HOMES&CONDOS T O D AY ’ S
NEW HOME BUYER’S GUIDE SERVING TORONTO & YORK REGION JANUARY 21, 2016
DISTRIBUTION: 337,500
PETERBOROUGH’S MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITY Parklands is already the popular choice with families of all shapes and sizes and this month we are growing again! Register now for the First Choice Preview of The Broadway Collection of Freehold Towns & Semis — the newest addition to Parklands’ exciting portfolio of 2-Storey and Bungalow designs in this established community. • Direct access from a rear-lane garage • Courtyards with privacy fencing • Central air conditioning • Direct garage access with door opener • 3 appliances • California ceilings • Energy Star® Rated and Mike Holmes Approved • Plus so much more!
Fabulous Freehold Towns & Semis FROM THE MID
The
200’S
$
Register Today at masonhomes.ca
Gourmet Inspired Kitchens
Peterborough’s Favourite Master Planned Community!
7 35
3
Lily Lake Rd. Parkhill Rd. W
Chemong Rd.
Lindsay Rd.
7
Fairbairn St.
N
Hilliard St.
Showcasing a spectacular setting with a vision for the future, Parklands enjoys Peterborough’s best location. Just steps to quality schools of all levels, first class recreational and leisure amenities, acres of parks, ponds & trails, shopping and convenient public transit.
Ackinson Rd.
Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016 • 2
NEW RELEASE OF TOWNS & SEMIS COMING SOON!
115
Boundary Rd.
PETERBOROUGH Classic & Courtyard Collection Singles Luxury 2-Storey And Bungalow Designs From
$287,900
Future 407 (2020) 35/115
28 to Port Hope
SITE & SALES CENTRE
401
1-866-443-7900 1224 Chemong Rd, (705) 741-3676 Peterborough K9J 0B3
SALES CENTRE HOURS: Open Daily: 11am – 6pm. Closed Thursdays
QUALITY LIVES HERE
MASONHOMES.CA
Illustrations are artist’s concept. See sales representative for details. Sizes, prices and specifications are correct at press time and subject to change without notice. E. & O. E.
PICKERING, ONTARIO, JAN 14, 2016 - Seaton Taunton marks Mattamy’s return to Pickering. The company established itself as a builder of repute here some years ago. Mattamy has since grown to become the largest privately owned home builder in North America. They have accomplished this, as their current homeowners in Seaton Creekside will attest, to their focus on thoughtful design and on customer service. These two categories genuinely go hand-in-hand as the company’s focus has always been on complete customer satisfaction. They always think of a house more as a home. Which is why Mattamy always designs according to the real needs and desires of their homeowners. Mattamy was recently named the GTA Builder-ofthe-Year for an unprecedented sixth time, by the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD). Mattamy also master-plans their communities, designing them to function as real neighbourhoods where people are consistently well-served by the placement of streets, parks and amenities. As they did in Seaton Creekside, Mattamy’s latest community of Seaton Taunton continues a healthy blend of
preservation and modernity. The natural landscape is maintained to describe the contours of the community, with streets and trails winding gracefully among the forest and ravines. Take note of their characteristically people-friendly streets and pathways. Mattamy has always attempted to reinforce a feeling of connection and community, encouraging neighbours to easily greet one another in cheerful common spaces. As well, Mattamy’s streetscapes are also recognized as fresh and visually stimulating. As Seaton Taunton preserves nature, it similarly promises to deliver all of the desirable, modern conveniences to its homeowners. Pickering readily offers a surplus of entertainment, shopping, dining, culture, and nightlife. Happily, access to anywhere is almost immediate, thanks to the proximity of major highways and thoroughfares. In fact, a brief 10-minute drive will find you at shores of Lake Ontario should you wish to partake in the scenery and recreation to be had. Varieties of Townhomes & Detached Designs Seaton Taunton will continue to offer an inspiring choice of home options, including townhomes and detached homes. Mattamy’s sophisticated floorplans ensure that every space within is optimized for real family living. Windows are typically generous to admit gorgeous, natural light. Passageways are large and rooms are unobstructed by unnecessary barriers. Those interested are welcomed to tour the three impressive Model Homes on-site.
The company’s commitment to personalization also addresses for interior decor. The Mattamy Design Studio offers a myriad of finishings and materials with professional design consultants always at hand to guide you through the abundance of choices. Mattamy encourages people to make their homes their very own, so they offer their exclusive Architect’s Choice Options. These allow buyers to personalize structural aspects of their homes to accommodate any lifestyle preferences. To register for upcoming releases visit mattamyhomes.com. The Sales Centre is located at 1075 Taunton Road in Pickering and is open Monday to Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., and weekends and holidays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information and to register for updates, visit www.mattamyhomes.com.
W $
OULDN’T YOU DRIVE 10 MINUTES EAST OF AJAX/WHITBY TO SAVE…
100,000 …ON YOUR NEW HOME?
Coming to Courtice In February Set within the existing and much sought after community of Robinson Ridge, this will be the final release of only 42 select homes. Just a few minutes from Darlington Provincial Park and the Lake, this is a safe, upscale neighbourhood right on Oshawa’s border. Look around for yourself and then be prepared to save at our PRIORITY REGISTRATION & DESIGNER DECORATED MODEL HOME OPENING in February. But only those who have registered will be invited. SO REGISTER TODAY FOR THIS FINAL OPPORTUNITY!
Single family homes on 37’&40’ lots from the irresistibly low
450’s
$ FOR PRIORITY REGISTRATION VISIT:
robinsonridge.ca
Prices & specifications are subject to change without notice. Illustration is artist’s concept. Phone 800-810-2842
3 • Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016
Mattamy Returns To Pickering With Ingenious New Living Designs
Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016 • 4
Paint-free ways to brighten your home Illustration is artist’s concept
Contemporary Freehold townhomes Come to newmarket
E
xcitement is building for the upcoming release of freehold townhomes at Esprit, a new Sundial Homes community in the heart of Newmarket’s vibrant Yonge St. and Davis Dr. neighbourhood. Interested purchasers are encouraged to register online at www.SundialHomes.com, to reserve a spot for a preview showing of these beautiful homes, and to be first in line for best selection and pricing. “We had a phenomenal response to our recent release of single detached homes at Esprit, and are expecting our freehold townhomes to sell just as quickly,” says Elena Reid, Sales and Marketing Manager for Sundial Homes. “Esprit has the best location in Newmarket, and our contemporary designs are unique and new to the area. There is huge pent-up demand for these townhomes, so we’re very excited to be offering this new release.” Ideally situated just west of Yonge St., at Davis Dr., Esprit is a stunning master-planned
community that offers homebuyers easy access to a wealth of amenities. Residents are right next to the dozens of stores and services at Upper Canada Mall, and the Newmarket Bus Terminal, including GO Service, is across the street. Live theatre, the latest blockbuster films at SilverCity, recreation facilities and boutique shopping in Newmarket’s charming downtown core are all just minutes away. From casual cafés to fine dining, there is no shortage of excellent restaurants in the area, including a great selection of international cuisine. The sleek, contemporary home designs, so popular in the GTA, bring
modern sophistication to Newmarket for the first time. Elegant stonework, decorative windows, private glass balconies and covered front porticos are just a sampling of the design features that distinguish these homes. Beautifully crafted interiors are equally impressive and offer open concept floorplans. Designed for today’s growing families, Esprit townhomes come in an array of sizes, with models up to 2,532 sq. ft., and three bedroom plus den or optional fourth bedroom designs available. Within Esprit, there is a proposed public elementary school. Residents are also right next to an existing park, with meandering pathways, and people can also stroll along a large sparkling pond. Just to the north, residents have access to more pathways along water features, as well as lush forest lands. “What’s so unique about Esprit is that it offers homebuyers the best of country and city living,” Reid says. “Every amenity is close at hand, yet Esprit has a quiet country setting, with greenspace and plenty of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.” MoneySense has consistently ranked Newmarket as one of the top 25 Places to Live in Canada. The Town’s central location is perfect for those who commute, with easy access to Highway 404, GO Train and GO Bus services, and the recently completed Viva bus rapidway along Davis Drive. There are excellent schools in the area, including the prestigious St. Andrew’s College, just 15 minutes south in Aurora. Popular attractions include Fairy Lake Park, which hosts several festivals and community events throughout the year. Register today at SundialHomes.com to be the first in line for the best selection and pricing of Esprit freehold townhomes.
During the winter, homeowners know that shortened days mean less light inside their homes, which can become dreary. Many homeowners pick up their paintbrushes in an effort to make their homes more colourful. But homeowners need not embrace their inner Picasso to brighten their homes’ interiors. The following are a handful of paint-free ways to add some splashes of colour to your home this fall. • Bring nature inside. Flowers and plants can make colourful additions to a home’s interior. Flowers tend to be aromatic, which can make a stuffy house in which windows need to be kept closed a lot more pleasant. Plants and flowers also can improve indoor air quality. Several studies have shown that houseplants improve indoor air quality by filtering out volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that can be harmful to human health. That’s especially important come late fall and winter, when homeowners typically shut their windows and keep them shut until spring, making it difficult for fresh air to enter a home. • Invest in some colourful throw pillows. Natural sunlight brightens a room come spring and summer. But sunlight is increasingly scarce as fall turns into winter, and rooms that do not boast too many colourful accents can quickly grow drab as summertime sunlight dwindles. Instead of buying new furniture, invest in some colourful throw pillows to give a room a more vibrant look. Patterns can be mixed and matched to provide some contrast and transform a room from somewhere to spend time into a sight to behold. • Paper the walls. While many of today’s homeowners prefer paint to wallpaper, those who want a less permanent solution to brighten up their homes may want to consider removable wallpaper. Such
paper is less expensive than traditional wallpaper, and many do-it-yourselfers find removable wallpaper is easy to both install and remove. Choose a colourful pattern that can turn an otherwise plain wall into a potent palette that adds some life to your home’s interior. Because removable wallpaper does not require a significant financial investment, you can experiment with various colours or change things up each month if you so desire. • Add some artwork. Another way to add colour to the walls inside your home without dusting off your paintbrush is to hang some colourful artwork. Paintings that feature bold colours tend to draw your immediate attention when you enter a room, and that quality can make you forget the room is not benefitting from natural light. If you want to go the extra mile, find a painting that features colours which match throw pillows or other accessories in the room. This way your walls and your accessories are working in concert to make a room more colourful. • Rug it out. A patterned throw rug is another accessory that can effectively brighten a room without much effort or financial investment on the part of homeowners. When choosing a throw rug, find one that’s colourful but does not clash considerably with existing furnishings, as you don’t want the rug to draw attention for all the wrong reasons. You have more freedom with regard to rugs if you’re furnishing an empty room, as you can choose whichever rug you look and then choose additional furnishings based on the rug. Homes tend to darken as late fall turns into winter. But homeowners can brighten their homes in various ways, even if they prefer not to paint. — MS
Freehold Townhomes At Yonge & Davis
REGISTER NOW at SundialHomes.com
To be First in Line for Best Selection and Pricing
SITE
Upper Canada Mall
Welcome to a Contemporary Community Unlike Any Other
Green Lane
Yonge St.
Bathurst St.
Davis Drive
Newmarket Mulock Drive St. Johns Sideroad
• Spacious living spaces up to 2,532 sq. ft. • Steps from Upper Canada Mall and close to all major amenities and conveniences • Minutes from Highway 404, GO Transit & Viva Rapidway • Quick access to Richmond Hill, Markham, and Toronto
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Rendering is artist’s concept only. Limited quantities available. E. & O.E. January 14, 2016.
5 • Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016
COMING EARLY 2016
Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016 • 6
NEW LIFE NEW HOME.
Thousands of Available Models Discover Your Neighbours with Great Demographic Info Choose From Hundreds of Quality Home Builders Be the First to Know of Grand Openings and Priority Registrations
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Tackle wardrobe organization Cooler weather keeps many people indoors. Although this may cause a bit of cabin fever, time spent inside gives people a chance to tackle some much-needed organization projects without the distractions of outdoor activities. One task to tackle as winter settles in is sorting through wardrobes and making room for new clothes, as extra clothing can quickly take over a home. In fact, according to the National Association of Professional Organizers, too much clutter, general disorganization and difficulty determining what to keep and/or discard are the primary reasons individuals reach out to professional organizers. If clearing away closet clutter is on the top of your winter to-do list, consider the following tips. Know what you have. It’s easier to determine what you can keep and what you can donate or discard when you have an idea of what’s in your closet. Take all of your clothes out of closets and drawers and place them on the bed or floor. Clean the closets thoroughly. Try completing a thorough cleaning yearly. This includes dusting shelving and vacuuming the floor of the closet. You can do the same with armoires and dresser drawers. Take inventory of your clothing. Create three main sorting piles. Label one “keep,” another “donate” and the third one “sell.” As you look at your clothing, keep only those items that fit you well and suit both your tastes and your lifestyle. If a piece is high-quality and worth the cost of repair, bring it to a tailor or make the modifications yourself. Let go of items you
never wear or those you bought on a whim because you wanted to try something trendy. In addition, figure out which type of clothing best suits your lifestyle. If you have 10 pairs of yoga pants but never hit the gym, you can thin out that collection. Immediately bag donation items. Move items you will be donating out of the room. Place them by the front door and make a plan to drop them off at a thrift store or in a nearby clothing bin. Don’t overlook sales opportunities. An easy way to make a little extra money is to sell used belongings at consignment stores. Such stores are popular in towns all across the country as more people attempt to conserve and cut back on their spending. Consignment shops typically do most of the work, including marketing the items, which can be less hectic and safer than selling things on your own. Only bring in items that are clean and in good condition. Opt to have clothing donated after the consignment period is over if items haven’t sold so they don’t end up back in your closet. Group remaining “keep” clothes in the closet by category. Organize the clothing you keep by colour or style (i.e., casual, formal, exercise, etc.). Arrange the clothes in a way that makes most sense to you. Consider moving off-season clothes. Sturdy storage containers and bags can be used to keep off-season clothing out of the closet until it’s needed. This frees up more space. — MS
As winter wears on, it’s not uncommon for people living in cold weather climates to experience some cabin fever. Winter weather confines many people to their homes, making many antsy to get out once the first signs of spring begin to appear. In addition to contributing to cabin fever, winter weather can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. While air pollution is something most often associated with densely populated cities, the air inside homes is not immune to pollution, especially during long winters when windows are often closed for months at a time. Though open windows various chemicals, including volatile organic in spring and summer can vastly improve compounds, or VOCs, into the air, affecting indoor air quality, there are ways to ensure indoor air quality and possibly even human that air stays fresh and healthy regardless of health. When buying laundry products, which season it happens to be. look for those that are fragrance-free, also • Control indoor air moisture. Moist air choosing home cleaning products that do is great for dust mites and mould, both not include any artificial fragrances. of which are very bad for humans, so do • Indoor air quality tends to suffer in everything you can to maintain healthy colder months, when windows are closed levels of indoor air moisture. Dehumidifiers and doors are open only briefly. But can reduce indoor air moisture and homeowners can take a handful of simple control allergens, but it’s important to take yet effective steps to ensure the air in their additional steps as well. When bathing, homes is healthy all year long. try to keep a bathroom window open on • Clean the floors. Dirty floors are one of a slight crack to prevent mould growth. the chief contributors to poor indoor air When preparing meals in the kitchen, quality. Dust, dirt, pollen, and pet dander make use of your exhaust fan. In addition, can accumulate on floors, leading to poor don’t overwater houseplants, as they can air quality and potentially aggravating become breeding grounds for mould. respiratory conditions such as asthma. • Resist synthetic fragrances. A home that When vacuuming, use a vacuum with a smells good tends to feel more pleasant, HEPA filter, which is a uniquely designed especially during winter months when mechanical air filter that traps harmful windows are closed. But synthetic particles such as pollen, pet dander and fragrances, such as those found in detergents dust mites. When you finish vacuuming, and air fresheners, may be providing that mop floors to gather any dust or allergens welcoming scent at a heavy cost to a home’s that escaped the vacuum. inhabitants. Such fragrances may be emitting — MS
Reclaimed wood adds instant appeal to home projects challenging to match old wood in a home, Repurposing salvaged wood is a popular particularly if you’re looking to maintain trend in the home improvement industry. Not historical value and authenticity. Relying only can using salvaged wood give a home a on salvaged wood items can alleviate this one-of-a-kind look, but it’s a handy way to concern, ensuring that you can find rare incorporate the three Rs of green living into woods that are no longer available brand your lifestyle: reduce, reuse and recycle. new. Reclaimed wood is often used in flooring, beams, wall treatments, and doors, but it • Salvaged wood has character. It’s difficult to mimic the natural age marks and character also can be turned into furniture or home that older wood may have. Instead of being accent items. Reclaimed wood adds warmth raised on farms, wood harvested decades and historical interest to a home’s decor that ago probably grew in natural environments, newer materials may lack. Although finding making the wood both durable and strong. wood that can be salvaged takes time and The colour and grain of salvaged wood may some legwork, such efforts can quickly pay also be unique. off. Many businesses are now devoted to reclaimed timber, which can help make the • Look at objects in a new way. Doors are versatile pieces of reclaimed lumber process of finding and using salvaged wood because they’re already flat and rather even easier. Most people do not have to look too far to large. Doors can be turned into headboards, Homeowners considering reclaimed wood find wood they can salvage. Check salvage tables or benches. Staircase or porch posts may be interested to learn that such wood yards, landfills, dumpsters in front of older can be turned into candlestick holders, can serve various functions aside from homes being renovated, or older, unused and wood shutters can dress up walls and benefitting the planet. barns in rural settings. You also can collect provide a place to hang artwork and other • Match old-growth wood. New regulations driftwood or discarded shipping crates. wall items. may prevent certain species of trees from While some reclaimed wood can be used being cut down. That means it can be • Reclaimed wood can be found everywhere. as-is, some pieces may require millwork,
including sanding, cutting, shaping, and finishing. If you do not have these skills, you probably will have to hire someone who does. The Internet is awash with ideas for putting salvaged wood to use. Get inspired and then find the pieces that will fit your project. — MS
7 • Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016
3 ways to improve indoor air quality
Today’s Homes Toronto • Thursday January 21, 2016 • 8
The Shelburne Model Home in Seaton Taunton, Pickering
Taunton
Naturally Beautiful Living In Mattamy’s Seaton Taunton
PICKERING
Near to the many conveniences of a major metropolis, yet situated within natural forests and rolling hills, Mattamy has returned to Pickering in Seaton Taunton. Located by our original community of Seaton Creekside – close to major highways & GO Transit – our newest community is designed to address the needs and desires of modern families.
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SALES CENTRE 1075 Taunton Road
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR COMMUNITIES REGISTER AT MATTAMYHOMES.COM FOLLOW US: SALES CENTRE HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm MODEL HOME HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-7:30pm; Friday 1pm-5:30pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-5:30pm All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.