Luxury Living in Calgary and Area - Summer 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLES

Available on your mobile device luxurylivingcalgary.com

CALGARY EDITION SUMMER 2013

LIVING

Success redefined with

W. BRETT WILSON

CREATING LUXURY DECOR

GETTING TO KNOW HOMEBUILDER SHANE WENZEL

OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST

Make no compromises‌

Quality, Transparency, Value

OUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE *On renovation projects $100,000 and up, we will match and better a recognized competitor’s quote by 10%. At Trademark Renovations, we are constantly reviewing and negotiating preferred pricing arrangements with our supplier & trade partners to get you the best value for your money. We are so confident about our pricing that we guarantee you the lowest price for your overall renovation project while delivering our unsurpassed level of quality, service and transparency.

(403) 277-5600 www.trademarkrenovations.com

TERMS & CONDITIONS: This Best Price Guarantee applies to projects based on identical scopes of work, specifications, products, levels of finish, service, and quality. Best Price Guarantee applies to overall total project price and not the individual components contained therein. All recognized competitor quotes are subject to verification by Trademark before honoring this offer. Trademark will not accept screenshots or other purported evidence of a lower price that cannot be independently confirmed by Trademark personnel. Nor will Trademark verify any request that it believes, in its sole discretion, is the result of a printing or other error or is made fraudulently or in bad faith.

All original documents from recognized competitor quotes must be presented to Trademark prior to verification, execution of any contract or commencement of work. This Price Guarantee excludes insurance claims, free offers, gifts with purchase, gift cards, gift certificates, rebates, clearance or close-out prices, credit or financing programs, used, damaged, or display merchandise or products. Discount applied before taxes and environmental stewardship fees or other levies, if applicable. This price guarantee cannot be combined with any other offer. Trademark reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify or discontinue the Best Price Guarantee or to restrict its availability to any person, at any time, for any or no reason, and without prior notice or liability to you. The failure by Trademark to enforce any provision of these Terms & Conditions shall not constitute a waiver of that provision.

403-837-8100

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Giving your home the selling advantage

table of contents s u m m e r

2 0 1 3

44

38 pg

12

On the Cover

Businessman, Philanthropist, Author, Dog lover, W. Brett Wilson talks Luxury The image of Brett Wilson featured on our cover shot by David Krovblit Krovblit.com

6 8

Editor’s Note Feature

Cruise into luxury on a Harley

Story 12 Cover Success redefined

with W. Brett Wilson Feature 16 Adding the luxury of a

sunroom extends your outdoor enjoyment Feature 22 Designer Creating luxury decor

Inspiration 30 Travel Destination Bal

Harbour, south Florida Feature 38 Luxury style for

outdoor living Builder Q&A 44 Ten questions with

Shane Wenzel Feature 48 Landscape luxury

LUXURY Living

vice-president, Wall2wall Media

Jacqueline Hill

Director of Sales, Western Canada

Josh Heppner

editor-in-chief, National real estate

Susan Legge

Managing Editor

Elisa Krovblit

Contributing writer

Sara Duck, Brad Jackman, Heather Ryan senior account executives

Natalie Wilkinson-Houghton Anita van Breevoort Melanie Gowans Sales & marketing co-ordinator

Kim Nguyen

Senior production Manager

Bala Gnanapandithan

22

48

art director & production co-ordinator

Lee Cobham

Graphic designer

Greg Van Sluytman Luxury Living

2891 Sunridge Way N.E. Calgary, Alberta T1Y 7K7

Advertising: Call 1.855.519.6080 for advertising rates and information.

Copyright 2013 Copyright covers the contents of this publication and prevents reproduction in whole or in part; offenders will be prosecuted. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising, to make changes or edit advertising as necessary. Care will be taken to ensure copy accuracy but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher. The publication, the publisher and the printers shall not be responsible for any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, spot colouring or any information or lack of information furnished by the advertisers.

Editorial Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the above address, to the attention of the editor please.

PUBLISHED By:

16

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Editor’sNote

Success in the city Renos, real estate and a reality tv raconteur...

Welcome to the second issue of Luxury Living for 2013.

As our fourth edition goes to press in print, you can view us online, anytime on your mobile device, along with our other publications, by visiting the LuxuryLivingCalgary.com website and checking out Wall2Wall Media’s many other titles and real estate guides.

Bringing you the best of Calgary in terms of lifestyle options, celebrity interviews, cool places to visit and things to check out, this issue of Luxury Living is also full of expert advice you can use around your home.

For our cover story, managing editor Elisa Krovblit spent time with one of Dragons’ Den’s original dragons, W. Brett Wilson. Definitely one of Calgary’s best-known residents, Brett had hockey and philanthropy on his mind when she interviewed him early this year, and he shared some interesting insights on success, his book, and gave us his “Five List” of fave luxury items too. Brett, as most people already know, is heavily involved in many philanthropic efforts across Canada and abroad. During our photo shoot, he was busy balancing business with pleasure in between planning his next speaking event – but I managed to sneak my way into a shot or two.

Also in this issue, since this is the time of year when many of us start thinking ahead and planning our winter getaways, is a story on Bal Harbour on page 30.

Located just minutes from Miami, and not quite the same travelling distance away from Calgary as Hawaii, Bal Harbour won’t disappoint in terms of the glorious weather, soft white beaches and places to chill out. There are plenty of real estate options to consider there, too. As Canadians continue to snap up Floridian real estate, it’s definitely an investment worth considering if you’re looking for a sunny retreat to call your own. We hope you enjoy this issue of Luxury Living.

Let us know what you think. We love hearing from you.

Susan Legge editor-in-chief | National Real Estate | susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com |

[06] luxury living summer 2013

Twitter.com/susanlegge

Retail Store 403-269-8577 Rentals 403-262-5462 914 - 11th Street SE Calgary, AB

[07]

feature

Cruise into luxury

on a Harley

®

A

by Heather Ryan

mong those who own luxury homes it’s not unusual to find they also own luxury toys, and what better toy to own than a Harley-Davidson®, says Kane’s Motor Cycle Shop owner Mick Cawthorn.

Harley-Davidson Museum® Milwaukee [8]

Advertorial

“We’re absolutely a luxury item, but there are a lot of people with a lot of money in Alberta, and when the economy is going and confidence strong they’re buying and are willing to pay for the best; they want a Harley-Davidson®,” says Cawthorn, a fixture at Kane’s for the more than 40 years. “The person who has the high-end house, who has a Lamborghini or Porsche parked in the garage, likely has a high end Harley®.”

Harley® buyers come from all walks of life, he says. “You never know who is going to come through our doors,” he says, noting they can be new drivers to grandparents, from blue collar workers to executives, but they all have one thing in common – they all dream of owning a Harley®, a brand that can be identified around the world.

“One of the misconceptions about Harley-Davidson® is that the bikes are expensive, but that’s not that case,” Cawthorn says.

“We get a lot of men and women choosing bikes that cost less than $20,000.”

But, he notes, those who want luxury or something custom will spend thousands to personalize them. “They may spend $14,000, $15,000 or more after they have bought their bike adding features that will make it a one of; they really want to make it unique so that when it’s parked in a row of a lot of other bikes – theirs will stand out and make a statement,” he says.

Harley-Davidson® has a variety of items that customers can add to their bikes, but for those with really discerning tastes, they’re looking for a bike with a custom Harley-Davidson® paint job that is available on one of only 200 bikes.

The Harley-Davidson® custom paint offers “a vision that goes beyond the standard,” Cawthorn says, noting the CVO bikes are priced from $40,000 to $50,000. Kane’s has a 2013 Street Glide® with Cherry Bomb custom paint (numbered 95 out of 200) in the showroom that retails at $44,827. The most expensive bikes in the showroom are a 2013 CVO Ultra Classic® and a 2013 Road Glide® (Kane’s custom build) priced around $47,000.

There are also a number of vintage HarleyDavidson® collector’s in the city “who want one from the year they were born or one just like their dad had,” Cawthorn say, who has an amazing collection of classic bikes on display on the second floor of Kane’s. “The bikes built in the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s are worth more now because not only do they hold their value, they are getting more difficult to find.”

But the love for Harley-Davidson® goes way beyond spending money on the bikes.

Harley® owners, and even those who dream of having one some day, spend thousands of dollars on items that carry the iconic HarleyDavidson® brand from sunglass and towels to beach wear and coolers.

Harley-Davidson® jackets can range from $100 to up to $1,000 depending on the material and if you want Kevlar protection.

There are highly visible, illuminated rain gear styles, sunglasses, boots with and without the bling, half- to full-face helmets, T-shirts, dress shirts, baby wear, belts and buckles, pursues, blankets, flip flops, patio furniture, luggage and more. There is even a Pink label where a percentage of the proceeds from the sales goes toward breast cancer research.

So if you’ve always dreamed of touring down an open stretch of highway on a Harley®, don’t forget to add on those other luxuries – like a little bling of a custom Harley-Davidson® diamond ring – that can be enjoyed well after you’ve parked that impressive bike for the season. luxury living summer 2013 [9]

Luxury Chateau Stunning

Rumored to be

Best Home in Calgary

by Heather Ryan

A stunning two-storey luxury French Country chateau that presents a masterpiece of superior craftsmanship and infinite details is earning top marks from visitors.

“It’s an absolutely beautiful and well finished estate home that just hit the market. Those who have seen it were overly impressed and said it’s the best home they’ve ever seen in Calgary,” says Realtor® Ross Pavl with Re/Max House of Real Estate.

This immaculate luxury home on a rare two-acre Elbow Valley West lot has spectacular mountain views and offers endless possibilities. “Award winning

designer Ed Rohachuk of Dreamworks Design really created an amazing layout, while interior designer Jacqueline Strathern and decorator Ute Gouthro chose the best materials,” says Pavl.

The chateau showcases 8,117 sq. ft. of impressive living space on three levels with opulent finishing in four bedrooms and seven bathrooms, and has an over-the-top six-car garage. The quality of workmanship

is evident in the incredible finishing detail by Master Craftsman Peter Fox of Foxworx.

From the moment you step through the barrelled ceiling entry, with its massive custom-made solid walnut door, side-windows and arched glass transom, you’re greeted by luxury and inspired by all the richly-toned custom walnut woodwork finishing on built-ins, shelves, columns, beams and niches.

In front of you, a dramatic open riser, walnut staircase spirals through the centre of the home, while behind it the elegant and grand great room has a natural stone fireplace that rises from floor to its spectacular 20-ft. ceiling. There is a spacious music room with inviting window seat and an elegant den crafted with a full wall built-in bookcase, cabinets and coffered ceiling off the entry.

The chef’s kitchen will impress the most discerning culinary artist with its stunning cream white antique finish cabinetry, granite countertops, crown moulding, under cabinet lighting and professional grade stainless steel appliances: Viking 60-inch dual fuel gas range, panelled fridge and built-in Miele coffee/espresso machine, microwave and dishwasher.

The spacious main floor master bedroom retreat has a bay window sitting area, vaulted ceiling, private balcony, and two-sided fireplace shared with the lavish ensuite. A massive dressing room has customized built-in drawers, shelves, cabinets and central dressing island. The luxurious ensuite features a free-standing, remote-controlled, Bain Ultra heated air tub, oversized steam shower, his and her granite-topped vanities and loads of cabinetry.

In the lower level, enjoy your own sports bar and a 900-plus bottle climate-controlled, custom designed wine cellar; family and games room, fourth bedroom, and a home spa that has it all – a large workout room, infrared sauna, four-person steam shower and access to a hot-tub ready patio.

You’ll also experience rich cinematic adventures with a 2,500 watt, 14.2 Dolby THX sound system and 135-inch screen in the fabulous home theatre.

Plus the home comes equipped with a sevencamera surveillance system and smart home automation package.

More incredible photos of this luxurious estate at www.ElbowValleyChateau.com.

“Discriminating buyers will appreciate the masterpiece Peter has created with this stunning luxury chateau. Please call me at 403-837-8100 to see yourself!” states Pavl.

[10] luxury living summer 2013

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Community Of The Year Calgary Region 2012 Calgary SAM Awards

WINNER

New Community Of The Year 2012 Calgary SAM Awards

CoverStory

W. Brett Wilson has

redefined success by elisa Krovblit photography by David Krovblit

[12] luxury livingsummer 2013

W

hen asked about the one key attribute that successful people have, Brett doesn’t hesitate, he immediately responds: Focus.

It’s a billion-dollar piece of advice. W. Brett Wilson may best be known for his former role on the CBC’s wildfire success reality TV show Dragons’ Den. He was an original Dragon.

The cool Dragon. The Dragon that gave people a chance and had a keen eye for seeing when success was written all over a deal. It not only made for good TV, it made a lot of money.

But Brett is primarily a successful Calgary entrepreneur, businessman, philanthropist and, now, published author.

Coming from smalltown Saskatchewan – North Battleford to be exact – it wasn’t all Garage-Mahals and warehouses full of carriages growing up. But now that Calgary’s where the home and heart are, that’s life – and more – for Brett.

Brett’s charm and ease with a story are both entertaining and intriguing. He’s learned a lot about success, and his insights go beyond making millions or buying things. Though he likes his toys and certainly has an appreciation for the finer things in life, he now counts the needs, hopes, dreams and helping others overcome hardships part of the finer things.

He’s widely known for his generous philanthropy. In his recently released book, Redefining Success, Brett reflects on the ‘aha’ moments of life. Those moments that happen to you, that make you open your eyes and rethink your plan. It wasn’t just a battle with prostate cancer or the disintegration of his marriage, it was an epiphany about what fills the day and satisfies the soul.

He’s learned a lot about success, and his insights go beyond making millions or buying things Brett still does business, he travels, he wheels and deals, he enjoys his personal time, his family and his dog too, but he also gives, and gives more. He gives opportunities, he gives money, he gives advice. He mentors and encourages. He’s got a knack for turning something into something great.

Redefining Success is an interesting read. Don’t look for the secrets to getting W. Brett Wilson-rich. It’s not a how-to book.

It’s a story of soul-searching and soul-finding.

And while he may not mention anywhere in the 236 pages that he never wears two identical socks – he prefers to buy two patterns that match and wear one of each, from his favourite sock company, Stanley Lewis – of course, he does mention the things that went right, and the things that went wrong. The book isn’t a mea culpa by any stretch, but it is an interesting guided tour of Brett’s life. The anecdotes are fascinating and the path is unusual. luxury living summer 2013 [13]

CoverStory The one thing that can’t be missed, though, is Brett’s steadfast adherence to ethics. If you learn only one thing about the man, it’s that ethics far surpass focus as his personal key to success. He doesn’t wait for the ink to dry on a legally binding contract signed in triplicate by all parties. If he agrees to do something, he does it.

He’s never balked on his word. In fact, he goes into detail about a few of his deals – some that went well and some that went not-sowell. While many of the deals on Dragons’ Den fall apart after the taping, Brett would often revise his agreement to offer the entrepreneur a better option, a loan instead of a buy-in, advice, direction, mentorship – things beyond the scope of good TV. Brett’s worked hard and worked smart. There were some strategic moves that got him to where he is. He left smalltown Saskatchewan for employment in Alberta. “It was the only place to go when I graduated in ‘79,” he explains. “Saskatchewan didn’t have a market, two-thirds of my class headed to Alberta.” Realizing his initial career in engineering wasn’t the right fit, Brett switched to something that was. While he’d originally settled in Edmonton, he says, Calgary was “the logical move.” And Calgary has been his home for years.

“The mountains are nice, but to a prairie boy, they get in the way of the view. I like the vibe here,” explaining that Calgary is something of a basecamp. Brett does a lot of travelling, dividing his time among a few places. With kids in Vancouver, business in Toronto, teams in Tennessee and England and other interests worldwide, Calgary puts him at a good launch point, whether he’s travelling east, west or south.

Being a billionaire brings to mind visions of extreme decadence.

Have what you want, do what you want – when you want it. But the lap of luxury is a different thing to different people. While you won’t find this billionaire sweating over whether to wait for a sale on his non-matching Imperial Pink Stanley Lewis socks, you also won’t find him sitting around counting on the status quo.

He’s not taking it with him, he’s not just putting it in the will; instead of just amassing it, he’s actively giving it away. Philanthropy is a huge part of his life. There are many worthy recipients who can attest to that.

Brett also owns sports teams. The Derby County F.C. is an English Football Team, and he’s part owner of the NHL’s Nashville Predators. “Owning a sports team is like owning a business with returns in something other than cash – the return of human pleasure,” he explains.

But just ask, and Brett’s got a few luxuries he appreciates – and sees for the unusual possessions they are. The aforementioned Garage-Mahal is the garage at his Calgary home. He renovated it into a 4,000-sq.-ft. masterpiece, hot tub and all. The warehouse of carriages is just that – a collection of 100-plus carriages (the horse-drawn variety) dating from around the 1870s up to the 1930s, and 99 per cent of them are fully functional. He also admits to a drawer full of watches. “I don’t wear one,” he explains, “haven’t for three years. My iPhone makes it unnecessary.” But of the beautiful and valuable collection of watches, his favourite is a “big, heavy clunky watch, three inches in diameter. I bought it at the Great Wall of China.” The watch never worked, and only cost him a few dollars, but is still a prized possession.

The last chapter of his book Redefining Success is titled ‘Still Making Mistakes,’ and Brett takes the opportunity to share some of his insights on different subjects. He has an interesting way of framing them – calling them his “Five Lists.” He explains these as a “List of five items (or so) that are uniquely mine, reflect on where I have been, where I am now, and where I think I am headed.

They show what inspires and excites me each day.” What would an article on Brett be without our own “Five List” of luxuries?

[14] luxury living summer 2013

Five Luxuries 1) Time – “Waking up without a to-do list screaming at me.”

2) A cabin –Windermere Valley. A log home.

It’s a cool property and well finished.

3) Cars – While he’s got five in his GarageMahal, including a Bentley Continental, it’s “vrucks” that he loves. A van/truck combo, “it’s a multi-purpose vehicle, it’s being used for a wedding this summer and also used for staff renos.” Brett is currently upgrading a passenger van, a 2013 GMC 3500 4-wheel drive with lights, a sound system, overhead DVD, electric running boards, tints, specialized brakes and more. Oh, and it’s silver.

4) Office – sounding like an office that would make most look forward to going to work, “It’s an open office space and we went over the top.”

5) Ownership in two sports teams – Derby County F.C. and Nashville Predators.

Building in Calgary’s finest communities

Please visit our show homes in Watermark at Bearspaw, Rock Lake Estates and coming soon Patterson Point For more details visit www.newwestluxuryhomes.com The New West Group of Companies 2440 Kensington Road N.W. Calgary, AB T2N 3S1 CONTACT US 403.984.9430

contact@newwestcalgary.com

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FEATURE

[16]

Adding the

luxury of a sunroom

extends your outdoor enjoyment

by Heather Ryan Photography courtesy of Select Sunrooms

A

growing desire by people to extend their enjoyment of the outdoors well past the summer season has more Calgarians adding the luxury of a sunroom to their homes.

“Calgary’s weather is such that we have short summers and long winters, so you don’t always get to enjoy the backyard that long before it’s too cold or too windy to sit outside,” says Randy Anstey of Select Sunrooms. “Adding a sunroom extends your enjoyment of the outside; in a room it could be blustery outside and you’re nice and warm inside enjoying the fireplace and watching the snow fall; it’s an incredible feeling.”

Sitting inside one of Select Sunrooms’ impressive displays, which is made of gorgeous mahogany with glass walls and towering glass ceilings and valued at $160,000, it’s easy to see why people would want to make room for the addition and relax in comfort.

“Calgary is fortunate to get 325 days of sunshine a year, on average, so having a sunroom lets you enjoy that in a custom-built, totally enclosed, comfortable environment where it doesn’t matter what the weather is doing,” Anstey says. “You can build a home addition and look at four walls, or you can add a sunroom and look at the four seasons.”

One of the luxuries of having a sunroom is it allows you to enjoy your property without having to endure the elements – if it’s too windy, hot, cold, buggy or rainy outside, you can be inside surrounded in your glassed-in sunroom and feel like you’re sitting outside.

“Having a sunroom really brings your enjoyment of the outside in,” says Fred Stuwe, manager of Select Sunrooms. “We have people who have spent thousands of dollars on their landscaping adding, waterfalls and ponds and beautiful gardens, or they have picturesque creeks and mountain views, but they aren’t able to see it once they’re inside and the door is closed. Those homeowners have added a sunroom and now they enjoy that setting year around.”

One home where Stuwe says they added a sunroom that made the most of the landscape was in Springbank – where the homeowner spent more than $1 million on landscaping. “He wanted to be able to see that even from inside his house,” he says. Another example was a property that had water on three sides, creating a tranquil setting that can now be enjoyed anytime.

“We built a free-standing greenhouse/sunroom for a homeowner in Okotoks in the middle of his yard. He walks out there and enjoys the views that look over a creek on one side and the Rockies and pond on the other; it’s a private oasis for him,” Stuwe says. luxury living summer 2013 [17]

FEATURE That free-standing sunroom cost about $60,000 to put up, but people are willing to pay more to get exactly the features they want.

“We have sunrooms that meet most budgets, but they are considered a luxury item. You have to have the room and the disposable income,” Stuwe says. The most expensive sunroom addition Select Sunrooms has done was about $300,000. It was for a Calgary home that was already undergoing an $11-million renovation that took two years.

“Buyers have changed somewhat in the past few years, it used to be more older couples were adding sunrooms because they could see the value in them, but I’d say the age group now is about 35 years plus, young people, couples who are making more money and have the disposable income,” he says. “They want what they want; they still have a budget, but if they’re spending seven, eight or nine hundred thousand on a renovation, building in $100,000 for a sunroom is not unheard of.”

Since Select Sunrooms are custom built, luxury homeowners can get them in whatever size, style or material – metal is popular because it’s maintenance free, but woods create a rich look with mahogany, oak and fir the typical choice.

Sunrooms also have many uses from home offices and sitting or

and it brings lots of natural light into the home and it creates a bright

family rooms, to extended kitchens and hot tub areas. They can be

and airy atmosphere,” Stuwe says. “It changes the look 100 per cent,

as large as you want – one sunroom Select installed recently was 1,000

and really adds to your lifestyle.”

sq. ft. and another was 1,500 sq. ft. at a home in Bearspaw. Or, if

He notes a sunroom is also a luxury that pays off. “When you add

you’re tight for space, you can just bump it out from the wall a couple

a sunroom you’re adding square footage, so you automatically increase

of feet creating a nice wall of glass with a glass roof.

the value of your home. When we build these sunrooms, at the end

“You really don’t need to extend it that far; taking out a wall really makes big difference. It’s like a larger bay window with a glass ceiling,

[18] luxury living SUMMER 2013

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luxury living summer 2013 [21]

Designerfeature

Creating luxury

decor

by Heather Ryan

D

escribing what makes decor luxurious is often different for everyone.

Some people believe it includes rich textures and fine furniture, for others it’s exquisite artwork and accessories. However the expression, the decor should be as impressive as the home itself and reflect the personality of the homeowner.

“My first thought when I think luxury is about customization,” says well-known Calgary interior designer Jacqueline Corea. “I can’t think of anything more luxurious than something created specifically for you or your home. There is great enjoyment when you wear a tailor-made suit, or select the finishes of a luxury vehicle. The same goes for your home.

“Nothing feels more comfortable than furniture custom designed and made according to your specifications, or drapery hand crafted with the finest material that co-ordinates perfectly with your décor and reflects your style.”

Jacqueline, one of the principal designers of Corea Sotropa Interior Design, incorporates luxurious texture, a splash of colour, and a bit of modern glamour as her trademark style. It has often been described as cheerful and buoyant, yet graceful and sophisticated. She effortlessly blends classic traditional pieces with modern fixtures in a space, to create a timeless look appreciated for years by her clients. The firm’s projects have been featured in the prestigious Alberta Ballet Home and Garden Tour, the Kid’s Help Phone Designer Showcase and several home decor magazines.

[22] luxury living summer 2013

[23]

Designerfeature

We asked Jacqueline to give us her thoughts about luxury decor in Calgary’s high end homes.

Q. What luxury items are Calgarians putting into their kitchens?

A. Often luxury in the kitchen translates into the appliances selected. Calgarians are choosing to incorporate appliances such as steam ovens, built-in coffee makers, wine coolers, and second dishwashers and ovens. These aren’t essential appliances, but they sure make cooking and entertaining easier. Also, the butler’s pantry has become a must-have in luxury homes. For finishes, I am seeing lots of marble on countertops and hand-crafted tiles on backsplashes.

Q. Does luxury in the bedroom trend toward richer colours, fabrics, wallpapers?

A. I think luxury has to do more with texture than colour in the bedroom. A bedroom can be the palest shades of white and pearl or rich in tones like amethyst or malachite and still be luxurious as long as there is a sumptuous variety of textures. Silk, linen and velvet add luxury as do monogrammed bed linens of fine Egyptian cotton. Wallpapers are very luxurious – especially grasscloth or patterned papers that are hand printed or have a metallic sheen.

Q. What’s more popular – lavish ensuites or elaborate closets?

A. I would have to say that lavish ensuites complete with heated floors, steam showers, stone floors and free-standing tubs are more popular then closets. That being said, I have designed many luxurious closets, with specialized storage for clothing and exotic wood cabinets. I recently designed a whole closet dedicated entirely to a client’s spectacular shoe collection. The room featured a pale peach and gold colour palette, glass cabinets showcasing the shoes, damask wallpaper, silk window treatments and a pink velvet pouf to perch on when putting on strappy stilettos. It was positively dreamy!

[24] luxury living summer 2013

Q. Are we seeing more custom furniture and high-end accessories in living rooms?

A. I typically design and have all the upholstered furniture in my clients’ homes custom made. Not only do you end up with a product that is superior to what you can buy in most furniture stores, you get something specifically designed for that space, your comfort level and fabric that suits your lifestyle requirements. I also prefer to select a few key exquisite pieces that are very finely crafted for a living room, such as a spectacular pair of lamps, a sculptural side table or an interesting accessory for the coffee table. Also, don’t forget about window coverings – a room isn’t complete without them!

Q. Should we extend luxury living to outdoor spaces?

A. Absolutely! Since we live in a climate that is chilly for most of the year, I firmly believe that we need to make the most of our outdoor spaces. If we make them more luxurious and comfortable we will go out and use them more frequently. By adding heaters or fireplaces, cosy seating arrangements and some lush plants suddenly your backyard is transformed into an outdoor oasis.

As for new trends and styles, Jacqueline believes homeowners will start to select fewer, higher quality pieces for their home rather than filling it with inexpensive knock-offs. “I think we will see more high-gloss finishes on walls, ceiling and furniture,” she says. For colours, emerald green and navy or cobalt blue will be very popular, she says, and “brass and gold are huge, as is grasscloth. Pattern and colour are everywhere, but there will be more restraint in how they are used. 2013 is a great year for interior design!”

Jacqueline Corea, BSc, DID, formed Jacqueline Corea Interior Design in 2000 and with fellow designer Reena Sotropa formed Corea Sotropa Interior Design in 2005.

www.rossinis.com

Fine Interior Living

Corner of Blackfoot Trail & 46th Avenue SE, Calgary

(403)259-4448 luxury living summer 2013 [25]

New in the THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

58

W ER DRIVE, S MARY DOV RRACKS CURRIE BA

• $2,695,000 • 60-foot lot backing onto the park • Bungalow with developed basement • 4300 SF of living space • 3 bedrooms, den & gym • Wine cellar & wet bar • Patio with wood-burning fireplace

318

SHARON A SCARBOROVENUE, SW

• $2,295,000 • Walk to top-rated Sunalta School • 2-storey with developed basement • 6000+ SF of total living space • 7 bedrooms (4 have full ensuite) • Craftsman inspired design & finishing • Wet bar, wine cellar, media room

city

B

uying an inner city new home that is ready for occupancy is the best of both worlds: You get a new home without a long commute from the burbs and without having to deal with bulldozers, approvals, protracted and time consuming decision making or unexpected expenses.

It’s become fairly routine to see inner-city land value sales between $1.5M and $3M over the past year. Proximity to amenities and an area’s accessibility have become key determinants of residential property value. The city of Calgary has seen inner-city neighbourhood real estate prices skyrocket in recent years as people became fed up with long commute times from outer suburbs. Between 2000 and 2012, communities that saw the largest spikes in average home prices were in the city’s core and surrounding neighbourhoods. Of these 10 core neighbourhoods, the average price increased between 205% and 260% – a result that is directly linked with the proximity to more amenities and an increase in alternate transportation options.

Mature, inner city communities and those with plenty of walkable amenities are blushing with all the attention they’re getting. Buyers are not shy about knocking down modest homes on good lots or renovating homes that have the bones and adequate floor plans.

I’m one of the few native Calgarians. I grew up in the inner city and have been listing and selling in the inner Southwest for the past 20 years. I know the best areas to buy and build and I’m happy to offer you the benefit of my experience. Call me to see or discuss either of these New Inner City homes – both are ready for immediate possession.

While building a new home in an older neighbourhood can be an exciting undertaking it isn’t without its challenges: Building can take several months and there is stress and time involved in the design and build processes. Two years is not an unusual length of time to wait for an estate home to be built — not to mention the unforeseen extra expenses which may cause your final cost to escalate, taxing your patience as well as your budget. An alternative is to renovate an existing home. However, even if you renovate you may not get everything that you’d hoped for and it may take an emotional toll on your relationship. Most people are not aware that the costs of renovating can often exceed the cost to build new on a per square foot basis.

403 870 8811 www.SamCorea.com luxury living summer 2013 [27]

True North Log Homes Making Dream Homes a Reality for Over 27 Years

We chose the saying: ““Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away.” To stimulate our customers’ imaginations and express the essence of True North Log Homes. Living in a log home invokes a sense of calmness, peace, and solitude that helps us escape – if only for a few moments – from the hectic pace of our day to day lives.

What makes True North Log Homes the best of the best? “It really boils down to the technology, innovation, experience, customer service, and the drive to build the best log homes in the world. Our family invented this style of log home manufacturing and we now have 18 soon to be 24 U.S. and Canadian patents. True North offers the only 25 Year “ZERO” Air Infiltration Warranty in the log home industry demonstrating our confidence in our log home system. This eliminates the need for chinking and caulking ever!

“For over 27 years, we have built homes in almost every state in the United States, across Europe, in Mexico, Bahamas, Japan, Korea, and of course, in Canada from coast to coast.

We’ve recently completed several projects in the western provinces including a spectacular custom log home for our clients, Cory Chittenden and his wife Renate,” says C.E.O. Robert Wrightman.

“Working with True North Log Homes was an amazing experience,” says ecstatic homeowner Cory Chittenden. “We did about 10 years of research roughly before we decided to build a log home. After our research, which included visiting the facilities of several log home companies, including True North, we realized True North Log Homes is the leader in the industry. It was never a problem working with a company in eastern Canada. The build process was exceptionally smooth, and True North Log Homes has an incredible construction manual, which set our minds and our builder’s minds at ease.

I have a very stressful life - when I’m done at the end of the day, coming home is like walking into a vacation every evening.”

True North also has incentives on three models for the 2013 season including their flagship model the Citadel SE. ACT NOW AND SAVE!

® To order your copy of our *Award Winning* Planbook and for more information on True North Log Homes, please call toll free at (800) 661-1628, visit them at www.truenorthloghomes.com or follow them on Facebook at w w w.facebook .com/ truenorthloghomes.

[28] luxury living summer 2013

... and realize your dream!

Every True North log home starts with a dream that defines a lifestyle and reflects your personality.

It’s the inspiration of our clients and the pursuit of their dreams that led True North to develop the most comprehensive planbook in the industry. A start to finish informative guide that is sure to become a valuable resource tool for potential log home buyers.

The cornerstone of a True North log home is technology. True North log homes are the most technologically advanced custom log homes in the world. Find out how these innovations separate a True North log home from all the rest. Before you start building your future dream home or vacation property contact True North Log Homes and get the facts...

You’ll be

gladyou did!

www.truenor thloghomes.com info@truenor thloghomes.com Follow us on social media

ÂŽ

Phone: 1-800-661-1628

Travelinspiration

SHOP

Don your large sunnies and hit the Bal Harbour Shops to indulge in some luxury retail therapy. Here you will find an open-air mall with nearly 100 shops, including highend names such as Chanel, Prada, Jimmy Choo and more.

STOW

When it comes to what to wear for a stylish southern Florida stay, make sure to pack clothing and accessories with bright colour – and don’t be afraid to mix your prints.

Bal Harbour in southern Florida is a glamourous getaway famous for its luxe shops, pristine beaches and culinary delights, all minutes from Miami Beach.

Destination

Bal Harbour South Florida We take a look at the luxurious hotel and condo residences of One Bal Harbour and give you the lowdown on what to do and where to go when vacationing in the Sunshine State.

by Sara duck

[30] luxury living summer 2013

Multi-Coloured Crystal and Leather Sandal by Rene Caovilla. $1,200. Visit davidsfootwear.com

M.I.L.C.K. Clutch in Citron by ELA. $298. Visit holtrenfrew.com

Deep Freeze Sunglasses in Crazy Tort by Karen Walker $223. Visit eluxe.ca

SUN

Have some fun in the sun and hit the beach with an array of activities to keep you occupied, such as snorkeling, windsurfing, parasailing, swimming and deep sea fishing.

Or enjoy a round of golf at championship courses nearby.

STAY

SAVOUR

Dining al fresco is de rigueur in Bal Harbour. Hit one of their many diverse eateries such as Japanese restaurant Makoto, Italian eatery Carpaccio or La Goulue, a French bistro with a tropical touch.

Set along a coveted stretch of white sand, One Bal Harbour is an 18-storey luxury hotel with 180-degree panoramic views of the surrounding area, including where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Intracoastal Waterway.

Quick facts about the hotel › 124 ocean-view guestrooms › 24-hour in-room dining and concierge service › Personal shoppers › Pawcierge for four-legged guests › Ocean-view bar and signature restaurant, Mister Collins › Poolside bar and grill › Ocean-front pool › 10,000 sq. ft. waterfront spa

SNAG

Bal Harbour is an ideal spot for those looking to own a slice of luxury and escape the winter weather.

Quick facts about the Residences › 185 Residences › Units range from 1,900 to 5,000 sq. ft. › 24-hour in-room dining, concierge service, 16-hour door/bellman service › Social Room/Billiards Room › Theater Room › Fitness Room › Board Room › Valet › Pool – Full-service pool and beach attendant

For more information visit onebalharbourresort.com

luxury living summer 2013 [31]

Prominent Homes’ newest estate homes nestled in idyllic

Hawk’s Landing setting

by Heather Ryan

Nestled amongst the trees and backing onto a tranquil creek in Hawk’s Landing, Prominent Home’s newest estate home sits in an idyllic natural setting.

The Westley II, located in The Timbers, an exclusive cul-de-sac comprised of just 13 lots in Hawk’s Landing in Priddis, is a magnificent 3,259-sq.-ft. two-storey home with triple car garage.

“The home is located in a really a beautiful setting backing onto Hidden Creek with a heavily treed area behind it,” says Ralph Smith, vice-president of sales and marketing.

“Actually the whole lot is treed because we try to maintain as much of the natural landscape as we can, and the lot allows for the home and garage to be sideby-side, so you’re not just seeing a garage when you pull up, you see the whole width of the home, the gable roofs and double front door, so it presents an attractive streetscape,” Smith says.

Inside, you’ll be awed by the dramatic criss-cross stairs with open risers that provide a stunning view into most of the main floor. “The criss-cross stairs are our

[32] luxury living summer 2013

signature piece, they are very impressive and we get lots of great comments about them.”

Buyers who work from home will appreciate the main-floor office; to the right of the entry it has its own separate entrance off the front porch. To the left of the entry, the great room is warmed by a cantilevered fireplace, flanked by built-ins and topped by a large niche suitable for a large screen TV. Across the room and tucked by the stairs is a convenient wet bar.

“With its open concept the home is perfect for entertaining,” Smith says. “It’s designed so that you can entertain large groups.”

Homeowners will savour the gourmet kitchen that has a large granite-topped island with raised table, mosaic tile backsplash, enormous walk-through pantry and high-end stainless steel appliances, including a built-in wall oven with microwave above and gas cook top.

The dining room has windows on three sides and double doors open to a good sized L-shaped patio.

The mud room off the garage has a bench and substantial storage.

Upstairs are a spacious bonus room along with a multi-functional loft space around the stairs, a main full bathroom and large laundry room. The two generoussized secondary bedrooms feature a fun “Alice in Advertorial

Wonderland” door between the walk-in closets, allowing the kids to play back and forth.

Owners will feel totally pampered in the master retreat that includes a two-sided gas fireplace shared with the luxurious ensuite, which features a free-standing air-bubble tub, large walk-in shower, his and hers vanities and an enormous walk-in closet with built-ins.

The lower level is undeveloped, but Smith says the open design allows plenty of room for a home theatre, family room, fourth bedroom and bathroom. The garages are big enough to provide adequate space for “toys” and a work bench.

To view this home, call Corey Cameron, 403 - 91 9 - 91 93 , o r M a rk M il n e, 403 - 863 -1900, to schedule an appointment. Visit Prominent Homes at www.prominenthomes.ca.

Your backyard.

(This could be it.)

Hawk's Landing at Priddis Greens is an exclusive estate community nestled in the forested foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Located just 15 minutes from Calgary, Hawk's Landing offers all the amenities of country living just a short drive from big-city conveniences. All lots are fully-serviced, so you can start building the custom home of your dreams as soon as you select your perfect homesite.

Immediate Possessions Availble!

Viewings by appointment only

call: Corey Cameron | 403.919.9193 email: corey@prominenthomes.ca

For more information visit

www.ProminentHomes.ca

Trademark

crafts luxury renovations

by Heather Ryan

T

rademark Renovations’ passion to provide quality workmanship and customer satisfaction has resulted in not only winning the Consumer Choice Award three consecutive years, but having many homeowners trust it to craft their high-end renovation projects.

“Our customer service is something we’re proud of,” says Blair Foisy, owner and president of Trademark Renovations. “Receiving the Consumer Choice Awards is important to us because it’s voted on by real people and I think it says we’re doing something right, that we’re offering quality work and service that people want.”

Trademark ’s emphasis on qualit y, transparency, value and customer service has resulted in many repeat customers and over the years a consistent 72 per cent plus of its business is derived through referrals.

“That tells us people are so proud of their home and the job we did, they talk about it with people and refer us to those who need a reno or want a custom build,” Foisy says. “We want our customers to be happy when the job is done and that we’ve met their expectations and beyond.”

In business since 1981, Trademark’s solid reputation and dedication to high standards has resulted in continued success allowing it to focus on large scale projects ranging from $100,000 to more than $1 million.

“Luxury homeowners want to make their home unique and personalized; they want to incorporate high-end products and are willing to spend money for the best,” Foisy says.

“A lot of renovations we do to luxury homes are the kitchens. Homeowners want large [20] luxury living summer [34] February 2013 2013

functioning kitchens that are also a showpiece,” he says. “We’re also putting in a lot of warm floor systems in tile areas, especially bathrooms where people want to create a spa-like feel by adding steam showers, custom walk-in showers and glass and natural stone tile inlays.”

Higher end finishings such as exotic woods and inlays, and custom built features such as wine cellars, wet bars, media rooms are all popular items, he says.

“People also want high-tech audio/video systems that tie in everything in the home and can be accessed by their Smartphone,” Foisy says. “Some are paying in excess of $100,000 to get a fully- integrated system; they can be on a

beach in Belize and dim the lights in their home or see who’s ringing the doorbell.”

One amazing project Trademark recently completed was to a home in Bearspaw where it crafted a 1,000-sq.ft., high-end kitchen complete with fridge drawers, warming drawers, double wall ovens, huge gas range, microwave drawers, expansive island and custom designs for easy access to baking equipment and small appliances.

“We also completed a full renovation to a home in Pump Hill where we raised the ceiling height from eight feet to a 22-foot vaulted ceiling and installed exotic Santos Mahogany furniture grade, site-finished hardwood floors,” Foisy says.

The reno also included items such as custom built-ins, an extensive media system and sevenstage faux finish antiquing on cabinets.

To view some of Trademark’s luxury reno projects, or for more information, visit www.trademarkrenovations.com.

HOMES FOR:

OVER ACHIEVERS Westmere attracts a certain kind of person. Do you cherish great times with family and friends? Crave open space and fresh air? Yearn for outdoor fun all year round? Then Westmere was made for you! Just a Frisbee toss away from Calgary’s largest community lake, Westmere is a mecca for people who love to play and who’ve been waiting for luxury estate living at a surprisingly affordable price. When you see the price of a four-bedroom home with a three-car garage, you’ll understand why nearly 1,500 families now call Westmere home. Green space is plentiful, and schools, shops and services are all near at hand.

Follow your dreams to Westmere.

STARTING FROM THE

$450s

STARTING FROM THE

$550s

For directions to Westmere visit

WESTMERE.CA

Buyers Seeking Luxury Will Enjoy Riverstone of Cranston’s natural beauty

by Heather Ryan

New

homebuyers have a unique

opportunity to live in a fabulous new naturally gated community that offers a tranquil environment steps away from the

Bow R iver

and Fish Creek Park, by choosing

R iverstone of Cranston.

Crafted by Brookfield Residential, Riverstone is a master planned community nestled between the dramatic Cranston escarpment and the shores of the picturesque Bow River.

“The area features thoughtful, tasteful design elements inspired by nature, making Riverstone a community perfectly at home with its unique natural setting,” says marketing co-ordinator Chelsea Stricker. “The land is surrounded by 360 acres of environmental reserve (the escarpment and the river’s edge) that is dedicated to Fish Creek Park, making it a one-of-a-kind living environment in Calgary.”

Riverstone consists of four incredibly elegant product series – Willow, Landing, Preserve and Portage. In The Willow Series, Brookfield Homes are developing luxurious bungalow townhomes from the $450,000s, while The Landing Series features attractive homes by Cedarglen and Albi from the $600,000s.

Baywest, Landmark and Albi are building elegant and spacious homes in The Preserve Series from the $800,000s, while Albi is the exclusive builder of spectacular customized homes starting from $1 million in The Portage Series. “We’re looking forward to seeing The Portage Series showhomes by Albi, opening later this year,” says Stricker.

Homes in Riverstone feature the architectural styles of Prairie, Craftsman, Shingle and French Normandy. “Each of these homes are so unique, not only in their architecture and design, but also in their unique and natural setting,” says Stricker.

Lots range from 38 to 75 feet wide and back onto either the Fish Creek Park escarpment, Willow Creek or Fish Creek Park and the Bow River.

[36] luxury living summer 2013

Riverstone offers a convenient and active lifestyle just outside your doorstep with the Bow River, Fish Creek Park and numerous parks and pathways. It’s also adjacent to the established community of Cranston so residents can share amenities including Century Hall, which features a 22,000-sq.-ft. facility and seven-acre gated park site in the heart of the community.

The shops at Cranston Corner and Cranston Market offer an array of neighbourhood conveniences, including a local grocery store, gas station, restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and more.

As well, there are two existing schools located in Cranston and two future school sites.

Brookfield Residential’s Seton development is conveniently located on the southwest corner of Seton Boulevard and Seton Way, offering Riverstone residents a true urban district outside of downtown and easy access to everything.

Advertorial

Many shops and services are confirmed to begin opening in the fall, plus the Real Canadian Superstore and Calgary’s first VIP Cinema by Cineplex are scheduled to open in 2014. Visit setonurbandistrict.com for more details.

The location also provides Riverstone residents with easy access to Hwy. 22X and Deerfoot Trail, as well as the new south portion of Stoney Trail, which is anticipated to be completed later this year.

For more information about Riverstone of Cranston, visit the showhomes, open Monday to Thursday, 2-8 p.m., and weekends and holidays, noon-5 p.m. or visit www.experienceriverstone.ca.

We’ve sourced the most exclusive landscape designer.

Hwy 22x Cranston

52 Street SE

Surrounded by Fish Creek Park, Riverstone of Cranston lies nestled between the dramatic Cranston escarpment and the serene Bow River.

A naturally exclusive escape from city life awaits, in Riverstone.

Deerfoot Trail

Mother Nature.

N

Seton Blvd Cranston Ave

Riverstone

Showhome hours: Monday – Thursday 2 – 8 pm Weekends & Holidays 12 – 5 pm

ExperienceRiverstone.ca

feature

Luxury

style for

outdoor

living

by Heather Ryan

W

ith the arrival of warm weather, undoubtedly most people are looking at how to furnish their outdoor space.

[38] luxury living summer 2013

Photo courtesy Wicker Land Patio [39]

a-

feature

Photo courtesy Wicker Land Patio

Photo courtesy McArthur Fine Furniture

“Luxury homeowners are typically looking to bring that same quality and high-end look they have inside to their decks and patios outside,” says Jennifer Schramm, sales and marketing manager at Wicker Land Patio & Home. “They want luxury, quality furniture that is built to last and will withstand the elements, looks good and is comfortable.

For the furniture “they’re looking at large outdoor dining sets and big, deep seating chairs and sofas that are great for entertaining, and fire tables, which are really proving popular because they allow people to spend longer outside,” Schramm says. “They give off a ton of heat, about 60,000 BTUs, so as much as a barbecue or grill, and they look amazing.

“There are so many different types, and you can customize some of them with different shapes so the flame lights up in the shape of a sun, a yin-yang, or even a maple leaf,” Schramm says. “The rocks around the fire can be glass beads, lava rocks, fake wood with lava rocks and river rocks, whatever you like; you can customize it to your tastes.”

Since many large estate homes have multiple outdoor spaces, “we find buyers are looking for different pieces for each deck or patio,” Schramm says.

“They may want a dining set for the deck by the kitchen, a living room set with a couple of chairs, loveseat or sofa or even a glider or sectional with a fire table and a couple of side tables on the patio, and a bistro set, lounger or recliner on the balcony off the master bedroom. We carry the best names in patio furniture and accessories. These include Ratana, Homecrest, Ebel, OW Lee and Telescope.”

While the type of furniture selected varies, buyers are all seeking quality and durability. “All our furniture is all-weather resin wicker, wrought iron, wrought aluminum or cast aluminum that is powder-coated, they all last extremely well and can be left outside uncovered,” Schramm says. “The cushions can stay outside in the rain, but you should cover them or bring them inside for the winter.”

Photo courtesy McArthur Fine Furniture

Photo courtesy McArthur Fine Furniture [40] luxury living summer 2013

Wicker Land has a number of fabulous furniture displays, such as an OW Lee set that has two big deep chairs, a swing and a fire table and a Telescope hidden motion loveseat with two hidden motion chairs and a 36- by 58-inch rectangular fire table in a black fabric for a sleek contemporary look. One of the most popular outdoor furniture designs is the Casa Madrid resin wicker sectional set with a stunning fire table.

Buyers can also find a variety of different styles from traditional to contemporary at McArthur Fine Furniture, which has several sets on display in its showroom offering luxurious outdoor living on your penthouse balcony or backyard patio.

“We realize the season is so short here. We have made a conscious decision to bring pieces in that will allow our clients to fully enjoy the summer weather,” says General Manager Robert Pound, noting they carry some of best lines in outdoor furniture, such as Brown Jordan, Winston and Mallin, as well as offering a number of different fire table styles by Tommy Bahama.

“We found that people are really looking at the patio or deck as an extension of their home so they want to have the same look and feel as their indoor furniture,” he says.

“They’re looking for furniture that can stand up to the elements, but also look amazing so we pride ourselves in bringing in the highest quality. Customers can see the value because they aren’t replacing the set very few years.”

One new product line McArthur’s is carrying this year is from Lexington, “which is a mainstay in indoor

Photo courtesy Wicker Land Patio

Wicker Land Patio

Calgary’s Largest Patio Furniture Selection www.WickerLand.ca

Wicker Land Patio South

403-258-2506 6125 Centre Street South

Wicker Land Patio North

403-258-2809 4625 Varsity Drive NW luxury living summer 2013 [41]

feature

Photo courtesy Wicker Land Patio

Photo courtesy McArthur Fine Furniture

furniture and they’ve come out with outdoor furniture for the first time,” Pound says. “The materials they’ve selected are very luxurious and their furniture design offers a different presentation that no one else has; it’s so well crafted and detailed that you could put it in your living room.

“We’re seeing more inventiveness from designers for outdoor furniture so customers can really make the space reflect their own personality,” he says.

Among the stellar selections in McArthur’s showroom are a dining table with six chairs by Lexington that looks like wood but

is powder-coated steel with tempered glass and lovely detailing; an outdoor living room set also by Lexington that includes a plush sofa and two chairs; and a very distinctive offering by Whitecraft that is aluminum treated with a resin to look like birch and the sofa and loveseat.

“Brown Jordan, which is know for its fashion, has crafted a teak table that is simple but elegant with little curves and details and is finished very nicely,” Pound says. “You don’t see a lot of teak furniture in Calgary and this has beautiful craftsmanship in the 54-inch round table and chairs.”

403.803.0773 | www.escapesinc.ca | info@escapesinc.ca

Designing & Creating Outdoor Living Spaces...just for you!

As one of Calgary’s leading providers of landscaping and yard maintenance, we specialize in backyard makeovers & new site development.

Specialty services include: • Sod, supplied and installed • Stonework, Patios, Walls & Walkways • Concrete, coloured & stamped, exposed aggregate • Organic lawn fertilizer • Maintenance Residential & Commercial [42] luxury living summer 2013

Planning on a major renovation?

Planning on building a new home?

403.243.8507 channelcustombuilders.com

luxury living summer 2013 [43]

builderQ&A

10 Questions with Shane Wenzel

by Heather Ryan

S

hane Wenzel is well known in Calgary’s home-building

industry as the president of Shane Homes Ltd., which has been building homes in Calgary for 34 years.

Shane is also on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region and the chairman of CHBA – Calgary Region’s SAM Awards.

[44] luxury living SUMMER 2013

Q. What

do you love most about Calgary?

A. I was born and raised in this city and have grown to love everything it has to offer. It’s a beautiful city no matter what time of year it is and it offers a wonderful life. The mountains are an hour away, there are lakes a few hours away, it has a world-class children’s hospital, great sports teams with the Flames and Stamps, a wonderful arts scene, the Calgary Stampede, Spruce Meadows and Heritage Park – there is so much to see and do.

Q. What community do you live in, and if you were to move, which community would you choose?

A. I live in Aspen, I just moved there last year. I’m like everyone else; I started out with a smaller home and moved up. I’m happy in Aspen, but ultimately I would like to move to an acreage one day where there is more room for a bungalow and more space between your neighbours.

Q. What’s

the most unique item/ feature you put in a home, and what do you see as the most popular item/feature with homebuyers?

A. There have been so many unique features we’ve put in homes, but probably the most unique was a sports court that we added in a basement because the parents wanted their kids to be able to play the sports they loved year around.

I’d say the most popular feature in the home is still the kitchen; it sets the tone for the main floor of the home.

Q. What’s your favourite vacation spot?

A. Lake Koocanusa in the Kootneys; it’s a large man-made lake and it’s beautiful in the summer.

Q. Who had the most influence on your life?

A. My mom (Edith) and dad (Cal). They were always supportive in anything I did and as a youngster. I remember lots of conversations that centred around marketing and research and politics. They always said be true to yourself.

Q. A book or a movie?

A. Movie and I love different movies … dramas, sci-fi … there’s a classic movie I watched 20 years ago – Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man – every time it comes on I have to watch it.

Q. What’s your favourite sport to watch?

A. Hockey. I always like watching the Calgary Flames; I’m an armchair general manager. But my son is into soccer so I find myself watching more soccer games now.

Q. Do you prefer bungalows or two- Q. What do you do for fun?

A. Play golf. That’s my time to relax and it’s a good excuse to get out with storeys? people you know, share a few laughs. I also do walk-ons so I get to meet A. Personally, I prefer bungalows because

I like having everything on the main floor. But with the size of lots in Calgary you don’t get a chance to build them that often because there isn’t enough space for them.

many new people.

Q. What’s the best dish you cook?

A. I have this great Bourbon Street Chicken recipe I like, but my son likes my Spicy Garlic Shrimp recipe, so it’s a toss up. luxury living SUMMER 2013 [45]

Rendering is an artistic representation only, may not be exactly as shown. Developer reserves the right to make changes.

The Dream is near.

THE VILLAS ARE COMING. SUMMER 2013.

The Bearspaw life from $695,000 Walk-out villas with picturesque mountain views. Watermark, Canada’s Best Community*, includes 5km of trails and cascading ponds. Just 20 minutes from downtown Calgary.

403.239.9735

CHBA - Calgary Region

*

CHBA - Calgary Region

2012

2012

New Community of the Year

Community of the Year Calgary Region

V I L L A S AT W A T E R M A R K . C O M

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FEATURE

Landscape

Luxury by brad jackman

O

ne should never underestimate the many benefits of creating a vibrant and functional outdoor living space customized for your home. Landscaping is essentially giving your house a home. Professionally landscaping your property provides a sanctuary for your family, friends and pets. Landscaping improves your quality of life, increases the value of your home and adds personal flair to your home’s exterior. Your landscape options include custom decks, patios, walkways, garden beds, trees, shrubs, lighting, fences, irrigation, drainage solutions, boulders, retaining walls, water features, and barbecue pits. Clearly, there are many aspects to landscape construction and it pays to explore all your options carefully. More importantly, hire a company with a strong portfolio.

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With a variety of high-quality products and many different design concepts, your landscape design can be customized to complement any size and shape of property. Natural stone is the highest quality material to use for landscaping. Serenity, timelessness, balance, beauty and function are all traits of natural stone.

Natural stone can be used in almost all facets of landscape construction.

and many other options are possible with wood. Kayu Batu is an extremely high-end hardwood that can be incorporated into many applications. Very resistant to decay, wear and dents, it’s an excellent choice to bring the luxury of inside outdoors.

The key to enjoyment and the longevity of your yard is quality craftsmanship.

Landscape lighting is a phenomenal way to enhance

Landscaping is a process that’s built in layers. Many of the steps are tedious, lengthy

your outdoor space and bring your yard and nature to

and labour intense. Progress can seem slow due to the preparative work required,

life. Lighting provides your space with energy, safety,

with most typical contracts springing to life in the final few days of construction.

balance and interest. The ambient glow of landscape

Having professionals with the proper knowledge base who use high quality materials

lighting sets the mood for your yard.

is a must. A locally owned and operated Calgary based company, Landscape 360

Custom irrigation systems are an excellent way to

specializes in residential, estate and acreage landscape construction. Our philosophy

conserve water and reduce your yard maintenance.

is based upon professionalism, quality, trust and respect. Brad Jackman and Brian

This will allow home owners to maximize on the

Smith lead a team of friendly, knowledgeable and hardworking staff with a combined

amount of water their landscape requires. An irrigation

22 years of experience within the landscape industry. If it is a fully conceptual design

system is a far more effective way to provide your yard

you require or a smaller project, they will be happy to help.

the water it craves, as opposed to running the sprinkler for a few hours.

Homeowners have endless options when it comes to custom woodwork. Decks, pergolas, privacy walls, arbors

For more information contact Landscape 360. Professional Landscape Construction. 403.452.0360, or visit landscape360.ca www.facebook. com/Landscape360 luxury living summer 2013 [49]

SERVICES • • • • • • •

Design Natural Stone Walkways Garden Beds Sod+Grading Water Features Retaining

• • • • • • •

Patios Decks Fences Irrigation Lightning Planting Excavation

Landscape 360 is focused on providing our clients with professional landscape construction from concept to completion.

With experience, creativity, hard work and dedication, we will exceed your expectations. The service and product we provide will withstand the toughest elements, while giving your home a personality. With a commitment to quality, Landscape 360 is driven to establish strong relationships with each client.

Professional Landscape Construction

www.landscape360.ca 403-452-0360 Calgary, AB

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