Attracting the Greats Breakout West NO Regrets

Friday, Oct. 4, 2013 N°6

Attracting the greats BreakOut west no regrets Entertaining the entertainers: Robin Williams, Weekend festival and conference great Flood-damaged Bowness homeowner Steve Martin & John Cleese visit city. //4 way to be entertained and educated. //6 wouldn’t live anywhere else. //12 SOLD SOLD OUT OUT

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SOLD SOLD OUT OUT Friday, October 4, 2013 N°6

Inner-City Living is a publication of the INNER-CITY Calgary Herald’s Special Projects Department

Cover: Simmons building/10 The revitalization of Calgary’s East Village just got a little more palatable. The historic Simmons building, which once manufactured bedding for soldiers in the Second World War, will be transformed into a culinary hub, home to Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, Sidewalk Citizen Bakery and Charbar, a new restaurant from the chefs of Charcut Roast House. LIVING Image: Michelle Hofer

Entertainment/4 Festivals/6 Flood recovery/11 Living in the IC/12 Thoughtful design/14 Out and about/15

Special Projects manager: Monica Zurowski, 403-235-7339; [email protected] // Special Projects co-ordinator/designer: Karen Petkau, 403-235-7513; [email protected]

advertising feature great urban experiences. It’s minutes from downtown and the East Village, mere steps from Stampede Park and the LRT, and The height of it’s a short walk to 17th Avenue urban living in and Inglewood.” The neighbourhood itself is the heart of undergoing a transformation, algary Cox says, with the Stampede C Park’s planned expansion, a new n the heart of the eastern sports club hotel by Marriott Beltline, a stone’s throw from and a new public park on the downtown and every inner- way, as well newly opened local city amenity you can imagine, a businesses such as Caffe Rosso, I Village Ice Cream and Vagabond new Guardian is rising. The Guardian is the first Microbrewery, to name just a few, Calgary project by Hon not far away. Developments. When completed, The Guardian appeals to a developments such as the 472 square feet, opening up the bathroom suites. it will tower 44 storeys over the wide range of buyers and has sold Shangri-La hotels in Vancouver possibility for outdoor dining, These corner units feature floor- corner of 11th Avenue and 3rd exceptionally well, with few two- and Toronto and Vancouver’s entertainment and relaxing. to-ceiling windows that bring in Street S.E., making it Calgary’s bedroom, two-bathroom units Fairmont Pacific Rim. The On-site amenities include abundant natural light and pro- tallest residential building. remaining. Guardian is also the first develop- the fully appointed Lions Gym, vide panoramic views of the rivers, “The Guardian has been attract- “We offer a level of design and ment in Calgary to feature kitchen Shanti Yoga Studio, and a mountains and cityscape. ing lots of attention, as its location furnishings not often seen in and bathroom cabinets from 1,350-square-foot social lounge These suites have undergone is one of its most outstanding Calgary,” says Cox, adding Hon Armony Cucine of Italy. that opens up to a garden terrace. extensive upgrading — and buy- amenities,” says Steven Cox, cre- has recruited some of the best in The interior design of the suites There’s even a private workshop ers are eligible for two parking ative director of Cause+Affect, the the business to provide interior focuses on being efficient and liv- for DIY projects. stalls, all at price points starting at brand and marketing agency for designs for every suite. able, with no wasted space, thanks Construction is well under $438,600. For more information, The Guardian. This includes kitchens designed to the work of Laura Vroom way, Cox says, but there is still a visit the presentation centre at 456 “The Guardian is at the perfect by Inform Projects, which has Design. Suites also include over- chance to purchase one of the few 12th Ave. S.E., call 403-800-3368 meeting point for all of Calgary’s done designs for luxury hotel sized open-air balconies of up to remaining two-bedroom, two- or visit theguardiancalgary.com. calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 3 Entertainment Calgary-wood Entertaining the greats “It wasn’t his first time here, but he City hospitality ropes wanted to learn more about where he was performing,” Howard says. “He wanted to learn more about the city.” When Robin Williams celebs and musicians came to Calgary last Musicians, comedians, move stars, December, he was Words: Jessica Patterson // politicians and royalty have all landed at delighted with Calgary International over the years. the city. Images: Calgary Herald files “Artists will make a holiday out of their time in Calgary, they have a lot of interest Calgary is known across the globe as a going to Banff, to go skiing or, in the summer, top venue for entertainment, and the city’s sightseeing and getting out in to B.C.,” proximity to the mountains and it’s laid-back Howard says. “They’ll try to tack on four atmosphere draws the top names from to eight days onto their trip because it’s Hollywood and beyond. one of the most beautiful places in “The fact is, Calgary, globally, is known the world.” for its great hospitality,” says David Howard, And, when they get here, they’re president of The Event Group, a Calgary- well received by Calgarians. There isn’t a based event-planning company with a lot of the awe factor, Howard says. history of bringing in huge talent, including “People treat them like anyone else. No one Robin Williams, Bill Cosby, Russell Brand and makes a big deal out of it, they let them live Bonnie Rait, from across the globe. “People their lives,” he says. “Calgarians treat them understand and appreciate Calgary for that.” with respect, and I think that’s a great thing When Robin Williams came to Calgary in that our city has to offer.” December, he was over the moon to be here, Howard says. See GREATS/13

advertising feature als who like to explore the city, Albert Park is close to downtown, the Calgary Zoo, the Telus Spark science centre, Telus Convention Albert Park Centre, Calgary Saddledome, and Riverfront Calgary Stampede grounds and more. Pointe home to Beyond its conveniences to savvy investors high-end amenities, Albert Park also boasts something many other With units starting in the Plaza and Calgary Stampede Group’s vice-president of sales Jim ondo developer, Carlisle new condo developers can’t touch $150,000s, Albert Park has two grounds. Bryce. “Or, an individual who can Group, has two projects — the price. buildings, released with 57 units The 19-storey, cement construc- take possession of a fully furnished sure to please any invest- “Albert Park is the lowest per in each, that are presently over 85 tion downtown condominium, unit for immediate possession.” ment-savvy Calgarian. square foot within the inner city,” per cent sold. which is part of the East Village, In addition, Riocan has C “We have pre-released selected is fitted with modern spacious announced its East Village shop- Albert Park and Riverfront says Jim Bryce, vice-president Pointe present fantastic opportu- of sales. “Nobody in the inner units for our third building, which kitchens, luxurious bathrooms ping complex to be completed in nities for both investors looking city is selling new product under has another 57 units in it, and will and full-size stacking washer and 2016, which will be a block away to add to their profile as well as $300,000 and we have 260 units launch the remaining units at the dryer. Almost all the remaining to the south, and will include a Calgarians looking for a place to under $300,000. building at our Oct 20 launch, by units are being rented through an major grocery store. call home today that will garner “Not only that, we also have registration only,”adds Bryce. executive rental firm to executives Riverfront is the only East them valuable equity in the years 176 units for less than $250,000, Riverfront Pointe presents in the downtown Calgary area. Village condominium available for to come. including parking.” another fantastic opportunity. The majority of these units are immediate possession. Located near Memorial Drive, In addition to its affordability, Located minutes away from fully furnished and are being sold Riverfront units start in the 17th Avenue and Deerfoot Trail, Albert Park also boasts high-end the historic Stephen Avenue, complete. $300,000s and are available Albert Park is within walking dis- features to suit any taste and bud- Riverfront Pointe boasts beauti- “We have a rental management immediately. tance to the Calgary Park System, get. The five-wood construction, ful and serene riverfront views. company that has a quality pool of There are less than 20 units biking and walking paths and the four-storey condominiums will Bordering Chinatown and trendy executives who are renting these available, so buyers shouldn’t wait Franklin LRT. be fitted with spacious kitchens, Eau Claire, Riverfront is close to units on a long term basis, setting to jump on this opportunity. The perfect location for families designer appliances and brushed some of Calgary’s greatest attrac- investors up for a win-win invest- For more information on either on the go or working profession- nickel hardware throughout. tions, including the Olympic ment opportunity,” says Carlisle property, visit carlislegroup.ca.

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 4 SALES LAUNCH EVENT REGISTER FOR DETAILS TOATTEND OCTOBER 20TH AlbertParkStation.ca

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Prices shown do not include GST and are subject to change without notice. *Ask for details, based OAC. FESTIVALS BreakOut West Rockin’ the West Words: Jessica Patterson // Image: Courtesy, Cowpuncher

It’s a hodgepodge list of musicians on a mission: To have fun and tune into the expertise of others in the industry. The BreatOut West music festival and conference will bring 60 performers from all brulee Patisserie owner Jennifer Norfolk. music genres together in Calgary Oct. 3 to 6. The event showcases musicians spanning the western provinces and the globe, at 15 venues in the downtown core and Inglewood. “Calgary is a culturally diverse city and there’s a lot going on musically there, as well, it’s going to be fun to be part of the scene Five-piece Calgary band Cowpuncher will be one of 60 original artists hitting the BreakOut West Festival stages this weekend at 15 venues throughout downtown Calgary. for a little bit,” says Richard Fenton, executive The group formed in 2009, and will be coming out with its new release, Ghost Notes, Nov. 22. director of the Western Canadian Music Alliance Inc. “We’re really looking forward to passes for the conference, which takes place where musicians get to have one-on-ones with Sheepdogs, Dan Mangan, Teagan and Sara being in Calgary.” at Hotel Arts. managers, or mentors,” Fenton says. and Jill Barber. Musicians and band members get delegate “There’s an educational component to it, In the past, the event has hosted The See BREAKOUT/14

advertising feature “When we have our ‘discovery meeting’ with potential customers, we keep them informed about all the things that have to be done Albi’s inner-city before we start new construction,” division gives says operations manager Lewis Pfeifer. “This includes demoli- new homeowners tion, though moving the (origi- fresh start nal) house off the foundation is another option. We also touch on ometimes, you just want hazardous materials surveys and the best of both worlds: a possible abatement and what that brand-new home, and one process looks like. located in a mature, amenities-rich “There are a lot of things cli- S ents don’t realize are part of this inner-city community close to everything you need. process, but have to get done Albi Homes’ Inner City and before we can put a shovel in the Custom Division has made this ground.” dream happen for many Calgary Pfeifer and his team work with the client is going beyond their having to go through the more- such as Parkland and Canyon homeowners who have realized the client to ensure rebuilds fall (budget) comfort level,” he says. expensive process of extensive Meadows. it can often be more affordable within the scope of their budget. As they work with Albi on the updating. Another recent project “For a long time, we were rede- to start fresh rather than try to And Albi takes care of impor- design, clients have access to Albi’s saw a 40-year-old home in Varsity veloping homes built in the 1950s renovate outdated homes that are tant things such as permits and Galleria interior design studio to replaced with a new residence and ’60s, and now we’re starting many decades old. arranging temporary utility service help them find the right styles and that took full advantage of the to see homes from the 1970s and Bringing years of experience disconnections — all to make the finishes. spectacular views afforded by its even ’80s,” he says. “There are a lot building homes in new communi- process of building a new home Albi’s Inner City and Custom northwest lot. of benefits to staying in an estab- ties to bear, Albi works with its as stress-free as possible for the Division has been building new Pfeifer says his division is also lished area. Customers don’t want clients to help them through every client. homes in neighbourhoods such as seeing demand in mature commu- to give up the lifestyle they have step of the process of designing “We also help develop the Inglewood, where a worn-down, nities that once were considered in the inner city.” and building a new inner-city design and we can monitor how 100-year-old home was recently suburbs but are fast becoming For more information, call 403- home. that design evolves and advise if rebuilt rather than the client almost inner-city themselves, 203-1898 or visit albihomes.com. calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 6 S7 Live closer to landmarks

Architecture matters. You know it does. Buildings and amenities in East Village are all designed to make you proud to call EV home, from the landmark Simmons – where Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, Sidewalk Citizen Bakery and the co-founders of Charcut will set up shop – to the National Music Centre, new Central Library, award-winning RiverWalk™ and inspired public art.

You’ll also live closer to a complete, city-sized grocery store. And to downtown. It’s right there. You can see it. You can walk to it – and you can walk home to your stylish new condo, built by Embassy Bosa or FRAM+Slokker, two of the country’s best developers of mixed-use residential properties. Come to the EV Sales and Experience Centre and ﬁnd out about Calgary’s landmark downtown neighbourhood.

So much. So close. So ready for you. evexperience.com

east village® is a trademark owned by Calgary Municipal Land Corporation. East Village information feature

Photos courtesy of Calgary Municipal Lands Corp. East Village will eventually be home to 11,500 residents, and will be the hub for many attractions, including the National Music Centre and the new Central Library. East Village on the rise rowing pains have not develop in the East Village. It been an issue for the recently started taking reserva- East Village revival, ❝ tions for Riverhouse, a luxuri- which is progressing rapidly. I think we are closing in on ous residential mid-rise that GThe past 12 months saw the tipping point where will feature 12 large, high-end numerous projects get under- condominiums. Later this fall, way as the once run-down people will get really excited it will also open registration neighbourhood transitions for Verve, a residential tower into a lively residential, cultural about the East Village. that will feature a contempo- and recreational district. rary retail base. Two of these projects While the East Village will Construction of a 300,000-square-foot retail development, and involve building up the new- eventually be home to 11,500 ❞ the revitalization of the Simmons building, are also planned. est additions to the downtown residents, it will have plenty skyline. will introduce a third East Village of attractions to draw all “I think people are happy to see project at a later date. Calgarians downtown for the day. from something long forgotten to store. In addition, the selection for the East Village come together, and “The fact that cranes are com- This includes the National Music a favourite family hideaway. The the prime design consultant of the it will really hit home for every- ing in, work has started on the Centre, which broke ground in project will preserve the natural new Central Library is underway. one when we start going vertical National Music Centre, and February. environment while introducing News that the historic Simmons with concrete this October,” says announcements for a new library Hallmarks of this facility will enhancements like picnic tables, building is being transformed into Robert Marchand, vice-president and plans for the Simmons build- include the Canadian Music Hall a toboggan hill, playground and a culinary hot spot generated the of sales and marketing for Embassy ing, I think we’re closing in on of Fame, the Canadian Country more. most buzz. Bosa, the developer behind Fuse, a the tipping point where people Music Hall of Fame Collection, The island will be accessible from Favourite local businesses Phil 21-storey condominium that broke will get really excited about the the largest national collection of the new St. Patrick’s Island Bridge, & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, ground in September 2012. East Village,” says Fred Serrafero, musical instruments and sound which will also connect the East Sidewalk Citizen Bakery and Fortunately, this project is still on vice-president of development and equipment, recording studios and a Village to the north banks of the Charbar — a new restaurant by the schedule as it didn’t suffer signifi- construction for FRAM Building revitalized King Edward Hotel. Bow River for the first time. masterminds behind Charcut Roast cant damage during the extreme Group, which broke ground on its Those looking to escape the hus- Amid the flurry of construction, House — are setting up shop with- flooding in June. 18-storey condominium FIRST in tle and bustle will have to look no many exciting announcements were in and it is anticipated the doors Embassy Bosa recently started the spring. further than St. Patrick’s Island. made this year, including plans for will open in spring 2015. selling units in Pulse, a 33-storey First is the first of seven Work started this summer to a 300,000-square-foot retail devel- To learn more about the East mixed-use residential tower, and buildings FRAM+Slokker will transform these 12.5 hectares opment that includes a grocery Village, visit evexperience.com. calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 9 S10 core essentials Simmons building For the love of a city

Communities come together during flood Historic reboot Words: Jacqueline Louie Village people Calgary restaurateur Sal ‘The butcher, the baker and the coffee maker’ Howell has experienced first The East Village has been hand the inner city’s strong Words: Meghan Jessiman touted as an “up and coming” community spirit. Owner of the River Café, // Images: Michelle Hofer neighbourhood since the revitalization plan was revealed situated in the heart of Prince’s Island Park, Howell was the There’s no shortage of good eats in 2009. A stroll through the recipient of incredible generosity to be found in downtown Calgary, area may leave Calgarians and community support after but there will be a new foodie mecca scratching their heads as to June’s devastating flood, which in the future shining gem of the East when the buildings may actually brought people together as an Village development come June 2015. be coming up. According to inner-city-living family. The Calgary Municipal Land Corp. Susan Veres of the Calgary The River Café was hard recently announced the Simmons Municipal Land Corporation, hit during the flood: its lower building, the former mattress factory progress is steady and strong. level filled up with nearly two and YYC landmark built in 1912 on // Residential: Embassy metres of water, wiping out half prime riverfront property, will soon be Bosa’s 21-storey Fuse condo of its wine cellar and all of its home to three of Calgary’s dining and development broke ground last food, plus equipment, electrical, drinking scene heavyweights: Sidewalk September, and is scheduled to mechanical, refrigeration and Citizen Bakery, Phil & Sebastian be completed around the same freezer. Coffee Roasters and Charbar — time as the Simmons project in For Howell, the good thing that the second restaurant from Connie Charcut Roast House co-chef Connie DeSousa outside the Simmons Building (top) where 2015. Many others will follow, Charbar will be located. The new restaurant will be one of many food-focused businesses came out of the flood was the DeSousa and John Jackson of the including Embassy’s Pulse and that will be housed in the former mattress factory. enormous outpouring of support extremely popular downtown dining FRAM+Slokker’s FIRST and — from people who offered to destination Charcut Roast House. throughout the day. Verve projects. “We look forward to offering help out in the recovery effort. After an extensive interview process “We are placing three different food // The National Music delicious fare from the main floor “What we experienced (more than 40 local businesses had and beverage uses into one shared Centre: Plans broke ground in to the massive roof-deck with river was a real coming together of expressed interest in being a part space, and will open up elements February. views that bar none,” he says. “It will tremendous generous spirit,” says of the Simmons project) these three of the building to create a food // Shopping centre: be a similar vibe to what people are Howell, who also owns Boxwood tenants were selected to help bring experience which will showcase their This past July, the CMLC familiar with at Charcut, but drawing restaurant in Central Memorial the CMLC’s vision of an open-concept operations,” Veres says. also announced plans for on international inspiration from Park, in the city’s Beltline. food and beverage destination in this “The early morning hours will a 300,000-square-foot our mentors, peers and food lovers Colleagues in the restaurant up-and-coming downtown community showcase our bakery, then our urban shopping centre being everywhere.” industry offered all kinds of help, to life. coffee partners will offer the best delivered by Canadian retail The “butcher, baker and coffee including delivering meals while “In and of themselves, each of these of lattés and coffee throughout the developer Riocan. maker” concept is something that people were on site working three operators is a strong Calgary day, followed by our full restaurant // Central Library: The will be uniquely Calgary. It’s a vision to repair the flood damage. business with growing customer bases activation, which will bring visitors design and construction teams Jackson couldn’t be more excited George Schwarz of the Post and excellent operational models,” into the East Village well the evening that will bring the new Central about seeing come to fruition in one of Hotel in Lake Louise offered to says CMLC spokeswoman Susan to take advantage of the beautiful Library project to life will be the city’s budding communities. help the River Café get its wine Veres. riverside setting.” announced in November. “Imagining Aviv’s bread, Phil and cellar collection up and running Keeping with the overall vision for Jackson, co-owner and co-chef of // Other developments: Sebastian’s coffee and Charbar’s again. the East Village — a community with Charcut, says Charbar will be the The sale of several other back-to-basics cuisine, all intertwined And Aviv Fried of Sidewalk life on its streets day and night — upon next evolutionary step for his and parcels of land are in various in this historic space along the Bow Citizen Bakery shared his completion, the Simmons building will DeSousa’s renowned, meat-focused, stages of development to be River — I picture it as a fresh, favourite, sourdough culture with them. offer visitors multiple food experiences cuisine. anytime hangout,” he says. // announced in the new year. See SPIRIT/11

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 10 living it Flood recovery spirit Community... “These are things you don’t normally give away,” Howell notes. “They are very precious. I think the flood has brought out the best in our community. There has been great generosity — people genuinely caring about their neighbours, interested and concerned about those who need help.” And customers are making reservations in a concerted effort to patronize the café. So, when the restaurant celebrated its reopening in mid- August, it wanted to return some of that generosity to the community. It created a fundraiser for Grow Calgary, a new, non-profit urban farm that grows food for the Rebuilding the inner city Calgary Food Bank, with the goal of ensuring all Calgarians Words: Jacqueline Louie // Images: Calgary Herald files things considered. The businesses have access to fresh, local food. here are certainly a hearty bunch. Restaurants from across the city “For the most part, businesses joined in the support. Calgary’s inner city is open for days of being closed, Mayor are coming back and they are As for the River Café, Howell business. Naheed Nenshi was one of many recouping some of losses they expects the fall will be challenging, “Most of inner-city Calgary is who attended the re-opening incurred during that period. They as it is typically a slower time for the restaurant. There is also still generally back on its feet, but it celebration. are enjoying a lot of support from a lot of recovery that needs to took some time for businesses that “He was very encouraging Calgarians in general but it is still a either got more significant flooding, to people to patronize local happen in and around Prince’s challenge, even if they didn’t sustain Island Park. or had buildings impacted, to businesses, especially those damage. They lost anywhere from “We have been overwhelmed affected by the flood,” says River reopen,” says Calgary Chamber 10 days to two weeks’ worth of with care, concern and support. of Commerce president and CEO Café owner Sal Howell. “He felt revenue, and for a small business, The reach-out was tremendous Adam Legge. “Many merchants it was our collective civic duty to that’s tough. There has been a lot from surrounding neighbourhoods were impacted by the flood and make sure there were no businesses of support for businesses from the and from our customer base,” she lost a good chunk of revenue.” that failed because of the flood.” general community, and we are says. “We’re all very lucky to live People shouldn’t shy away from In Montgomery, where some very optimistic that folks will get in a community that cares. I think going to the business revitalization businesses lost power for up through this.” the flood demonstrated that — it zones in key shopping districts that to three days, “we are doing Low thinks the city will feel the River Café owner Sal Howell in the really brought out the very best in were affected by the flood, Legge everything we are able to do to effects of the flood for the next restaurant’s flood-damaged basement. people.” says. keep the community spirit going, couple of years at least. A sentiment Bowness resident “Go out and support those because it’s been difficult for many “In the process, I think it’s an “Patrons are being very Rob Sinclair agrees with. businesses in flood-affected areas, of our neighbours” (in Bowness), opportunity to make the small generous,” Moran says. “This is a Sinclair, his partner Lauren not just today and tomorrow, says Montgomery BRZ executive business environment stronger,” he great time to get out and support Mangion and their two daughters, but also in the next year or so. director Pamela Tchida Kupidy. adds. your favourite places, or even ages 9 and 11, live in a bungalow Sometimes, it can take a while for “There have been a lot of Helping businesses city-wide discover new favourite places.” in Bow Crescent, across the street businesses to really recover.” volunteers who stepped up to the recover after the flood, is the Stephanie Jackman, founder and from the Bow River. During the flood, the river Approximately 4,000 businesses table. Calgary Flood Business Recovery president of REAP (Respect for the across the city were affected by Many businesses city-wide are Earth and all People), a business ended up coursing through their Task Force, a joint venture co- house, leaving behind more than the devastating June floods, in feeling the effects of the flood, association for locally owned chaired by the Calgary Chamber a metre of water in the backyard areas that included downtown, Tchida Kupidy adds. of Commerce and Calgary businesses that are environment and and nearly 2.5 metres of water in “The most important thing for the Victoria Park, 17th Avenue Retail Economic Development. community minded, also stresses the the basement. and Entertainment District, Mission community is to, if you can, support “This has been a great importance of people getting out The flood brought together and 4th Street, Kensington, local business,” she says. collaborative effort of organizations and supporting local businesses. what was already a community Bridgeland, Chinatown, Inglewood, In Victoria Park, “right now, we’re working together for the greater “From the standpoint of helping with “strong small town spirit into Montgomery and Bowness. in the middle phase of the crisis,” good. It’s an indication of what businesses that were affected something more like the olden Out of that total, approximately says Victoria Park BRZ executive Calgary can do in a crisis,” says by the flood, it’s more critical days, he says, where people had 100 businesses sustained severe director David Low, noting that Mary Moran, vice-president of than ever. We need people to more time and just connected more damage. acute damage after the flood was marketing, communications and go deliberately and mindfully to as a community. It’s been a tough go for everyone taken care of quickly. research at Calgary Economic support these businesses wherever “It’s been really awesome, how affected by the flood, but spirits are “Now, we’re in a long process Development. possible,” Jackman says. “Those it brought the community together. strong. of remediating things that were a Loyal customers are coming back, local businesses are really what These are people who had their When the River Café re- little more complicated or involved. and businesses are seeing increases makes Calgary unique, and builds a own houses flooded, still extending opened in mid-August, after 52 Overall, we’re doing fairly well, all in traffic. vibrant economy.” // their human resources to help.” //

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 11 living it bowness homeowner

Neighbourly spirit at the core of urban living Flood-affected Bowness resident loves community, choice to live in the inner city

Words: Jacqueline Louie // Images: Michelle Hofer

Bowness resident Patti Dolan adores living in the inner city. first hand. When she was moving into the community, she was Dolan has been lucky. But it’s been a tough go after her basement filled up with trying to haul a heavy object into her home by herself and She received help cleaning up not just from family and water in the devastating floods that hit Calgary this past June. someone from off the street came by and helped her move it friends, but also from a group she belongs to, Business “As a homeowner, I care about the value of my home,” says inside. Networking International, as well as from the community at Dolan, who is doing the best she can to restore her home and When Dolan moved into her Bowness home, a selling large. put into place the flood mitigation measures suggested by the point was a lot of safety measures were in place in the Strangers stopped by to drop off food. One little girl even government. neighbourhood, in terms of flood protection. came by to drop off cards she had made for people affected Her intention is to remain in the area, where she has lived “I felt quite comfortable I wouldn’t ever see flooding,” she by the flood. “She wanted to make sure we were feeling for the past decade. recalls. better,” Dolan says. Dolan moved to Bowness from Rocky Ridge after her sons But it was not to be. Another gesture that stands out for Dolan, was the first night moved out. She was looking for a shorter commute to her Dolan’s home was evacuated with two minutes’ notice — she she was back at home after the flood, starting to assess the office downtown, where she works as a financial adviser. was out of her home with just the clothes on her back — and damage. She felt alone and overwhelmed, with only a handful “Bowness is a mature community. It’s a 10-minute car ride she was kept out of the house for four days. of people helping out. drive downtown and a half-an-hour commute by bike.” People emailed and called her telling her they had seen her Then she heard something in the back alley. It was a truck There is also good public transit downtown, with buses that place on TV and that “someone was paddling their canoe by from the Bownesian Grocer, an independent grocery store come every five minutes. your house.” on Bowness Road. They had made hamburgers and were “There was way more variety in how to get to work than just When she was finally able to make it into the community to handing them out to people who were cleaning up their driving,” says Dolan, who lives in a townhouse near a green peer at her house from across the street, she saw the water houses. space, just a block from the Bow River. running very fast and ducks sitting in the driveway. “It was the first sign of somebody who was not in the thick of She describes Bowness as “a small town in a big city. The next day, when she made it indoors, she found the main it coming and helping out. It really hit me that somebody cared People are really proud to be Bownesian. There is a lot of floor spotless — but when she opened the basement door “it — somebody outside of direct family and friends. That really independent businesses in the area, and the neighbours tend was sheer mayhem.” gave me faith in the community,” Dolan says. to be very helpful.” The freezer was tilted into the furnace and all sorts of items Various community events — including a barbecue attended Dolan has experienced the neighbourhood’s friendliness were floating by. by Mayor Naheed Nenshi and a Bowness Stampede parade

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 12 greats Entertainment... For example, when Russell Brand came to Calgary, he went shopping at Chinook Centre, and while people recognized the English comedian, no one posted or sold images of him. “We have a lot of celebrities and musicians come through Calgary and they’re left alone, and I think that’s a big thing for them,” Howard says. The venues they play in Calgary are great for a variety of audiences. The Southern Jubilee Auditorium is a good- sized theatre and seats over 2,500. The Epcor Centre for Performing Arts offers several venues, including the 1,797-seat Jack Singer Concert Hall, the 750-seat Max Bell Theatre and the 412- seat Martha Cohen Theatre. Smaller venues such as Flames Central, Hotel Arts British comedian and actor and the Russell brand Ironwood Stage and Grill also have their fair share comedians and bands of performers, usually for a are going to go to Calgary or more intimate crowd. Edmonton,” he says. “They’d The other reason Calgary choose Calgary because — were well attended, attracts the greats is often the city has so much to celebrating community spirit because of routing, Howard offer, in terms of world-class and the neighbourhood explains. hospitality and Banff in our surviving after the flood. “A lot of top-end backyard.” // Dolan admits after the flood, she was second guessing her decision to buy Hot acts to follow property in Bowness. “Being a Calgarian, there Look who’s coming to Calgary: had always been talk of the // John Cleese Last Time To See Me Before I Die: flood plain,” she notes. “At Oct. 9, 19 and 20 at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Tickets: $62.39- the same time, there were $77.89. Tickets: epcorcentre.org a lot of dams built in the // Sarah Brightman: Scotiabank Saddledome, Oct. 21, last 50 years and lots of 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $45-$200. ticketmaster.ca Patti Dolan with her two pooches infrastructure in place. in her Bowness home, which // Eddie Izzard: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Nov. “I had faith there were a sustained damage during the June 24, 8 p.m. Tickets: ticketmaster.ca lot of checks and balances flood. // Brad Paisley Beat This Summer Tour: Scotiabank and that we would never Saddledome, Oct 25, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $40- $94.75. face a flood of that ticketmaster.ca magnitude, especially after 2005. Everyone thought that was city is really convenient. We’ve got lots of green space in the // Pearl Jam: Scotiabank Saddledome Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. the 100-year flood in 2005.” area. The river is a huge attraction, because we’ve got an off- Tickets: $81.50. ticketmaster.ca But circumstances conspired in June to create a situation that leash area you can take your dogs to. It’s like you’re out in the // Matthew Good with Special Guests Gentlemen Dolan hopes she’ll never have to experience again. country. I don’t regret living where I do at all. Stuff happens, no Husbands: Nov. 15-16 at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Tickets: “I love living close in,” she says. “Access to anywhere in the matter where you are.” // $32.39 - $57.89. Tickets: epcorcentre.org

calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 13 living it Design The psychology of design Themed neighbourhoods attract like-minded buyers

Words & images: Ijmal Haider // Special to Inner-city Living

We all choose to live in certain Builders and designers are neighbourhoods due to the familiarity tapping into this cognitive process and the serenity, so why not look for and they want to fulfill the emotional the same things in our homes? needs of buyers, allowing for more Every neighbourhood has its customization options. own quality, which draws us in, and They are creating homes tailored every home within that community is to individuals, their needs, and Cognitive thought processes play a large role in homebuilding, as well as the decisions reached in decorating the homes purchased, personalized in one way or another constructing an environment that fits focusing on needs, personalities and lifestyles to better suit the home to the homeowner. to fulfill the needs of those living the consumers lifestyle. within it. Buyers are looking for homes When discussing design and that allow them to feel safe and is key. They are also trying their best and then tend to attract like-minded focus on clients and their needs, architecture, it is rarely in relation to comfortable, so it comes as no to incorporate the older landscaping individuals. For example, in West personalities and lifestyles to create psychology. surprise that builders are placing and architecture and create a Hillhurst and Parkdale, we see more the perfect space. However, it plays a major role in more focus on space planning and cohesive theme between old and traditional elements mixed with Rather than creating a home, then design and overall space planning. environmental design. new. modern. In Altadore, Bankview finding someone whom it suits, they Material choices, appliances, They are creating suitable As for homes, builders and and South Calgary, we see more are finding the buyer and building a colours, are all related to cognitive environments, which not only include designers are putting emphasis on highlighting on post modern and space which suits them best. practices and emotional changes for desirable amenities, but the ideal creating the most usable space, modern. These are not a must, but just This creates the difference between the buyer. ambiance and feel of a space. taking into account functionality, most commonly found. building a house versus creating a A point, sometimes overlooked, is Within neighbourhoods, we are longevity, esthetics, location and Cognitive thought processes play home. that the homes we live in and choose finding builders and developers any additional elements deemed a a big role in our homebuilding and buying experiences. We have many (Ijmal Haider is a sociologist, to purchase are based on emotional putting more importance on common priority for the client. designer, marketing analyst, writer attachments we feel, from the floor spaces (shopping and parks). Therefore, new homes being built in personal decisions and factors to and blogger, currently working in the plan, to the selections, or the overall The idea of creating a community, gentrified inner-city neighbourhoods consider during this process. industry as a marketing analyst and curb appeal. and the solidarity that comes with, tend to follow an overall theme, Builders are taking more time to designer for the DaVinci Group.)

year.” Last year, the festival was FESTIVALS BreakOut West... held in Regina, the year before, in Whitehorse. This weekend’s performances will Gord Bamford is a nominee for In Calgary, Fenton says 5,000 be on numerous stages, including the country recording of the year at the fans are expected to come out Ironwood Stage and Grill, The Blues WCMAs.. to see their favourite Western Can, Broken City, The Palomino, HiFi BreakOut West started as the All Canadian bands and discover some Club, Republik and The National Indie Weekend, from 1995 to 1999, new ones. Music Centre. which then became the Prairie “We charge $20 for a wristband The festival is capped with the Music Alliance Inc., dedicated to that is good for Friday and Western Canadian Music Awards promoting prairie music. In 2003, Saturday nights,” he says. “It’s an on Sunday at Flames Central. when the Prairie Music Alliance amazing amount of music and you Musicians in 21 categories decided to expand, the Western can go from venue to venue and including aboriginal, blues, classical, Canadian Music Alliance was born, see all of these different bands.” country, Francophone, metal, pop, including not only prairie provinces, rock, roots and world will be on but also music associations from BreakOut West is capped with the Western hand at the awards. British Columbia and the Yukon, Canadian Music Awards on Sunday. This This year, Corb Lund and Ian “Three years ago, we rebranded year, Corb lund (pictured) and Ian Tyson have been nominated for roots solo Tyson have been nominated for it BreakOut West,” Fenton says. recording of the year. roots solo recording of the year, “We move the festival around every calgaryherald.com/innercityliving 14 living it Out and about Memorable pub crawls

Words: Shelley Boettcher // Images: Michelle Hofer

Mention the words “pub crawl” While he says with a laugh that his they celebrate; other times, they For example, at National, try a you try the bar’s legendary chicken to some of us, and you’ll bring back pub crawl days are behind him, he’s just pile them up in a heap. “You just sampling board — six taster-size wings. “We have the best wings ever blurry memories of university bus tours witnessed more than a few during his worry about what bike you get when glasses chosen from the bar’s — they’re baked twice, then fried,” around sketchy downtown bars. Was career. And he has some fine words you leave,” he says. impressive selection of craft beers. he says. there tequila involved? Oh, probably. of wisdom for anyone thinking of Or not. He has seen many an “Try some stuff you’ve never had If you love music, consider working These days, a pub crawl doesn’t going on one: pace yourself. abandoned bike left behind at the before,” St. Clair says. “Maybe you’ll in a stop or two with a live band, or have to be so, um, forgettable — “Remember it’s a marathon, not a end of the night — perhaps because, get excited and find a new favourite.” a DJ. National has DJs spinning tunes unless you want it to be. sprint,” he says. like driving, it’s against the law to ride Drink plenty of water between Thursdays through Saturdays. Calgary’s myriad pub and bar First and foremost, get a a bike when inebriated. booze hits and don’t forget to eat, Above all, says St. Clair, don’t offerings mean you can plan a night designated driver or a taxi. Or plan Keep the night moving fairly quickly, says St. Clair, who recommends forget a pub crawl is fun. Not formal on the town — one that involves a route encompassing a few blocks and set your plan before you start. ordering a smaller dish at each place or fancy. He says: “You don’t follow many people, lots of fun and multiple downtown, where you can easily “Don’t overdo it. Have a per-bar or something that you can easily rules on a pub crawl. You get unruly.” destinations — and still remember walk. drink minimum and maximum,” St. Clair share with your fellow bar-hoppers. what you did all night — as long as Over at Bottlescrew Bill’s Pub, says. “Have one drink at each place, “Have a snack and a drink, and you want to, that is. co-owner Geoff Allan says he’s seen and never more than three.” move on to the next place,” says St. Top left: The National general manager Just ask Rory St. Clair. He’s the groups buy second-hand bicycles on Ask what the specialty drink is at Clair, suggesting the National’s mini Rory St. Clair advises pub crawlers to pace general manager of National on Kijiji, and use them throughout the each stop. Maybe it’s tequila. These corn dogs, scotch eggs or fish tacos. themselves and to ensure transportation is lined up prior to setting out. Top right: 10th Avenue S.W., one of the city’s evening to ride from place to place. days, you’re more likely to find craft Allan says if you only have one The National is a new bar that recently top new bars. Sometimes, they lock them up while beer or creative cocktails. snack at Bottlescrew Bill’s, make sure opened on 10th Avenue S.W.

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