Parade of Homes

>> Lying just on the edge of the city, Oak Bluff West is popular with those who like rural living while having easy access to all the amenities Winnipeg has to offer. LOtS Of SpAcE, bOth inSidE And Out Developed by Qualico Communities, Oak Bluff West is on the west side of the town of Oak Bluff, just past where McGillivray Boulevard meets the Perimeter Highway. Derek MacDonald, marketing manager with Sterling Homes, says the lifestyle in Oak Bluff West is very attractive to those wanting a small town-feel, while not sacrificing access to city life. The wide lots, on average 75 feet, allow for expansive homes and more privacy at a price that isn't out of reach. "People living in Oak Bluff West love the neighbourhood and the life," he said. "They say there is a slower pace. If you want your home life kept separate from the hustle and bustle of the city, Oak Bluff West can truly be a sanctuary for you." The community is popular with people from all walks of life, from professionals who want space for their families to empty-nesters. "Sterling Homes has really leveraged the size of the lots to create bigger bungalows," he said. "The homes have large footprints, many with tandem garages and deluxe en suite bathrooms with big soaker tubs and separate showers." An ActivE, fRiEndLy cOmmunity Eric Vogan, vice-president of community develop- ment for Qualico Communities, says one of the special qualities of Oak Bluff West is the strong sense of community spirit. A community group worked to install a small play- ground last year, which quickly became a neighbour- hood destination for families with young children. "With input from residents, we're creating outdoor spaces and groups are rallying to fill those spaces with things that are important to them," he said. "Through the process, people get to know each other and the community gets stronger." Susanne Moore, recreation director with Macdon- ald-Headingley Recreation District, says that the programs and facilities available in Oak Bluff are fantastic. Macdonald Hockey, for example, is one of the largest rural hockey associations in Manitoba with more than 300 kids involved. In addition to hockey, there are opportunities for children to play many different sports and an active program for children younger than six-years-old. "When this community gets behind something, you really see results," she says, adding that the town's rec centre and day care were both brought about because of dedicated community members. Moore says the programs provide a way for new com- munity members to get involved. "Particularly in these growing communities, we want to support the type of neighbourhood where people meet their neighbours and are involved," she said. "Long-standing families in Oak Bluff have very much welcomed new residents and are enthusiastic about sharing their vision for the town." By the time the neighbourhood is complete, Oak Bluff West will have more than 800 new homes. With more than 130 lots already sold, the community is really catching on. Participating builders in Oak Bluff West include Artis- ta Homes, Paradigm Custom Homes, Parkhill Homes, Randall Homes, Somerville Design Homes, Sterling Homes and Ventura Custom Homes. A sAnctuAry for fAmily life, A centre of fAmily fun Oak Bluff West is a hOt neW cOmmunity fOr families WhO Want cOuntry quiet clOse tO the city For Qualico Communities 116 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

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