continue to see strong demand in 2024 due to our housing affordability relative to other markets. 30 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Scott Fash CEO, BILD AB

Give us a recap of what the BILD AB and the industry was able to accomplish last year. What are its plans for 2024? BILD Alberta is continuously meeting with the Government of Alberta and since the May 2023 provincial election, have met with 10 ministries. We successfully pushed for significant investments into Alberta’s Land Titles system which addressed delays impacting transactions and overall costs. We also worked closely with government on adoption of the new National Building Code and will be rolling out education and resources in the new year. Beyond that, BILD Alberta and the provincial government are laser focused on housing affordability. Ongoing meetings with government are centred on identifying policies and areas of improvement to ensure housing remains affordable across the province. How is BILD AB helping members meet these challenges? What is the biggest challenge it is facing? Shortages in skilled trades have been an issue for the residential construction industry and BILD Alberta membership for decades. It is estimated that 21% of the current skilled labour force will retire by 2030, making this an even greater threat. In addition to the $7 million scholarship fund launched last year, BILD Alberta is in the early stages of implementing its skilled labour force strategy. This will focus on pre-employment training for people entering the industry, promoting the skilled trades, and tackling industry barriers. This challenge will not be resolved overnight and will require a long-term, coordinated effort. Can you comment on Edmonton’s new zoning bylaw, does this help the new home industry? Is the City of Calgary taking the rights steps

to combat lack of affordability in housing. What would you like to see in these markets? Our industry and the association are comprised of builders and developers who work in both new and existing communities. When implemented, Edmonton’s new Zoning Bylaw should provide more opportunities to develop land and build homes across the city. By streamlining zoning and approvals, the city has provided greater clarity for industry when identifying potential opportunities. This will support greater supply, choice and overall affordability. The City of Calgary and the development and building industry have been working together to achieve a shared vision for Calgary through the ‘Building Great Communities’ project. From that work, The City has recognized that their policies can add costs to development, which ultimately affect the price of a home. They are actively exploring ways to reduce these costs and increase density. In 2024 we hope to continue working collaboratively to address policies impacting housing affordability and industry capacity province-wide. How can the industry act to help first-time homebuyers? Alberta’s housing affordability has historically been one of the greatest factors in attracting first-time home buyers entering the market rather than looking out of province. Housing affordability is reliant upon a stable and consistent supply. Escalating home prices due to short-sighted government policies, red tape, supply chain issues, skilled labour shortages impacting or delaying increases in housing inventory and supply have obliterated affordability in other major Canadian markets. We can’t lose sight of why housing has remained affordable in Alberta and how quickly it can erode.

Charles Fay

VICE PRESIDENT, JAYMAN BUILT EDMONTON What’s the biggest challenge Jayman in Edmonton faces in 2024? How are you planning to handle this? Affordability will continue to be the biggest challenge in 2024. Mortgage qualification rules, higher interest rates and increasing cost pressures will continue to affect affordability. We will continue to innovate with Design, Specifications, and through our Jayman Financial to help face these challenges. What’s your most important tool in 2024 in helping customers with their homebuying decisions? Our Sales Centers and Sales Experts are our most important tool. We have an industry leading website, construction scheduling tools and are constantly looking for the next technology that can improve our customer experience. We also offer Realty and Financial services in house, along with our styleMagicTM design centre – making the home buying process seamless. Essentially, we are a one-stop shop, saving our customers time and money. We

basically look at any pain-point a customer might experience and look for a way to solve it. For example, we introduced our Gold Key Maintenance for Life program a couple years ago – essentially a home maintenance program (similar to services you would perform on a new car) but on the mechanical and other systems in your home to help them run smoothly for years to come. AND, in 2023 we introduced 10 standard solar panels on all 2023 single family homes. We are carrying this into 2024, helping homeowners reduce their electrical costs. What home types do you see will be in demand this year, and why? How are you adapting to this need? Affordability will be a focus in 2024. While all housing types will still

Expert Panel

be in demand, street towns and smaller laned homes will see an increase in demand. In 2024 we are also bringing Villa Bungalows to the Edmonton market. Jayman is building all products types in Edmonton and surrounding areas, depending on the customers needs and phase of life. How are you helping buyers achieve the homeownership dream? Through Jayman Financial, Jayman Realty, our diverse portfolio of designs, specifications and communities we have products and services to serve the need of all homebuyers. Our systems and process make the homebuying experience simple, focused on the end goal of a happy homeowner.

Affordability will be a focus in 2024. While all housing types will still be in demand, street towns and smaller laned homes will see an increase in demand. 31

Expert Panel

Jacq Lakusta

What’s the biggest challenge Akash in Edmonton faces in 2024? How are you planning to handle this? Migration patterns and a lack of built inventory to meet buyer demand will be one of our toughest battles and we’re seeing this play out now in areas like Spruce Grove and Fort Saskatchewan. By adding crews in all areas, from operations to construction to sales, we aim to mitigate this as much as possible as we close gaps on our construction timelines.

What’s your most important tool in 2024 in helping customers with their homebuying decisions? A well-educated operations and sales team who are all well-versed in the construction process and sales process. Our team is comprised of talented individuals who work collaboratively to stay on top of market trends and shifts. As well, our team embraces the changes that come with new technologies (like artificial augmentation for virtual

SALES MANAGER, AKASH HOMES

With the rapid rise in the cost of living over recent months and the rapid rise of interest rates, we expect to see many home buyers looking for entrylevel duplex and laned single-family homes.

tours; chat GPT; etc.) which helps them to stay at the forefront of innovation. Where others are afraid of new and emerging technologies in our industry, we encourage our team to explore creative ways to use them. This ensures that our customers have a seamless and informed homebuying experience. By embracing these innovations, we aim to provide not only high-quality homes but also a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the evolving needs and expectations of our clients. What home types do you see will be in demand this year, and why? How are you adapting to this need? With the rapid rise in the cost of living over recent months and the rapid rise of interest rates, we expect to see many home buyers looking for entrylevel duplex and laned single-family homes. Homes in the $450K category or less will be attractive to wide demographic of buyers as people look to decrease their day-to-day living expenses. We also expect to see a higher demand for suited basements as buyers look to offset some of their mortgage costs. We plan to rise to these needs by building varied products in many of our communities. How are you helping buyers achieve the homeownership dream? Our sales team is equipped with indepth knowledge of the real estate market, financing options, and the intricate details of the home buying process. By offering personalized consultations, guidance on market trends, and insightful advice, our team ensures that buyers make well-informed decisions tailored to their needs. A knowledgeable and supportive team is instrumental in turning the homeownership dream into a reality as many buyers are often looking for guidance and we make sure we can offer that.

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Mark Rodier

Expert Panel

PARTNER & GM, COVENTRY HOMES What’s the biggest challenge Coventry in Edmonton faces in 2024? How are you planning to handle this? In the ever-evolving landscape of homebuilding, our biggest challenge in 2024 is navigating the dynamic market conditions, including potential changes in interest rates and the subsequent impact on client behavior. The pandemic and higher interest rates have caused a mass movement of people from other provinces into Alberta. While this has caused a hot and fast paced market in Calgary, in Edmonton we have been building a healthy inventory of Quick Possession and spec homes. This deliberate approach helps to cushion the market and provides prospective buyers with a diverse array of options, mitigating some of the challenges associated with a rapidly moving market. What’s your most important tool in 2024 in helping customers with their homebuying decisions? Are there new innovative technologies you are bringing into the homebuilding process? In 2024, Coventry Homes is at the forefront of leveraging innovative technologies to empower our homebuyers throughout their journey. One standout tool is our interactive floorplan on our website for all our models, revolutionizing the way buyers explore and customize their homes. With real-time visualization, buyers can instantly see the impact of changes to the floorplan. Whether it’s expanding living spaces, optimizing bedroom layouts, or creating a personalized home office, the interactive feature allows for immediate feedback, ensuring that every adjustment aligns with the buyer’s vision. Beyond personalization, interactive floorplans facilitate efficient communication between buyers

and our team. By visualizing design preferences in real-time, buyers can effectively convey their ideas, reducing the potential for miscommunication. This streamlined collaboration ensures that the final product aligns seamlessly with the buyer’s vision. What home types do you see will be in demand this year, and why? How are you adapting to this need? For 2024, we’re witnessing a notable surge in the demand for homes designed to accommodate diverse living arrangements, such as revenue suites or multi-generational living. A key feature addressing this need is the incorporation of dedicated side entrances in our home designs. By integrating side entrances into our designs, Coventry Homes is not just building houses; we’re crafting homes that recognize and celebrate the diverse ways in which families choose to live. It’s about providing the flexibility and functionality that today’s homeowners crave, whether they’re embracing the entrepreneurial spirit of revenue suites or the closeness of multi-generational living. All of our 2024 Quick Possession homes, where the lot can accommodate, will include a side entry. This feature not only aligns with current housing trends but also positions our homes as adaptable and forward-thinking, contributing to longterm satisfaction for our homeowners. How are you helping buyers achieve the homeownership dream? Fulfilling the homeownership dream is at the core of what we do – our purpose is to enrich people’s lifestyles. To support buyers on this journey, we offer a range of flexible customization options as well as a broad range of products to allow flexibility in homebuyers budgets.

Fulfilling the homeownership dream is at the core of what we do – our purpose is to enrich people’s lifestyles. In 2024, we’re excited to introduce our new product line called Pointe. Specifically designed for the more price-sensitive demographic, Pointe Quick Possession homes offer a unique blend of efficiency and flexibility, providing valuable options for new homebuyers. We recognize that affordability is a key consideration for many aspiring homeowners. This product line is strategically curated to meet the needs of those who value efficiency and affordability. Affordability should not come at the expense of quality. Our Pointe homes are built with the same commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines all our offerings. It’s an assurance that, even in the fast-track journey to homeownership, buyers can expect a Coventry-quality living experience.

nexthome.ca 33

Expert Panel What’s the biggest challenge Rohit faces in 2024 in Edmonton? How are you planning to handle this? We have seen all sorts of unpredicted challenges over the past few years, but now with the supply-chain stabilizing and a return of the trade base, we anticipate that interest rates will be at the forefront of most buyer’s minds in the foreseeable future. Interest rates, coupled with steady inflation in development costs will impact everyone. Our plan to combat the effect of this on builders and homebuyers is by working with the builders to ensure we deliver efficient and cost-effective lots. What’s your most important tool in 2024 in helping customers with their homebuying decisions? Are there new innovative technologies you

Luciano Salvador

EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT ROHIT COMMUNITIES are bringing into the homebuilding process? Our Land Development team takes pride in creating communities that we would want our families and friends to live in, which is why we feel that delivering communities with strong architectural controls provides value for years to come, along with amenities on or as close to day one provides a buyer the confidence that they are making the right decision to buy there. Closely monitored architectural controls help to protect a homebuyer’s biggest investment of their life, and by completing our amenities sooner, it ensures homeowners are able to immediately enjoy their new community, instead of being bogged down by the feeling of living in a perpetual construction site. We also have the advantage of having

Our Land Development team takes pride in creating communities that we would want our families and friends to live in…

34 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

some of our land holdings adjacent to natural areas. In these communities, we are able to implement Low-ImpactDevelopment initiatives, taking what nature has given us and enhancing it. What community design innovations are you excited for? Its all about creating value. Whether a buyer is looking for their forever home or if high interest rates are affecting their purchasing power, our community design and amenities creates a safe place for their investment. In an increasingly competitive market, our team has also been looking to interesting and innovative ways to drive traffic to our communities. We are very excited to have recently launched our “Paris Playground” in Chérot, our new community in St. Albert, and “Parkour Playground” in Cambrian, our new community in Sherwood Park, both having received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Next year, we will also open a much-anticipated dog park in Cambrian. We pride ourselves in providing value to residents, and this is one way we have been able to deliver. How are you helping buyers achieve the homeownership dream? We are constantly working with our builders to refine zonings, provide diversity of product choice, and set lot dimensions that deliver the most efficient and cost effective lots, which helps their dollar go further on their home. Further to that, when we are designing our communities, we pick builders based on their strengths, meaning whether someone is buying their first home, or a move-up home, they are getting the best quality and designs available for the product they are purchasing.

Ryan Smith

Expert Panel

PRESIDENT, CANTIRO HOMES What’s the biggest challenge Cantiro in Edmonton faces in 2024? How are you planning to handle this? Alberta has been experiencing record migration this year. Population growth is expected to remain moderate into 2024. Over the past two years we’ve seen how increased interest rates have been affecting buyer behaviour. While affordability is greatly affected in other areas of Canada, Alberta remains relatively affordable compared to other markets. Based on inflation, further rate increases could still be a possibility. To provide a wider range of home styles and price options to those in the housing market, we are introducing two new collections of homes to maximize value and affordability – the Versa Collection with rear lane single family homes and the Metro Collection featuring new townhome designs. Combined with our Life CollectionTM models, Cantiro will have completed homes available for immediate possessions ranging in prices from the $300s to $600s all designed to meet the evolving needs of purchasers. One of the advantages that we have as an integrated organization is our Homes and Communities teams collaborate to create the most efficient lot designs – most notably in our townhomes and three-storey single family homes – so we can pass along those land costs savings to the customer. This also allows us to offer single family attached garage homes for under $500K, a unique value in this market. What’s your most important tool in 2024 in helping customers with their homebuying decisions? Are there new innovative technologies you are bringing into the homebuilding process? We have invested heavily in our home designs, processes and support services over the past few years to

make the buying process as simple as possible. These efforts have been recognized by the CHBA (2023 Single Family Builder of the Year - Large Volume and Multi-Family Builder of the Year for the 3rd year in a row) as well as 2023 HOME Awards for Best Customer Experience (Edmonton & Area) and Builder of Choice (North America - 150-299 Homes). Our Find Your Home quiz enables buyers to easily match their lifestyles to specific models within our different home collections. Recently, we introduced our complimentary Cantiro Concierge service to help take the stress out of moving. Your Cantiro Concierge can manage all the details of your move and coordinate other important tasks – like transferring your utilities and garbage set-up – so you can focus on enjoying your new home. In 2024, we will be introducing a conduit for EV chargers (rough-in ready) in all of our Life CollectionTM new builds. We will also be adding in an upgraded HVAC duct design to be ready for a future zoned system, increasing the comfort level for the homeowner by having separate temperature controls on each level of their home. What home types do you see will be in demand this year, and why? How are you adapting to this need? Our Life CollectionTM homes are our most popular models accounting for over 80% of our sales. This collection features front drive and three-storey single family homes. We understand that affordability continues to be a major driver for consumers, so we have designed two new product lines – the Versa Collection (rear lane single family homes) and the Metro Collection. Buyers can expect the same quality finishings, energy efficiency and

construction in their home as they would in every Cantiro home, along with our exciting new Cantiro Concierge service. We are also introducing a new Equity Collection tailored to those individuals looking to buy a home for investment purposes. These homes will offer 2-3 residential suites, excellent for renters. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just dipping your toes into the world of wealthbuilding, these townhomes and single-family homes are designed with your financial goals in mind. How are you helping buyers achieve their homeownership dream? Two new collections of home styles will introduce a more attainable price point to our product range. Metro Collection features a cuttingedge line of townhomes thoughtfully designed to cater to the modern urban lifestyle. 2024 will also bring the launch of our new Versa Collection featuring brand new rear lane single family models to Cantiro. These home styles will be available in Alces in southeast Edmonton and Riverstead at Keswick in southwest Edmonton, with townhomes now selling in the Spruce Grove community of Kenton. Keep an eye out for show homes opening in in these communities in Spring 2024. Visit cantiro.ca/homes to learn more.

TRENDING NEW TECHNOLOGY

PHOTO COURTESY: OWNLY

Latest technological advancements helping homebuilders, buyers Technology is advancing fast, so rapidly in fact, that it may as well be magic. Thinking machines have come as the next step and who knows where this will take society. But for the homebuilding industry, these technological advances are very much welcome. Experts say these technological improvements add to the tools for homebuilders and developers that can cut costs that they can then pass down to clients, not to mention streamlining the whole process and create efficiencies that translate into a better designed home. Not only do these new technologies help in creating a better home, but also assist in the buying

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

process, which is especially helpful to out-of-town clients who are offered the ease of doing real estate transactions remotely. KEEPING HOMES AFFORDABLE Using new technology can result in considerable savings in the operations of homebuilders, according to Dan Stern, Head of Sales and Marketing BuildBase. BuildBase is a software consulting company that provides a variety of services targeted towards real estate opportunity companies, and homebuilders in Alberta are lining up to use their services.

Stern says to understand how technology can offset rising home costs, it is crucial to first understand the cost breakdown in building a home. He says there are five major costs areas, they are: • Development Costs • Taxes & Fees • Serviced Lot Costs • Construction Costs • Business Operations “Let’s look at one area, business operations, which make up approximately 8 per cent of the cost of a new home. Business operations include accounting, human resources, purchasing, technology, and warranty. Technology can resolve communication issues between teams and streamline business process, decreasing the business operations costs,” he says. He cites the traditional invoicing process as an example. “If the home builder does not have an integrated invoicing solution and is processing invoices through mail or email, then the home builder must have an accounts payable processing team,” adding that the amount of maintaining that team adds to the company’s overhead. By using software to cut those costs, he says homebuilders can cut as much as $600K a year in business operation costs.

REMOTE PURCHASES One of the more exciting new technologies that has come around is the ability to make home purchases online. Alberta-based proptech start-up, Ownly, is has introduced its innovative e-commerce platform, taking the homebuying process entirely online, from start to finish. As an industry innovator, Ownly is revolutionizing real estate by making homebuying accessible and frictionless for modern-day consumers who want to purchase a home the same way they purchase everything else – online. Currently, Ownly says only two per cent of home builders in North America allow customers to shop online, a statistic that the company hopes to upend. Consumer data shows that people want to do their own research before speaking with a sales person. Online shopping tools have been proven to dramatically increase sales velocity and customer engagement for countless other industries, yet real estate has fallen behind, precluding consumer access to a digital shopping cart experience. “We know that today’s consumer is partial to datadriven decision making and prefers the ease of access that comes with online purchasing, yet the real estate industry remains one of the last holdouts in leveraging e-commerce,” says Jason Hardy, co-founder and CEO of Ownly. “With Ownly, we have seen sales increase for homebuilders at an unprecedented rate, proving that it is entirely possible for the industry to work smarter and not harder”

PHOTO COURTESY: BUILDBASE

SOFTWARE POWER The move to using such new tech can be a little daunting for many though, regardless whether you’re a multinational or a fledgling startup. BuildBase says it has the expertise in guiding users through the process. “We believe in not only providing value added technology solutions but personalized onboarding and support services,” says Stern. “Guiding homebuilders through their technology revolution by providing leading class change management strategies including process mapping, data migration, and training,” he adds.

The company allows homebuilders to connect their favorite software solutions to BuildBase, offering real-time communication and information in all the homebuilders teams. “Think about it this way, if a builder has fallen in love with a digital design centre, stage 3 solutions would require manual data entry between the solutions, unlike BuildBase that can connect to the design centre directly and eliminate the need for manual data entry.”

nexthome.ca 37

SALINA’S CORNER

2024 home decor edit by SALINA YARA HALABI Sophisticated style, bold design and signature details are on the radar for all things home in the new year. Discover some of the most anticipated trends and get inspired to update your home for a chic 2024.

REFINED COMFORT Quiet luxury meets hotel escape for a trend that’s all about making home feel like a place where you can relax and treat yourself. Think elevated bedding, spa-like bathroom updates, and investing in appliances or details that make daily rituals a little more of a special experience. Smeg 50’s-style COFFEE GRINDER. avenueappliance.ca

ODE TO NATURE Natural elements continue to play a prominent role in interior design and decor. Whether it’s incorporating botanical prints, using sustainable materials, or creating a secret garden within your home, connecting to nature is here to stay.

Friendly face POT, Dune. plumhome.ca

38 Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Flutterby tufted RUG. ruggable.ca

FABULOUS FLOORING Typically expected to lean toward a simpler and more neutral look, flooring trends are pushing the unexpected and are anything but basic. Checkered tiles, herringbone hardwood, and lively area rugs are just a few of the endless ways to make a statement with your room’s foundation.

COLOUR COATING A maximalist approach to colour will vamp up the energy in any room. Take the drenching approach by filling a space with a monochromatic tone for a clean yet impactful effect. Or choose a vibrant palette of harmonious shades and layer them for a more eclectic finish.

Bistro tile Margot monogram MUG. anthropologie.com

Taglieri structured hexagonal WALLPAPER. wayfair.ca

A PERSONAL NOTE This year, take the time to focus on the details that will make your home feel exclusive to you. From monogramed accessories to clever nods to the places and people that inspire you, it’s all about telling a unique and personalized design story in your home.

nexthome.ca 39

White Eagle Homes: Elevating Luxury Living

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

ITH OVER 25 YEARS OF CREATING BESPOKE HOMES in Edmonton and surrounding areas, White Eagle Homes remains a beacon of exquisite custom home design. As a family-owned establishment, their legacy is defined by an unwavering commitment to unparalleled expertise and personalized service—a testament to their distinction in a competitive market. Distinguished by their unique and trend-setting approach to custom homebuilding, White Eagle Homes’ creations are renowned for their distinct European elegance, imaginative architectural finesse, and stylish approach to modern design. Far from ordinary, their portfolio boasts a diverse range, from unique duplexes to spacious two-story homes and sprawling bungalows—each demonstrating to the artistry and attention to detail that define White Eagle Homes.

nexthome.ca 41

Providing an exclusive and memorable customer journey is integral to White Eagle’s philosophy. Their dedicated team treats every client as family, ensuring each project receives the utmost care and precision. The company’s stellar reputation rests on their exceptional customer care and an unparalleled commitment to top-tier workmanship—a combination that has earned White Eagle Homes a wealth of referrals and repeat business from delighted homeowners. Setting a gold standard in personalized home experiences, White Eagle Homes prioritizes client involvement at every stage of the process. From design and planning to construction, clients can collaborate directly with the White Eagle team. This hands-on approach allows for endless customization options and upgrades, empowering homeowners to create bespoke spaces and floor plans that cater flawlessly to their unique lifestyles— which is key to the ever-growing importance of personalized homes in today’s world. Attention to detail is at the foundation of White Eagle Homes’ craftsmanship. Their use of premium materials and unwavering commitment to quality results in homes that exude luxury and stand the test of time. Continuously evolving to mirror the dynamic lifestyles of modern families, White Eagle Homes remains dedicated to surpassing expectations, even integrating features like in-home elevators for increased accessibility within their multi-level properties. The accolades speak volumes—over the past two decades, White Eagle Homes has garnered nominations and awards on local, provincial, and national platforms. Notably, they’ve been award recipients at the BUILD Alberta Awards and the CHBA Awards for their exceptional single-family home designs.

Currently crafting stunning properties in a variety of celebrated communities, White Eagle Homes also offers the flexibility to build in any desired location that has available builder lots—providing even more personalization opportunities to homebuyers. Coming in Spring 2024, explore the captivating new showhome located at 4111 Whispering River Drive in the coveted community of Westpointe in Windermere. And, visit their beautiful Fraser showhome located in Northeast Edmonton. For further information, visit White Eagle Homes’ website at whiteeaglehomes.ca

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

Akash Homes ready for big step in 2024 F

or about two decades, Akash Homes has been steadily building a name as one of the top homebuilders in Alberta with its award-winning portfolio of housing products. In 2024, Akash is about to take the next big step. Edmonton-based Akash Homes has grown into one of the largest homebuilders in the capital region,

with an impressive line-up of condominiums, townhomes, singlefamily homes, and duplexes. Akash Homes is now entering the Calgary and Fort McMurray housing markets and has also expanded into a group with land development and commercial real estate assets throughout Western Canada as it continues to grow.

“We’ve been in business for roughly 20 years in the province of Alberta,” says Jacq Lakusta, Akash Homes Sales Manager. “We started small and have grown significantly over the last 10 years as we moved away from more custom homes, to spec, allowing us the ability to pass on significant cost savings to our clients for quality homes.”

nexthome.ca 43

CUSTOMER CARE FOCUS

She credits the homebuilder’s rapid growth to a tight knit team of professionals providing top-notch customer care. “Our level of service I feel is second to none. Everyone collaborates and works together to make sure our clients have a flawless home-buying experience. From concept to possession and even after that, we work diligently to meet and exceed our client’s expectations.” And, of course, the lifestyleoriented, functionality-focused designs of their homes. “Our passion for building homes is the reason why we are able to give you an exceptional home at an affordable price. We take pride in every house we build and every community we build in,” Lakusta says. With affordability in all buyers’ mind these days, Akash has found a solution in prioritizing a

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

unique service experience and a streamlined process. “We educate buyers on our home styles, consistent finishing standards, and overall home value; we are about simplicity and quality,” Lakusta says. “Simplicity is key, especially when markets get challenging. We keep our homes affordable because we offer finishes that are elegant and timeless. Our homes are designed for our clients to make them their own. We give them the canvas, they paint the picture!”

CRAFTING STYLE

In Edmonton, Akash Homes builds in 11 communities, as well as in three Sherwood Park. They have duplex showhomes in Keswick Landing in the southwest and Maple Crest in the northwest. They also have a front-drive garage single-family showhome, the Jayne, in Crystallina Nera in the northwest.

“Our Jayne is one of our most popular models in the detached home category because of its floor plan and it’s price point. Our Soho duplex in Keswick Landing is definitely one of our best and again, it comes down to a great design, stylish finishes, and an affordability factor,” Lakusta says. The Jayne showhome is 1,913 square-feet with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, and the inherent flexibility of its design is its most appealing feature. The stunning kitchen with its grand central island is a focal point of the open concept main floor. The Soho-D showhome is a duplex with front attached garage, and at 1,501 square-feet is just as spacious as some singlefamily homes. It has a bright, and airy main floor with the high ceilings and oversized windows that makes it look bigger than it actually is.

HOMEBUYER OPPORTUNITIES Akash is one of the few Edmonton builders that maintains a healthy inventory of spec homes available for quick possessions, but Lakusta says demand is quite strong as more buyers opt for their move-in ready homes. As for home design trends, Lakusta says demand is for more multi-generational homes and those that have the flexibility to be turned into rentals to help with the mortgage. “We see classic design trends continuing through next year and expect to see a larger volume of buyers looking for homes that offer income-generating potential, or the ability to accommodate multi-generational needs as people/families look to offset some of the rising costs of living,” Lakusta predicts. She says they are very excited with their expansion into Calgary

the surrounding municipalities of Airdrie, Okotoks and Cochrane. Whether in Edmonton or Calgary, or anywhere else, she says Akash Homes remains selective about the communities they build in. “We want our clients to have the best of ‘live, work, play’ no matter the community they live in. Access to great schools, recreational facilities, parks, shopping, and transit are key points for every homeowner. We want to see families grow and well-planned communities are instrumental for that to happen. Being a part of it is a privilege and not one we take lightly.”

ON THE PATH TO GROWTH

The painstaking care in choosing communities to build in is also reflected in Akash Homes’ business philosophy of reliability, innovation and inclusivity, and their unerring focus on customer care.

“We understand that the home buying process can be very complicated, and can leave many people confused and frustrated,” Lakusta says. “We strive towards creating an easy and stress-free home buying process through our turn-key mindset.” As 2024 comes around, Lakusta says they are prepared for any challenge that may come up. “Growth is always part of our plans, and we are offering many of the same style of homes there as we do in Edmonton. Heading south felt like a natural part of our evolution, and it’s been a really great experience working with new teams there! Overall, we’re proud to be all over Alberta and look forward to having many more families, join ours!” FIND OUT MORE AT AKASHHOMES.COM.

nexthome.ca 45

NEXTHOME

Digital

Media Solutions The most effective and personalized way to target consumers and their influencers

• Pay-per-click advertising • Retargeting • Audience Targeting • Social • Websites + Landing Pages • Search Engine Optimization • Geofencing • Email Marketing

1.866.532.2588 nexthome.ca/corporate

SPLURGE OR SAVE

Whether your budget is luxe or lean, break the cycle of a

utilitarian-looking laundry room with these inspiring product ideas

Laundry cycle

by SARA DUCK

SAVE

1. Glass BEVERAGE DISPENSER by Home Trends. $23. walmart.ca | 2. Barreta terrazzo porcelain floor and wall TILE in matte white by Modamo. $120 per case. homedepot.ca | 3. Energy Star top load WASHER with agitator in navy steel by Samsung. $1,195. homedepot.ca | 4. Recycled Ocean Bound HANGER in yellow by (RE) X. $34. amazon.ca | 5. Extra heavy-duty WOOD CLOTHES DRYER by Natura. $97. homehardware.ca | 6. Advantage steam IRON with non-stick stainless steel in white and blue by Black + Decker. $33. amazon.ca | 7. Woven prayer HAMPER. $194. potterybarnkids.ca | 8. Wool DRYER BALLS by Silk & Snow. $20. silkandsnow.com

SPLURGE 2

6 8

1. DETERGENT DISPENSER. $70. zarahome.com | 2. Halifax terrazzo TILE. $108 per piece. geontile.com | 3. Front-load WASHER in sapphire blue by GE with odour-block vent system with sanitization and built-in Wi-fi. $1,444. homedepot.ca | 4. Smooth leather clothes HANGER in sun yellow. $189. lucrin.ca | 5. Vertical folding wooden CLOTHES HORSE. $159. zarahome.com | 6. Focus X-cel IRON by Rowenta. $135. williams-sonoma.ca | 7. Joseph Altuzarra moon and stars HAMPER. $224. westelm.ca | 8. Wool DRYER BALL SET and laundry blend. $25. saje.ca nexthome.ca 47

Personality

HOME DECOR

pleaser

by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

Cantiro show home

How to create a show-home-worthy living room

f the kitchen is the heart of your home, then the living room is its soul. It is where your unique personality comes through, and where friends and family members can gather to create memories. These days, it may be one of the more difficult rooms in your home to design. Popular main floor openconcept layouts mean the living room is just part of a contiguous, flowing space that often includes the kitchen and dining room. So, creating a living room with its own separate personality may be challenging for some people, but it’s not a difficult task for the experts. Have you ever noticed how beautifully styled the living rooms are at the show home of a newhome development? The designers of these spaces take special care to arrange eye-catching, stylish, trendy living spaces, and the living room is where they can let their creativity

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

soar. If you’re looking to inject some personality into your living room, read on for some expert advice.

Open concept versus closed Although the open-concept design is still favoured for its spaciousness, flow of natural light and the ability to promote social interaction, Tara Bergen, show home merchandiser for Jayman BUILT Edmonton, says she is seeing a gradual move away from this style. “In recent years, we have begun to move towards a more closed-concept trend, which encourages a feeling of cosiness and comfort. While an open-concept floorplan is still the best option for many because it lends itself very well to those who enjoy entertaining, open concept versus closed ultimately comes down to what’s functional for you.” Most designers stress that your likes, dislikes, style and personality are

paramount when setting up your living room – or any space in your home. For Bergen, having a plan on what you want your living room to look like is the first step. “When designing a living room, the key is the layout and space planning. This will dictate the mood and flow of the room and can greatly affect how it is used,” she says.

The importance of scale

Whether you live in a cosy condo or a palatial home, the scale of the furniture you choose is key. “Scale is the most important factor here,” says Bergen. “We always need the same minimum circulation allowances, or the space between furniture, to move around a room, so when the room gets smaller, so must the furniture. Fortunately, different brands make a variety of furniture sizes, from apartment size to largescale furniture for massive rooms.” She adds that some items may not fit into a small living room, such as

Jayman BUILT show home

Taabish Zaver’s tips to create a stylish, comfortable living room

1 2 Photo: Cheryl Silsbe

Cantiro show home

3 4 5 6

accent chairs, but the scale of the furniture, rugs, and accessories are the main factors to keep in mind. “Visual weight can also play a role. When dealing with a smaller space, try using pieces with slimmer legs, or those made of glass, so the eye passes through. For a larger space, chunky, heavier items will help to fill the space.”

Choosing furniture Taabish Zaver, interior design manager at Cantiro, says she typically selects one accent piece and then styles around it. “In the case of the living room, that tends to be the sofa. It serves as the central and

primary seating area in the room, providing comfort and a focal point for socializing, relaxing, and entertaining. The choice of a sofa can significantly influence the overall style and functionality of the living room, making it a key element in the room’s design.” Bergen agrees. “For me, the living room layout always starts with the sofa. There are usually multiple layout options, but a sofa or sectional can dictate how the rest of the furniture flows. It’s best to have your sofa facing a visual feature such as a fireplace, art piece or TV, and then other items like a coffee table, rug, and accent chairs, can be placed accordingly in a functional manner.”

Seating and fabrics: A comfortable living room often features plush seating, soft textiles, and cosy elements such as throws and cushions. Lighting: Proper lighting, which includes ambient, task and accent, sets the right mood and enhances the room’s atmosphere. Layout: Effective use of the space and furniture placement allows for a variety of activities, such as socializing, relaxing and entertaining. Aesthetics: Carefully chose colours, patterns and decor that reflects a particular style or theme, whether it’s modern, traditional, minimalist or eclectic. Storage: Clever storage solutions keep the living room organized and uncluttered. Personalization: Incorporate personal touches and decor that reflect your unique style and preferences.

Jayman BUILT show home

Photo: Cheryl Silsbe

Cantiro show home

nexthome.ca 49

Space

TOP 10

saver

by SARA DUCK

Elevate a room while keeping it tidy with a stylish console table

INVERSE console table in white marble. $4,499. cb2.ca

SCOOP console table in black marble and oak.

METALWORK console in haze. From

SILVIANO console table in iron.

$2,999. cb2.ca

$599. westelm.ca

$1,899. crateandbarrel.ca

VALO console table in pine wood. $2,299.

FOUR-SHELF tempered console table in glass

MODERN FARMHOUSE rectangular console

crateandbarrel.ca

and metal. $300. bouclair.com

table. $1,949. potterybarn.ca

MICKELL storage console table.

WILLOW console table. From $644.

EMIT console table in black marble and metal.

$1,499. crateandbarrel.ca

westelm.ca

$1,899. cb2.ca

Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2024

French makes it better

Elegant and thoughtful design details. Magnifique architecture, superb parks and playground. A new St. Albert community inspired by France. Visit our new show homes today!

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