A growing number of sticker-shocked buyers are looking outside the city limits for their own residential piece of paradise, in search of quality homes within easy commute of Calgary. Many buyers have found just what they’re looking for ten minutes north of the city limits in the new Creations by Shane development, Amberwoods in Luxstone.

Located in Airdrie, Amberwoods in Luxstone is a delightful collection of character, semi-attached two-storey residences that offer ample living space at the comparatively affordable starting price of $343,000.

“This project was an opportunity to fill a gap left by climbing house prices,” says Shane Wenzel, senior vice-president of sales and marketing. “We started by modifying Creations top-selling floor plans and incorporating different layouts side by side. Then we applied our philosophy of the best exterior treatments and value added specifications.”

Buyers have a choice of four floor plans: the Solstice, Candela, Spectra and Radiance. While all models are similar, subtle changes to the kitchen layouts, foyers and family rooms give each of the homes a unique flair.

Ranging in size from 1,313- to 1,619-square-feet, each Amberwoods residence has three bedrooms, one-and-a-half bathrooms and an open concept, urban-inspired main floor housing the living room, dining area and kitchen in a linear layout from the front to back.

An extensive list of standard specifications, including maple shaker-style cabinets, tile in the foyer, kitchen, nook and half-bath, an installed washer/dryer and a concrete backyard patio contribute to the development’s refined aesthetic.

“The homes appeal to a number of buyers,” says Glenn Jorgensen, area manager. “First time buyers obviously, but also buyers looking to move up to a well built home with all the amenities of a single-family home. We offer many standard options that would otherwise be considered an upgrade.”

Three of the four available floor plans are showcased along Luxstone Boulevard. While each has its own virtues, the Spectra show home has a dazzling urban quality which really stands out in this quiet country setting. A rich colour palette of dark brown tones is offset by punches of turquoise—a combination that is thoroughly modern, reminiscent of any of the chic martini lounges in Calgary’s busy beltline district.

The entry is flanked on the right by a cosy living area, large enough for a couch and armchair (plus a substantial TV wall-unit and coffee table) but quaint enough to encourage conversation when entertaining. Creations cleverly covered the doors of the foyer closet with mirrors, opening up the space and giving the illusion of depth at the point of entry.

Dark hardwood flooring throughout the main level gives the home a fluid feel; the visual consistency guides your eye and your footsteps easily from one area to the next, and makes the home feel much larger than it actually is.

The dining nook is set between the living room and kitchen, creating a perfect mid-point for party platters at the housewarming party. A large window in the space lets in a good amount of natural light, and the open feel of the area is conducive to leisurely dinner gatherings.

A spacious kitchen is at the rear of the home. The roomy layout is indicative of thoughtful design on the part of the builder. Kitchens are today’s living rooms—people tend to spend more time in them than any other place in the home—so it makes sense to incorporate a large island, breakfast bar, and plenty of counter space, all of which the builder has done here. Dark cabinetry is highlighted by a cream toned mosaic tile backsplash, giving the kitchen gravity and levity at the same time. A complete appliance package, including a built-in microwave and dishwasher, make the kitchen a fully functional space. The home’s half-bath is set off the kitchen toward the back entrance—just enough apart to be out of the way.

In contrast to the open, lounge-like atmosphere of the main floor, the second level feels very private. The owner’s suite, complete with walk-in closet and tiled ensuite is an oasis, lavishly adorned with rich teal-toned fabrics and oversized furniture. Two other bedrooms, each with its own walk-in, provide enough space for guests, kids, a home office or even a gym. The main bath and second-floor laundry make the upper level feel quite self-contained—an entirely livable space that you’d leave only to go dig around in the refrigerator for a midnight snack. NL

Visit the show home parade (open Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m. and Friday, weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.), take the Highway 2 north to the Big Hill Springs Road exit, turn right on 8 Street S.W. and follow the signs.
Visit http://www.creationsbyshane.com for more details.