Parade of Homes | Spring 2021

SPRING 2021

#PARADEOFHOMESMB PARADE of HOMES

TOUR 99

CANADA’S BIGGEST AND BEST PARADE OF HOMES

NEW HOMES FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 21

WINNIPEG AND SURROUNDING AREAS: Monday to Thursday: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm BRANDON ONLY: Tuesday and Thursday: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm SHOW HOMES ARE AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT OUTSIDE OF PARADE HOURS Parade Hours are subject to change. Please visit www.homebuilders.mb.ca for more information.

Genstar has been on the leading edge of community development since the the 1950s, designing communities that enrich lives through their surroundings. Our master planning process guides our commitment to excellence – including environmental stewardship, architectural controls, and value-added amenities – and lays the groundwork for a prosperous community future. In every undertaking, we are dedicated to cultivating spaces that bring families, friends, and individuals together and provide value for all who live and work there. We look forward to carrying this pioneering spirit with us into the future.

SUMMERLEA LOTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH SELECT BUILDERS! Visit genstar.com to find out more

BE DIFFERENT TOGETHER

PARADE of HOMES #PARADEOFHOMESMB FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 21

SPRING 2021

PRESENTED BY THE MANITOBA HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION

TAKING CARE OF OUR BUILDERS’ GUESTS SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY FOR MANITOBA’S RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

WELCOME TO THE 2021 SPRING PARADE OF HOMES.

showing the home about unique features and what makes that particular home special. Visiting our Parade homes and talking to sales agents about different options and features will help you to find that perfect fit for you and your family. These show homes represent the best in home design and construction available anywhere in Canada. In addition to the Spring Parade of Homes magazine, you can also find even more information on the Parade show homes at our new and improved website. Just go to www.homebuilders.mb.ca and click on the “Parade of Homes” section to find all of our Spring Parade of Homes entries. You can also follow the MHBA and Parade of Homes on Instagram , Facebook and Twitter for news, fun contests, updates and show home features. Manitoba’s new home construction industry continues to be a strong and important part of our provincial economy. MHBA member builders and suppliers are constantly keeping up to date on the latest technology, trends and building techniques to ensure that your new home offers the highest level of quality available. And there’s no better showcase to see the best that Manitoba’s residential building industry has to offer than the MHBA Parade of Homes! Enjoy the 2021 Spring Parade of Homes and thank you for visiting.

The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association is proud to present our annual exhibition of new homes. With 99 new homes on display this spring, the MHBA showcase remains the largest and best Parade of Homes in Canada. This Spring Parade of Homes will have to be a bit different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our builder members have put measures in place to make the visiting experience during the Parade of Homes as safe as possible for their guests and their staff. These measures are in place to ensure that anyone visiting our builders’ show homes are doing so as safely as possible. Masks or face coverings are required to be worn by anyone visiting a show home. All visitors will be required to answer pre- screening questions and to sanitize their hands upon entering a home. Show homes are frequently sanitized and access to show homes is limited to ensure proper social distancing takes place while you are visiting the show homes. Parade show homes are available to visit by booking an appointment with the builder outside of the Parade hours. These steps are being implemented to help ensure that your visit is as safe as possible. This year, we are proud to showcase 28 different builders in the Spring Parade. Our Parade show homes provide you with a wide variety of home design choices as well as the finest examples of Manitoba craftsmanship and creativity. As you visit our Parade of Homes show homes, we encourage you to talk to the representative

MANITOBA’S NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO BE A STRONG AND IMPORTANT PART OF OUR

PROVINCIAL ECONOMY.

Lanny McInnes President & CEO Manitoba Home Builders’ Association

SHOW HOME HOURS: Mon-Thur: 5pm-8pm, Sat & Sun: 1pm-5pm BRANDON ONLY HOURS: Tues & Thur: 5pm-8pm, Sat & Sun: 1pm-5pm

SHOW HOMES ARE AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT OUTSIDE OF PARADE HOURS

Parade Hours are subject to change. Please visit www.homebuilders.mb.ca for more information.

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 3

PARADE of HOMES SPRING 2021 PUBLISHER Bob Cox EDITOR Pat St. Germain VICE PRESIDENT SALES Karen Buss MANAGER OF NICHE PRODUCTS FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 21

Charlene Adam COVER DESIGN Tammy Mitchell/Winnipeg Free Press DESIGN & COLOUR SERVICES Corinne Ball/Coral Enterprises Ltd. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Trina Rehberg Boyko

Denise Duguay Sherry Kaniuga Wendy King Jennifer McFee Judy Owen Pat St. Germain Jim Timlick Lindsey Ward PHOTOGRAPHY Darcy Finley Numerous Supplied

CREATING FLEXIBLE SPACES FOR MULTI-FUNCTIONAL HOMES STREETSIDE DEVELOPMENTS — Couture West Condominiums HAPPILY HOUSEBOUND

THE 2020-2021 MHBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sean Phillips | Chairperson ALL WEATHER WINDOWS Mike Carruthers | Past Chairperson LADCO COMPANY LTD. Ralph Oswald | 1st Vice Chair OSWALD CONSTRUCTION LTD. Jason Jaquet | 2nd Vice Chair RANDALL HOMES David Eggerman | Secretary/Treasurer QUALICO Ihor Barwinsky GYPSUM DYWALL INTERIORS LTD.

By Pat St. Germain

Spencer Curtis HILTON HOMES Jared Jacobson J&G HOMES LTD. Scott McKee

>> NOT SO LONG AGO, pedestrian-friendly live-work-play communities were an urban ideal. Today, we need a condensed version of that mixed-use model. Live-work-play homes have become a necessity for many families — preferably in walkable communities with plenty of greenspace and convenient access to shopping and essential services. Cont’d on page 6

McMUNN & YATES Leanne La Riviere STEINBACH CREDIT UNION Andrew Reimer ALL-FAB BUILDING COMPONENTS LP Arin Comack VENTURA CUSTOM HOMES LTD.

4 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools

• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools

WEST ST. PAUL’S NEWEST NEIGHBOURHOOD

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WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

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• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting

• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting

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PHASE 1 NOW SELLING! | riverspringsgrove.ca SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools thetrails.ca thetrails.ca Located at Main Street and the perimeter entering West St. Paul thetrails.ca Located at Main Street and the perimeter entering West St. Paul thetrails.ca Located at Main Street and the perimeter entering West St. Paul • River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools @MBhomebuilders www.homebuilders.mb.ca @MBhomebuilders A NEIGHBOURHOOD IN WEST ST. PAUL DESIGNED AROUND FAMILIES One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home… Your way.        www.homebuilders.mb.ca WEST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT • River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools yourhome… yourway • River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home… Your way.        yourhome… yourway @MBhomebuilders One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home… Your way.        www.homebuilders.mb.ca

OW HOMES NOW OPEN EST ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT W HOMES NOW OPEN T ST. PAUL’S FIRST FULLY SERVICED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Located at Main Street and the perimeter entering West St. Paul od Designed Around Families the City Within a Rural Setting Proximity to the Sunova tre and West St Paul Nursery Schools thetrails.ca Located at Main Street and the perimeter entering West St. Paul thetrails.ca at Main Street and the perimeter entering West St. Paul • Located in Close Proximity to the Sunova Community Centre and West St Paul Nursery School & Public Schools

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• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting

• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting

• River Lots • Lake Lots • Look-Out Lots • Walking Trails Throughout the Neighbourhood • Centrally Located Play Structure • A Neighbourhood Designed Around Families • Conveniences of the City Within a Rural Setting

RIVER LOTS STILL AVAILABLE CONTACT ONE OF THE BUILDERS

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SHOW HOMES OPEN | thetrails.ca thetrails.ca thetrails.ca

SCHULZ CONSTRUCTION

yourhome…

yourhome…

yourhome…

One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly

One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly

One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly

Luckily, Manitoba’s builders are up to the challenge of providing functional homes with flexible space for conducting business and homeschooling classes, along with playrooms, chill zones, Zoom rooms and all the latest designer bling. More home-cooked meals require a bigger kitchen, and direct access to the outdoors is a must. Affordable duplexes are hot items and buyers have been snapping up townhomes like they’re going out of style — which they certainly are not. HAPPILY HOUSEBOUND — Cont’d from page 4

BUYERS HAVE BEEN SNAPPING UP TOWNHOMES LIKE THEY’RE GOING OUT OF STYLE — WHICH THEY CERTAINLY ARE NOT.

Take StreetSide Developments’ Couture West luxury townhome condominiums in RidgeWood West. They’ve got curb appeal to spare, with landscaped front yards set behind stone retaining walls a few steps up from the street. They’re pet-friendly and there’s a double detached garage in the rear, with an option to add a patio to the backyard.

Cont’d on page 19

6 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

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yourhome… yourway yourhome… yourway One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home… Your way.       

One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home… Your way.        One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home… Your way.       

@MBhomebuilders

www

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@MBhomebuilders

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@MBhomebuilders

www.homebuilders.mb.ca

• Parkview Pointe is the newest residential community being built in wonderful West St. Paul • Fully serviced lots • Park views • Lake views • Close proximity to day care and sports • Premium builders to build your dream home

• Meandering pathways linking up to a children’s playground and access to Sunova Community Centre • Relax at the edge of the lake under a fabulous timber frame pergola • Stroll along the sidewalks that will take you to nearby shops and restaurants

VISIT US AT www.parkviewpointe.ca for more information and link to our Premium Builders

NATURE AT YOUR DOORSTEP IN RIDGEWOOD WEST

By Jennifer McFee

The trailblazing community of RidgeWood West boasts abundant natural beauty right in residents’ own backyards. This growing Charleswood development is tucked away at the edge of the city with the 6.5-kilometre Harte Trail close at hand, providing RidgeWood West resident Phil Jenkinson serves as board president for Friends of the Harte Trail ( www. hartetrail.com ), a non-profit group that acts as stewards for the trail. “The people in this area have the an ideal setting for exercise, entertainment and escape. ability to access a lot of green space in RidgeWood West and can walk all the way to Assiniboine Forest. Some people will actually drive here from far away to use the trail — we access it from our backyard,” he said. “The city is now plowing the whole trail within 48 hours of a snowfall. It’s double-wide, so you can keep your distance from others with no problem. You can sprint or bike, or you can just walk and breathe the fresh air. It’s awesome.” The Friends of the Harte Trail organization offers a common cause to bond the community together through activities such as tree planting. “It’s a great place to get some exercise with your family or neighbours. There are playgrounds and parks along the trail,” he said. “My kids love running around in the snow or grass in open fields along the way. You can see wildlife and explore the wilderness.”

In addition to enjoying daily jaunts on the trail, Jenkinson is pleased to be part of the blossoming community at RidgeWood West. “We’re growing and building this community together. The culture that we create now is going to be with our kids,” Jenkinson said.

COUTURE WEST CONDOMINIUMS

space with a continuation of the RidgeWood West trail system.” Adding to the excitement, Couture West Condominiums by StreetSide Developments welcomed its first homeowner in November 2020, followed by several others. “We are close to selling out our first two buildings and have released another two, which are currently under construction and will see spring 2021 possessions, followed by the final release of the remaining two buildings with an anticipated fall/winter possession to complete the project,” said sales and marketing manager Kelli Roach. “Our display suite is also now open and available for private tours, which has allowed prospects to view these gorgeous open concept units with their own eyes.” For a sense of all the community has to offer, it’s worth taking a stroll on the Harte Trail and scheduling some time to visit the show homes during the Spring Parade of Homes.

YOU CAN SPRINT OR BIKE, OR YOU CAN JUST WALK AND BREATHE THE FRESH AIR. IT’S AWESOME.

“It will stand the test of time because this community is just starting to grow. In the next few years, the people who live here now are going to be the ones who define it.” For those interested in all the area has to offer, Tara Reid of Qualico Communities notes that the final phase of RidgeWood West will be serviced in 2021. “Phase 3 in the very southwest corner will bring on a variety of single- family lots as well as a selection of duplex units,” she said. “This final piece of RidgeWood West will also include additional public reserve

POH

JENKINSON FAMILY

8 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

Come home

to Charleswood Now’s your chance to build a new home in Charleswood, one of Winnipeg’s most treasured neighbourhoods. RidgeWood West is the perfect place to share familiar memories from your younger days and build new ones with your own family.

With a strong sense of community, an abundance of lush forest nearby and quick access to the renowned Harte Trail, it’s easy to fall in love with this new community.

N

Harte Trail

SHOW HOMES OPEN YEAR-ROUND! To learn more about living in RidgeWood West, contact us at 204.254.9225 or info@ridgewoodwest.com.

ridgewoodwest.com

GREENSPACE

Party Backyard retreats are a growing trend

GARDEN

By Lindsey Ward

>> A BEAUTIFUL, meticulously landscaped yard is grand. But in pandemic times, beauty alone doesn’t cut it.

10 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

A BEAUTIFUL, METICULOUSLY LANDSCAPED YARD IS GRAND. BUT IN PANDEMIC TIMES, BEAUTY ALONE DOESN’T CUT IT.

With another summer of staycations on the horizon, homeowners are continuing to find creative ways to transform their outdoor living space into a retreat — whether that means adding a play area for the kids or a cocktail bar for the adults (or perhaps both). Those who are starting from scratch don’t necessarily have to think outside the garden box, but you do need a solid plan before getting down to work.

“Ask yourself what your expectations of your yard are, and what are your expectations of yourself,” says Duayne Friesen, a sales representative with Ball Seed Company and former host of Steinbach’s Lawn and Garden Journal radio show. “Even a yard that is designed to be low maintenance is going to need some effort involved on your part, and that can take a bit of time.” Cont’d on page 12 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 11

GARDEN PARTY — Cont’d from page 11

Friesen highly recommends booking a consultation with a designer or landscaper who can draw up a plan, even if you’re going to do a lot of the work yourself. The local garden centre is a great place to seek advice, or visit the Manitoba Nursery Landscape Association’s website (mbnla.com) for a list of certified pros. You might want to consider hiring experts to tackle building projects like decks, gazebos and patios. But when it comes to lawn and garden care, you don’t need any special skills — go ahead and get your hands dirty. Soil work and planting are therapeutic and uncomplicated if you consider this one rule of green thumbing:

ONE THIRD OF YOUR YARD SHOULD BE ANNUALS, ONE THIRD SHOULD BE PERENNIALS AND ONE THIRD SHOULD BE SHRUBS.

“One third of your yard should be annuals, one third should be perennials and one third should be shrubs,” says Friesen. “The annuals give you that bright colour throughout the summer and you can change it each year. The perennials give you your season of blooms, so you can have action happening in spring and fall. And then the shrubs are a good background.” Beyond that, anything goes when it comes to gardening. Friesen says there’s nothing worse than a yard consisting solely of grass or gravel. These days we have a lot more time to stop and smell the roses, so why not plant more of them? Flowers displayed in pots or beds near the front door serve as a colourful welcome mat for your home, and they attract bees, butterflies and other many-legged friends.

Cont’d on page 14

12 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

A smarter way to save

Build your best financial future by earning more on your deposits —right from dollar one.

VISIT SCU.MB.CA/MYSAVINGS TO SEE HOW MUCH MORE YOU COULD SAVE.

GARDEN PARTY — Cont’d from page 12

your patio door. That way, the basil doesn’t have to travel far to get into your fresh tomato sauce. Garden centres are planning to boost their 2021 inventory after a surge in consumer demand in 2020, but if you’re looking for specific plants it’s best to call ahead or preorder them. The Chicago-based Ball Seed Company has been around for 120 years, and it’s weathered wars, pandemics and economic crashes. One pattern that follows these major events? The horticultural business blossoms. “People regroup and they regroup with their garden,” Friesen says. “It’s a really important part of our lives that we keep ourselves in touch with what’s going on in our yard, and I think if there’s going to be a (2021) gardening trend — gardening IS the trend.”

“Insects aren’t a bad thing. They’re part of our ecosystem and they’re important to have in your yard. Give them a home. I don’t use any pesticides on the yard, I just kind of let things go,” Friesen says. “Just get some plants out there.” Vegetable plants — which skyrocketed in popularity last year — can pop up anywhere in the garden, but many homeowners are opting for easily accessible above-ground containers right off the deck. When it comes to herbs, Friesen suggests planting them in a pot or container three steps from

JUST GET SOME PLANTS OUT THERE.

14 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

FLOWER POWER: These blooms are the pick of the crop

• BEES KNEES: These dynamic, true yellow petunias will be all the rage this year — as will yellow flowers in general. • LANCELOT: These lavender salvias have fuzzy green foliage and grow up to 3.5’ high and wide. • PEONIES: These bold bulbs are back in a big way, partly because their shrub-like appearance makes them appealing in colder months too. • HOSTAS: A perennial go-to, hostas are the No. 1 selling shade plants. • GERANIUMS: Not only your grandma’s flowers

any more, these richly hued petals are high maintenance as they require deadheading – which is a positive in a pandemic.

“If you can spend an hour in your garden deadheading flowers, the therapeutic value of that is huge,” says Friesen. “You’re just in your zone, and people are discovering that about plants, and what they can do for you.” POH

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 15

SMALL-TOWN APPEAL IN OAK BLUFF WEST

By Jennifer McFee

If you’re looking for small-town charm that’s within minutes of the city, Oak Bluff West offers the best of both worlds. Wendy and John Ferris decided to build in the area when they found the perfect pie-shaped lot that backs onto the walking path between Oak Bluff and Oak Bluff West. “We initially started a search for a new home in Winnipeg, looking for a mid-century remodel but struggled to find the combination of home, yard and location that we were looking for. We have good friends who have lived in Oak Bluff for years and always shared how much they loved the community, so we decided to check out the Parade of Homes in Oak Bluff West,” Wendy said. “We walked through an Artista show home and we knew immediately that we would build with them in Oak Bluff West. With Artista, we were able to build the quality home we were looking for, in a community that offered spacious lots while being close to the city. It was one of the best decisions we ever made.” The latest Artista show home in the community, located at 8 Erb Farm Road, is a must-see with a three-car garage, eight-foot-tall front door and 12-foot-high great room ceilings. Other highlights include walls of

FERRIS HOME

windows and a chef-style kitchen with custom cabinetry. “Our newest show home in Oak Bluff West offers luxurious living with elegant and contemporary styling,” said Frank Cotroneo, one of the owners of Artista Homes. “A spacious master bedroom and magnificent spa- like ensuite further enhance the luxury of this home.” Since people are spending more time at home these days, trends are shifting to accommodate new priorities. “We are seeing that people are looking for more space or they want specific spaces,” Cotroneo said. SINCE PEOPLE ARE SPENDING MORE TIME AT HOME THESE DAYS, TRENDS ARE SHIFTING TO ACCOMMODATE NEW PRIORITIES.

“Things like home gyms, home office, loft areas, more bedrooms and developed lower levels are all in demand right now.” Looking ahead, Phase 4 of development in Oak Bluff West will feature a cul-de-sac of 23 single-family lots located just south of Oak Bluff School. “This phase will complete the development on the east side of Bur Oak Boulevard. Lots in this small phase could be available through the show home builders in the early summer,” said Tara Reid, sales and development manager for Qualico Communities. “In addition to Phase 4, Qualico Communities is in the planning stages of Phase 5, which will include 41 single-family lots and a block for future low-density multi-family, similar to other projects already in Oak Bluff West. Phase 5 will also include a new wetland and a continuation of the trail system.” As residents in the area, Wendy and John have discovered much to enjoy about life in Oak Bluff West. “We love to walk or bike around the paths and really appreciate how friendly and engaged our neighbours are. There is always a smile or a wave. It's fun to see the kids playing outside, families biking, people walking their dogs on the walking paths, and neighbours visiting each other in their front yards,” Wendy said. “The only surprise that we have had since moving to Oak Bluff West and building our Artista home is how much we love it.”

FERRIS FAMILY

POH

8 ERB FARM ROAD

16 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

LIFE BEYOND THE LIMITS

Leave the rush of the city behind, while all of life’s more urban pursuits are just a stone’s throw away.

Oak Bluff West is a connected community with plenty of room to stretch and grow. Limestone trails wind through naturalized wetlands and prairie grasses – perfect for meeting neighbours, walking your kids to school, or a casual evening stroll. Wider lots give you a deeper yard, increased interior light and a surprising amount of design flexibility. Plus, you’ll get a good deal more for your investment – from excellent lot value to lower property taxes.

Show Homes open year-round. For hours and information, please visit our website.

KENASTON COMMON

FORTWHYTE ALIVE

N

OAKBLUFFWEST.CA

Perimeter Hwy

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS

IN MEMORIAM

Derek THORSTEINSON THE MHBA WAS SADDENED TO LEARN OF THE PASSING OF DEREK THORSTEINSON ON DECEMBER 31, 2020. For over 30 years, Derek was a leader in Manitoba’s residential construction industry. A proud and respected member of the MHBA, Derek served as Chair of the Board of Directors twice, in 1992/1993 and 2002/2003. In addition to being Manitoba’s long-standing representative on the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s Technical Research Committee, Derek also served for many years on the MHBA’s Parade of Homes Committee and Technical Research Committee. In 2018, Derek was awarded an Honorary Life Membership from the MHBA for his years of dedicated service to the association. Throughout his career, Derek’s dedication, knowledge and technical expertise were sought after by many, leading to lifelong friendships which he valued immensely. Derek volunteered

DEREK THORSTEINSON (LEFT) WITH MHBA PRESIDENT AND CEO LANNY MCINNES, HOLDS HIS HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP CERTIFICATE.

throughout his life both personally and professionally. From coaching ringette/ hockey to serving on various boards, he enjoyed helping his community. Derek loved music, skiing, fishing, hockey, golfing and travelling. He travelled the world with the love of his life, bringing home countless treasures and stories. Derek’s contributions to his industry

and his association will always be appreciated and remembered.

His family will hold a celebration in

Derek’s honour at a later date.

The MHBA extends our condolences

to the Thorsteinson family. Derek will be greatly missed by his friends and colleagues.

Parade of Homes Hours: Winnipeg and Surrounding Areas: Saturday and Sunday: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Brandon only: Tuesday and Thursday: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

#paradeofhomesmb

Parade hours are subject to change. Please visit www.homebuilders.mb.ca for more information. *All show homes are available for private viewing outside of parade hours.

18 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

WARKENTIN CUSTOM HOMES — 10 Erb Farm Road — Oak Bluff West

If they’re not exactly selling themselves, these two-storey homes are making it a lot easier for downsizers to adopt the condo lifestyle. “They don’t have to sacrifice,” says StreetSide sales and marketing manager Kelli Roach. “People are coming from a house — they like the garage, they have a dog, it’s a perfect fit for them.” So far, a typical buyer has a longstanding connection to Charleswood and wants to stay in the area, close to the Harte Trail and the eco-friendly Qualico community’s own trail system. The open main floor is another selling point, with a dining area and living room separated by a surprisingly substantial kitchen with generous island seating. “The island is the focal point,” Roach says. “It’s a big, nice open space, especially with having the large windows at the front and the back.” While floorplans already include three bedrooms, with two full baths and a powder room, Roach says buyers are also taking advantage of an option to develop the lower level with a rec room, third full bath and fourth bedroom. HAPPILY HOUSEBOUND — Cont’d from page 6

STERLING HOMES — 22 Tanager Trail — Sage Creek

THESE TWO-STOREY HOMES ARE MAKING IT A LOT EASIER FOR DOWNSIZERS TO ADOPT THE CONDO LIFESTYLE.

Cont’d on page 20

STERLING HOMES — 22 Tanager Trail — Sage Creek

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 19

RANDALL HOMES — 322 Tanager Trail — Sage Creek

HAPPILY HOUSEBOUND — Cont’d from page 19 Extra living spaces — bedrooms, lofts and “lifestyle” rooms — have become far more important across the board, says Sterling Homes marketing manager Courtney Sims. “Dens and flex rooms are a higher demand now than ever before, with more people working from home or completing schooling at home,” Sims says. “They are really liking the flexibility to use these spaces however they wish. Some people are selecting homes with these spaces intentionally because they already have defined purposes for them. Others may see them as a perk … and may add even more value than they imagined once they begin using them.” By chance, Randall Homes was ahead of the curve when it comes to fulfilling buyers’ current wish lists, replacing main-floor powder rooms with full bathrooms that make lifestyle rooms more easily adaptable as spare bedrooms.

RANDALL HOMES WAS AHEAD OF THE CURVE WHEN IT COMES TO FULFILLING BUYERS’ CURRENT WISH LISTS.

RANDALL HOMES — 322 Tanager Trail — Sage Creek

20 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

RANDALL HOMES — 322 Tanager Trail — Sage Creek

STERLING HOMES — 3 Creemans Crescent — RidgeWood West

tucked into a nook adjacent to both the great room and the eating area. For those who want the maximum available space, period, Winnipeg’s doorstep communities fill the bill, with triple garages and super-sized lots in Oak Bank West, Stonewall and East St. Paul, to name a few. And now that many of us are free from commuting constraints, the big sky’s the limit, as new developments in Brandon, Steinbach and points south continue to grow with the flow.

“The funny thing is back in January last year we looked at all our models and decided to make a change. We redesigned all our homes,” says company vice-president Jason Jaquet. Some models, like the two-storey Randall Homes show home at 322 Tanager Trail in Sage Creek, are specifically designed for a smaller lot, with an eye to maximizing living space indoors and out. Instead of protruding into the backyard, its deck is neatly

POH

Families and Friendships

Last chance to build - only a few lots left!

Bridgwater is designed with community in mind. With ice rinks, parks and over 30 km of park trails to explore, nature and fun is always close to home.

Stringent health & safety measures are in place allowing you to visit these amazing show homes safely.

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Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 21

NEIGHBOURHOOD SPOTLIGHT GATEWAY POINT

CUSTOM COMMUNITY >> SMALL-TOWN CHARM amid luscious Manitoba greenspaces with easy access to city amenities and 15 minutes to downtown Winnipeg. UPTOWN STYLE IN A SMALL-TOWN LOCALE 22 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 By Denise Duguay Photos courtesy of Irwin Homes

YOU’RE CLOSE TO EVERYTHING, BUT YOU’RE OUTSIDE OF EVERYTHING.

“You’re close to everything, but you’re outside of everything,” is how Melanie Snow puts it. She is talking about not only East St. Paul, where she lives, but also the municipality’s new residential development Gateway Point, for which her company, Warkentin Custom Homes, is one of three builders. Cont’d on page 26

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 23

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IRWIN HOMES — 30 Will’s Way — Gateway Point

CUSTOM COMMUNITY — Cont’d from page 23

Described as a luxury community in the town of Birds Hill, Gateway Point has 95 lots for custom-built single-family houses and luxury townhomes, all nestled around a pond and with lots spacious enough to allow for a pool or even this winter’s most popular backyard accessory. “The yards are large enough so that you can put a skating rink in the backyard. And it’s a safe community. The game of hockey could be played out on the street,” says Snow. The active lifestyle has always been an attractive feature for people looking to move to East St. Paul, says Joel Neufeld, general manager of Irwin Homes, a family-run business that also has deep roots in the RM. Irwin Homes is the developer of Gateway Point, as well as a custom builder, along with Warkentin and Maric Homes. “It’s a desirable neighbourhood. It’s a great place to be in terms of proximity to things like Birds Hill Park or out to Grand Beach or cottage country in any direction,” says Neufeld

26 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

He and Snow both say Gateway Point also offers both luxury and value. “We have larger lots and the taxes are lower in East St. Paul,” says Snow. The biggest value boast from Neufeld is for the luxury townhomes, for which Irwin is the exclusive builder. They have average lots of 40 feet by 147 feet, and an entry-level price of $469,900. “When you’re doing the math, it could be as much as $75,000 to $100,000 less than the average bungalow of the same size on a different lot. Plus your landscaping is included.” As for the luxury aspect, “We intentionally made the decision to raise what we consider the standard for townhomes. People hear townhome and they think kind of basic level, where everything is an upgrade,” he says.

THE YARDS ARE LARGE ENOUGH SO THAT YOU CAN PUT A SKATING RINK IN THE BACKYARD. AND IT’S A SAFE COMMUNITY.

“We wanted to start with a really high level ... from cabinets to the ceiling to stainless-steel appliance packages that are included,” as well as a gourmet kitchen, nine-foot ceilings and 24-by-24 attached garage. Also included in units directly around the pond: Walk-out basements. “So essentially, it’s like doubling your living space.” Customization, however, is also possible and, says Neufeld, affordable. “Because the purchase price is lower, you can spend a lot more money putting things in that you really want.” Cont’d on page 28

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 27

CUSTOM COMMUNITY — Cont’d from page 27

A 1,730-square-foot luxury townhome show home is available for viewing on-site and via video on the website at gatewaypoint.ca. As for the single-family homes, with an average price range from $500,000 to $1 million, custom is king. “That’s my big word. It’s custom,” says Neufeld. “We had a couple come in and say, ‘We really want to do our kitchen in walnut.’ That’s a high-end upgrade, but they want that and we figure out how to do that for them.” Neufeld and Snow are hearing an increasingly popular custom request for an extra bedroom “that allows people to have two bedrooms and still have a home office. That’s become a much bigger thing that people are talking about now that they weren’t a year ago,” says Neufeld.

DREAM IT, BUILD IT.

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28 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

IF THEY WANT BRAND NEW, THIS IS IT.

There will be three single-family show homes on Will’s Way — Irwin’s two-storey 2,400-square-foot model, Warkentin Custom Homes’ roomy bungalow and Maric Homes’ two- storey modern farmhouse. Another plus for Gateway Point is that East St. Paul has paused new residential developments until the municipality’s new wastewater treatment plant is completed, pending approval of $17 million in federal and provincial funds through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. Gateway Point sales lead David Powell’s advice to home buyers interested in East St. Paul: “If they want brand new, this is it.”

POH

LUXURY REDEFINED

WWW.ARTISTAHOMES.COM

204.415.6615

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 29

SPOTTING Some visitors to the Parade of Homes are looking for inspiration for their own home, and some are just looking to see how builders are incorporating the latest trends and materials into show homes. Here are five good ideas we’re seeing in 2021: • One welcome trend in great rooms? TV sets displayed at a comfortable viewing height, instead of at neck-craning altitudes above fireplaces. • In the kitchen, microwave ovens are slowly moving away from islands and appearing at the right height in wall niches. • Mixed materials: Glossy cabinetry with matte hardware, dark islands and lower cabinets with white uppers. • Tray ceilings are coming into their own, adding interest and extra ceiling height in great rooms and dining rooms. • Glam en suites: Some builders are taking a shine to gold, bronze and chrome bath and lighting fixtures. But matte black is still the No. 1 choice for fixtures in frameless glass walk-in showers.

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30 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

Modern Meets AFFORDABILITY

Book a Private Appointment to View our Show Homes

15 Orion Crescent – Aurora at North Point 75 Crestmont Drive – Bonavista 398 Windflower Road – Bridgwater Trails 8 Merkel Manza Blvd – Canterbury Crossing 31 George Barone Bay – Devonshire Park 448 Maconnell Lane – Grande Pointe Meadows 2 McCrindle Bay – RidgeWood West 318 Tanager Trail – Sage Creek

SOLID FOUNDATIONS START HERE kensingtonhomes.com 204.224.4243 • info@kensingtonhomes.com

Life ORGANIZATION Start with small steps to conquer chaos By Sherry Kaniuga Photos courtesy of Three Pines Organizing DECLUTTER YOUR

WITH PEOPLE SPENDING MORE

TIME AT HOME, THE DESIRE FOR A CLEAN, UNCLUTTERED ABODE IS COMMON.

32 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

>> YOU’RE LOOKING FOR something in a drawer, a closet or a spare room. You know it’s there, but the space is so cluttered you just can’t find it. You tell yourself, ’This is a disaster; I should really organize this,’ but you have no idea how to start. So you abandon the idea — only to feel guilty the next time you try to find something in that space. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Now more than ever, with people spending more time at home, the desire for a clean, uncluttered abode is common. And with the rise in popularity of books and Netflix specials about home organizing gurus like Marie Kondo and The Home Edit team, getting organized is on many a to-do list. But not knowing where or how to start is also very common. Sara Verwymeren of Winnipeg’s Three Pines Organizing sees this time and again when she meets new clients who want to get organized, but just can’t seem to manage it on their own. “When you look at the space you want to tackle as a whole, it can get very overwhelming. Mentally, you’re already disappointed,” says Verwymeren, who trained through Professional Organizers in Canada and has a background in psychology. “I help people break it down into small, manageable parts. A lot of people just need someone else’s eyes, someone else’s perspective, and someone to walk alongside them and help them rethink and re-evaluate their space.”

Cont’d on page 34

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 33

DECLUTTER YOUR LIFE — Cont’d from page 33

Organizing is very personal — it’s not just about making your house look good, it’s also about how you function as a person and as a family, explains Verwymeren, who takes on a coaching role when helping people figure out their organizing needs. As a mom of three and recent cancer survivor, she knows all about setting priorities — and she understands that making your space work for you allows you to spend your time and energy on other important things. “It’s easy to assume that everybody else has it together except you. But that’s such a lie. You just have to set realistic expectations and goals for yourself,” she says.

IT’S EASY TO ASSUME THAT EVERYBODY ELSE HAS IT TOGETHER EXCEPT YOU. BUT THAT’S SUCH A LIE.

The key is making sure you create an organizing system that you’re able to maintain. Just because you saw some bins and baskets that looked pretty on TV or on Instagram, it doesn’t mean they will work for your space. “A lot of people will have already bought the bins when they reach out to me, because they think that a bin or a basket or a fancy new organizing line is going to fix everything. But I’m always saying, ’Let’s figure out a system that’s going to work for you, and then we can look at investing in some good quality products that make sense.’ ”

34 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

Often, you don’t need to buy anything to help you organize — reusing a shoebox or a plastic food-storage container that’s lost its lid may do the trick, and it’s more sustainable in the long run. If your budget doesn’t allow you to hire a professional organizer, don’t worry — you can conquer clutter yourself, if you’re self-motivated. Verwymeren’s advice to start small still applies: Assess your situation, figure out what’s working and what’s not, and begin with an easily attainable goal. IF YOUR BUDGET DOESN’T ALLOW YOU TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER, DON’T WORRY — YOU CAN CONQUER CLUTTER YOURSELF, IF YOU’RE SELF-MOTIVATED. “Think about where you spend the most time in your home, and where you need the most function, and start there, with one section of a room, or one drawer. Set a timer for 15 or 30 minutes, and see how far you can get with it,” Verwymeren suggests. “As soon as you accomplish something small — and you see just how good it looks and how relieved it makes you feel — you’ll feel motivated to keep going and take on the more complicated areas.” If you already have a system in place, but it’s just not working for you, don’t be afraid to rethink and rework the space, switching things up until you find the system that functions best for you and your family. “I do believe that there’s a solution in every home, and nobody is beyond help. If people spent what we spend on a haircut on getting someone to help organize, it would last way longer and the effect would last much longer. It’s just like any other service — it’s not a shameful thing to ask for help in an area where you need someone else’s eyes.” POH

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Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 35

Kensington HOMES SHOW & TELL

Comfort BUILT FOR RURAL BUNGALOW IS A HIT WITH ALL AGES KENSINGTON HOMES — 448 Maconnell Lane — Grande Pointe Meadows 36 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

KENSINGTON HOMES’ LUXE BUNGALOW IN GRANDE POINTE MEADOWS STANDS OUT FROM THE PACK.

By Wendy King — Photos courtesy of Kensington Homes

>> WITH ITS CLEVER USE OF SPACE and distinctive good looks, Kensington Homes’ luxe bungalow in Grande Pointe Meadows stands out from the pack.

The 1,684-square-foot Cambridge model at 448 Maconnell Lane isn’t easy to categorize — it has a cool mid-century modern, rustic- industrial vibe – but whatever the magic ingredient is, visitors take a shine to it. Cont’d on page 38

Parade of Homes SPRING 2021 37

”The Cambridge has everything — it’s the kind of home that when people come into it, they say, ‘Wow this is awesome,’ ” says sales agent Frank Lansard. “It is a true hit.” Families with teens, young couples starting out and empty-nesters looking for a comfortable retirement retreat all appreciate the thoughtful planning that went into the house, which sits on a large lot in the new development just south of Winnipeg in the RM of Ritchot. ”What people love is that the layout of this home is inviting to a large segment of society,” Lansard says. The primary bedroom is in the rear, overlooking the backyard next to the great room, while the two secondary bedrooms are at the opposite end of the house, in a mini wing directly to the left of the front entrance. Lansard says there’s just enough separation to allow for some privacy, but parents of young kids won’t feel they’re too far away. While the primary bedroom has a walk-in closet, along with a walk-in shower in the well-appointed en suite, the secondary bedrooms share a full family bath. From the spacious foyer, visitors have a direct view through the kitchen area and great room to the backyard view of a spectacular prairie vista. Dark vinyl BUILT FOR COMFORT — Cont’d from page 37

IT’S THE KIND OF HOME THAT WHEN PEOPLE COME INTO IT, THEY SAY, ‘WOW THIS IS AWESOME’.

plank flooring extends throughout the open-concept main living area, while large windows — and a transom above the front door — flood the home with natural light.

your home… your way

One of the key benefits to buying an MHBA member new built home is that you can choose exactly what you want. Your home... Your way.

#paradeofhomesmb www.homebuilders.mb.ca

Now is a great time to build!

38 Parade of Homes SPRING 2021

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