Parade of Homes

"There's a very large amount of existing forest that Qualico is trying to preserve as much as possible in the design of the de- velopment," explains Aaron Hirota, Senior Landscape Architect at McGowan Russell Group. "They are really focused on working around these existing vegetative areas and using them as part of the development; making sure these naturalized areas are as important as the houses and bringing them to the forefront." Aaron and the McGowan Russell Group are currently designing the forthcoming RidgeWood West entrance feature, and design- ing some unique features to incorporate throughout the com- munity. "We are focusing on using natural rocks and woods, as well as steel in the designs," Aaron explains. "They also discovered large stockpiles of river stone and limestone boulders that have been buried deep in the ground on the RidgeWood West site; the idea is to reclaim and reuse these elements in a way that speaks to the site's history, to help residents understand what was there before." For current Charleswood residents, this is the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a new home that is uniquely built to fit your life- style and budget, without having to leave the community. "So far we've found that there are a lot of different types of people interested in RidgeWood West," Courtney explains. From "family- friendly homes for growing families or people buying their first house, all the way up to people downsizing to their last home. There will really be everything under the sun to pick from." Frank Cotroneo of Artista Homes grew up in Charleswood and knows firsthand why the community is one of Winnipeg's true gems. "We went to school there, played on the hockey rinks…it's such a nice close-knit community," he explains. "you're right there in the city, but you have a secluded little pocket with mature trees, parks, schools, amenities and a great feeling of privacy and na- ture. In RidgeWood West we're going to have beautiful walkout homes and properties backing right onto mature forests – these are things that will be unique in Charleswood." To learn more about living in RidgeWood West, contact Qualico Communities at 204.254.9225 or info@ridgewoodwest.com. >> When Qualico Communities began plans for RidgeWood West, the first new Charleswood development in decades, they knew it would be a hit. That being said, they didn't expect this type of reaction in terms of interest and action. "We're well into Phase I and we've already released more lots than anticipat- ed," explains Eric Vogan of Qualico Communities. "The market is very happy with the pricing. There is such a shortage of homes in the area that they're used to paying above-market, so this is a breath of fresh air. And our lots will be fully serviced with underground piping, paved streets and stormwater sewers." Courtney Sims, Marketing Coordinator for Broadview, Sterling and Foxridge Homes, has been blown away by the feedback: "There is always hype in a new community, but to have people really reach- ing out for more information and people in the area saying they're excited – that's an eye opener and something special." Part of Qualico Communities' mandate in RidgeWood West is to both respect and incorporate the surrounding natural landscape into the development. In this case, it means leaving forested areas untouched and building an exten- sive trail system that will link directly into the Harte Trail. From foraging deer to swooping hawks and songbirds, RidgeWood West resi- dents can expect to see beautiful wildlife along the trails and wetlands, and green spaces dotted throughout the neighbourhood, all contributing to a community that will support active lifestyles. RidgeWood West opens the dooR to ChaRlesWood By Kik Innovation for Qualico Communities 114 Parade of Homes Spring 2016

• Cover