Parade of Homes | Spring 2015

presents the

Spring 2015

March 7-29 2015 Parade of Homes All Builder PArticiPAnts Are Proud memBers of the mAnitoBA home Builders’ AssociAtion

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SHOWHOMES PASSPORT

Parade of Homes Spring 2015 March 7-29 2015 Presented by the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association

Put a spring in your step during the Parade of Homes

Welcome to the 2015 Spring Parade of Homes, the largest and best Parade of Homes anywhere in Canada. The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association is proud to present this year’s version of our annual showcase of new homes. March is an exciting time of year because it means that spring is just around the corner. The new neighbourhoods throughout our city and prov- ince come to life with these fabulous new homes. We are proud and delighted to showcase 34 dif- ferent builders who will be presenting 132 homes in 37 unique and different neighbourhoods. These selections represent the absolute best in design and construction in Manitoba and, for that matter, Canada. The skilled craftsmanship that goes into each new home will be evident during your visit. We take great pride in the statement that Manitoba new homes are the best built homes in the country. MHBA member builders appreciate the importance of your decision to purchase a new home. That is why they encourage Parade visitors to look careful- ly at each detail, talk to the sales agents and return for additional visits. Our builders want to ensure that you are matched with the home that is perfect for your life situation and family for years to come.

We believe that this year’s selection of new homes offers the right design and the right location for ev- eryone. Be sure to visit as many homes as possible to take full advantage of the Parade. This year, we are pleased to be able to present an interesting and entertaining feature to the Spring Parade of Homes. In this magazine, you will find a Parade Passport. Simply tear out the Passport, visit homes built by 10 different builders any week from Monday through Thursday, get them to stamp your Passport and enter for a chance to win one of four tremendous prizes. Manitoba’s new home construction industry is ready for the spotlight during the Parade. MHBA member builders and suppliers keep abreast of the latest technology, trends and techniques to ensure that your new home offers affordability, quality and choice. There has never been a better time to pur- chase a new home. Enjoy the 2015 Spring Parade of Homes and thank you for visiting.

Mike Moore, President – Manitoba Home Builders’ Association

SHOW HOME HOURS: Mon - Thurs: 3PM - 8PM, Sat & Sun: Noon - 6PM, Fri: By Appointment Only

Parade of Homes Spring 2015 3

REGENT AVE.

Spring 2015 Parade of Homes

March 7-29 2015

Publisher Bob Cox Editor Pat St. Germain Vice President Sales Laurie Finley Manager of Niche Products Barb Borden Design & Colour Services Corinne Ball/Coral Enterprises Sandy Pawlitsky/Pixel Genie Contributing Writers

Dollars and Sense Clearing the air on affordable housing

Wendy King Todd Lewys

Jennifer McFee Holli Moncrieff David Schmeichel Pat St. Germain Jim Timlick Photography Marianne Helm Darcy Finley Printing Quantum Graphics

By Todd Lewys – Photos by Marianne Helm

If you’re thinking about buying or building a new home, your wish list may include anything from a spa bath to a butler’s pantry, but chances are the budget is your No. 1 concern. Housing costs are a hot topic for the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association (MHBA) as well, and the organization is working to ensure new homes in Manitoba remain among the most affordable in the country. The MHBA is acutely aware of the many factors that contribute to costs, but it appears that many consumers are harbouring misconceptions, particularly when it comes to new communities. Mike Moore, president of the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association, says people are often surprised to learn the facts. “Probe Research recently conducted a random poll of just over 600 people asking them who they thought paid for what in new developments,” Moore says. “The poll brought some very interesting numbers to light, to say the least.” A high percentage of respondents mistakenly believed the city paid for much of the infrastructure in new communities: 42% thought the city paid for land drainage, 51% thought the city paid for local streets and 56% believed the city paid for parks and green space.

The MHBA is acutely aware of the many factors that contribute to costs, but it appears that many consumers are harbouring misconceptions

MHBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenda Sobie, Chair Ventura Custom Homes John Daniels, Past Chair Qualico Jason Jaquet, 1st Vice Chair Randall Homes Brian Arnold, 2nd Vice Chair Trikor Builders John Lund, Secretary-Treasurer Steinbach Credit Union Spencer Curtis, Director Hilton Homes

Laurie Finley, Director Winnipeg Free Press Alan Gray, Director Vacuflo Manitoba Colleen Kuruluk, Director

Manitoba Hydro Janet Milne, Director Milne Homes Ltd. Andrew Reimer, Director All-Fab Building Components Inc. Brett Robinson, Director Robinson Lighting Ltd.

Cont’d on page 6

4 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

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Dollars and Sense Cont’d from page 4

Furthermore, 60% of those polled thought the city paid for sidewalks and walking paths, and 67% believed the city picked up the cost for water and sewer lines. “In fact, the city and taxpayer actually pay for nothing,” Moore says. “The city contributes absolutely nothing to new developments — 100% of infrastructure costs are paid up front not by the city, but by the developers, builders and home buyers.” The MHBA wants to clear up another major misconception. “There’s the belief out there that tax dollars in old communities are supporting new communities. In actuality, it’s the exact opposite – tax dollars from new neighbourhoods are supporting old communities.” The taxes paid by new home owners are not being used to develop new communities, at least in the initial stages.

“In the first five to 10 years, new communities aren’t getting any new police stations, fire stations, bus routes or community clubs,” Moore says. “Yet, residents are still paying full taxes. All they get for their hard-earned tax dollars is garbage pick-up and snow clearing. “That being the case, another question arises: What exactly is the city doing with that tax money? It certainly isn’t being invested into new communities.”

‘There’s the belief out there that tax dollars in old communities are supporting new communities. In actuality, it’s the exact opposite’

Cont’d on page 102

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>> Doesn’t it seem like the longer you live in Winnipeg, the less patient you become about winter? This is especially true for those who’ve chosen to build in the unique community of Pritchard Farm Southlands Village (PFSV).They’ve bought into a life- style that has changed the way they feel about and experience the winter months — whether they stay in town, or become snowbirds for the season. While ongoing upkeep like snow-removal, grass-mowing, edge-trimming, weed- pulling, and raking leaves are all part of typical homeownership, the residents of this carefully groomed neighbourhood have better things to occupy their attention. That’s because year-round yard maintenance is all part of the package. “You’d be surprised how excited people get when they realize that for prices compa- rable to many attached condos, they can have a completely detached, custom-built bungalow style home with all the benefits that condo living brings,” says Eric Vogan of Qualico Communities. Opting out of yard work gives the residents of PFSV a lot more time for outdoor living. “You still have your own yard, but your schedule is wide open!” says Vogan. “It’s the ideal setting with the privacy to entertain and barbecue, or stroll around and just enjoy yourself.” For Jason Arlt of Arlt Homes, it’s all about ‘freedom living.’ “Many residents have a winter home somewhere else,” he says. “Or maybe they’ve got a cottage where they spend the summer. Knowing that everything is taken care

of when they’re away really gives homeowners peace of mind.” For people who travel to and from cottage country on weekends, Arlt says this community is ideally positioned for an easy commute. “It’s so peaceful here that you hardly realize you have direct access to a variety of routes around or outside the city. This can really shave time off your drive no matter where you’re headed.” All the convenience of owning a PFSV condo doesn’t mean giving up style or individuality when building your home. Arlt says that most visitors don’t even re- alize this is a condo community when they see it the first time. With a wide variety of custom-built styles by three of Winnipeg’s finest builders — Arlt, Irwin and Maric — set in a neighbourhood designed with flowing views, naturalized wetlands, and landscaped creek beds, there’s no hint that each of these proper- ties is really part of a thriving condo community. “Un- less you count the fact that it’s all so well cared for,” laughs Arlt. “We work with each buyer to create a custom home that suits their lifestyle and reflects their personality. In the design and build process we really get to know them — and that shows when you see how distinct all the properties are here.” Vogan says he’s pleased to say that PFSV is now al- most 80% sold. “It’s really something special in Win- nipeg and people have responded,” he says. “Those who live here still want their own home, but they also want more freedom. Put that together with all the great things we’re seeing from builders in this area and you’ve got a win-win.” To Arlt, the bottom line is that seeing is believing. “You’d think that people choose a community like this because they know they want a condo and then discover the neighbourhood, but you’d be surprised how often it happens the other way around,” he says. “Buyers visit the neighbourhood and fall in love with it. Discovering you get the added benefits of condo living, that’s just the icing on the cake.”

8 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

Set in a stunning landscape of wetlands and native prairie grasses, Sage Creek has quickly become one of Winnipeg’s most sought-after communities. Whether you’re cycling through our winding trails, hunting for fireflies or going on a sunset walk to Village Centre, you’ll quickly learn why Sage Creek is a warm and vibrant community, where nature is always part of the plan.

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Feature

HAPPY HOME BUYERS

Rounding Third Builder hits a home run with this family

By Holli Moncrieff – Photos by Darcy Finley

>> Matthew Wheatley loves Ventura Custom Homes so much he’s bought three of them. And he’s not the only Wheatley to frequent the builder. In fact, it’s something of a family tradition. Matthew’s parents bought their first Ventura home in 2001, and his two brothers own Ventura homes as well. Altogether the fam- ily has owned seven different models built by the local company. “I like Ventura’s flexibility. They’re not afraid to go outside of their standard designs,” he says.

‘I like Ventura’s flexibility. They’re not afraid to go outside of their standard designs’

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Evald Frederiksen, sales associate for Ventura Homes, says the right loca- tion makes all the difference. “Where the home will be located is critical. It’s always a bit of a chal- lenge to marry a home with a lot and everyone’s needs are different,” he says. “But you get to choose your lot without being rushed and competing with other people for the property.” Once the site is selected, buyers have

Wheatley and his wife Rachel Gordon’s new home is anything but standard. This time out, they chose additional upgrades from their previous house, including high-end finishes and appliances in their open, well-appointed kitchen. While it features contemporary dark-brown cabinetry and a dark two-tiered island, the room is light and airy, with sky-high ceilings and two windows flanking the upper portion of the vertical cooking vent. The house isn’t significantly bigger, but with the benefit of hindsight, they decided they needed more space in the laundry room this time out. And they adjusted the entry and stairway to create better flow and to give the entire front of the cabover house the look of a complete two-storey home.

many more de- cisions to make — anything from choosing a bungalow or two-storey home to pick- ing out exte- rior colours and kitchen coun- tertops. Making a final selection from a vast range of options can be challenging, but Ventura helps to make

‘It’s always a bit of a challenge to

marry a home with a lot and

everyone’s needs are different’

<< Matthew Wheatley and

Rachel Gordon enjoy their well-appointed kitchen.

the process as stress-free as possible. “We help people make decisions at application time, and we don’t give them too much to decide at one time because it becomes overwhelming,” Frederiksen says. Ventura has a team of profession- als who walk clients through all the products and colours to help them make the best choices for their life- style and budget.

Wheatley, an engineer, recommends visiting several show homes to get a good sense of what’s available. Before buying his first home, he walked through something like 20 to 30 show homes. “It doesn’t cost anything to customize things like which way you want a door to open,” he says. “Enjoy the process and ask a lot of questions.” He and Gordon moved a short distance from their previous home in Bridg- water Forest to Bridgwater Lakes, where Wheatley’s brothers also live. Matthew says he enjoys all the walking paths and the community feel of the pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood in Waverley West, which has plenty of greenspace and a range of housing styles.

Cont’d on page 16

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“After we do a thorough cleaning, including the ductwork, the home is ready to move in,” Frederik- sen says. “We have a walk-through before we turn over the keys. We make sure the customers are pleased with the work we did. We want our cus- tomers to be 100% satisfied with the home we delivered.” Along with the keys, the proud new homeown- ers receive a manual which explains the builder’s warranty and the structural warranty. “The warranty gives them the confidence that if they have any issues, they can call us and we’ll work it out,” Frederiksen says. “We’re known for delivering a quality product that a family can live in for generations.” Wheatley says he’s made a good return on his investment each time he’s sold a Ventura home. And he enjoys the benefits that come with living in a new house. “You get to pick out everything and it’s new. You don’t really have maintenance on it, and every- thing is under warranty. Ventura’s warranty pro- cess is seamless,” he says. “After a year, you send them a report of all the natural damage from the house settling, and they come in and fix everything. A year after moving in, it looks brand new all over again.”

“We build an agreement with real numbers and we try to keep costs in the target price range,” Frederiksen says. “The client is welcome to make changes after the agreement, but that will also change the price. We always make our agree- ments subject to lawyers’ approval and financing.”

Rounding Third Cont’d from page 15

There’s no pressure to make every decision at one time, nor is it prac- tical, he says. “You’ll never have all your deci- sions made 100% before you sign the document.” Once an agreement is in place, the builder spends some quality time drawing the plans for the new home. “Each house gets its own set of plans that have to be sent in for a permit,” says Frederiksen. When permits are received, a pro- duction schedule is set. The base- ment is excavated, followed by framing and rough-ins of the elec-

‘You get to pick out everything and it’s new. You don’t really have maintenance on it, and everything is under warranty. Ventura’s warranty process is seamless’

trical, plumbing, heating and ventilation systems. Then it’s time for drywall, painting and installation of cabinets. The last steps are finishing the wood- work, electrical and plumbing.

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to start

FRESH

Year after year, River Park South has proven itself to be an extraordinary area to live – and it continues to get better! Boasting exceptional schools (both English and French), a village shopping centre, the Jonathan Toews Community Centre and over 150 acres of beautiful parks and playgrounds, River Park South is a fully established neighbourhood ready for you to enjoy.

A NEW HOME IN RIVER PARK SOUTH New lots are still available – now is your final chance to build a new home in this prized Winnipeg neighbourhood!

VISIT OUR SHOW HOMES To see the latest in home design, visit our show homes on Wainwright Crescent, just off Aldgate Road. PARADE OF HOMES HOURS: MONDAY to THURSDAY: 3:00 – 8:00 pm FRIDAY: by appointment only SATURDAY & SUNDAY: 12:00 – 6:00 pm

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Amber Trails Leading the Way Home… Genstar – For Parade of Homes

>> One of Winnipeg’s most desireable and fastest growing communities, Amber Trails offers its residents a unique opportunity to live in an established, affordable and family-friendly community in northwest Winnipeg. When complete, the 400-acre development will be home to 1,900 residences with access to nearby amenities, na- ture and recreational trails in a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Developed by Genstar, a company with a 60-year legacy of creating some of the most desirable and innovative residential communities in Canada, Amber Trails is designed to bring affordable luxury and lasting value to a carefully planned and developed neighbourhood. The community is connected by an extensive pathway system run- ning through three stunning lakes and 30 acres of parkland, green space and recre- ational areas. “The linear trail system is an example of the lasting legacy that Genstar creates in our communities — it’s our trademark and it has proven itself as a valued amenity in the neighbourhood,” says Marc Brown, Development Officer at Genstar. Located in close proximity to the Leila Avenue and McPhillips Street commercial hub, Amber Trails residents can take advantage of convenient access to local retail outlets, entertainment venues, grocery stores and restaurants. Other essential and valued amenities, such as Seven Oaks General Hospital, are also nearby and easily acces- sible. The growing neighbourhood is now home to a newly constructed K to Grade 8 school and day care. The modern, environmentally friendly facility is situated on a 10-acre site which has been thoughtfully planned to complement existing neigh- bourhood amenities.

“Time is running out to build your dream home in Amber Trails, so act quickly,” says Brown, noting that there is limited lot availability in Phase 16, the final phase in the development. “The final phase of Amber Trails is unique to north- west Winnipeg in that it features new homes in an established community with existing value and de- veloped neighbourhood amenities,” he says. What also makes Amber Trails attractive are the dis- tinctive, high-quality homes from renowned home builders like Randall Homes, Broadview Homes, Gi- no’s Homes, Ventura Homes, A&S Homes, Silverton Homes and Kensington Homes. Each of these com- panies brings function, innovation and character to their superior designs. “These home builders bring quality construction and inspiring designs to the community with unique, quality homes to fit every lifestyle,” Brown says. “Whether you’re a young family looking for a place to raise your kids or an established family ready to relax and enjoy life, this diverse com- munity has everything you need to feel at home.”

18 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

• Meandering pathway • Diverse selection of house designs • Homes backing onto green space • Lookout lots on the lake fabuLous entrance witH Huge Lake

J E F F E R S O N A V E N U E

(FUTURE CHIEF PEGUIS TRAIL EXTENSION)

J E F F E R S O N

A V E N U E

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25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49

CASTLEBURY MEADOWS DRIVE

PARK

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16 15 14

COATSTONE DRIVE

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SQUIRE PLACE

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LAKE

12345678 9101112

HILLBROOK DRIVE

BLOCK 11

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PLAYGROUND

PARK

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CASTLEBURY MEADOWS DRIVE

BLOCK 10

SINGLE FAMILY LOTS DUPLEX LOTS

Our Vision: to create attractive, quality neighbourhoods that provide for inclusive, diverse and attainable housing options.

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Feature

HAPPY HOME BUYERS

Foundation to Finish A&S guides its clients all the way home

By Wendy King – Photos by Darcy Finley

>> Building a new home is the dream of a life- time for many couples, and that dream often comes with a very particular wish list. Some are

A&S did some research, found a suitable development and was able to acquire two adjacent lots in the de- sired price range. “We were really impressed that they not only took on building the house for us but also took on the initiative to actually find and secure lots for us,” Simpson says. The home-building process, with all its complexities and fine details, was about to start rolling, and this, says Yan, is where A&S Homes really starts to shine. “Our process is very organized and very detailed with specific steps to it,”Yan says. It begins when potential buyers meet sales special- ists in the show homes to review the different models available. As one of Winnipeg’s largest builders, the family-run company has show homes in every major develop- ment including: Amber Trails, Bridgwater Forest, Bridg- water Lakes, Bridgwater Trails & Bridgwater Centre, South Pointe, River Park South, Bridgewood Estates, Waterford Green, Devonshire Village, Crocus Meadows and Royalwood.

a little more complicated than others — especially if you want someone special to be your neighbour. David Simpson, a lawyer and partner at Fillmore Ri- ley Law Firm, says he and his wife Shereese Qually had their hearts set on building a new home in Charleswood, where they’d be close to family members as well as work. They ap-

‘We were really impressed that they not only took on building the house for us but also took on the initiative to actually find and secure lots for us’

proached A&S Homes, where sales and market- ing manager Matthew Yan took on the challenge. “I met with David and he explained to me that not only did he want to be in this area, but his sister also wanted to be in this area — and ideally they wanted to be next door to one another!”

20 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

‘Our process is very organized and very detailed with specific steps to it’

>> A&S Homes’ sales and marketing manager Matthew Yan

“Virtually all of our models are under construction, so we can actually walk our clients through the show homes when they’re making their decision about what house to purchase,”Yan says. Not only do they walk clients through the show homes; they walk them through the entire building process “all the way home.” Building a dream home can be stressful, but A&S Homes has miti- gated that with a thoughtfully planned, multi-step process that includes set checkpoints along the way. An entire production team is on hand — from purchasing man- agers and on-site managers to in-house architects — to steer the client through the build. With fixed pricing on all homes and set options, there are no surprises later on. But plans are flexible for clients who want to customize their space. “Our clients like the step-by-step process, where they are confi- dent they are purchasing and building the correct house model to meet their family needs and their lifestyle,”Yan says. “They are thrilled with the fact that we can lend a degree of cus- tomization to their choices to reflect their individual tastes and they like the fact that our in-house designers and architects can make those modifications for them.”

Cont’d on page 22

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Foundation to Finish Cont’d from page 21

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Simpson and Qually were espe- cially pleased with that flexibil- ity. “We found a layout that we liked but the exterior wasn’t exactly right, but they (gave) us exactly what we wanted,” Simpson says. The couple also wanted four bedrooms on the second floor, and they were able to add square footage and move some of the walls and doors, as well as create a main-floor playroom. ”We were able to modify the design and build a room on the main floor with French doors that open to the kitchen so that while we’re in the kitchen we can watch the kids,” he says. “One of the really nice things was the ongoing involvement that we had,” he adds.

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‘Our clients like the step-by- step process, where they are confident they are purchasing and building the correct house model to meet their family needs and their lifestyle’

Neighourhood Values Since 1951

“We were shown the house at the various stages and our (site manager), Jeff Unrau, was very responsive to us. He made us feel he wanted to do everything possible to make sure that we were satisfied with the product we had pur- chased, and that was really reassuring for us.”

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Once the floor plan is in place, clients visit the A&S Design Centre, where all the interior fea- tures are on full display. “There is kitchen cabinetry, countertops in granite, flooring, exterior colours, stone, whatever the case may be, we have a profes- sional interior designer that spends hours in a private meeting with each and every one of our clients that hand selects every single one of their designer options within their house,” Yan says. “They especially appreciate that the in-house design boutiques actually allow them to see their colours as opposed to just viewing them on-line.” A&S Homes provides clients with a welcome package which explains the trades and spe- cialists involved in building every aspect of their home, from windows, lighting, flooring, all the suppliers, and all the warranty infor- mation, so that they feel comfortable and know who to contact in case they want to make changes or revisions in the build.

That attention to detail is reflected in the finished homes. A&S Homes offers Green Bow Approved ( www.greenbowapproved.ca ) materials and craftsmanship, set to the company’s own high standards, and the care doesn’t end when A&S hands over the keys. “Clients know they are in good hands because after they move into their house, A&S has a readily available service team whose primary role is to ensure the homeowner is happy and well looked after,” Yan says. There are many external factors that can cause delays, but with its high level of organization and set processes, A&S was able to meet Simpson and Qually’s possession date, which was impera- tive since the couple had already sold their previous home. “They went above and beyond to get it done by Jan. 5, which I know can be extremely difficult around the holidays,” Simpson says. “We were really pleased that they were able to meet that deadline.” At the end of the day, Yan says the primary focus for A&S is on the quality of its homes, the value of its homes and the overall experience for clients. “People want a quality home and want to know that there is value in the product, that it is a long-lasting product and the pricing is accurate and correct,” he says. “When they’ve moved into their home and they’re having a din- ner party and telling their friends about building their home, a good experience is everything.”

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Feature

HAPPY HOME BUYERS

The Fair Exchange Historic character meets modern comfort

By Todd Lewys – Photos by Jim Todd Photography

>> When you walk through Winnipeg’s downtown – princi- pally the historic Exchange District – a shift occurs. With its wealth of brick heritage buildings,

Maykut adds the motivation to be involved downtown as a developer goes beyond revitalizing the area. It’s also about being part of a process that helps people connect with the Exchange District’s roots as a bustling centre of civic life. There’s a special aura about the area, and developers such as StreetSide want people to experience that his- toric ambience. “You also can’t beat working on these fantastic 100-year-old buildings,” he says. “Seeing them trans- formed into great living spaces is a great feeling. More than that, though, the Exchange is special for many reasons. It’s unique, and it’s downtown, it represents what Winnipeg was and is, and it celebrates our city and history.” Residents can step outside their door and stroll through streetscapes lined with preserved Old World build- ings housing art galleries, boutiques and restaurants — along with the creative hub that is now Innovation Alley. The Manitoba Museum, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and Centennial Concert Hall are within easy walking distance for those who want to take in a play or concert in the theatre district, and Waterfront Drive has undergone a renewal with greenspace, condos and popular new eateries.

‘Actually, we were drawn downtown for many reasons, but a lot of it was being part of revitalizing the area and making Winnipeg, and downtown specifically, a great place to live’

the Exchange’s turn- of-the century ambi- ence transports you back in time — to an era when construction was more an art than a science, and when people had more time to take in their surroundings as they strolled along cobble- stone sidewalks. Little wonder that de- velopers have been

drawn to the area over the past decade or so. One of those de- velopers is StreetSide Development Corp., an arm of Qualico. StreetSide’s Marty Maykut says the area held many attractions for the company. “Actually, we were drawn downtown for many reasons, but a lot of it was being part of revitalizing the area and making Win- nipeg, and downtown specifically, a great place to live,” he says.

Cont’d on page 26

24 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

The Fair Exchange Cont’d from page 24

all, those suites are in an area that’s becoming an increasingly trendy place to live.

“As time goes by, we’re finding more and more inter- est and momentum at District — we’re at the leading edge of providing a more accessible, functional urban lifestyle in Winnipeg,” Maykut says. “We believe there’s a huge interest and demand for this lifestyle going forward, and the response we’ve gotten with District is just the tip of the iceberg.” Couple Jason and Jenny-Lynn, who recently bought a District condo, say they absolutely love downtown living and all its trappings. “We really wanted a place that matched our lifestyle, and we’ve found it at District in the Exchange,” Jenny- Lynn says. “I bike or walk to work most days, and it’s honestly the best part of my day. Downtown is the heart of Winnipeg living.”

Being able to work in such a character-laden neighbourhood is a real privilege, Maykut says. “We’re working on a neighbourhood and buildings that will never be recreated. At the same time, we’re transforming the area into a rejuvenated and vibrant part of our city. It really has been a labour of love.” That labour of love is represented by District Condominiums on James Avenue, where, StreetSide has transformed a pair of historic buildings into a special collection of living quarters. “Our District Condos are very unique in what they offer in a home,” Maykut says. “You are able to enjoy the heritage as- pects of 100-year-old buildings that include brick, exposed metal brackets, large timber columns and beams, huge win- dows and high ceilings — along with the benefits of brand new flooring, kitchens and mechanical and electrical systems. “That combination gives you the best of both worlds by teaming the old features with new ones.” Indeed, suites deftly combine 19th-century character with modern function, juxtaposing brick walls and fir beams with contemporary finishes in cabinetry, countertops, backsplash- es and stainless appliances. Meanwhile, large windows and high ceilings provide a bright, spacious feel that makes the suites eminently livable. Best of

Jason adds that life in the Exchange is good whether they’re kicking back at home, or out enjoying the many entertainment venues that surround the complex. “We were immediately attracted to the suites’ open-concept layouts and the brick and beam construction. I think the development team at StreetSide really managed to capture that Soho-loft feel. We often find ourselves laying on the couch looking at the sky through our nine-foot-tall windows, saying, ‘We love our condo!’ ” he says. “Then,

we jaunt off and take in a show. The suite is great, and there are so many good options for spontaneous activities.” Maykut says that kind of feedback is good to hear. “One of the great things for our entire StreetSide team is that we’re leaving a last- ing legacy. We all work hard, and are proud of the buildings and condominiums we’ve worked on because they become part of the social fabric of Winnipeg,” he says. “Winnipeg’s downtown is a special place, and we’re proud to be doing what we can to revitalize the area so it will be a great place to live for many years to come.”

‘I bike or walk to work most days, and it’s honestly the best part of my day. Downtown is the heart of Winnipeg living’

LEADERSHIP

Our members are leaders in the home building and renovations industry, and are accountable to you

home builders.mb.ca

26 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

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It’s about you. Your home your way.

Jason Jaquet, Vice President

Socialize with us

Come out and visit us at our showhomes during the 2015 Spring Parade of Homes

80 St. Anne’s Road | (204) 253-1548 | www.randallhomes.net | Excellence in Building Homes Since 1983

Building in neighboorhoods you can call home: AmberTrails, Canterbury Park, Sage Creek, Bridgwater Lakes, BridgwaterTrails, South Pointe, Oak Bluff West, River Park South, Crocus Meadows, Waterford Green, Castlebury Meadows, Atwood Square.

Feature

HAPPY HOME BUYERS

Home Sweet Show Home

Move-in ready house fit like a glove

By Jennifer McFee – Photos by Darcy Finley

>> A show home turned out to be a dream home for one happy family.

Luckily, when Jona walked into a Kensington Homes show home last year in River Park South, she found the perfect fit for their family. “My wife did all the preliminary work. She said, ‘You’ve got to see this home. It’s very beautiful, and the mar- ket is perfect with the interest rates right now,’ ” Rick recalls. “Being a show home, it came with a lot of upgrades without us having to make a lot of decisions. I would highly recommend a show home to anybody else.” They decided to purchase the three-bedroom 2,300-square-foot home last January and took posses- sion on Aug. 29. “We’re very happy. It was nice that we could go back and take a look at it knowing that it was already ours. From what I was told, by the time we moved in, we had made almost $40,000 just on the price of the house going up,” Rick says. “The space we have is more than enough. It has a loft upstairs. I have all my workout equipment in the base- ment and a mini-office down there.”

Rick and Jona Downey took possession of their new house in River Park South at the end of Au- gust and they’ve been impressed with the pro- cess from start to finish. “At first, we started look- ing at older homes, but we didn’t want to have to go through renova- tions. With everything we looked at, there was stuff that we would have wanted to do,” Rick says. “We both work full time

‘Being a show home, it came with a lot of upgrades without us

having to make a lot of decisions. I would highly recommend a show home to anybody else’

and I’m not really a handyman, so I didn’t want to do the work myself. I would have much rather paid for it. Then we were looking at possibly build- ing a home, but there were so many decisions.”

Cont’d on page 30

28 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

Program for New Homebuyers

The Accurate Technology Group and MTS are very excited to be working together to bring you the ATG Connect Home program, powered by MTS . Working together, we’ll bring leading edge home wiring, communications and entertainment solutions to new homes within Manitoba. With the ATG Connect Home program , MTS services are ready to plug in when you move into your new home, providing you with higher quality, reliable High Speed Internet, TV and home phone services. Plus, new homebuyers who get connected through the ATG Connect Home program get exclusive deals only available with The Accurate Technology Group.

Ask your builder today. Make your new home an ATG Connect Home.

For your audio/visual and automation needs and to see our state-of-the-art display home, visit us at www.accurategroup.ca or call 204 957 7799 .

Home Sweet Show Home Cont’d from page 28

Not only did the Downeys find their dream home, they also found the ideal neighbourhood for themselves and their 10-year-old daughter, Alyson.

“River Park South is a nice area. Our daughter is going to the same school, which is great,” Rick says. “I play hockey at two rinks, Dakota and St. Vital. I also play at Ile-des-Chênes, and they’re all within five minutes to 15 min- utes from my house.” Ryan Alby, marketing manager for Kens- ington Homes, notes that River Park South is in the late stages of develop- ment, so the neighbourhood is already well established. “You’re going into a community with new housing development, but with all of your desired amenities in place. You have the convenience of a quick bus ride to the U of M or St. Vital Mall or a great restaurant within a few minute’s drive,” Alby says. “But you’re not going to have to worry about construction for the next five to 10 years because River Park South will be wrapped long before then.” New neighbourhoods like River Park South are built differently than older ar- eas, he adds.

<< The show home is ideal for the Downeys, daughter Alyson and dog Guinness.

8 orchard gate - oak Bluff West

11 Trailside Crescent - south pointe

29 east plains - sage Creek

(204) 415-6615 info@artistahomes.com www.artistahomes.com

Also open during spring pArAde: 69 oak lawn, 26 stan Balie, 30 Casselman Show home hourS: mon to Thurs 5pm - 8pm, Sat & Sun 1pm - 5pm

124 lake Bend road - Bridgwater lakes

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These new abodes also feel like home sweet home since owners can add their own customized touches. “With a new home builder like Kensington, we have over 40 models and many more elevations they can choose from. Within those different home models, there is room for some customization. Each plan is different, but customers can often add bedrooms, upgrade showers and tubs, add a kitchen island or granite countertops, and upgrade the flooring. They’re also able to pick from numerous interior and exterior paint colours,” Alby says. “It really gives them an opportunity to do some spe- cific customization without having to go through the long process of picking every single detail. Basically, it’s an opportunity to pick exactly what you want rather than buying somebody else’s dream home and trying to make it your own.” Kensington Homes will showcase a Spring Parade of Homes entry at 15 Wainwright Cres., in River Park South, but Alby notes that show homes are open year-round, so potential buyers can explore options at their leisure. “You can come by and talk to someone who’s really knowledgeable about our products and community and learn more about what the new home building process will look like for you.”

“They’re really well thought out, integrated neigh- bourhoods, with a variety of housing options. Also, you have your grocery stores and your schools and community centres that might be appealing to the new homeowner,” Alby says. “They’re able to meet all of their needs without leaving their community.”

For added peace of mind, new home buyers can rest easy knowing that their house is under warranty. “We support customers from the initial visit all the way through the building process. Once they’ve moved into their home, we continue to help them with warranty issues and work to ensure they remain happy with their home. We’re there with the customer for the long term,” Alby says. “You’re able to feel comfortable

‘You’re able to feel comfortable that your home has many of the latest technologies and efficiencies, it’s up to date with today’s stringent building code’

that your home has many of the latest technologies and efficiencies, it’s up to date with today’s stringent building code, and it has quality building materials from a company around for the long haul. It gives you peace of mind to know what you’re getting.”

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Discover a huge selection of lighting styles, accessories and more from the

world’s leading manufacturers.

995 Milt Stegall Drive 204.784.0099 1-866-870-1292

www.robinsonlightingcentre.com

Parade of Homes Spring 2015 31

Feature

HAPPY HOME BUYERS

Nice and Easy Does It Creative concept cuts down on yard care

By Pat St. Germain Photos courtesy of Broadview Homes

>> Lots of people talk about thinking outside the box. Leslie and Peter Savinkoff actually did it when they bought a courtyard home in 2013.

Designed and landscaped to mini- mize yard work, the Upton model from Broadview Homes, a Qualico company, gave the couple all the space they need indoors and out, but it let them downsize the time they spend on upkeep. With a short, 16-foot driveway to the back lane, snow clearing is a breeze, and the two-storey house has a unique built-in niche on one side for a large, secluded wood deck and small lawn, so it only takes about 15 minutes to cut all the grass.

‘With a short, 16-foot driveway to the back lane, snow clearing is a breeze, and the two-storey house has a unique built-in niche on one side for a large, secluded wood deck and small lawn’

Because the courtyard concept ap- plies to every home on the block, windows that overlook neighbouring side yards are frosted, allowing for maximum privacy.

Cont’d on page 34

32 Parade of Homes Spring 2015

Bridgwater Centre The heart of the community

Experience a whole community right out your front door. Live in a neighbourhood where residents gather, shop and visit all within a short walk or cycle from home. Bridgwater Centre brings it all together.

Hours will vary by builder. Please check builder websites for details. Make plans to visit now.

Centre Street: The Place to Be! At the heart of it all is Centre Street, featuring a unique blend of shops, restaurants, business and residential units. Surrounding Centre Street will be clusters of apartments and town homes, along with four lakes, parks and trails. Gathering Place Leave your vehicle at home and take a stroll along an extensive pedestrian network of over 80 km of planned

pathways and sidewalks. Pedestrian Focused

Bridgwater Centre will be designed with pedestrians in mind, with primary access to shops, restaurants and boutiques directly from the sidewalks of Centre Street.

BISHOP GRANDIN BOULEVARD

Residential Neighbourhoods Town Homes and Attached Homes

Commercial/Office/ Residential Mixed Use

Parks

Lakes

Apartments

Commercial

Trail Network

Commercial/ Business Park/ Institutional Mixed Use

There’s nothing else like this in Winnipeg!

Find out more at bridgwaterneighbourhoods.com

Conceptual Rendering

Nice and Easy Does It Cont’d from page 32

Typically, stonework is incorporated into the landscaping in front yards, along with easy-care shrubbery and mulch beds, and some homeowners choose to hardscape their court- yards with stone features, which cuts down on yard mainte- nance even further.

Derek MacDonald, marketing manager for Qualico single-family homes, says courtyard homes give owners the look and feel of condo living without the monthly fees. “It’s a really neat concept. I guess there’s this popu-

Broadview Homes caters to entry-level first-time home buyers as well as retirees looking to downsize, and MacDonald says the court- yard home is ideal for both demographics. “For people who want the size, want the features, want the convenience but don’t want the mainte- nance or the yard work, this would be a perfect fit.”

lar belief that when you move into a sin- gle-family home you have to move into the kind of the home your parents lived in, which would be the typical front-garage home,” MacDonald says. “For a lot of people that isn’t their style. They don’t want the big yard. They don’t want to have all the work and the mainte- nance that comes along with that big lot.” Right now, Broadview’s courtyard homes are only available in Sage Creek, a pe- destrian-friendly neighbourhood with planned wetlands, walking trails and a

‘For people who want the size, want the features, want the convenience but don’t want the maintenance

or the yard work, this would be a perfect fit’

After living in their home through a full summer and winter, the Savinkoffs agree. The couple moved to their courtyard home from an 1,860-square-foot bungalow on a pie lot — one that required a lot of snow clearing in winter and yard work in summer.

mix of housing styles to fit every lifestyle in south Winnipeg. A Spring Parade of Homes entry at 736 Sage Creek Blvd. is a two-storey, 1,731-square-foot house with an attached double-garage with plenty of storage space in the rear.

POH_FallIssue_RTM_Layout 1 1/16/15 3:13 PM Page 1

Premiere Show Home The Parkdale - 1,701 Sq.Ft.

Ready to Move Homes . . . The Affordable Alternative.

Like us on

www.OlympicHomes.ca

1783 Dugald Rd., Winnipeg, MB R2J 0H3 P. (204) 661-8600 TF. (800) 665-8666

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