Ottawa New Home + Condo Guide – July 3, 2021 by NextHome

Ottawa July 3–31, 2021

The ﬁrst and only complete guide to pre-construction homes and condos

Home offices are here to stay INSIDE:

AGEING IN PLACE

AVOID TAX AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH RECREATIONAL PROPERTY

NEW LOTS COMING FALL 2021

JULY 3–31, 2021 | VOLUME 21, ISSUE 7

CONTENTS

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

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

Susan Legge Susan.Legge@nexthome.ca CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

COVER STORY

Sara Duck MEDIA CONSULTANT

Julie DeBoer 613.875.6673 julie.deboer@nexthome.ca SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATORS

Gary Chilvers Vi Nguyen DISTRIBUTION

distributionteam@nexthome.ca ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES

accountingteam@nexthome.ca DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid–Sachs

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Alicesa Pullan GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

The home office IS HERE TO STAY

Johannah Lorenzo, Mike Terentiev, Alice Wu

Published by

Official Media Partner:

nexthome.ca

NEWS + ADVICE

20 Design File Backyard refresh

Legally Speaking How to avoid taxes and disagreements on cottages

BY JO ALCORN

BY JAYSON SCHWARZ

Kitchen ideas BY BILHA KANGETHE

Personal Finance Do you quality for the Home Buyers’ Plan?

24 Property Pro Curb appeal matters

BY JESSE ABRAMS

Newsworthy

BY HEATHER HADDEN

26 Designer Touch

The latest home ﬁnds

Industry Expert

White delight

Trending

Ageing in place

Fresh start

BY DAVE WILKES

BY SARA DUCK

INSPIRATION

IN EVERY ISSUE

30 New Home & Condo Developments

Trendwatch Art house BY SARA DUCK

By Design Lighten up for summer! BY EUGENIA TRIANDOS AND KORINA KHAMIS

Trend Expert

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

Advertising Call 1.866.532.2588 ext. 1 for advertising rates and information. Fax: 1.888.861.5038 Circulation Highly targeted, free distribution system aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes and racking. Call 1.866.532.2588 to discuss distribution opportunities. Copyright Notice All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of NextHome, and not that of the individual client. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in NextHome and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication without the previous written consent of NextHome. Contents of this publication, in hard copy format as well as online, are covered by copyright law, and offenders will be prosecuted. Copyright 2021 All rights reserved. Reproduction, storage in a retrieval system or transmission, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or otherwise, in whole or in part, without prior written permission of NextHome is strictly prohibited. Terms Advertisers, Editorial content are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time. Editorial Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor at editorial@nexthome.ca.

EDITOR’S NOTE

HOME LIFE

SUSAN LEGGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF New Home + Condo Guide EMAIL: susan.legge@nexthome.ca TWITTER: @SusanLegge

WANT MORE NEWS IN YOUR INBOX?

We’ve packed our July issue with expert advice and listings for the latest developments around the Ottawa region. Everything from legal and financing advice — and the latest home and decor news from the best in the business — lies ahead. As we begin to better understand how life may look after the pandemic, many of us who had to work from home are starting to return to our places of work. For many office workers, working from home has been the norm for well over a year. Irina Popova’s cover story on home offices offers some interesting tips, insights and advice about the work-from-home trend that for many people, is here to stay. And, speaking of offices, now that many homebuilders are returning to regular operations with regards to their sales offices and model homes, we recommend that you call ahead or visit their website to find out about their office hours and COVID-19 protocols. As part of your due diligence when shopping for a new home, be sure to check out a few of the projects that have been completed by the builder you’re considering buying from before you sign on the dotted line. You can also check out their status on the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) website at obd.hcraontario.ca The HCRA was designated by the Government of Ontario (effective February 1, 2021) as the regulatory authority under the New Home Construction Licensing Act, 2017. Not to be confused with the warranty program, Tarion, which deals with matters related to homeowner warranty protection in Ontario, the HCRA now oversees the regulations and licensing of new home builders and vendors in Ontario. As always, we hope you enjoy this issue and happy new-home hunting!

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ADVICE | LEGALLY SPEAKING

PLANNING TO AVOID TAX AND FIGHTS AT THE

COTTAGE JAYSON SCHWARZ, LLM

Summer has come, and many people head for the lake, greenery and beauty of nature. We’re either buying a cottage, opening a cottage we already own or just enjoying our time there. As you sit on the dock and watch 6

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

the children and grandchildren play, with the sounds of summer cascading around you, your mind drifts and you begin to consider the fact there are separate families within your family unit. There are different needs and wants, in-laws to consider, and so on. How best to plan for the future and avoid any disagreements down the line? A few options are available. You could do an estate freeze and lock the cottage capital gain in place at this time, by rolling

the cottage into a corporation and working out a way to reduce the tax payable through share redemption over time, and have the kids subscribe for the common shares. This approach would, first, protect against tax payable on death, and second, pass future increases in value onto the children. A shareholders’ agreement will operate to ensure peaceful operation as best you can. Next, a family trust with specific terms could set out what is

required to be done. Such an agreement should be considered where a person is purchasing a cottage later in life. The trust could buy the property, and Mom, Dad, the kids and grandchildren could use it. Just before the expiry of 21 years, the cottage could be transferred to the kids or the grandchildren. From the time mom and dad acquired it, until it is sold, tax would be payable on the increase of the value of the property. Lastly, but by no means least, you could establish a limited partnership. This will work where the cottage is either big enough for a number of bunkies, or more than one building, or where

everyone is allocated time to use the property or portions thereof. This operates sort of like a timeshare or condo, as there is a company you own, which is the operator of the property, and limited partners own units in the partnership. Each limited partner would be given exclusive use of buildings or weeks on the property. The General Partner Corporation would operate the property, effecting repairs and maintenance and so on. Rules could be put in place to deal with rotational use and annual costs. Each of these methods needs a lawyer who can think outside the box, understands real estate, tax and succession planning, and is able to apply their skills to

formulate the perfect solution for your family. One of the big issues, of course, is exit strategies, which we will discuss in the next issue. In the meantime, sit back and enjoy that fabulous Canadian summer. Jayson Schwarz is a Toronto real estate lawyer and senior partner in the law firm Schwarz Law Partners LLP. If you have a topic in mind, or a question, mail, deliver or fax letters to the newspaper or to the firm, call us, use the web site www.schwarzlaw.ca, email info@schwarzlaw.ca and give us your questions, concerns, critiques and quandaries.

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Art 8

INSPIRATION |

trend watch

HOUSE by SARA DUCK

Mainstream furniture design has taken an exciting turn lately. Maybe you have noticed it, too. From sculptural lighting and Brutalist-inspired tables to Rothkoinspired designs, decor is getting artsy. More specifically, Museum of Modern Art worthy! And I must admit I am a huge fan. I think we can all agree that it’s not just about furniture’s function; we want the form to be equally appealing. With art galleries and museums closed, for now, our need to physically connect with art has really changed. Along with adorning our space with literal paintings and pictures, it’s interesting to see that furniture can play a pivotal role, too – the rooms in our homes can become mini art exhibits. We can be the curator of our own spaces, choosing unique furniture and decor pieces that reflect our style and needs, and bring us unending inspiration every time we enter the room.

3 4

1. Dexter concrete top END TABLE. $749. crateandbarrel.ca | 2. Chromatic squares PILLOW COVER citrus by Oui. $39. indigo.ca | 3. Asana P-3769 FLOOR LIGHT by Oiko Design Office. $2,780-$2,834. lightformshop.com | 4. Outline camel SOFA. $2,999. cb2.ca | 5. Stacked SCULPTURE. $595. elte.com | 6. Noguchi COFFEE TABLE in white ash. $2,495. eq3.com | 7. Fiato MIRROR. $349. cb2.ca | 8. Shepard faux shearling ARMCHAIR. $399. structube.com 8

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

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ADVICE | INDUSTRY INSIDER

COVER STORY

home office era The

IRINA POPOVA

Working from home has become the norm for many of us during this past year, and home offices have progressed from being a passing trend to a necessary part of one’s everyday life. When the first stay-at-home order was announced, I remember seeing countless social media posts of newly set-up home 10

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

offices — everything from a beautifully furnished office room or bar stool at the kitchen island to a hole-in-the-wall basement or the dining room table! A couple of months and many backaches later, we continue to see many homeowners sell their properties due to lack of space for a proper workstation. Having a designated room for a home office has moved to the top of their wants-and-needs list.

Hopefully this new way of working is the only lasting effect from the COVID-19 pandemic. For now, it looks like it’s here to stay. Here are some things to consider if you are thinking of buying a new home, or perhaps looking for a way to make your current space work better for you. DEN? STUDY? FLEX SPACE?

Different developers seem to use different terms to often describe

the same thing. Or sometimes the same word to describe very different things. For example, I’ve seen all types of dens — some that are as large as a regular bedroom with a closet and sliding doors, some that are a part of the living space and provide just enough room for a desk, and others that are just an indent in the wall (I’m not even kidding!). Depending on your personal needs, either of those options

could work just fine of course. Determine exactly what kind of office furniture you will be using and how much of the total square footage. Do you really need to sacrifice for an office? Developers have quickly caught on to this new trend and we are seeing new projects include a lot of layouts that integrate a work area. When you are looking at a floorplan, there are a few things you should be considering: size,

natural light, privacy. Will your den also double as a guest room? If so, make sure it’s around 7 x 8 feet at the very minimum. A lot of builders tend to tuck their dens away, resulting in a real lack of natural light. If that’s the case in a layout that you’re looking at, perhaps the builder would agree to install pot lights in the den, or a cleverly located transom window. If you are like me, your office is full of papers and sticky notes that no one needs or wants to see — having a door or a privacy screen that can easily hide that eye sore from your guests or partners is a huge convenience. There has been a lot of innovation in the furniture industry in order to keep up with this new era — convertible furniture is all the rage these days. There are coffee tables, Murphy beds, bookshelves that turn into desks with just a couple of movements. These creative solutions can really come in handy when space is a luxury. One thing I have yet to figure out though is a way to make those super clunky but oh-so-comfortable office chairs work well in small spaces. If you have any ideas, let me know! If you are currently shopping for a new home and don’t need to have a home office yourself, I do still suggest keeping the above in mind — this will likely help with your resale value!

Irina Popova is a real estate agent and co-owner of Blue Panda Realty. She has been specializing in the central Ottawa market since 2013.

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ADVICE | PERSONAL FINANCE

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE

HOME BUYERS’ PLAN JESSE ABRAMS

For many first-time homebuyers, coming up with a down payment isn’t always easy, and can delay the process of owning a home. The good news is that the Canadian government offers many financial incentives to first-time buyers to help them enter the market. One in particular is the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP). The HBP is a program that allows you to withdraw money from your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to buy or build a qualifying home for either yourself or a relative with a disability. Participating in this program gives you the opportunity to tap into additional funds to put toward your down payment, and then later recontribute into your RRSP within a 15-year period. Not only does the HBP help you come up with more funds for your down payment, but it also lowers your mortgage amount and monthly expenses.

• You need to be a resident of Canada when you withdraw funds from your RRSP under the HBP and up to the time a qualifying home is bought or built • You must intend to occupy the qualifying home as your principal residence within one year after buying or building it MAXIMUM WITHDRAWAL

The Home Buyers’ Plan allows you to withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSP, tax-free. If you’re buying your first home with your partner or another first-time home buyer, then you can both access $35,000 from your RRSP for a combined total of $70,000 toward your down payment. The HBP loan must be repaid within 15 years. WITHDRAWAL RULE

This rule indicates that any amount of money you withdraw must have been in your RRSP for at least 90 days. If the money doesn’t sit in your RRSP for at least 90 days before being withdrawn, it may not be taxdeductible for that fiscal year. REPAYMENT SCHEDULE

ELIGIBILITY

It’s important to note that the Home Buyers’ Plan isn’t for everyone. There are specific criteria that you must meet to qualify for the program, including: • You must be considered a firsttime home buyer • You require a written agreement to buy or build a qualifying home, either for yourself or for a family member with a disability 12

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

Your first repayment is due two years after you make your withdrawal, and the full amount must be repaid within 15 years. Although there are minimum repayment requirements, you can begin making payments any time, or repay it in full, with no penalties. If you do pay more than the minimum, your remaining balance for future years will then be reduced. In the event that you

don’t repay the expected amount, the government will treat the amount as income for that year and tax you on it. FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS INCENTIVE

This is a shared equity program that helps Canadian homebuyers purchase their first home. It offers five per cent on the purchase price of resale properties, and 10 per cent for new builds, to put toward a down payment. Those participating in this program must then pay this money back interestfree to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corp. within 25 years of their purchase, or once the property is sold. LAND TRANSFER TAX REBATE

When buying a home, there are land transfer taxes that need to be paid. What many don’t know is that first-time homebuyers can actually receive a rebate for this. However, how much you can qualify for depends on where you live. In Ontario, eligible buyers can receive a rebate equal to the full amount of their land transfer tax, up to a maximum of $4,000. Torontonians are even eligible for greater savings, as there is an additional municipal land transfer tax that you can receive a rebate for. Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm. thinkhomewise.com

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INSPIRATION |

newsworthy

CLEAN AIR

Ikea is committed to healthy living, that’s why it’s launching its own air purifier. The FÖRNUFTIG air purifier is not only well designed to filter out common household pollutants, it’s affordable, too. “At IKEA, we believe clean indoor air shouldn’t be a luxury for the few, and that’s why one of our main priorities in developing the FÖRNUFTIG Air Purifier was to achieve a low price for both the air purifier and the filters,” says Mathias Karlsson, director of Home Smart at IKEA Canada. Available April 1. ikea.ca

CHAIR CARE If you’re working from home, it’s important to have an office chair that will keep you comfortable and supported. The tCentric Hybrid Task Chair, with airless cushion technology, is sleek, breathable and ergonomic, making it a great fit for your work-from-home space. ergocentric.com

3 SMART MUG

Extend the longevity of your morning brew with Ember mug. This smart mug allows you to set an exact drinking temperature, so your coffee is never too hot or too cold. Use the app to set your desired temperature, customize pre-sets for your favourite drinks, receive notifications when your desired temperature is reached, and more. Ember maintains your selected temperature for 1.5 hours. bestbuy.ca

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

HAND-CRAFTED CHARCUTERIE BOARDS We love this collection of locally hand-crafted charcuterie boards from First Wood Furnishings. The beautiful epoxy designs create a unique finish. The best part? All the wood is sustainably sourced from Ontario Wood partners, with a tree planted for every board sold. firstwoodfurnishings.ca

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ADVICE | INDUSTRY EXPERT

MORE CANADIANS ARE LOOKING AT

AGEING IN PLACE DAVE WILKES

I recently read an article about a survey conducted by the National Institute on Ageing at Toronto’s Ryerson University saying that COVID-19 has more people thinking about ageing in place. The survey of 1,517 Canadians suggests 16

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

more seniors want to continue living at home as they age, rather than move to a retirement home or long-term care facility. Sixty per cent of respondents said the pandemic had changed their opinions on whether they would arrange for themselves or an older loved one to live in a retirement home. Seventy per cent of respondents aged 65 and older said they would try to live safely and independently in their own home as long as possible.

Do you feel the same about your own ageing process? The good news is, you can stay in your present home as long as you want if you design it to meet your future lifestyle needs. Here are some things to consider. WASHROOMS

You can make your washrooms safer and help prevent falls by having smooth transitions between floor finishes. Installing a curbless or roll-in shower is

“

Seventy per cent of respondents aged 65 and older said they would try to live safely and independently in their own home as long as possible.

a great idea if you want to remain independent. You might want to have a seat in the shower and install a hand-held spout lower on the wall for easier access. And, a floating vanity provides easy wheelchair access. ACCESS

Consider wider doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs. Think about stairlifts and elevators for the future. When it comes to the kitchen, you can install upper cabinets that lower with a slight pull on a handle for easier access. Lastly, think about a dual-height kitchen island or counter to accommodate both those in a wheelchair and everyone else in the family. TAX CREDITS

The provincial government recently announced the Seniors’ Home Safety Tax Credit, which can help you make your home safer and more accessible. The tax credit is worth 25 per cent of up to $10,000 in eligible expenses for a senior’s principal residence in Ontario. The maximum credit is $2,500.

”

This is only a short list of what you need to consider. We could get into more detail, such as addressing lighting quality to help with visual impairments, or other potential situations that need special consideration, but the best thing to do is to work with a RenoMark renovator who has a certified ageing in place specialist on staff. These professionals know what to do, have the correct licences and will ensure that you do it legally and correctly the first time. Your home and safety are not places to cut corners. Find out more by visiting renomark.ca. The RenoMark program was established in 2001 by the Toronto-based Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) and is now delivered in partnership with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association and local Home Builders’ Associations across Canada. Dave Wilkes is President and CEO of BILD.

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INSPIRATION |

Lighten

by design

With summer right around the corner, now is the time to lighten up your home with these ideas by EUGENIA TRIANDOS AND KORINA KHAMIS • photos MIKE CHAJECKI

Go neutral Neutral colour palettes are a trendy choice that many designers like us gravitate toward, thanks to their versatility and broad appeal. Think about it… it’s very difficult to offend someone with neutral hues. Furthermore, a neutral colour palette is easy to layer up for winter and lighten up for spring. When choosing large-scale

colours for your home, such as wall paint, flooring and bigger furnishings such as a sofa, choose muted earthy whites and cream tones.

Change up your fabrics Pack up your heavier materials, such as corduroy, velvet, wool and chunky knits, which are great for creating a cosy ambience that’s ideal through the fall and

colder months. Replace these with cooler, natural fabrics such as linen, cottons and jute, in a tighter weave and colour palette. Bring these textiles into your pillows, throws, window coverings and even change out your area rugs. In the bedroom and bathroom, crisp white bedding and white towels are our go-to for creating a relaxing, spa-inspired feel that instantly soothes and uplifts the soul.

Designers Eugenia Triandos and Korina Khamis are Co-Founders at Hibou Design & Co. With more than a decade of experience, this Montreal-based multi-disciplinary design firm has become known for creating both stylish and well curated interiors. The firm provides complete bespoke residential design services throughout Canada & North America. hiboudesignco.com

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

tip Take your neutrals a step further with a monochromatic colour palette, which can lend a lighter, more laid-back aesthetic by virtue of its simplicity. Bonus – monochrome is also an easy way to make a room appear bigger and brighter.

tip

Enhance the natural light in your home by strategically positioning mirrors near windows. Mounting a wall mirror opposite a window will amplify the natural light and double your views! Similarly, propping a tall, vertical mirror against the wall can create the illusion of a doorway.

different metals, and juxtapose finishes such as glossy and matte surfaces to bring lots of visual interest and depth to your design, while maintaining your monochromatic colour palette.

Light it up Incorporate texture If not executed thoughtfully, a neutral or monochromatic space runs the risk of falling flat. Add personality to your interiors by playing with texture and a variety of different materials. Think outside the box and look to furniture and light fixtures as textural targets. Consider wood, wicker and straw. Play with

While lighting seems like a fairly obvious addition to every room, you’d be shocked at how many people disregard its importance and the potential impact it can have on the overall ambience. A poorly lit room can appear small and uninviting – not ideal by any means. Layer in different light sources throughout the home, incorporating ceiling fixtures, sconces and lamps in corners,

tabletops and sitting areas. This will brighten up dark corners, enhance the room’s function, and highlight key points of interest such as unique architectural features, collections and artwork. Of course, with the days getting longer and the sun on our side, natural light should be top of mind at this time of year. Draw the curtains open, or better yet, remove them entirely if privacy isn’t a concern. While you’re focused on your windows, go ahead and give them a good cleaning, inside and out. You’ll be amazed at how much more natural light floods your home when you remove the window grime of winter. nexthome.ca 19

Backyard refresh INSPIRATION |

-#!( 5&

photos JASON HARTOG

DESIGNER JO ALCORN CREATES A COOL AND COSY OUTDOOR SPACE ON A BUDGET

ackyard spaces are front and centre this season, as we are faced with new pandemic restrictions. With the recent price increases in lumber, furniture and all things outdoors, I want to give homeowners some tips on utilizing what they have by adding a few new things to change the look of the outdoor space, while keeping things budget-friendly. When it came to my clients on this project, they really didn’t

like their original space; it was cluttered, there were no defined zones, and it lacked inspiration. Although the deck needed to be replaced, like many others, these clients were not ready to pay double the lumber price, so a fresh coat of paint modernized this dated deck. Paint goes a long way to freshen things up. The conversation set is more than 15 years old, but the shape and cushion colour were still perfect. With a bit of elbow grease and a can of matte black spray paint,

they were able to freshen it up to look sleek and modern. I wanted this outdoor space to work from day to night, so lighting was essential to take afternoon drinks into the twilight hour. I grabbed these Edison LED string lights and Hurricane Lanterns from Rona and Lowe’s (their curbside pick-up is simple and makes me feel safe when shopping). They give off a warm, inviting light that can take you from dusk to evening. To take it a step further in the outdoor experience, I added a

Jo Alcorn has more than 15 years’ experience as a celebrity interior and home product designer, expert instructor, corporate ambassador, TV personality and a strong female entrepreneur. alcornhome.com

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

gorgeous outdoor wooden bar creating another zone and focal point. Now, if it only came with a bartender! Growing your own food is becoming a trend among many, whether you have a yard or a small patio. Rona’s modular and vertical planters ensure you have fresh herbs and veggies, no matter your outdoor size. This system is also great for those just getting into the green thumb lifestyle. Bonus: They match the decor perfectly. I love when a design comes together seamlessly. What’s a backyard space without a barbecue? While gas or propane grills are the norm, my client really wanted to try his hand at a charcoal grill. This gorgeous 22-in. black

charcoal Kettle Grill by Weber is a sleek design and easy to move around – perfect for this space. I brought in textured pieces to really finish off the space and add that cosy feeling. I added some two-toned throw cushions in stunning burnt orange and black and white from Lowe’s. I defined the fireplace area and upper deck sitting space with rugs from Lowe’s, as well, to truly define the zones for a comfortable feature. From lounging in the conversation area under the pergola, to toasting marshmallows at the fire pit, to grilling burgers and grabbing a drink at the bar, this backyard space is sure to get lots of use this summer and be a little home away from home.

nexthome.ca 21

ideas

INSPIRATION |

KITCHEN

trend expert

2021

From coloured cabinetry and innovative storage ideas, to decorative range hoods that will surely make a statement, designer Bilha Kangethe rounds up the trends that are bound to dominate the kitchen scene

TURN UP THE TONES Even though the classic white kitchen is a favourite, homeowners are updating their cabinets with warmer shades. Wood finishes such as oak and walnut are organic choices that lend connection to the outdoors and add a natural texture to the space. While incorporating contrasting coloured cabinets can make your space pop. We are not saying goodbye to the white kitchen, we are parking it for now and inviting choices that will add strong character to the cooking area. Contrasting colours. GRAY CASHMERE and AEGEAN TEAL Walnut kitchen photo: Andre Francois McKenzie

by Benjamin Moore. benjaminmoore.ca

HIDDEN AGENDA Increased storage is every homeowner’s dream. For this reason, designers make a point of taking advantage of every inch of space. How? By rethinking upper cabinet storage, adding appliance garages, incorporating integrated appliances that blend seamlessly with the cabinetry, hidden inserts and pullouts in drawers. And those who have the square footage, converting their built-in pantries to walk-in/butler pantries. Kitchen designers and cabinet makers are motivated now more than ever to create storage solutions for the homeowner to make your kitchen practical and provide efficient utilization.

Built in pantry photo: Sidekix

Bilha Kangethe is the Founder and Creative Director of The Lifestyle Loft. As a certified designer and interior decorator, she has created a company that focuses on the needs of each client and customer and helps them curate a lifestyle that is comfortable and economical. thelifestyleloft.com

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

WASH UP The most neglected yet highly utilized features in the kitchen – the sink and faucet – have moved up in the scale of importance. They are the least expensive to replace and come in a variety of finishes and styles that not only add functionality but also make a statement. Everything from hands-free faucets that make kitchen prep easier (and keep germs at bay), to innovative sinks that streamline all your kitchen tasks including meal prep and clean-up. These kitchen accessories are creating a buzz and are about to make major waves in the kitchen remodel world.

Bespoke industrial BRASS KITCHEN FAUCET by Watermark Designs. Design by Rob Diaz

Ornate hood photo: Chastity Cortijo

WORKSTATION SINK by Kraus. kraususa.com

DIAL UP THE DRAMA Say hello to ornate decorative hoods taking centre stage in the kitchen. Cladded in wood trim, tile, plaster, shiplap, brass, copper sheeting – the range hood is evolving in character and has increasingly become a fave for many. Installed to extend life for your cabinetry and provide fast and efficient ventilation, this accessory is creating a major design moment in 2021.

SURFACE SUPREME Quartz continues to hold its own with its affordable price point, durability and marble-like features. Expect to see more detail, variety and sophistication that will give marble a run for its money. Quartz is not the only surface we are swooning over in 2021; textured tile backsplashes, bright mosaics, and pattern will rule the kitchen surfaces. 1. Levven BACKSPLASH by Cambria. cambriausa.com 2. 5143 WHITE ATTICA by Caesarstone. caesarstone.ca 3. Anthracite GEO-HEX STONE AND GLASS MOSAIC wall tile by Bestview. $22 /sq. ft. lowes.ca nexthome.ca 23

INSPIRATION |

property pro

First glance by HEATHER HADDEN

WHY CURB APPEAL MATTERS – NOW MORE THAN EVER

oronto, and pretty much all of Ontario for that matter, is a sellers’ market. Demand is high, housing stock is low, and competition is cut-throat – and that’s putting it mildly. If you’re selling your home, you have the upper hand, but you should still do what you can to increase your investment value – and your overall selling price. Did you know? According to a recent survey by the Ontario Real

Estate Association, only two per cent of homebuyers said a home’s exterior and landscaping didn’t factor into their buying decision. That’s a whopping 98 per cent of people who consider a home’s curb appeal when shopping the market. Interesting, right? Curb appeal is all about creating a desirable and inviting exterior, to catch people’s eye and make that first positive impression from the curb. Decades ago, most homehunters would pile into their car every Saturday and Sunday, from 1 to 4 p.m., and drive around

looking for open houses. When something caught their eye, it was a must-see. That’s curb appeal. Today, curb appeal is more about attracting buyers online with great listings photos. Whether we’re talking in person or online, your home’s exterior is the first impression people get, and it will be a big factor in their decision to take a closer look or keep moving to the next, perhaps slightly nicer listing. Here are some of my strategies to attract more buyers – and offers!

Heather Hadden, Principal at Hadden Homes and notable top real estate professional in the GTA, is focused on providing comprehensive full-service support for all new and existing homeowners. haddenhomes.com

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

Depending on your home and its condition, this could be a big or a small job. But all things considered, it’s the most cost-effective way to freshen up your home. When it comes to choosing colours, don’t be too trendy. As we all know, trends come and go. Instead, opt for longevity and choose something in line with the neighbourhood aesthetic. Also, consider what’s happening next door. Avoid duplicating your neighbours’ colour schemes, which can make homes look odd side-by-side. Anything that’s peeling or appears discoloured will benefit from a fresh coat, including your front door and porch, shutters, window trim and garage.

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Paint

Entrance area Create an instant stylish welcome to the porch area with a new mailbox, light fixture and house numbers. Make a seasonal vignette with planters flanking the door and walkway leading to the front door and porch.

Landscaping When assessing your home’s curb appeal, don’t discount the importance of the yard. Outdoor space has become even more critical in the wake of the pandemic, which has prompted many homebuyers to look for homes with outdoor amenities. Manicured gardens, patios and decks have become huge selling features, especially in some inner-city neighbourhoods

Driveway Admittedly, this upgrade is less sexy than the others, but it’s just as important. Nothing ages a home at first glance like a cracked driveway, broken front steps or displaced patio stones. If the exterior is uncared for, potential buyers may assume interior elements have not been well maintained. Furthermore, don’t risk deterring buyers or tempting them to lower their offers in anticipation

where access to green space is limited. Furthermore, landscaping is an upgrade that immediately increases your property value, and that value increases as your trees grow. During the warmer months, ensure the lawn is mowed, flowers planted, bushes and trees trimmed. Consider planting some hearty, cold-weather plants to bring life and detail to that bleak, wintery scene. Add outdoor lighting to highlight different areas and unique features.

of repairs. Correct these issues before putting your home on the market. Curb appeal is a critical part of the home selling process, and paying a little attention to your home’s exterior can go a long way to attracting more interested buyers and higher offers. Especially now, with in-person showings limited and more house-hunting being conducted online or from the street, curb appeal can be just the thing to tip the scales in your favour.

nexthome.ca 25

INSPIRATION |

designer touch

Whitedelight

Hibou Design & Co. takes a plain new-build kitchen and transforms it into a light, bright and personalized cooking space

by EUGENIA TRIANDOS AND KORINA KHAMIS • photos MIKE CHAJECKI

here are many benefits to buying a brand-new home: You’re not inheriting someone else’s style preferences, or their wear and tear. However, there are also some challenges,

namely the “cookie-cutter” issue. Homes in new subdivisions are often built en masse, with each being a carbon copy of its neighbours. Such was the case in this brand-new townhome project where builders typically offer limited upgrade options. With few

distinguishing features included in the plan, adding character became a conscious consideration at the interior design level. Another challenge when designing interiors for a brandnew build is not having a concrete structure to work with. Here’s

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

tip Hardware is an easy and cost-efficient way to infuse some personal flair into a home. Shop around for something that is unique and speaks to you. Consider mixing knobs and pulls for added interest, but keep them in the same metal and finish for a consistent look.

where it helps to work with a professional designer who has experience with conceptualizing the final product, and how various features and finishes will play out. These homeowners asked us to infuse some charm and character into a home that was still mainly just a plan on paper. So, that’s where we started. This was the third kitchen that we designed for these clients, so we had an intimate understanding of their appreciation for timeless design, bright whites, open space and their penchant for hosting parties. We created a floorplan that was open to accommodate how they live and entertain,

SCONCES

setting out the room divisions and overall layout. Once approved by our clients, we handed the final plan to the builder and kept our fingers crossed that our vision would not be denied. One of the design changes we made was changing this beautiful townhome’s layout to optimize its stunning park views. Our holistic approach to the interior finishes ensured a cohesive aesthetic throughout this open-concept main floor, where the kitchen is open to the dining room and part of the living area. The overall style of the home is contemporary, so the kitchen had to follow suit. Since the builder’s upgrade options were limited, we thoughtfully narrowed down the areas that were worth the extra investment, such as the countertops. We splurged on quartz countertops – white quartz featuring a deep, high-contrast veining. We used this same material to wrap the large island featuring a waterfall edge on either side. The island offers a comfortable seating and serving area for guests, and easy clean-up, making it the preferred spot for family meals.

We continued the predominantly white colour palette with a small-scale, classic subway tile that runs up the hood’s back. We dressed up the builder-grade shaker cabinets with punchy black hardware that nodded to our clients’ preferred style. We decided to make the hood a focal point by giving it a dark finish and framing it with two beautiful brass sconces. This detail meant sacrificing some upper cabinets, but we felt the character this would bring to the space was worth it. We made up for the missed storage space with a full-length cabinet to the right of the range, which is a perfect place to tuck away small appliances. This family loves to entertain, so having these kitchen essentials hidden away yet readily on-hand was a feature they loved. The outcome of our efforts is a contemporary, bright and open kitchen that perfectly functions and complements the lifestyle of the clients. The kitchen is truly the heart of every home, and it always helps when, as the designers, we have insight into how our clients live and what they love.

COUNTERTOPS by Cambria. | Cabinet HARDWARE by Top Knobs. | by Restoration Hardware. | ACCESSORIES and CUSTOM CHAIRS by Hibou & Co.

nexthome.ca 27

h s e r f start

INSPIRATION |

trending

by SARA DUCK

SEVEN LOOKS TO LOVE

BIG CYPRESS COOL CURRENT

Light wood accents

MISTY AQUA

Monarch BED. $1,149. eq3.com Redonda wood upholstered DINING CHAIR. $579. crateandbarrel.ca Voxlov dining TABLE in light bamboo. $300. ikea.ca

TRANSCEND

Soft earthy paint palette COOL CURRENT 6199-42 by Sico. sico.ca TRANSCEND (DLX1079-4), BIG CYPRESS (DLX 1062-5), MISTY AQUA (DLX1147-3) by Dulux. dulux.ca

Coloured sofas DALU SOFA in hibiscus pink and oak. $1,149. article.com Fany tufted 3-SEATER SOFA in yellow. $499. structube.com Morabo LOVESEAT in light green and wood. $600. ikea.ca 28

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

Natural elements

Rudy VASE. $30. eltemkt.com Rattan PLANTER with wood stand. $35. homesense.ca Turquoise druzy KNOB. $20. cb2.ca

The hand-crafted look Linen throw PILLOW. $59. zarahome.ca Pink seagrass BASKET. $35. homesense.ca Stoneware SERVING BOWL. $15. hm.com

Delicate floral print Statement rugs Patterned COTTON RUG. $35. hm.com Colca WOOL RUG. $300-$1,800. westelm.ca OMA RUG. $500. article.com

Mini floral DUVET COVER. $99-$139. zarahome.ca nexthome.ca 29

NEW HOME & CONDO DEVELOPMENTS

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME These listings offer a comprehensive overview of new-home and condo developments currently available throughout the Greater Ottawa Area and the Gatineau.

Legend: D = Detached SD = Semi–Detached B = Bungalow TH = Townhome TR = Terrace C = Condo = Highlighted listings are advertised in this issue of New Home + Condo Guide. Please refer to page number for more information.

LOCATION

BUILDER

SITE NAME

PROPERTY TYPE

FROM

Almonte

Phoenix Homes

White Tail Ridge 44 Sopwith Pvt, Ottawa

Almonte

Neilcorp

Mill Run, Marshall’s Bay Meadows

Arnprior

Campanale

Callahan Estates

Arnprior

Cedarstone Homes

The Fairgrounds

–

Arnprior

Mackie Homes

The Fairgrounds

–

Carleton Place

Cardel

Miller’s Crossing 2 Flegg Way

–

Inquire

Carleton Place

Longwood Builders

Coleman Central

–

Carp

Phoenix Homes

Diamondview Estate 44 Sopwith Pvt, Ottawa

–

$534’s

Carp

Mattino Developments

Diamondview Estates

–

Kanata

Cardel

Blackstone 106 Westphalian

–

Kanata

Claridge

Bridlewood Trails

–

Kanata

Mattamy

Blackstone South

–

Kanata

Mattamy

Connections in Kanata

–

Kanata

Minto

Arcadia, Morgan’s Creek

–

Kanata

Metric Homes

Trail View

–

Kanata

Richcraft

Bradley Commons

–

Kanata

Uniform

Richardson Ridge

–

Kanata

Urbandale

Bradley Commons

–

Richmond

Caivan

Fox Run 302 Meynell Road

–

Richmond

Cardel

Creekside 764 Kirkham Crescent

–

Richmond

Cedarstone

Kings Creek, Richmond Oaks

–

Richmond

Mattamy Homes

Richmond Meadows

–

Richmond

Metric Homes

Fox Run

–

Richmond

Talos Homes

Richmond Square

–

CONTACT

PG.

West

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

–

$544’s

613-470-1336 phoenix.ca

–

neilcorphomes.com

–

campanale.com

–

Coming Soon

–

Coming Soon

–

613-253-1959 cardelhomes.com

longwoodbuilders.com

–

613-470-1336 phoenix.ca

2, 3

mattino.ca

–

Inquire

613-836-9521 cardelhomes.com

$362’s

claridgehomes.com

–

$385’s

mattamyhomes.com

–

$704’s

mattamyhomes.com

–

Inquire

–

$596’s

–

minto.com

–

metrichomes.com

–

richcraft.com

–

uniformdevelopments.com

–

urbandaleconstruction.com

–

Inquire

613-518-2364 caivan.com

–

Inquire

613-444-0440 cardelhomes.com

–

cedarstonehomes.com

–

Coming Soon

–

metrichomes.com

–

Coming Soon

–

BUILDER

SITE NAME

PROPERTY TYPE

Richmond

Mattamy Homes

Richmond Meadows

–

Stittsville

Cardel

EdenWylde 106 Westphalian

–

Inquire

Stittsville

Claridge

Westwood

–

Stittsville

eQ Homes

Fernbank Crossing 632 Cope Drive

Stittsville

Patten Homes

Stittsville

Richcraft

Stittsville Stittsville

–

Shea Village

–

Fernbank Crossing, Westwood

–

Tartan

EdenWylde

Tamarack

Westwood, Edenwylde

Nepean

Maple Leaf

West Centretown

FROM

CONTACT

PG.

Coming Soon

–

613-435-5704 cardelhomes.com

$499’s

claridgehomes.com

–

$566’s

613-404-8075 eqhomes.ca

–

Coming Soond

–

$465’s

richcraft.com

–

tartanhomes.com

–

tamarackhomes.com

–

The Village at the Schoolyard

–

mapleleafcustomhomes.ca

–

Claridge

Icon

–

$421

claridgehomes.com

–

Centretown

Ashcroft

reResidences

–

ashcrofthomes.ca

–

Centretown

Brad Lamb Realty

SoBa

–

sobaottawa.com

–

Centretown

Claridge

101 on the River

–

claridgehomes.com

–

613-218-8536 claridgehomes.com

–

Central

Centretown

Claridge

Claridge Moon

–

Inquire

Centretown

Claridge

Claridge Royale

–

$319

claridgehomes.com

–

Centretown

Richcraft

The Bowery

–

346

richcraft.com

–

Centretown

Richcraft

The Charlotte

–

Inquire

thecharlottecondos.com

–

Centretown

Dream Investment

Zibi

–

zibi.ca

–

Lowertown

claridgehomes.com

–

613-569-3043

uniformdevelopments.com

–

613-518-2364 caivan.com

–

Claridge

Waterstreet

–

$461

Old Ottawa East

eQ Homes

Greystone Village II 175A Main Street

–

Inquire

Old Ottawa East

Uniform

The Avenues

–

Barrhaven

Caivan

The Conservancy , The Ridge #115-4100 Strandherd Drive

–

Inquire

Barrhaven

Mattamy

Half Moon Bay

–

$462’s

mattamyhomes.com

–

Barrhaven

Mattamy

Promenade

–

$389’s

mattamyhomes.com

–

Barrhaven

Phoenix

Junction

–

Coming Soon

Barrhaven

Uniform

Grandview Court

–

uniformdevelopments.com

–

Barrhaven

Minto

Harmony, Quinn’s Pointe

–

Inquire

minto.com

–

Barrhaven

Glenview Homes

Flagstaff

–

glenviewhomes.com

–

Findlay Creek

Claridge

Sundance

–

$516’s

claridgehomes.com

–

Findlay Creek

Claridge

Lilythorne

–

$506

claridgehomes.com

–

Findlay Creek

eQ Homes

Pathways at Findlay Creek 122 Dun Skipper Road

–

$400’s

613-822-7247 eqhomes.ca

Findlay Creek

Phoenix

Pathways at Findlay Creek 114 Dun Skipper Road

–

$400’s

613-219-6862 phoenixhomes.ca

Findlay Creek

Richcraft

Pathways at Findlay Creek

–

$412’s

richcraft.com

South

2, 3

2, 3 –

nexthome.ca 31

BUILDER

SITE NAME

PROPERTY TYPE

Findlay Creek

FROM

CONTACT

Tartan

Findlay Creek Village

–

tartanhomes.com

–

Findlay Creek

Tamarack

Findlay Creek Village

–

tamarackhomes.com

–

Findlay Creek

HN Homes

Cowan’s Grove

–

hnhomes.com

–

Findlay Creek

Urbandale

Cowan’s Grove

–

urbandaleconstruction.com

–

Greely

Phoenix

Shadow Ridge

–

Inquire

Greely

Parkview Homes

Lakeland Meadows

–

Kemptville

eQ Homes

Equinelle 74 eQuinelle Drive

–

Manotick

eQ Homes

Riverwalk

–

Manotick

Minto

Mahogany

–

Manotick

Uniform

Maple Creek Estates

–

Ottawa South

Valecraft

Deerfield Village 2

–

Riverside South

Claridge

River’s Edge

–

Riverside South

Richcraft

Riverside South

–

Riverside South

HN Homes

Riverside South

Urbandale

Riverside South

Urbandale

ClarenceRockland

613-823-9227 phoenixhomes.ca

PG.

2, 3

parkviewhomes.info

–

$300’s

613-258-6488 eqhomes.ca

–

Inquire

613-618-3204 eqhomes.ca

–

Inquire

minto.com

–

Coming Soon

–

Inquire

valecraft.com

–

$516’s

claridghomes.com

–

$494’s

richcraft.com

–

hnhomes.com

–

urbandaleconstruction.com

–

Jazz Condos, Allora Condos

–

urbandaleconstruction.com

–

eQ Homes

Clarence Crossing 235 L’etang Street

–

$385’s

613-862-0167 eqhomes.com

ClarenceRockland

Longwood Builders

Morris Village

–

longwoodbuilders.com

–

ClarenceRockland

CH Clement Construction

Morris Village

–

chclementconstruction.ca

–

Embrun

Devcore

Fauberge Ste–Marie

–

devcore.ca

–

Embrun

Melanie Construction

Ste–Marie Hamlet

–

melanieconstruction.com

–

Embrun

SACA Homes

Place St. Thomas

–

sacahomes.ca

–

Embrun

Valecraft

Place St. Thomas

–

Inquire

valecraft.com

–

Orleans

Ashcroft

Eastboro

–

ashcrofthomes.ca

–

Orleans

Brigil

Petrie’s Landing 8865 Jean d’Arc Blvd.

–

Inquire

613-706-4262 brigil.com

–

Orleans

Caivan

Orleans Village 806 Croissant de Mercier

–

Inquire

613-518-2364 caivan.com

–

Orleans

Claridge

Spring Valley Trails

–

$300’s

claridgehomes.com

–

Orleans

eQ Homes

Provence 1375 Trim Road

–

$450’s

613-355-7863 eqhomes.ca

Orleans

Minto

Avalon Encore

–

Inquire

minto.com

–

Orleans

Richcraft

Trails Edge, Axis Court

–

$355’s

richcraft.com

–

Orleans

Mattamy

Jardin Crossing

–

Coming Soon

–

Orleans

Tamarack

Cardinal Creek

–

tamarackhomes.com

–

East

New Home + Condo Guide | July 3–31, 2021

–

BUILDER Mattamy

SITE NAME Wateridge Village at Rockliffe

PROPERTY TYPE – – – TH

–

FROM $429’s

CONTACT mattamy.com

PG. –

Ottawa East

Mattamy

360 Condos By Mattamy

–

Coming Soon

–

Russell

Corvinelli Homes

Russell Trails

–

corvinellihomes.ca

–

Russell

Melanie Construction

Sunset Flats

–

melanieconstruction.com

–

Russell

Tartan Homes

Russell Trails

–

tartanhomes.com

–

Gatineau

Brigil

Plateau du Parc 534 boul. Des Grives

–

Inquire

819-776-4663 brigil.com

–

Gatineau

Brigil

Plateau Symmes 895-3 boul. Du Plateau

–

Inquire

819-571-4663 brigil.com

–

Gatineau

Brigil

Domaine du Vieux–Port 1400 St-Joseph Blvd

–

Inquire

819-777-4663 brigil.com

–

Gatineau

Brigil

Le Columbia 376 St. Joseph Blvd.

–

Inquire

613-454-1578 brigil.com

–

Chelsea

Hendrick

Hendrick Farm

–

hendrickfarm.ca

–

North

Start your search Your trusted authority for the latest new home and condo developments. Visit nexthome.ca to get started.

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