Luxury Living in Calgary and Area - Spring 2016

SPRING 2016 | CALGARY EDITION

Talking luxury with

SARAH

RICHARDSON

SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR SWEET DREAMS

LIVING POSH IN ASPEN WOODS

CREATING YOUR WONDERFUL WINTER LANDSCAPE

Make no compromises‌

Quality, Transparency, Value

A Big Thank You!

Thank you Calgary for selecting Trademark Renovations again this year as the recipient of the 2016 Consumer Choice Award!

We are also happy to announce that we have received a Best of Houzz 2016 Service award.

OUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE

*On renovation projects $100,000 and up, we will match and better a recognized competitor’s quote by 10%. At Trademark Renovations, we are constantly reviewing and negotiating preferred pricing arrangements with our supplier & trade partners to get you the best value for your money.

We are so confident about our pricing that we guarantee you the lowest price for your overall renovation project while delivering our unsurpassed level of quality, service and transparency.

(403) 277-5600 www.trademarkrenovations.com

TERMS & CONDITIONS: This Best Price Guarantee applies to projects based on identical scopes of work, specifications, products, levels of finish, service, and quality. Best Price Guarantee applies to overall total project price and not the individual components contained therein.

All recognized competitor quotes are subject to verification by Trademark before honoring this offer. Trademark will not accept screenshots or other purported evidence of a lower price that cannot be independently confirmed by Trademark personnel. Nor will Trademark verify any request that it believes, in its sole discretion, is the result of a printing or other error or is made fraudulently or in bad faith. All original documents from recognized competitor quotes must be presented to Trademark prior to verification, execution of any contract or commencement of work. This Price Guarantee excludes insurance claims, free offers, gifts with purchase, gift cards, gift certificates, rebates, clearance or close-out prices, credit or financing programs, used, damaged, or display merchandise or products. Discount applied before taxes and environmental stewardship fees or other levies, if applicable. This price guarantee cannot be combined with any other offer. Trademark reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify or discontinue the Best Price Guarantee or to restrict its availability to any person, at any time, for any or no reason, and without prior notice or liability to you. The failure by Trademark to enforce any provision of these Terms & Conditions shall not constitute a waiver of that provision.

EXCLUSIVE VIEWING OPPORTUNITY

Premiere Renovation Feature Home

BEFORE

TWENTY PATTERSON DRIVE OPENING APRIL 2016

VISIT US ONLINE FOR EXCLUSIVE OFFERS & DETAILS WWW.ALBIRENOVA.COM

table of contents S P R I N G

2 0 1 6

16 pg

12

ON THE COVER

DISCUSSING WHAT LUXURY MEANS WITH SARAH RICHARDSON

06 08 16 18 20

Editor’s Note

24

Tips & Tricks

The Midas touch

Expert Q & A

10 questions with Jim and Lisa Stinson of Astoria Homes

27 30

Business Profile

Great decks start with great woods from Kayu Canada Inc. Tips & Tricks

Living with renovation… comfortably

Photo: Stacey Brandford

8 [4] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

City Living

Living posh in Aspen Woods

Style File

Sweet dreams Outdoors

Wonderful winter landscapes

20 PRESIDENT, YP NEXTHOME

Jacqueline Hill

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge

DIRECTOR OF SALES, CANADA

Moe Lalani

SALES MANAGER, ALBERTA

Shelley Balla

MANAGING EDITOR

Elisa Krovblit

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Jackie Marchildon CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bonny Dann, Kait Kucy, Heather Ryan

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Anita van Breevoort Melanie Gowans Heather Harke Natalie Wilkinson-Houghton SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Ranee Pal

27

SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER

Bala Gnanapandithan ART DIRECTOR

Megan Pike

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR

Bei Zhang Luxury Living

2891 Sunridge Way N.E. Calgary, Alberta T1Y 7K7 ADVERTISING: Call 1.855.519.6080 for advertising rates and information.

COPYRIGHT 2016 Copyright covers the contents of this publication and prevents reproduction in whole or in part; offenders will be prosecuted. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising, to make changes or edit advertising as necessary. Care will be taken to ensure copy accuracy but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher. The publication, the publisher and the printers shall not be responsible for any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, spot colouring or any information or lack of information furnished by the advertisers.

EDITORIAL Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the above address, to the attention of the editor please.

PUBLISHED BY

24 LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [5]

EDITOR’S NOTE

Luxury

In all shapes and sizes

We often describe luxury as being lavish and ostentatious, and that’s definitely one aspect, but luxury comes in all shapes and sizes. Luxury isn’t just a price point, it’s a mindful way of indulging yourself – and that doesn’t have a monetary value.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to get a good night’s sleep. To most of us, a solid eight-hour stretch is a luxury in itself – this became especially clear to me after becoming a parent. But children aside, your bedroom should be a true haven with an amazing mattress and great bedding. Kait Kucy walks us through some of Calgary’s hotspots for creating an indulgent bed in ‘Sweet dreams’ on page 27. From mattresses and thread count to down duvets, you’ll be sleeping pretty thanks to this article.

One thing that really pulls together a luxurious home is its outdoor space. You will especially enjoy it if you take time to plan the landscape. Bonny Dann explains the steps to creating ‘Wonderful winter landscapes’ on page 30. Landscaping is effective in all seasons, whether you’re enjoying the view as frost overtakes your hardscape, or sitting in the shade on a warm day, surrounded by beautiful blooms.

Really establishing the look you want for your home (both inside and out) takes time – you need to decide on the little details, and then also keep in mind the big picture. For this issue of Luxury Living we had the pleasure of chatting with Sarah Richardson. This designer needs no introduction, her numerous HGTV shows and design books have brought millions of fans into her home. Her beautiful spaces inspire, while her views on luxury are refreshing and grounded. Our discussion of luxury quickly turned to the things that truly matter, beyond the bling and into those elements that bring us happiness. Read about small luxuries you can add to your everyday lifestyle and more in “Luxury is in the eye of the beholder’ on page 12.

We hope you’re in that luxury state of mind and ready to enjoy this issue.

Visit us online any place, any time at www.luxurylivingcalgary.com.

Thanks for reading,

ELISA KROVBLIT MANAGING EDITOR YellowPages NextHome | elisa.krovblit@ypnexthome.ca |

+ get social [6] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

Twitter.com/elisakrovblit

Interact with us on social media: ypnexthome

Perfect for whatever life you lead. Check out the new MotorClothes® Collections, arriving soon at KANE’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® CALGARY.

Retail Store 403-269-8577 Rentals 403-262-5462 914 - 11th Street SE Calgary, AB

LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [7]

TIPS & TRICKS Jacque console table $699 crateandbarrel.com

The Midas

TOUCH

Garrison pendant in antique brass $1,767 WSHome.com

MOVE OVER CHROME, WE’RE GOING INTO THE GOLDEN AGE. WE LOVE THE WARMTH AND ELEGANCE OF BRASS AND GOLDS THAT ARE EMERGING IN HARDWARE, FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES. THEY’VE GOT GREAT DEPTH AND RICHNESS – AND ARE FUN TO USE IN OUR DECOR!

by ELISA KROVBLIT

Brass and glass table lamp $169 homesense.ca

Gold flatware set $39-$399 westelm.com

Le Vian chocolate diamond bypass ring 14K honey gold $3,999 peoplesjewellers.com

[8] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

Renovations that Inspire A Design/Build Firm

403.282.9176

Renovating your home?

Our experienced and creative team will work with you through every phase of your project.

...Every home tells a story, we help our clients tell theirs.

View our new website or showroom and be inspired with the product options we provide.

2777 Hopewell Place N.E. Calgary Phone (403) 250-1020 Toll Free 1-800-382-8502 Calgary Region Canadian Home Builders’ Association

Builder, Excel Homes - Calgary

Your dream home is waiting [10] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

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COME HOME TO ASTORIA Contact Danny Raposo 403.966.7676 for personal tour or visit our 2016 Dream Show Home at 24 Rockwater Way. WWW.ASTORIAHOMES.CA/DISCOVERY

COVER STORY

LUXURY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

SARAH RICHARDSON

by ELISA KROVBLIT photos by STACEY BRANDFORD

SARAH RICHARDSON HAS ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNIZABLE NAMES IN THE DESIGN WORLD. ROOM SERVICE. DESIGN INC. SARAH’S COTTAGE. SARAH’S HOUSE. SARAH 101. REAL POTENTIAL. THESE HGTV PROGRAMS HAVE BROUGHT SARAH INTO THE LIVING ROOMS OF PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD FOR OVER 10 YEARS, AND IN THAT TIME, SARAH HAS CREATED A FOLLOWING OF FANS THAT ADORE HER STYLE AND HER EXUBERANCE, TAKING TIPS, IDEAS AND JUST INDULGING IN SARAH’S BEAUTIFUL DESIGN. LUXURY LIVING CAUGHT UP WITH SARAH TO ASK HER A FEW THINGS ABOUT LUXURY, LIFESTYLE AND THE THINGS THAT MAKE SARAH’S HOUSE A HOME.

[12] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

S

arah has let us step into her home both on TV and in her gorgeous new design book, At Home, Sarah Style. Room by room, home by home – from city home to farmhouse and cottage getaways – we get to explore the spaces Sarah has created to enjoy with her family. It’s not a designer putting favourite projects forward, it’s a designer living her design, showing the way she embraces these elements and executes them to meet her family’s needs. From furniture to art, from colour palette to material choices, little details, big design elements and the view, Sarah has put her expertise to work to create the perfect project for an especially important client – her family.

After looking at these beautiful spaces and wonderful escapes, Luxury Living had a chance to ask Sarah about her sense of luxury.

“I haven’t said ‘luxury’ as many times in the past month as I’ve said in this interview,” Sarah remarks halfway through our discussion. It’s quite a significant comment, and clarifies her perspective in one concise moment. Sarah explains that she isn’t about labels or grandeur or “bling” or big shows of ostentation; and too often that’s what we envision when we envision luxury.

“I believe in little luxuries,” Sarah says. “I’m not into luxury for the sake of luxury.” Art is a favourite item she feels is a luxury. “Art is all encompassing,” she says. It’s not the price point, but the intrinsic value that makes it a luxury. “Something that speaks to you, created with passion and purpose.

AT HOME

SARAH STYLE A look through At Home Sarah Style is a wonderful tour of the homes in Sarah’s life. These include her city home – both before and after a major renovation – a cottage, a farmhouse and her mother’s home. Each fulfills a different use, a different need and the design is effective in committing those roles. From playful and funky to sophisticated and elegant, the pages are full of incredible imagery with anecdotal explanations from Sarah.

The recipes are wonderful too. You won’t know what you did without the Cosmic Sandwich in your life.

“I know it’s often said that you should never match your art to your décor, but . . . I was so inspired by the joyful colours in this beach-scene painting by Molly Lamb Bobak that I wanted to carry the cheery vibe down onto the storage credenza, so I painted the frame of this vintage teak piece in glossy white, and colour-blocked the doors and drawers for a hit of family friendly fun in the hall. I say making your own rules is more fun than living by others’. Dare to do it!”

-From At Home Sarah Style LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [13]

Regardless of budget, the biggest investment in luxury is the art.”

Not just big canvases, “it can be a vase – hand-made by an artisan,” she says.

Supporting the arts and those that create these beautiful objects is important, “not disposable, mass market items.”

5

SARAH’S

TOP

AFFORDABLE LUXURIES

THAT MAKE HER LOVE BEING HOME 1. Stealing some quiet time on a weekend afternoon beside a crackling fire to dive into a new issue of a design magazine with my feet up while I’m covered in a cozy throw (I’m adding some beautiful loomed cotton throws to my product line for early summer).

2. A steaming hot giant Nespresso latte in a mug that was

hand painted by one of our daughters. Beautiful form mixed with great function has made me the owner of a Nespresso in every kitchen; work and home, city and country.

[14] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

When looking at our homes, where we put our money, she explains, from a project perspective is “Big ticket living – investing in kitchens and baths.” But when it comes down to luxury, those rooms don’t define a home. It’s the way you complete the home that brings in that luxury. One of Sarah’s

3. Thoughtfully made and passionately crafted decorative

arts. In every room of our house there are sentimental handmade pieces that are sculpturally beautiful but not necessarily decadent or expensive. Investing in pretty little affordable luxuries and supporting talented artisans makes me happy.

4. Candlelight. Nothing is more calming and relaxing at the

end of a busy work day than a room bathed in the glow of candlelight. Candles aren’t for special occasions in our home. They are a daily necessity. It’s the little things that matter.

5. Fresh flowers. The finishing touch to any well-designed

room is something lovely and living. I don’t have time to get to the flower store and treat myself often, but I always have potted orchids to brighten up my rooms.

Whether you get them at the grocery store or the florist, potted orchids are an inexpensive floral choice that will bloom for about four months!

“I don’t design living rooms just for entertaining. I want spaces for everyday living that draw you in and create an experience. This groovy 1970s lounger by Milo Baughman attracted me with its curvy lines and floating design, but superior comfort trumps it all and guarantees someone is always stretched out reading, chilling, or just daydreaming.”

-From At Home Sarah Style

favourite spaces is the living room of her city house, “because I was able to find some really great vintage pieces. A Milo Baughman chaise (pictured left) and chairs, and a Willy Rizzo coffee table (pictured first page). It’s a luxury to be able to score unique pieces.”

One other luxury Sarah feels benefits everyone is the luxury of having somewhere to get away. “Having another place to go,” she explains, is important. While Sarah really appreciates her home-away-from-home escapes, she also views travel, just getting away and taking time, as being the real luxury.

“Luxury is all relative,” Sarah says, as we wind down the discussion. Paring down life to its most simple elements, having things to appreciate and time to enjoy one’s life are definitely the luxuries Sarah appreciates. When I ask Sarah if she has anything else to say about luxury, her response captured our discussion perfectly. She told me “Luxury is in the eye of the beholder.”

36 Years in Business 35 Times CHBA Award Winner In-House Design Service In-House Custom Cabinetry Professional Management Serving Calgary & Edmonton

LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [15]

EXPERTQ&A

10 QUESTIONS WITH

Jim and Lisa Stinson OF ASTORIA HOMES

by HEATHER RYAN

J

im Stinson, president and COO, and Lisa Stinson, vice-president and CFO, are owners of Astoria Homes, which consists of Astoria Custom Homes, Astoria Custom Renovations and a recently launched Acreage Division.

The company is celebrating its 15th year building and renovating prestigious homes in June, 2016.

[16] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

6) What do you enjoy most about your work?

Jim: Being a custom home builder and a custom renovator means no home is ever the same; each one is new and exciting for us. We enjoy the challenge of creating some spectacular spaces: a panic room, a two-storey garage, an indoor racquetball/basketball court.

Lisa: We are grassroots people with a love of fine craftsmanship and passion for capturing our customer’s vision and transforming it into their dream home.

We are onsite and working with them and love to see and feel their excitement!

1)What do you love most about Calgary?

Jim: The energy of Calgarians. We’re a focused, energized city that has the mindset of getting done whatever we can dream – and in Calgary we dream big.

2)If you were to move, which community would you choose?

Lisa: We love where we live now, but if were to move, the community we would choose is Watermark at Bearspaw. There is good reason it won Best Community in the Calgary Region three years in a row with beautiful cascading ponds, a pond-side plaza with sports fields, five kilometres of pathways, beautifully landscaped walking and cycling trails, playgrounds and so much more. It’s a great community!

3)What’s the most unique item/feature Astoria has ever put in a home?

Lisa: OMG. There are so many to choose from, but I’d have to choose the secret room that leads down a spiral staircase to the man cave/office. It’s pretty spectacular. I’d love to tell you more, but it’s a secret.

4)What is the most popular item/feature that homebuyers want – either in their custom or renovated home?

Jim: On the renovations side it’s converting a dark main floor with small windows and lots of walls to an open family living area with kitchen, great room, dining and an abundance of light. Lots of people love their community and want to stay close to schools, family, etc., so renovating to meet the needs of a growing and changing lifestyle is a great option.

On the custom homes side, it’s the immense kitchens purposefully designed for the gourmet and gathering of guests and foodies, combined with open living, oversized windows bringing the outdoors indoors and massive outdoor living with chef’s barbecue, TVs and fireplaces for entertaining.

5)What’s on trend right now for design and decor?

Lisa: Transitional design and decor is the 2016 trend, which is a stylish and sophisticated blending of old world charm with sleek functionality and fashion.

People are looking for innovative and multifunctional rooms. They are blending materials and design to minimize maintenance and maximize elegance and style integrated with pops of colour.

7)What advice do you have for people when it comes to renovation projects?

Jim: Do your due diligence! Check on how long a company has been in business. Get a full, detailed quote.

Check references, go see the work.

Check to make sure they are a member in good standing with the CHBA RenoMark and they have a warranty provider. We can’t stress this enough!

8) On the lighter side, what’s your favourite sport to watch?

Lisa: Jim is a hockey and football fanatic. He especially likes to watch Montreal Canadians and Calgary Flames. Go Flames Go! 9) What do you both do for fun?

Lisa: We love outdoor activities and we love just hanging out and spending time with family and friends. An evening with great people sharing great food and laughter is simply the best.

10) What’s your favourite vacation spot and why?

Jim: Being outdoor people, we go anywhere there is sun and it’s warm – that could be poolside in Scottsdale, Arizona, sight-seeing in Maui or camping in B.C. Love it all.

LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [17]

BUSINESSPROFILE

GREAT DECKS START WITH GREAT WOODS

from Kayu Canada Inc.

by HEATHER RYAN

T

he key to creating a truly gorgeous and distinctive deck, gazebo or hardwood floor starts with the materials being selected.

For this reason many of the best home builders, renovators, architects, interior

designers, deck builders and landscapers are choosing to use exotic woods offered by Kayu Canada Inc. Exotic woods are being used for an assortment of exterior projects such as decks, fencing, siding, soffits and benches, as well as for interior projects such as hardwood floors, feature walls, wine cellars and stair treads to create truly long-lasting and classic looks.

Calgary’s notable public spaces such as the Riverwalk, Devonian Gardens, Memorial Poppy Plaza and, most recently, in C-Square in East Village.

With spring around the corner now is the perfect time to start planning your dream deck. Visit Kayu’s showroom (located behind Hotel Blackfoot at Bay 8, 6304 Burbank Rd., S.E., Calgary) for ideas, call 403-541-9009 or visit www.kayu.ca. Kayu has locations in Calgary, Vancouver and Brampton, Ontario.

“We’ve been using Kayu’s woods primarily for decks and privacy screens because it’s very luxurious looking and versatile,” says Jeff Campbell of Visionscapes, which does landscape construction and renovations. “With this product there are no knots, so it looks like an expensive hardwood floor, giving people the same high end detail and finishing they have indoors outside.

“What makes it special is its durability and value because it looks as good now as it will 10 years down the road,” he says. “The colour is not stained, the wood is oiled, so if you maintain the oil cycle you’ll have that rich colour for years.

“Also, because the grain structure is so tight, it resists warping and cracking, so we can take a board and cut it horizontally, which you can’t do with a lot of woods, and use it in various projects like privacy screens.”

Kayu president Jim Labelle says the use of exotic woods has grown in popularity, noting that Kayu had its best year for sales during last year’s economic slowdown.

“It’s great for outdoor use because it stands up well to Canada’s harsh winters, and it’s comparable in price to that of cedar and composite materials,” Jim says, yet it’s more durable, harder, resist scratches better, is flame and termite resistant and lasts 30 to 40 years (Kayu Canada provides a 25-year guarantee).

Besides residential projects, it’s been used in commercial projects and in some of [18] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

Photos by Jamen Rhodes Photography | Construction by VisionScapes Landscape & Maintenance Services Inc | www.vision-scapes.ca

ROCKWOOD CUSTOM HOMES

New Look Renovations

When Only The Best Choice in Exotic Hardwood Products will do....

Photo courtesy of ultimate renovations

Get Real Wood!!...Choose Kayu Canada’s Exotic Hardwood Decking Products.

Proud Supplier of Yellow Balau/Bangkirai Decking for Memorial Poppy Plaza in Kensington To view or download a complete product catalogue please visit www.kayu.ca Please drop by our show room Bay #8 6304 Burbank Road SE. Calgary Phone: 403.541.9009 Toll-free: 1.877.666.KAYU (5298) www.kayu.ca

Personalized appointments after hours available

Contractors & Installer Referrals Upon Request.

U

TIPS & TRICKS

Living with renovation…

COMFORTABLY

[20] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

O

nce your project gets underway, you and your renovator need to work closely together to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible. The renovator needs a good working environment so the job can progress without problems or delays. You want as few inconveniences and disruptions to your daily routine as possible.

Many of the responsibilities of both the renovator and the homeowner have already been spelled out in the contract. Before the work starts, sit down with your renovator and discuss everyone’s expectations and responsibilities in detail. Good communication is key to a good renovation experience and a satisfying result.

BEFORE THE WORK BEGINS » Discuss the renovator’s requirements for the work, including access to electricity and water on a regular basis, delivery and storage of building materials, and disposal of wastes. » Determine the rules of the house for the work crew.

Clarify access to bathroom facilities and eating areas, as well as kitchen privileges, if any, and also which parts of the house are off limits. Set out your smoking policy and if you permit music in the work area. » Verify that municipal permits and approvals have been obtained as needed. The contract may stipulate that your renovator will do this; however, the ultimate responsibility rests with you, the homeowner.

RENOVATOR RESPONSIBILITIES » Your professional renovator will make every effort to avoid disruptions and minimize the impact on your household. For instance, additions will be built and partially fi nished before the connecting wall is removed. Temporary hook-ups for water and electricity will allow you to continue your daily cooking and cleaning routines. » To keep you informed, your renovator will name a contact person for your project, usually the site supervisor or the renovator personally, who will stay in touch with you throughout the project. You will get regular updates on the progress of the work and be told when to expect tradespeople and when you will be needed for decisions. This person will also be available on short notice to respond to any questions or concerns that you have. » The renovator is responsible for meeting deadlines.

The contract should clearly outline the project schedule and deadlines to which your renovator will work. If the work gets off track for unforeseen reasons, the renovator will discuss the situation with you immediately, and fi nd ways to correct it. » Daily clean-up is part of the service. Professional renovators leave a clean work site at the end of each day. Be sure to discuss your expectations.

LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [21]

HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITIES » Clear work areas of posessions – furniture, drapes and art.

Protect your valuables by placing them in an area where no work is going on, or out of the home, and cover anything that might be harmed by dust. » Make early product selections. The contract may stipulate that you select and/or provide specific items such as flooring, lighting equipment, tiles and kitchen cabinets. Have these items available to your renovator when needed to ensure the smooth progress of the work. » Keep changes to a minimum. Most renovators are willing to accommodate changes to the original plan as you go along.

However, changes may result in a cost increase or a time delay, so make sure to discuss the implications with your renovator.

Change orders are amendments to the contract and must be signed by both parties. » Be available to your renovator. Invariably, you will be asked to make a number of smaller decisions as the work progresses.

Make sure that your renovator can reach you on short notice. » Discuss your concerns as they arise. Bring any concerns and questions to your renovator’s attention immediately; don’t wait for “the right moment.” » Provide payment as agreed upon in the payment schedule set up in the contract. Be sure to hold back the appropriate amounts required by the Contractors’ Lien Act in your province; contact your provincial government or your lawyer for information. » Accept the unpredictable. Foul weather, unavailable products, unforeseen complications... these can be part of the renovation experience and will be dealt with by your renovator in a professional manner.

Courtesy of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association

[22] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

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“

“

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CITYLIVING

Living posh in

ASPEN WOODS

by KAIT KUCY

ASPEN WOODS IS LOCATED IN THE SOUTH-WEST QUADRANT OF CALGARY. IT IS BORDERED BY 17TH AVENUE SW, AND IS THE FURTHEST SOUTH-WEST NEIGHBOURHOOD AT THE MOMENT. ASPEN WOODS IS DESCRIBED AS A MINI-DOWNTOWN, THANKS TO THE ADDITION OF A FABULOUS SELECTION OF TRENDY RESTAURANTS AND BOUTIQUES THAT MIMIC THE VIBRANCY OF A BUSTLING URBAN COMMUNITY. THIS NEIGHBOURHOOD WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2001 AND PRIMARILY FEATURES LUXURY SINGLE FAMILY HOMES.

Aspen Woods is a very well-designed and planned neighbourhood. It has a great selection of shopping and dining options as well as grocery stores. The area also features a lot of Greenspace with plenty of playgrounds and parks. The lifestyle is one of luxury and style. This neighbourhood loves to indulge in the finer things in life such as dining, shopping and entertaining. The residents of this area are also very active – you’ll find people out all year round, running, cycling or just enjoying the scenic views of the area.

Aspen Woods is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood, despite it only being established in 2001, and has been under varying stages of construction ever since. A great business centre really makes a difference for a suburban neighbourhood such as this.

This is a very expensive area and is full of upscale shops and eateries. While a lot of the price points in the area are above average, there are still mainstream places too.

Aspen Landing is accessible via the new 69 Street LRT Station, one of the stops on the extended South-West leg of the LRT line. This makes this area very accessible for commuters that work in downtown Calgary. Other than excellent public transit service, this is a very car-reliant neighbourhood with a lot of outdoor space to enjoy.

1953 2015

62nd

1953 the population was 156,748 today it is 1,195,194

403.250.9951

COMPLETE EXTERIOR RENOVATION SERVICES

WINDOWS, DOORS, SIDING, SUNROOMS, STONE, PATIO COVERS, AND ALUMINUM AWNINGS ETC

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www.ruscoindustries.com

Visit our showroom #3, 1430 40th Ave. NE, Calgary CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

SWEET

STYLE FILE

dreams

by KAIT KUCY

Crown Linen Designs,Red Door Home Living

I

f you are looking for sweet dreams, you’ll find that they are not necessarily a product of your imagination but in fact made of soft linens, high thread count sheets and down feathered pillows.

There is nothing quite like ending a day by retreating to your own personal oasis; a warm nest-like haven stocked with throw pillows, woollen blankets and cozy pajamas. The luxury of a bed well-made is not an impossible feat – in fact just by following a few simple guidelines and picking up a couple of bedtime essentials, you’ll have all of the bragging rights for a bedroom worth talking about.

The mattress is always a great place to start. Life is too short to spend your time sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress. Studies show that we spend approximately 33 per cent of our lives sleeping, so you might as well fi nd something that works for your lifestyle and provides comfort and warmth to you on a nightly basis. Goldgrass

Home, located in historic Inglewood, is home to the Organic Mattress Shop. The OMI Organicpedic is one of the fi nest, purest beds on the market, using natural and breathable organic materials that keep you cool and comfortable while you slumber. Pop into their quiet, private showroom to spend some time relaxing on their samples, and get the full run-down on why organic mattresses are the wave of the sleeping future. You also need to fi nd a mattress with the right fi rmness, the right amount of give and the perfect support for your frame. Pocket coils, pillow-top, latex, boxspring – you’ll have to try them out and see what meets your needs.

Next up, you’ll want to invest in soft and comfortable LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [27]

sheets. With millions of options out there it is normal to feel overwhelmed by the choices, and things like thread count. Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric.

Traditionally, we’ve been told to purchase sheets with as high of a thread count as you can afford. Thanks to new innovations in the bedding industry, natural fibres like bamboo, linen and cotton can be just as luxurious as a 1,500 thread count Egyptian cotton bed sheet. Red Door Home Living, a home decor shop in south Calgary, recommends their collection of linen bedding from Crown Linen Designs for the sustainable benefits of a 100 per cent natural, renewable and biodegradable product. It adds a luxury element to the bedroom through pillow shams, bed runners and sheets.

“The stunning designs are eye catching, but the organic texture and elegant details are truly what keep our clients coming back for more,” shares Alexandria Neuman from Red Door Home Living.

Inspirati Fine Linens in Mission features fi ne linens sourced from the best mills in Europe and Canada, with many of the luxury brands exclusive to their boutique in Calgary. How better to indulge yourself in luxury than a great selection of throws, robes, pillows and down duvets.

Which brings up the question about investing in a down duvet – are they worth the hype? It’s actually more than just hype, down has some incredible properties that make it the perfect material for a blanket option. Down will keep you warm and cozy, while allowing your skin to breathe while you sleep. They are also very durable and will retain their shape much longer than a synthetic option. The same goes for down pillows and cushions.

Crown Linen Designs, Red Door Home Living

GOLDGRASS HOME www.goldgrasshome.com 1237 9th Avenue SE 403-452-1001 RED DOOR HOME LIVING www.reddoorhomeliving.ca #12 – 15425 Bannister Road SE 587-352-6322 THE HEATHER COMPANY www.theheatherco.com 2711 14th Street SW 403-474-5852 INSPIRATI FINE LINENS www.inspirati.ca 2207 4 Street SW 403-244-4443

[28] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

The Heather Co.

Creating a space that reflects your personality and taste is just as important as your comfort. Perched in between the neighbourhoods of Bankview and South Calgary on the 14th Street hill, The Heather Company is a beacon of home decor inspiration. Specializing in gorgeous collections of bedding and throw cushions, The Heather Co. sources colourful and patterned fabric from mills all over the world to create one-of-a-kind products for clients. Whether you are looking for a cushion to add to your space or you are looking for an entire bedroom makeover, The Heather Co.’s full service interior design team is able to assist you with your needs.

The bedroom has become so much more than just the place you catch your six to eight hours of sleep, it has become a second living room in the home. Many people use it as a place to relax, to read or to work – ultimately the products you choose to live with should reflect your personal needs and comfort wants.

KAIT KUCY is a lifestyle and travel writer and blogger for online and print publications in Canada and the U.S.

Inspirati Fine Linens

UNIQUE. DIFFERENT. THAT’S US. Stop in Today & See Our Award Winning Showroom

587. 352. 6322

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12-15425 Bannister RD. SE Calgary, AB T2X 3E9

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www.reddoorhomeliving.ca LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [29]

OUTDOORS

Wonderful winter

LANDSCAPES

by BONNY DANN, ESCAPES INC.

[30] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

W

inter is a season a majority of Canadians do not look forward to or enjoy. While we may not always relish the snow and cold, winter does give us a time of rest and reflection. It is also a great time to plan how you are going to create a landscape of winter interest! If you find your outdoor spaces drab and boring this time of year, do not be discouraged; with some careful planning and changes, you can have structure, colour and life all year round! Whether you are calling in a landscape designer or are a DIY type, pour your favourite beverage, get a notepad and pencil and start surveying the scene out your windows and make a list of things you wish to have.

STRUCTURE: It’s important to look at hardscape fi rst, because if you are planning a new site development or complete makeover, hardscape must be chosen before anything else. Having a pergola in your garden, for instance, adds form that stays during winter months. When it holds frost and snow during the winter, it has a completely different look than it does with the green vines and colourful blooms of the summer. Other hardscape items that add structure and form are fountains, gates, obelisks, and pots. Fountains are more like decks and patios, in that they are usually neutral in colour, but add interest in form. I fi nd they look as attractive in the winter with a light dusting of frost or snow as they do with the water flowing in the summer.

Check the winter storage instructions that come with your fountain before leaving it out.

All plant material can give your landscape form and structure in winter. A clump birch will give you great form as well as unusual bark. Another good choice is an amur cherry, with peeling amber bark and persistent fruit that hangs all winter long. If you have an average size urban lot, try a Dakota pinnacle birch, which has low branching and a white papery exfoliating bark, or a cherry or ornamental crabapple, which has compact size and fruit that stays in the winter. Add some columnar shaped trees such as the purple spire ornamental crabapple. They look great in groups of three or layered in between large shrubs or other trees. Top-grafted trees are more

LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [31]

the size of shrubs and greatly add to your landscape with their different heights and shapes. They will not grow any taller than the height they are when you purchase them, but will widen, so be sure to give them the room they need to stand out when you place them. Look for standard forms in dwarf Korean lilac, royal gem ornamental crabapple or globe blue spruce. Weeping forms are also available, such as Youngii’s weeping birch, royal beauty ornamental crabapple, caraganas, and a variety junipers. A weeping Norway spruce is a beautiful small grafted tree, seven ft. by 10 ft., with soft, dark green, needled foliage and attractive, woody cones. Even on a snowy, cold day these trees will look stunning.

There are also perennials and grasses that can add winter interest if they are not cut back in the fall, but left standing with their seed pods or feathery blooms. Grasses come in a variety of heights and using several different types can be used to add more form and structure.

COLOUR Again, let’s start with hardscape. Gates and obelisks as well as any other garden structure such as potting sheds, storage units can be painted a gorgeous blue, which blends into the summer landscape but creates a stark contrast in the winter landscape.

While the summer garden is so colourful that you are happy with black or charcoal pots, in the winter you may want them bright blue or green, or reds and burgundy to give a nice pop of colour. Pots with arrangements of evergreen boughs, birch, or other deciduous branches and twigs nicely compliment winter landscapes.

Shrubs such as dogwoods, look for ‘midwinter fire,’ which has yellow, orange and red branches; ‘neon burst,’ which has bright yellow or green foliage that turns soft shades of purple, [32] LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016

red, yellow, and orange and red branches that stand out in snow; or ‘ivory halo,’ which has white and green variegated foliage and red twigs that add so much to the winter garden.

There are also yellow and purple twigged dogwoods. Check sizing as well as colours, as some dogwoods get quite large. All will handle pruning and shaping, though. ‘Quick fire’ hydrangea also has red twigs. Make sure you add in plenty of

coniferous trees and shrubs for lots of green and living plant material in the winter. In large spaces spruce or pines are fine, but in small spaces try globe blue spruce or dwarf mugo pines.

Ornamental grasses can add winter colour. Some fescues and bluestems are blue in summer and copper and reddish through the fall and winter.

Leaving the seed pods on perennials and grasses also attracts birds in the winter, which bring even more colour and life to your garden.

Now that you have determined whether you need structure or colour in the winter, call a landscape designer or start working on your plan for next year so you can look out and love what you see. The structure and interesting forms along with year round colour will create a beautiful landscape even in the winter, just for you!

BONNY DANN is the owner and expert landscape designer at Escapes Inc. www.escapesinc.ca

Designing & Creating Outdoor Living Spaces...just for you! w

403.803.0773 | www.escapesinc.ca | info@escapesinc.ca

SERVICES WE OFFER • NEW SITE DEVELOPMENT • MAKE-OVERS, partial or complete • STONEWORK, patios, walls, walks • CUSTOM WOODWORK, pergolas, screens, decks • MAINTENANCE, flower & shrub beds, lawns • PRUNING, shrubs, hedges • CREATING CURB APPEAL & STAGING • SOD, installed • CONCRETE LUXURY LIVING SPRING 2016 [33]

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