INNER-CITY Friday, april 27, 2012 N°3 LIVING

museums 12th nig ht marda gras Join the “culture club” and check out the Xenex on 12th condo hits all the right 35,000 to celebrate anniversary of New new exhibits at local museums. //8 notes for buyer. //12 Orleans-themed festival. //14 BUY FROM . SMART DECISIONS ARE TIMELESS.

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BUILDING 1 BUILDING 2 BUILDING 3 SOLD OUT ALREADY 90% SOLD SELLING FAST

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ONE BEDROOM Payments as • Professionally Designed Project

SE SE

st $ 1 low as 303* • Gorgeous Kitchens Rent: $1200/mo. TRAIL ! 14th AVE * bi-weekly payment based on 10% • Spa-inspired Bathrooms $ Return on Investment: deposit at a variable interest rate of • Estate Level Exterior Finishes 253k 15% per annum* MACLEOD 2.7% amortized over 30 years. 15th AVE Calgary’s most proven downtown revenue suite 14th Ave. just East of 1 St. SE Directly North of Sasso SHOWSUITE TWO BEDROOMS Phone: 403.234.9894 GRAND OPENING Rent: $1700/mo. Sales Centre Hours: 310 McKenzie Towne Gate SE $ Return on Investment: Mon.-Thurs. 12-6 pm Phone: 403.453.1797 322k 20% per annum* Fri.-Sun. 12-5 pm Sales Centre Hours: *Based on the following information over a 5 year term – 90% mortgage @ 3% variable rate Mon.-Thurs. 2-7 pm and 30 yr amortization. Condo fees and taxes included. Individual suites may vary. aluraliving.ca Sat. & Sun. 12-5 pm Closed Fridays URBAN LIVING AT SUBURBAN PRICES monarchliving.ca

For more information on these or other great Cove projects visit us at www.coveproperties.ca FOUNDATION I STRENGTH I HISTORY Inner-City Living Friday, april 27, 2012 N°3 is a publication of the Calgary Herald’s Special INNER-CITY Projects Department

Transit stops/4

Museums/8 LIVING Calgaryherald.com/innercityliving

City comparison/10 Neighbourhoods/11 Buying inner-city/12 Boot camps/13 Festivals/14 Dog parks/15

COVER: Pedestrians in Marda Loop.. Image by Michelle Hofer // Special Projects manager: Barb Livingstone, 403-235-7339; [email protected] // Special Projects co-ordinator/designer: Karen Petkau, 403-235-7513; [email protected]

advertising feature “Alura is actually the fourth “With 174 condos sold in only highrise condo we’ve built here at a few months, the public seems to Stampede Station and is a testament agree with us that these are the best ountdown to to how we feel about the emergence prices in town,” says Hamdon. C of the Beltline as the place to live Designed with an urban audience groundbreaking and enjoy in Calgary,” explains in mind, the units at Alura will be Hamdon. “The first three towers flooded with natural light during begins for eager have been a huge success and Alura the day and stunning city views by lura buyers is going to be even better.” night through impressive floor-to- A The podium between Alura ceiling “curtain glass” walls. uyers at Alura are counting and Nuera features a spectacular Suites also feature smartly down the days until they can landscaped garden terrace where designed open layouts, ample-sized start taking advantage of this residents from both towers can relax bedrooms and high-quality finish- Bbeautiful condo tower’s unbeatable in style. ings, such as maple cabinets and location and amenities. “It’s rare that you find such a ceramic tiling. The most recent highrise by peaceful green space like this in the With more than 174 of the Calgary’s tower experts at Cove downtown area, and being able to tower’s 281 suites already sold and Properties, Alura’s location in the enjoy it by yourself or with your construction beginning in May, heart of the inner city’s vibrant friends — without being bothered Cove Properties’ newest highrise is Beltline community makes it a cov- by outsiders — is a real perk,” says on target for possessions in spring eted place to live, work and play. Hamdon. 2014. And as the sister tower to Cove’s Alura buyers have the added Hopeful homeowners don’t have outstanding Nuera highrise, Alura is bonus of a state-of-the-art fitness much time to buy into this new unique in that it features twice the centre and Pilates studio next door downtown development, cautions amenities of a single-tower project. at Nuera (which is already com- Hamdon: “Although we wanted to Located just steps from all of pleted), in addition to the owners’ give our buyers great pricing and downtown’s best boutiques, restau- lounge and business centre in Alura. value here at Alura, these terrific rants, nightclubs, arts and sports Another bonus for buyers is the prices can’t last forever. venues, as well as walking paths and under-market pricing being offered “Once construction starts in May, an LRT hub, Alura’s residents will at Alura, with 584-square-foot, we’ll have to look and see where never have to go far to find all the one-bedroom condos starting at we’re at and where we think pricing conveniences they need day to day, just $253,800, and two-bedroom, should go from there.” says Clay Hamdon, president of 885-square-foot condos priced from For more information, go to Cove Properties. $322,800. aluraliving.ca.

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 3 Transit Stops In the Spotlight // Sunnyside Unique retailers, hidden gems draw people down to area

Words: Cara Casey // Images: Michelle Hofer

It’s the first stop outside of the downtown of Sunnyside Natural Market; its big core as the LRT heads for northwestern conglomerate bro, Safeway, sits directly suburbia. But Sunnyside isn’t your usual adjacent. high-density inner-city neighbourhood. A staff member for more than two most residents before they jump on the train But great coffee isn’t the only thing that Big brother across the street (Hillhurst) years and mother to two students at to the core, or those who just want to walk attracts outsiders to Sunnyside. The Calgary has always stolen Sunnyside’s thunder and Sunnyside School, Bronwyn Henry loves and admire the mix of turn-of-the-century Curling Club, just off Memorial Drive, is it seems that the residents don’t mind too the community atmosphere that Sunnyside architecture with glamorous modern infills. also a major draw. “It’s the busiest curling much. Their hidden gem is slowly becoming provides. “A lot of people in the community “When we first moved in, there was club in the world,” says general manager exposed to the rest of Calgary’s inner-city like to support the local businesses,” says some apprehension because Heartland Robert Laycock. hipsters, all of whom are looking for the Henry. “Getting to know your neighbour Café was so loved,” says Vendome Café In addition to curling programs, the facility best of both worlds — a walk to downtown and local vendors here is important.” manager Heather Furland. “But now, is host to poetry meetings, softball groups and a community with heart. Formally Heartland Café, Vendome Café they’re happy. They know we serve really and a variety of other community activities. Take 20 steps due west off of the transit sits tucked amongst the houses on 2nd great coffee and really great food.” /6 platform and you’ll land on the doorstep Avenue N.W. It’s a key morning stop for

advertising feature

Albi’s inner-city division marries contemporary and heritage designs isa and Glen Schrader love the inner city. They love being close to downtown and the Lvibrancy that comes from living in the heart of Calgary. That’s why they jumped at the chance to buy the 100-year-old Inglewood home Lisa’s father grew up in. But the home was aging and with other builders and cost a lot I wanted more of a heritage look custom home-building, Albi has “What we hear resoundingly from needed major updating, so they more money.” in the front, and the architect we increased its focus in the inner city, customers is they enjoy living in the turned to Albi Homes’ Inner City Last December, the Schraders worked with through Albi ran with says Lewis Pfeifer, operations man- inner city and don’t want to leave, and Custom Division to build a new took possession of their new it,” says Lisa. ager with the company’s inner city and many people in the suburbs are home on the site. 1,863-square-foot home. The Schraders say Albi kept the and custom division. tired of the commute and spending “At first, the whole process of It combines contemporary inte- lines of communication open, taking “Despite our reputation as a new- all that time away from their fami- building a new (custom) home rior features, such as a 12-foot a lot of the stress out of building a community builder, we’re also very lies. They want a different lifestyle.” seemed daunting, but Albi sug- vaulted living room ceiling and an new home. much involved in the inner city, Albi’s professionals will help break gested we look at other show underground garage, with heritage “It was baby steps every step of with our reputation for quality and down the project for you, from homes, and you could absolutely touches that reflect the history of the way,” says Lisa. “They made it customer service,” he says. “We have arranging suppliers and subcontrac- see the difference between Albi and Inglewood, such as a traditional really easy — instead of it being a number of plans that we use in tors to helping you select styles and other builders,” says Lisa. “Albi’s front verandah complete with sitting one big project, they made it into a our new communities that we can finishes at Albi’s Galleria interior craftsmanship just looked a lot nicer. area and exterior lines that let the series of smaller projects and made adapt to the inner city based on lot design studio. And a lot of the things that were home blend in with its century-old it easy to get through it.” sizes, which are often much larger. For more information, call 403- standard with Albi were upgrades neighbours. “We had a wish list. With 30 years’ experience in We also do custom plans. 203-1898 or visit albihomes.com.

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 4 transit stops Sunnyside...

It truly has become a community- meeting place. A resident and former owner of Ant Hill Fabrics on 10th Street N.W., Laycock says he has seen the community change. Although new hip bars and shops draw more people out, the heart of the community remains. “It’s as close as you’re going to come to being in a community setting this close to the city,” says Laycock. Henry says after you’ve come to the Broken Plate or even take a stroll through many shops in Sunnyside enough times, one of Calgary’s oldest neighbourhoods, chances are the staff will learn your name. this special spot truly has something for Whether you choose to grab a coffee everyone. Just don’t get it confused with at Vendome, enjoy dinner with friends at Hillhurst across the street. //

advertising feature The Block in Lower Mount Royal. Victoria Cross in Currie Barracks.

Novel and grand, The Block and Victoria Cross a dynamic duo he Block is about to be one of the coolest residences in Calgary. TLocated in the heart of trendy 17th Avenue in sought-after Lower Mount Royal, The Block is Homes by Avi’s newest project and will be a unique boutique-style condo- apartment. Other features include hardwood Homes by Avi’s marketing project Many buyers have taken note there, buyers are encouraged to visit The four-storey, 61-suite build- floors, colourful backsplashes in manager. of how the property has really the show home, which has a third- ing will be a mix of one-bedroom bathrooms and kitchens, stainless- Ideal for recent graduates and morphed into a desirable com- storey master bedroom. condos and townhomes. However, it steel appliances and floating vanities first-time buyers, the suites start in munity, resulting in Phase 1 being With two different 24-foot-wide will be anything but mainstream. in bathrooms. Unique to the one- the mid-$200,000s. completely owner-occupied. floor plans developed in multiple Built in a U-shape, The Block’s bedroom units, sliding barn doors “We have begun construction Inside the development, main- ways and options, there is a layout interior hallways will be replaced will open up to the bedroom, giving and have quite a few one-bedroom floor features include oversized to match any lifestyle. with exterior walkways around the the unit a contemporary loft feeling. homes still available,” says Pollen. windows, nine-foot ceilings and Homes range from 2,100 to 2,300 scenic, central courtyard. Not only can buyers personalize Meanwhile, Avi also has an gourmet kitchens fitted with high- square feet, and start at $770,000. Townhomes will have pri- their units’ interior features and fin- important message for buyers of its end Viking appliances and granite “This is an amazing opportunity vate courtyard access, along with ishes but they can even choose the other development, Victoria Cross: countertops. to live in inner-city Calgary at a attached garages — a novelty in colour of their front doors. don’t miss out. The third-storey master bedroom really great price,” says Pollen. . The preferred door hue will then The inner-city community, located comes complete with a private roof- ”We have four quick-possession Inside, furnishing will be modern be co-ordinated in the home’s inte- in Calgary’s Currie Barracks, has top patio and grand views of the homes available in Phase 2, starting but comfortable. rior as a feature wall colour. been a big hit with buyers who surrounding landscape. in the $770,000s.” Floor plans for one-bedroom “It’s not just a door. It’s a reflec- have jumped on the chance to call To find out what else the home For more information on either unira will be open concept. tion of your style,” says Chris Pollen, Victoria Cross home. offers and envision themselves living project, visit homesbyavi.com. calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 6 FORGET THAT PESKY TAXI FARE WHEN AUTHENTICALY URBAN. YOU LIVEAT Located in the prestigious inner-city community of Currie Barracks, life at Victoria Cross is all about distinctive living, fresh new spaces and an unmatched lifestyle. Discover Calgary’s most unique townhome opportunity at aviurban.com/victoriacross. 650 SQ.FT. THEBLOCK 1 BED SUITES IN LOWER 21002300 SQ.FT. 12001700 SQ.FT. .C M MOUNT TOWNHOMES TERRACE HOMES ROYAL

FROM FROM STARTING THE THE MID IN THE MID $770’S $400’S $200’S.

SPRING 2012 POSSESSIONS OVER 45% SOLD OUT.

403 536 7230 | 136 Victoria Cross Blvd. SW THE BLOCK SHOWROOM: SUITE 200 – 1022 17th AVENUE SW aviurban.com/victoriacross PHONE: 403 536 7238 EMAIL: [email protected] core essentials Museums Culture club Art & history hubs draw visitors

Words: Alex Frazer-Harrison // Images: Calgary Herald Archive; an exhibit at the military museum. charles m. russell’s 1909 painting at rope’s end, Private collection, will be one of 18 in the first exhibit at the glenbow museum.

Calgary’s inner city is always changing, but its museums paintings exhibited during the 1912 stampede by “the famous Besides concerts, the fort also has temporary exhibits, including keep it firmly rooted to the past. cowboy artist” Charlie Russell, and The West (June 2-Sept. William Winder’s folk paintings (until May 25) and Before the Here, you’ll find places like , dedicated 3), which includes contemporary artwork by numerous artists, Stampede: Calgary’s Cultural Context (June 1-Oct. 7). to honouring Canadian soldiers, and the Grain Academy including James Westergard, Dianne Bos, David Garneau In the Beltline, , built in 1891, was once Museum, celebrating our agricultural history. and Kimowan McLain. known as Beaulieu. Standing on its original 12-hectare site, the The Glenbow Museum is the best known inner-city museum, “I’ve always thought museums were places where people house underwent extensive restoration and is now open to hosting exhibits celebrating not only culture, but also come together to learn about things they may not even realize public tours. Besides being the home of former senator James housing an extensive collection of international artifacts, plus they have an interest in,” says Evenden. “Our programming Lougheed, it was also a school for nurses and housekeepers, one of the biggest archives in the province. brings people to the core (like) Art on the Mall in the summer.” a Canadian Women’s Army Corps barracks and local Red “It’s our job to connect the past with the present in a way Anchoring the East Village is , the site where Cross headquarters. “It changes the flavour of the Beltline that helps us think about the future,” says president and CEO the North West Mounted Police established the 1875 outpost by having the gardens, which are a public park,” says Kirstin Evenden. “It’s a hub where you can come and learn that would eventually form the beginnings of our city. “We’re Blane Hogue, executive director of the Lougheed House things that really transcend time and culture.” a national historic site — one of the first to be designated Conservation Society. “The house has created not just a Hosting 35,000 works of visual art, plus a renowned Asian in in 1925,” says president and CEO Sara-Jane cultural oasis, but a physical oasis,” collection, the Glenbow also hosts international temporary Gruetzner. “This place is the authentic roots of the city.” Lougheed House will host The Other Side of Gold exhibits, such as Charlie Russell and the First Calgary The site off 9th Avenue S.E. hosts an interpretative centre, Mountain exhibit on Chinese immigrants from September to Stampede exhibit (June 2-July 29), which includes 18 of the 20 the historic Deane House and a replica barracks and school. November. //

advertising feature clients from start to finish; with everything from colour consulta- ardel omes tions to whole-home renovations.” C H Cardel Homes has built a launches reputation for its quality work in designing and building homes premier home- within Calgary, Denver, Ottawa renovation and Tampa. And now, the quality craftsman- division ship and attention to detail you or nearly 40 years, Cardel would find in one of its new homes Homes has been recognized can be found in any one of its as a premier home builder home renovations. Fwithin Calgary, and has stood at “One of the biggest advantages the forefront of the city’s housing for our clients of going with Cardel industry. Designs is we have a trained team Now, it is taking those years of of professionals to help them experience and quality construction through every step of their reno- into the world of home renova- vation,” says Williams. “From a tions. project manager to an accredited “We’ve launched a new division interior designer, as well as an on- within Cardel Designs to offer a site supervisor and a highly skilled full suite of design services to our and experienced construction team Cardel Designs custom- “That way, we can see the space onto an older home that needs a clients. We specialize in everything — we’re all here to make sure the ers also have access to the same up front and assist our clients with refreshing update or simply per- from basement developments and renovation of your dreams is done 11,000-square-foot design centre any construction or space-planning sonalizing a new home, Cardel kitchen renovations to furniture on time and on budget. utilized by homebuilding clients. details right then and there.” Designs is here to help turn your and window coverings,” says proj- “We’re able to provide firm, “We offer our renovation clients It also offers in-home design space from ordinary to extraordi- ect manager and design consultant accurate quotes with no hidden a one-stop shop, from cabinetry consultations at an affordable rate nary. Marie-Claire Williams. fees down the road,” she says. “We to flooring, plumbing fixtures to of $85/hour — for those clients To find out more about how The recent addition of renova- also have numerous financing paint,” says Williams. who are not necessarily looking Cardel Designs can make your tion services has seamlessly merged options available that can lead to Cardel Designs also provides to renovate, but rather wanting to home renovation project a reality, into Cardel Designs, she says. affordable monthly payments for free on-site consultations for all of give their home a smaller facelift. visit cardeldesigns.com or call “We’re now able to help our our clients.” its renovations. So whether you’re holding 403-640-5448. calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 8 FROM BIG TRANSFORMATIONS TO LITTLE UPDATES. Get showhome-style renovations done right.

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Start crafting an inspired space today. Call or visit us online to learn how. COMPARISON Calgary vs. Phoenix Western siblings Downtown phoenix.

When Calgary went looking for a U.S. sister city Sister cities share wild- back in 1996, Phoenix was a logical fit. As a fellow western city with a roughly comparable population — currently slightly more than 1.4 million west history, desire to to Calgary’s almost 1.1 million — and many other similarities, it wasn’t a huge stretch to call Calgary the expand untapped potential “Phoenix of the North.” “The relationship itself makes a lot of sense just because of geography,” says Rick Gerrard, deputy Words: Kenzie Love // director of the Phoenix Sister Cities Commission. “I think Images: Thinkstock from an economic standpoint, it made a lot of sense, and, to a degree, from a cultural standpoint — both Images/Calgary cities are western-oriented.” calgary’s skyline Herald Archive Long before they became sister cities, Calgary and Phoenix followed similar historical paths. Business Centre. “There’s a lot of Canadian businesses The Arizona capital was incorporated as a city in in Phoenix established by people who spend winters 1881, with Calgary following just 13 years later. Cattle there, or retire, or basically have their second homes ranching also played an important role there.” in the development of both cities. The common bonds the cities share While their economies have since have also enabled them to learn diverged, with oil and gas taking a from each other in areas where they leading role in Calgary and Phoenix differ. When Phoenix was designing attracting many health-care and high- its light-rail transit system earlier this tech companies, both retain some of decade, something Calgary had prior their old cowboy culture. experience with, a group of Calgary Indeed, Calgarians visiting or living Transit officials came to town to offer in Phoenix can find much to remind their advice. them of home. Similarly, delegations from Calgary The Arizona National Livestock have visited Phoenix multiple times to Show, with its agricultural displays, study the U.S. city’s Family Advocacy rodeo and western art exhibit, offers Centre for victims of domestic violence, a Stampede-like experience, while which Gerrard says they were the Heard Museum, like Calgary’s interested in replicating. Glenbow, features an extensive horseback riding near phoenix. The ties between Calgary and collection of aboriginal art and Phoenix are likely to remain strong, since artifacts. in addition to sharing a similar past, they Perhaps it’s these cultural similarities appear to have parallel futures. that have inspired many Calgarians to They’re among the fastest-growing plant roots there, although the much cities in their respective countries, and warmer winters have probably been although the housing crisis has slowed a bigger factor. Phoenix’s population growth, this trend is Whatever the case, Phoenix has expected to continue for both. become, almost literally, a “Calgary of And Gerrard believes that, the South” in recent years, with many particularly in areas of trade and residents of its northern sister finding a tourism, the two cities can grow even home away from home there. closer together. “There is a natural link between “I think there’s a lot of room for much, Calgary and Phoenix,” says Marek much more co-operation on many Drywa, manager of Calgary levels,” he says, “so I think there’s a lot of Economic Development’s Global Horses on outskirts of calgary. untapped potential.” //

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 10 Neighbourhoods In the Spotlight // Marda Loop turnaround point becomes a must-see destination for residents, visitors

Words: Annalise Klingbeil // Images: Michelle Hofer

It was once the edge of the city and the street parking, a community of other independent turnaround point for the south Calgary streetcar. stores, and a popular and environmentally Today, it’s an eclectic inner-city neighbourhood conscious summer festival are more reasons Barker and a shopper’s paradise. loves Marda Loop. Located on 33rd and 34th avenues S.W., The annual Marda Gras Festival takes place between Crowchild Trail and 19th Street S.W., in Marda Loop every August, when thousands Marda Loop is a thriving outdoor shopping and of community members and visitors enjoy street dining district, home to a variety of distinct stores vendors, entertainment and the sights, sounds and and restaurants, all within walking distance of each cuisine of New Orleans. other. Kate Sawyer bought A Cookie Occasion two The trendy neighbourhood gets its name years ago. The cookie store has been a fixture in from the now closed Marda Theatre (named by Marda Loop for 22 years and Sawyer says the founders Mark and Mada Jenkins), which was store’s original owner chose to set up shop in the located on the corner of the same intersection of area because of its proximity to downtown. neighbourhoods in Calgary,” the “Loop” streetcar route. In the past few years, Marda Loop has been Sandhu says. Marda Loop is home to more than 100 diverse transformed, thanks to the community’s Business BRZ initiatives in recent years businesses including cafes, gourmet coffee shops Revitalization Zone (BRZ), says Sawyer. have included beautifying (good luck finding a table in the ever-popular She’s noticed an increasing number of new the neighbourhood through Phil & Sebastian), multicultural restaurants, spas, independent businesses, as well as new customers. banners and art initiatives such clothing and jewelry “The Marda Loop BRZ is awesome,” Sawyer as painting utility boxes. shops, a book store, says. “They’re constantly doing things in the Sandhu says the board, which tattoo studio, scuba community.” is comprised of local merchants centre and multiple Those things include hosting wine and cheese of all ages who volunteer specialty pet shops. nights for business owners and planning the Marda their time, also had a new neighbourhood sign Two years ago, Gras Festival. designed and worked diligently to progress and Amanda Barker The Marda Loop BRZ was established in 1984 rejuvenate the Marda Gras Street Festival. was looking for and represents more than 100 Marda Loop The board has, and continues to, work hard to a “very family- merchants. Jash Sandhu, owner of Rasoi attract small, community-oriented businesses friendly and very Kitchen, served as both acting vice- to the neighbourhood, says Sandhu. pedestrian-friendly” president and president of the BRZ for Sandhu describes Marda Loop as a neighbourhood nearly four years. dynamic and multicultural neighbourhood to open her eco- “Marda Loop is one of the original and one that is both young and mature. conscious boutique neighbourhoods (in Calgary) and yet it is Infills, shopping, trendy coffee for families, called growing and growing,” Sandhu says. shops and eateries attract a youthful Edamame Kids. Sandhu says during his tenure, which influence, says Sandhu, while surrounding Barker opened her recently finished, the BRZ board worked neighbourhoods like Garrison Woods and store in Marda Loop hard to move the neighbourhood Upper Mount Royal, and Marda Loop’s in 2010, and says forward. rich history, bring a feeling of maturity. the neighbourhood “Everybody who was on the “It all comes together and creates a fun is exactly what she board believed this was one of the environment where there is really something for was looking for. Free fastest-growing, up- and-coming inner-city everybody,” Sandhu says. // LIVING IT Condo buyer Treo amigo Winnipegger finds ideal city condo in Marda Loop

Words: Paula Trotter // Images: Michelle Hofer close it may as well be promoted as one of the amenities of the building, Shupeniuk says. When Scott Shupeniuk started shopping around for a new Each condo includes quality finishes and enticing features, condo, he wanted the luxury of downtown living without such as nine-foot ceilings, tiled flooring in the kitchen and actually having to live in the core. bathroom, granite countertops and large windows. The 32-year-old sales manager was looking to live in a “It had everything I wanted and at a competitive price,” vibrant neighbourhood rich in an array of amenities, but away Shupeniuk says. from the hustle, bustle and social issues that are commonplace His spacious suite features two large bedrooms, two Scott Shupeniuk in his treo condo. in metropolitan centres. full bathrooms, a roomy living room, large kitchen, heated New to Calgary, the Winnipeg-native was shopping in and underground parking and a towering view of downtown that assortment of vendors, music, food, fashion and more. around the Beltline, but was intrigued by a promising, lively can be seen from his third-floor balcony. Shupeniuk reveled in his first Marda Gras experience community he kept hearing about — Marda Loop. The floor plan is ideal for when friends and family visit from last summer, joining the sea of people on the streets before One visit to the trendy southwest locale and Shupeniuk out of town. It also keeps the option open for a roommate if retreating to watch all of the excitement from his balcony. knew he had found the place he wanted to call home. Shupeniuk so desires. “I’ve never lived on the same street as a festival before,” he “You don’t have to leave if you don’t want As happy as he is about all his condo has says. “It was fun.” to,” he says of the area that teems with inner-city byte// to offer, he says the most appealing feature All in all, Marda Loop is a thriving community that has lived shops, restaurants and pubs, grocery stores, of Treo remains its location. up to Shupeniuk’s lifestyle expectations. gyms, yoga studios, health centres, banks “I found a lot of people in a similar A historic hub of activity — Marda Loop With just a little more than a 10-minute commute to his office situation: young professionals, new to and more. “It’s a one-stop shop for everything the city, who are living in and around was once home to the Marda Theatre and in the southeast, he doesn’t dread getting back into his car at you may need.” downtown.” was the spot where the municipal streetcar night to meet up with friends elsewhere in the city — something Of course, when he does want to venture would “loop” back towards the city centre he believes he would be less motivated to do if he lived in the outside of Marda Loop, the varied delights //scott Shupeniuk, condo buyer — the neighbourhood is now a bustling suburbs and faced daily, hour-long commutes to work. of downtown, 17th Avenue S.W. and shopping and dining district. And for those nights he doesn’t feel like driving, Kensington are just a stone’s throw away. There are more than 100 shops, many of which are unique Shupeniuk just makes the short walk over to one of the three Shupeniuk was also impressed to learn he could buy small businesses, and the culinary atmosphere offers an neighbourhood pubs near his condo — Union Station, Original a brand-new condo in Marda Loop — an established eclectic, multicultural mix sure to please any palate. Joe’s or and Fergus and Bix — to meet up with friends for neighbourhood that once stood on the western boundary of Most recently, the Marda Loop Business Revitalization Zone dinner and drinks. Calgary — for a price that was comparable to older buildings partnered with the City of Calgary to launch a pilot project Furthermore, living in the inner city has helped Shupeniuk elsewhere in the outskirts of downtown. that welcomed food trucks to the city streets. make new friends in his adopted hometown. “I found a lot of So, he bought a 1,100-square-foot condo in Treo, an Early in August every year, the local BRZ also hosts people in a similar situation: young professions, new to the city, Intergulf Cidex Group of Companies development in the heart a popular New Orleans-inspired street festival that is who are living in and around downtown,” he says. of Marda Loop on 33rd Avenue and 20th Street. appropriately named Marda Gras. Just over a year into his life in Marda Loop, Shupeniuk Completed in 2010, the development features 52 modern This one-day, family-friendly event sees some 35,000 proudly acknowledges the fact that he has “absolutely no suites that sit above a mix of street-level shops. A gym is so visitors roaming 10 city blocks that are filled with an regrets.” // living it Boot camps Giving flab the boot Parks great spots to get fit

Words: Rachel Naud // Images: Calgary Herald Archive

Ever walk around the city and see groups of people planking in the grass or squatting or lunging across an open field. Boot camp is an exercise trend that is strong for its no-nonsense approach to exercise. It’s also a popular option for Calgarians who want to breathe fresh air in between sets. Bikini Boot Camp uses exercise techniques aimed at At least it is for 44-year-old boot camp participant Donna developing core strength and balance, agility and flexibility, and Cameron. “The energy I feel from working out outdoors in the welcomes women of all ages and levels of fitness. clean open air is invigorating,” says Cameron. “I feel connected. “From the first-time novice to the fitness fanatic, every workout I feel strong.” is guaranteed to be challenging and fun while you work toward Tracey Abercrombie, 45, agrees. She started boot camp three your personal best,” says Kosloski. years ago and hasn’t looked back since. “Boot camp helps Meanwhile Booty Camp Fitness (bootycampfitness.com) vows me stay motivated,” says Abercrombie. “It is an amazing way to put the fun back in fitness. Although it calls its participants, to begin any day. The energy in these classes is so positive it recruits, there’s no drill master at this outdoor boot camp. leaves you feeling great and ready for anything.” “Booty Camp Fitness is not an ‘in-your-face, hard-core’ For those looking for boot camps in the inner city, the all- military-style boot camp,” says Lisa Kettles, elite drill instructor. women Bikini Boot Camp (bikinibootcamp.ca) offers classes at “We’re a fun and friendly fitness program that is designed for above: Bikini boot camp participants at Prince’s Confederation and Edworthy parks. women to progressively challenge themselves: no pressure to Island Park. “Bikini Boot Camp is not your typical personal training participate and no competition.” at right: a Chinatown boot camp participant experience,” says Dawn Kosloski, owner of Bikini Boot Camp In addition to twice-weekly workouts, this all-women boot stretches her muscles. Inc. “We give that one-on-one personal training experience with camp in Rotary Park offers nutritional support, regular fitness the fun and motivation of the group.” assessments and bonuses, including an at-home DVD workout. //

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calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 13 FESTIVALS Marda Gras marda gras festivities in 2011 Party hearty

As in previous years, there is an emphasis Summer inner- Marda Loop festival turning 28 to make the festival sustainable, through a partnership with Respect for the Earth and All city festivals Words: Annalise klingbeil // Images: Calgary Herald Archive People (REAP) Calgary, a non-profit association that supports businesses with sustainability. // Calgary international Every year, tens of thousands of Calgarians to get people to be a part of the entertainment,” Oliver Miguel is a saxophone player who Children’s Festival: test their zydeco steps along 10 blocks in Marda says Konopnicki. performed at last year’s festival and plans to May 22-26, Epcor Centre Loop during one of the city’s biggest parties. The BRZ has played a large role in moving participate in the 2012 event. // 23rd annual Lilac The Marda Gras family-friendly street festival the festival from a flea-market type of event “What was cool was we performed on a Festival: May 27, 4th will be turning 28 this Aug. 12, and more than to a high-calibre summer street festival, says stage that was all green powered,” Miguel says. street 35,000 visitors are expect to celebrate the Jash Sandhu, former Marda Loop Business “They were running everything through solar // Carifest: June 2-9, milestone — New Orleans style. Revitalization Zone (BRZ) board member. The panels and backup batteries.” various venues “It’s a big giant party,” says Kaya Konopnicki, changes were born out of a need to “survive The eclectic vibe of Marda Loop makes it an // Fiestaval Latin Festival: co-ordinator of the 2012 festival. and stay relevant,” Sandhu says, as a result of ideal location for a New Orleans-themed street July 21-22, Calgary This year’s celebrations include a costume sponsors pulling out three years ago due to the festival, he adds. “(Marda Loop) is a wonderful contest for people and their pets, a bike parade, economic downturn. community within Calgary. I think it’s a really // 18th annual Sun and a jambalaya making competition and a variety “We really amped up the quality of what special community because it’s like a little town salsa Festival: July 22, of zydeco, jazz, reggae and blues musicians we were offering — it was a recipe for success within the city.” kensington Road and and performers who will give the street a New- because it just blew up after that and we haven’t But planning a festival for thousands of 10th Street N.W. Orleans Caribbean carnival feel. had an issue getting funding since then,” Sandhu Calgarians is no easy task, says Konopnicki, // Calgary Fringe Festival: This year, stage performers are encouraged says. “We’ve had attendance just growing year noting there are thousands of hours that she, aug. 3-11, various venues. to interact with the after year.” volunteers and a planning committee put in to // Inglewood Sunfest: audience. Last year, the festival had live entertainment, make sure the festival is a success. aug. 4, 9th Avenue S.E. “We’re trying face painters and clowns, a bouncy castle, a “Just imagine planning a birthday party for // 12th annual Chinatown volleyball tournament, a farmers’ market, street 10 kids and now plan a party for 30,000,” street Festival: Aug. 11 vendors, two fashion shows, outdoor patios and Konopnicki says. “You multiply things.” // Calgary Dragon Boat Cajun cuisine. “It’s a very unique festival and All Calgarians are encouraged to come to race and Festival: Aug. 25 it just gives Marda Loop a special community the festival, enjoy the hard work that’s been and 26, North Glenmore feeling,” says Amanda Barker, who owns put into the event and spend a day feeling like park Edamame Kids in Marda Loop and has they’re in New Orleans, she adds. “Come and // GlobalFest: Aug. 16-26, participated in the festival’s green-minded participate. Dress up in a mask, feathers or elliston Park business showcase, called eco-alley, for the beads and become part of the festival and add // BBQ on past two years. to the community spirit.” // Festival: Sept. 2, Eau Claire calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 14 living it Dog parks Pooch parks Off-leash areas fuel furry friendships Pooches pass the time exploring the off-leash area of rotary park.

Words: Annalise Klingbeil // Images: Calgary Herald Archive steady increase in dog population, so it really creates a greater leash areas as budget allows. demand to have these spaces within our existing open spaces,” Silvana de Gasparis walks dogs in Sandy Beach and River Every day, Samantha Cross walks her miniature dachshund says Donna Sinclair, spokesperson for City of Calgary Parks. Park, one of one of the largest off-leash areas in the city, Diggity in Rotary Park, one of many inner-city public off-leash Depending on which neighbourhoods are included, Sinclair multiple times a week. areas in Calgary. estimates there are more than 20 off-leash areas located “Sandy Beach is great because it’s got the river and there The park, located just north of downtown on 1st Street and within Calgary’s inner city. Off-leash areas are found in are a lot of dogs that love to play in the water,” says de 4th Avenue N.E., near Cross’s Crescent Heights home, is the neighbourhoods, including Bridgeland, Bankview, Crescent Gasparis, who is owner of Bow Wow & Meow, a local pet only place she takes her small brown dog. Heights, Glamorgan, Inglewood, Renfrew, Rosedale, Roxboro, services business. “The same people always come, so it’s kind of like a family Southview and West Hillhurst. Located in the Valley below River Park, Sandy here,” she says while throwing a blue ball to her dog. “And I The City of Calgary does not operate any dog-only parks. Beach borders the inner-city neighbourhoods of Altadore and love the view.” All of Calgary’s off-leash areas are multi-use areas and may be North Glenmore. Along with River Park, it boasts beautiful Inner-city dog owners and their furry friends have an unfenced, partially fenced or fully fenced. views of downtown Calgary, plenty of paths and lots of abundance of options when it comes to off-leash dog areas in Sinclair says the city wants to work with communities to garbage cans and parking — all major features when you’re Calgary’s many multi-use parks. ensure there is enough quality space for dogs and the walking between five and seven dogs at a time, says De It is thought that with 149 public off-leash areas citywide — Off-leash Area Management Plan, approved by council in Gasparis. and more than 1,250 hectares, which is 17 per cent of the total February 2011, will help. She says allowing dogs in city parks, specifically inner-city parks land in the city — Calgary may have the largest number The plan sets the standard to determine when and where the parks, keeps the areas safe and free of crime and drugs. She’s of off-leash areas in North America. Vancouver, by comparison, city puts in new off-leash areas and improves existing ones. been in business in Calgary for nearly a decade and says as a has only 35 off-leash parks. And while there is nothing scheduled right now in the inner dog-walker, she’s fortunate the city has so many great off-leash “We’re a really dog-friendly city, and we’ve seen such a city, Sinclair says the city is open to adding or enhancing off- areas. //

advertising feature Marchand says too many develop- ments seem to be driving for rock- bottom prices, and at rock-bottom Waterfront prices, you get a specific standard of finishings. “They can’t offer things turns heads with like Sub-Zero or Electrolux or Miele its jaw dropper appliances at their price point, but we - do. At Waterfront, we’re delivering suites in the superior quality the Calgary mar- ket has been demanding for years,” Eau Claire he says. Even so, that doesn’t mean “afford- long the in down- able” isn’t in Waterfront’s vocabulary. town Calgary, a renaissance Prices start in the $280,000s, while is under way, and Waterfront, still offering open floor plans and byA Anthem Properties, is leading the some of the highest-end specs on the charge. market. Located just east of Eau Claire Throughout Waterfront’s podium Market, Waterfront, when com- and towers you will see a variety pleted, will feature four luxury towers of floor plans, from 550-square- overlooking the Bow that are truly foot flats to a 3,500-square-foot beyond the expectations of Calgary’s penthouse, with the 1,200- to typical condo buyer. 1,300-square-foot floor plans notable Two towers and a six-storey for their additional 200 square feet of podium are move-in ready, with 30 deck, Marchand says. new executive style condominiums “Our suites offer high-end liv- a truly elevated experience,” says wood flooring through the living area, gym, a recreation area with pool table launching in mid-April. ing and superior rental potential,” Marchand, noting the oversized chef-inspired kitchens and spa-like and social lounge, rooftop gardens, “Waterfront is providing critical says Marchand, adding Waterfront decks for outdoor living and floor-to- bathrooms all add up to quality. and even a 16-seat theatre that can mass (for the area), providing an ele- is perfect for single professionals, ceiling glass for optimal views. “Since “Plus, we’re the only development be booked through the concierge for vated lifestyle that will compliment couples, empty nesters and downsiz- our sold-out launch in February, we in downtown Calgary within one movie nights. the future growth of the Eau Claire ers. “And if you’re looking for resale have been turning a lot of heads, and block of the Plus-15 network, and For more information, visit the area,” says Robert Marchand, director value, Waterfront is the only develop- buyers are saying, this is what they the only development on the door presentation centre at 216 Riverfront of sales and marketing. ment located in the prime Eau Claire have been waiting for because they step of Prince’s Island Park. Our Ave. S.W., featuring three show “We know Calgary is an active city, neighbourhood, offering some of the realize the incredible value unique to location is definitely one of the prime suites, interactive displays, model and and Waterfront provides an elevated highest resale values in Calgary. owning at Waterfront.” selling features of Waterfront,” says floor plans. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. experience and a connected lifestyle “These suites don’t just offer great Floor plans embrace open-concept Marchand. Saturday to Thursday. You can also for homebuyers seeking the ultimate floor plans. Every detail has been designs that maximize space. On-site amenities include a con- call 403-536-8802 or visit online at downtown lifestyle.” considered to make Waterfront Full gas fireplaces, engineered cierge service, a 1,500-square-foot WaterfrontCalgary.com. calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 15