Living the condo life has great benefits. You don’t cut the lawn, you don’t shovel the driveway, you don’t clean the gutters and certainly no outside window washing for you. You know what you do? You have extra time to spend with your family and friends, barbecuing on your balcony or just relaxing in your incredibly spacious suite. Not to mention when the lovely Ontario winter comes, you lock up your condo suite and head for fun in the sun.
Bear Creek Ridge, by Pratt Homes, is a brand new family neighborhood located in Southwest Barrie. Bear Creek Ridge will have freehold townhomes, detached homes and condominiums. There will be a brand-new home for every sized family. The streetscapes at Bear Creek Ridge will be designed with traditional, hybrid and modern elevations creating the most unique streetscapes Barrie has ever seen.
The condos at Bear Creek Ridge are perfect for a maintenance-free lifestyle. Suites ranging from bachelor/bachelorette, up to massive 1,464-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath masterpieces. Complete with secure underground parking and large balconies you can barbecue on. With only two buildings and 120 suites, it is the definition of quiet, quaint and content living.
Currently, Bear Creek Ridge has the lowest deposit structure in the province at $15,000 over 180 days, making your dream of homeownership a reality. This low deposit structure, however, is not here to stay and NOW is your chance to own at Bear Creek Ridge.
Bear Creek Ridge is 45 minutes from the GTA and right next door to Wasaga Beach, Collingwood and Muskoka. You will also be within walking, cycling or driving distance from an incredible number of amenities in the South end of Barrie to accommodate your lifestyle.
You stay connected when you move to Barrie.
PRATT HOMES
Bear Creek Ridge
Located at 241 Essa Road, Barrie, the Sales Centre is open Monday to Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.; closed Friday.
Registration is open for the 2020 NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS), the largest annual home renovation and residential construction show in the world. The show, owned and operated by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) offers special registration discounts for international delegations.
IBS will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center, Jan. 21 to 23, where it will again co-locate with the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) for the seventh annual Design & Construction Week (DCW). The two shows are expected to host more than 2,000 exhibiting brands spanning more than one million net sq. ft. of exhibit space, for the largest annual gathering of the residential design and construction industry.
“It’s our goal for the NAHB International Builders’ Show to be the event of the year for our members and industry professionals,” says NAHB Chairman Greg Ugalde, a homebuilder and developer from Torrington, Conn. “Nowhere else will you find top-level education sessions, a variety of networking opportunities, special events and an exhibit hall full of innovative products all in one place. This is truly an event you can’t miss.”
Attendees with a full conference registration will have access to more than 150 education sessions led by renowned experts on a wide range of industry topics. New this year, Master Workshops, previously known as Master Sessions, will be held on Monday, Jan. 20, the day before the show officially kicks off as part of pre-show education and will be open to all registered show attendees for an additional fee.
IBS will again feature six Centrals that offer specific areas of focus within the building industry with their own schedule of events. A variety of activities are available inside the Centrals including workshops, networking events, roundtable discussions and guided product tours of the exhibit hall. The High-Performance Building Zone will feature real-world construction demonstrations, and IBS Live will host presentations focused on what’s next in homebuilding. Additionally, the IBS show floor will feature the CEDIA Pavilion, a space showcasing exhibitors which specialize in technology solutions for the home.
The 2020 show will kick off on the morning of Jan. 21 with an Opening Ceremonies event featuring basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson. That evening, OMNIA Nightclub at Caesars Palace will host the Official IBS House Party. Other events throughout the week include the Young Pro Party Wednesday night at On The Record at Park MGM, followed by the IBS Closing Concert Thursday night with a performance by award-winning rock band, the Doobie Brothers.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour NAHB’s official IBS show homes, The New American Home (TNAH) and The New American Remodel (TNAR). The homes are designed to showcase innovative building technologies, emerging design trends and the latest building products. The showcase products in the homes are provided by members of the NAHB Leading Suppliers Council.
Groups of five or more international IBS registrants can take advantage of exclusive registration discounts and special show benefits when starting a delegation. Delegates receive complimentary expo pass registrations for their group, as well as discounts on 1-day education and full registrations. For a full list of offerings, visit: buildersshow.com/delegation.
The NAHB International Builders’ Show is not open to the general public. Renovation professionals and their affiliates are invited to register by visiting the show’s website at buildersshow.com.
Owned and operated by two generations of the Passero family, Silvergate has carefully nurtured a reputation for exceptional quality and a commitment to customer service.
Housing markets in Southern Ontario will lead in home price growth this year, and are expected to continue to do so in 2020, according to a new report from ReMax.
We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.
At Riobel we design, create and assemble faucets, shower systems and accessories in our Canadian facility located in St-Jérôme, a suburb of Montréal. Our modern and fashionable products are designed to fit all kitchens or bathrooms. They are easy to install, while mechanical parts are accessible from above the counter to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Riobel: a benchmark of excellence since 1995!
By becoming the standard bearer in the basement renovation industry, we can promote quality materials, professional trades, honest pricing, and better communication standards to create customer advocates and inspire our competitors.
As a cooperative with 1,000 stores worldwide, we not only have enormous buying power, but we have partners in all of the major brands, mills and manufacturers.
Saunacore is a world leader in the manufacturing of premium quality sauna and steam bath products. Saunacore manufactures sauna heaters, steam bath generators, far infrared sauna rooms, traditional indoor and outdoor saunas, material liner kits, accessories and much more.
X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.
We are the market leader in the manufacturing of skylights and roof windows. It is a result of our intense focus on creating the best quality, most energy efficient daylighting products available.
SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.
Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.
IMPROVE is totally unique to Canada. Based on the international success of similar concepts throughout the world, IMPROVE understands how to make home improvement much easier and more pleasurable for consumers and trades to shop all under one roof.
HomeStars is a free service to help homeowners find reputable renovators, repairmen and retailers by searching its database of 2 million companies and hundreds of thousands of reviews.
All-electric fireplace showroom and design centre with the largest selection in Toronto and York Region. Combining specialized expertise with over 20 years' interior design experience. On-wall, in-wall, fireboxes, retrofit inserts, mantels, custom cabinetry, stone and brick veneers. Residential and commercial. Trade and volume inquiries always welcome.
Located in the heart of Durham Region but just east of Toronto, Pickering and Ajax comprise one of the fastest growing areas in Ontario.
Pickering, for example, with a population already at about 94,000, is expected to grow to 190,000 people by 2031, drawn by the city's divers and stable economy. Pickering is home to a variety of national and international companies, in industries such as energy, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and pharmaceutical.
The area also has available land and space to facilitate this growth. The Pickering Innovation Corridor boasts 800 acres of greenfield, prestige employment land, located along a limited access transportation route directly adjacent to the site of the future Pickering Airport.
Pickering is in major transition, with new growth targets set for the city. The new and developing community of Seaton, for example, is preparing to welcome 70,000 new residents and 35,000 new jobs.
Neighbouring Ajax is similarly prosperous, as the town has a well-deserved reputation for progressive thinking. Among the major projects underway is a redevelopment of the downtown, with new public spaces at Pat Bayly Square.
The future of downtown Ajax comprises a focus on "active, livable, innovative, vibrant and eco-focused," according to the Town.
Lowrise living
Still sometimes considered suburbs of Toronto, Pickering and Ajax appeal to those in search of single-family and other ground-oriented homes, since, well, there is new lowrise home development in the area. And, like elsewhere in the GTA, "missing-middle" type housing such as townhomes, as well as condos, are also gaining popularity here.
Nautical Village, on Pickering's waterfront, is a welcome natural amenity enjoyed by residents, with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as a splash pad and park. An expansive waterfront trail runs along Frenchman's Bay and during the summer, Millennium Square hosts open air concerts.
Pickering and Ajax boast a number of golf courses, including Glen Cedars, Hawthorne Valley, Seaton Golf, Pickering Golf Club and Watsons' Glen.
Ajax is home to Ontario's only quarter horse racetrack, Ajax Downs, and for those who really love games of chance, there's Casino Ajax.
Live and love in nature
Pickering is blessed with a natural location along Lake Ontario, with kilometres of waterfront greenspace. Add in more than 85 parks, sports fields and trails, as well as three conservation areas, public areas around Frenchman's Bay and the Hydro Marsh, and it's all a pretty unbeatable locale for nature lovers.
Ajax boasts its own expansive system of cycling and walking trails totally 74 kms. Veterans' Point Garden commemorates the town's history and is dedicated to the HMS Ajax, the DIL Plant and the employees who lived in Ajax during the World War II.
And being so close to Toronto, Pickering and Ajax naturally benefit from the transit and highway infrastructure expansion taking place in the area. Durham Region Transit and GO Transit, as well as Hwy. 401 as the main arterial hub west to the DVP into Toronto or east to Hwy. 115, getting around, to and from Durham Region has never been easier.
Location, location, location
Pickering and Ajax are located just east of Toronto in Durham Region; Pickering population, 94,000; Ajax population, 119,670
Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.
For over 50 years, Faema Canada has introduced the art of traditional Italian Espresso and Cappuccino to Canadians. We carry a variety of premium brands that can be tested at any one of our retail stores. Our selection of machines is only complemented by our assortment of fine espresso blends imported from Italy. Our wide selection of beans can also be brewed and sampled at all of our locations.
Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.
From a modest machine shop in Baltimore to the surface of the moon, we’ve proudly provided innovative solutions for over a century. Discover the pioneering history of BLACK+DECKER.
Through our customer feedback, we have learned the importance of ‘service’. You said and we listened. We addressed your needs and improvised; bringing you services and quality no one in the industry offers.
With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.
Canadian Appliance Source has become the fastest growing provider of Major Home Appliances in Canada for over 10 years, we have grown to include over 13 locations across Ontario & Quebec.
Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.
Since 1873, Kohler Co. has been improving the level of gracious living by providing exceptional products and services for our customers’ homes and their lifestyles.
Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.
Shelter Furniture recognizes your individual style and are sensitive to your space and your vision for your home. With our in store design services, we help you create unique space that helps bring your home to life.
Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.
Kakoz Kitchens & Custom Cabinetry is a family owned business with years of experience in kitchen design including creation, installation and remodeling.
Pratt Homes offers several condo options in the Barrie area
Living the condo life has great benefits. You don’t cut the lawn, you don’t shovel the driveway, you don’t clean the gutters and certainly no outside window washing for you. You know what you do? You have extra time to spend with your family and friends barbecuing on your balcony or just relaxing in your incredibly spacious suite. Not to mention when the lovely Ontario winter comes, you lock up your condo suite and head for fun in the sun.
Currently, Pratt Homes has condos available for sale in the following communities: Bistro 6 (South East Barrie), Bear Creek Ridge (South West Barrie) and Banting Square (South West of Barrie) – starting at only $330,990!
Banting Square
Pratt Homes has named this community Banting Square, paying tribute to the legacy of Sir Fredrick Banting, one of the co-founders of Insulin. To compliment the rich heritage of Alliston, the design of the buildings includes red brick, gable ends as well as architectural symmetry – all characteristics inspired by prominent buildings in Alliston.
Banting Square minimizes your amenities, which keeps your maintenance fees lower then at other condo communities. There is a great outdoor seating area where you, your family, friends or new neighbours can sit and have a coffee and a chat. At Banting Square, you don’t pay extra maintenance fees and you don’t worry. You just live the relaxing life you want.
Bistro 6 is a new urban condo community designed to bring together friends and family over the art of food. It’s culinary inspired condo living at its finest. It is the first community to be built in Hewitt’s Gate, the Gateway to Barrie.
What makes Bistro 6 culinary inspired? Bistro 6 is a six-building condo community; each building is named after the spices that Bistro 6 was inspired by: Fennel, Chili, Turmeric and Sumac.
Pratt Homes has also paired up with celebrity chef Randy Feltis, an award-winning restaurateur and Cityline co-host who has travelled the world in search of culinary expertise.
We all know that the kitchen is the most important room in the home, and with well over 20 years of experience, chef Randy Feltis knows the perfect layout. Chef Feltis worked directly with the Pratt Homes team, including the architect, design coordinator, design and colour director, sales director and owner to ensure each condo suite was designed with the perfect kitchen-centric approach.
Bear Creek Ridge is a brand-new family neighbourhood in southwest Barrie. Bear Creek Ridge will have Freehold Town Homes, Detached Homes, and Condominiums. There will be a brand-new home for every sized family.
The Condos at Bear Creek Ridge have only 2 buildings and 120 suites, it is the definition of quiet, quaint and content living.
Bear Creek Ridge is 45 minutes from the GTA and right next door to Wasaga Beach, Collingwood and Muskoka. You will also be within walking, cycling or driving distance from an incredible number of amenities in the south end of Barrie to accommodate your lifestyle.
You stay connected when you move to Barrie. For more information, visit BearCreekRidge.ca
The exclusive residences of the Edenbridge Signature, Penthouse and Townhome Collections offer a range of home-sized suites, available to suit your lifestyle.
It has been nearly two years since the federal government's mortgage stress test was first introduced with the intent to cool the hot Canadian housing market.
This holiday season, The Rose Corporation, along with Milborne Group, have partnered with York Regional Police's Holiday Heroes Campaign by committing to donate $2,000 worth of toys. READ MORE
If you've never been to a City of Toronto Community Planning Meeting, do yourself a favour and do so. Or tag along here on our visit to one for 2150 Lake Shore – the controversial former Christie's bakery site. READ MORE
With the increasing demand for ownership housing throughout the spring and summer, September 2019 reached a peak for the highest annual rate of price growth for 2019.
They say teamwork makes the dreamwork, and at MOD Developments, the management team of Gary Switzer and Noorez Lalani provides as solid a one-two combination as anywhere in the development industry.
With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.
By becoming the standard bearer in the basement renovation industry, we can promote quality materials, professional trades, honest pricing, and better communication standards to create customer advocates and inspire our competitors.
SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.
We are the market leader in the manufacturing of skylights and roof windows. It is a result of our intense focus on creating the best quality, most energy efficient daylighting products available.
For over 50 years, Faema Canada has introduced the art of traditional Italian Espresso and Cappuccino to Canadians. We carry a variety of premium brands that can be tested at any one of our retail stores. Our selection of machines is only complemented by our assortment of fine espresso blends imported from Italy. Our wide selection of beans can also be brewed and sampled at all of our locations.
Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.
Shelter Furniture recognizes your individual style and are sensitive to your space and your vision for your home. With our in store design services, we help you create unique space that helps bring your home to life.
Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.
Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.
As a cooperative with 1,000 stores worldwide, we not only have enormous buying power, but we have partners in all of the major brands, mills and manufacturers.
At Riobel we design, create and assemble faucets, shower systems and accessories in our Canadian facility located in St-Jérôme, a suburb of Montréal. Our modern and fashionable products are designed to fit all kitchens or bathrooms. They are easy to install, while mechanical parts are accessible from above the counter to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Riobel: a benchmark of excellence since 1995!
Saunacore is a world leader in the manufacturing of premium quality sauna and steam bath products. Saunacore manufactures sauna heaters, steam bath generators, far infrared sauna rooms, traditional indoor and outdoor saunas, material liner kits, accessories and much more.
From a modest machine shop in Baltimore to the surface of the moon, we’ve proudly provided innovative solutions for over a century. Discover the pioneering history of BLACK+DECKER.
They say teamwork makes the dreamwork, and at MOD Developments, the management team of Gary Switzer and Noorez Lalani provides as solid a one-two combination as anywhere in the development industry. Switzer, with a background as an architect, a city planner and developer, and Lalani, with a law degree and MBA, provide unique leadership and deliver some standout properties.
We spoke with Switzer and Lalani to explore their partnership, and what makes MOD what it is today.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="350"] Gary Switzer Chief Executive Officer, MOD Developments[/caption]
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="350"] Noorez Lalani President, MOD Developments[/caption]
Condo Life: Let's start with an easy one… What's 2019 shaping up like for MOD Developments, and what's your outlook for 2020?
Noorez Lalani: This year has been great for us. First, we've seen the occupancy and registration of Massey Tower, the culmination of seven years of hard work. Secondly, we completed the rezoning of our development at 55-63 Charles St. E. and successfully launched it as 55C Residences in the spring. Finally, Waterworks is well under construction and is looking great.
Twenty-twenty will be another busy year for us. 55C will start construction in the spring, and occupancies for Waterworks will begin in the fall. We're also looking at a few new sites, which we will be able to discuss in a few months.
CL: Your projects in downtown Toronto all seem to be centred around key landmarks and signature locations, focusing on statement architecture as opposed to master-planned communities. Why this strategy?
Gary Switzer: While our projects have all been on unique sites downtown, this has been a combination of opportunity and our ability to see potential in sites that had been overlooked or perceived as too difficult (Massey is a case in point). Our strategy in acquiring sites has always been to find transit-oriented sites in the best locations. This does not preclude us from one day doing a master-planned community.
CL: Any interest in expanding elsewhere, say in Vaughan or elsewhere in the 905 where condo demand is also growing?
Lalani: Quite simply, yes. It would depend on the location and site itself.
CL: What signature MOD features exist in all your projects… say, key qualities or characteristics that speak to your mission and say, 'Yes, this is clearly a MOD development'?
Switzer: Architectural excellence, attention to detail (both on the exterior and interior), livability in the suites and an urbane presence in the neighbourhood.
CL: What have you learned from previous or current projects that you've made note of for future projects?
Switzer: In the end, the focus has to be on the suites and the future homeowners. We're in the business of building homes for real people. All design decisions revolve around that.
CL: How much is purpose-built rental a part of your business – currently and in the near future?
Lalani: We have co-developed two purpose-built rentals to date and are currently looking at another opportunity. We believe that a healthy housing market has to include purpose-built rental.
CL: What are the challenges and opportunities in the rental business?
Lalani: There are financial challenges in developing purpose-built rental in terms of equity requirements, which have made for-sale housing much more attractive to developers, to date. At the same time, the demand for new rental is so great, owing to immigration and high employment, and the development community has responded with more rental housing being built within the last few years than in the previous decade.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="328"] Artist’s rendering of tower at 55C Residences[/caption]
CL: What's next for MOD Developments?
Lalani: More and more great buildings!
And on a personal note...
You seem to have a unique partnership as CEO and president, with complementary skillsets. How does this benefit MOD Developments?
Lalani: Between my background as a lawyer, a banker and obtaining my MBA with a specialization in real estate finance and development, and Gary's background as an architect, planner and developer, MOD has the total "in-house" package: Experience in design, urban planning and development combined with sound business acumen and financial knowledge.
Gary, your background as an architect, city planner and developer is unique in the industry. How does this experience show up in your projects – say, in building inclusions, amenities, locations?
Switzer: My experience has helped MOD develop a reputation for producing buildings of the highest quality in terms of design, construction and customer service. We've learned how to push the envelope with respect to entitlements and produce buildings that set new standards in terms of not just height, but also suite design and concepts in amenities.
What insights did your time as a city planner provide you, say, in terms of how the 'system' works or ways to do things better, now that you're on the development side?
Switzer: It's much more difficult to develop buildings today as opposed to when I was a planner. When I was at Great Gulf and we won the Ontario Association of Architects Award of Excellence for "The Morgan" in 2005, this was at a time when there were no development charges, no Section 37 charges, park levies were half of what they are today, and approvals in the King and Spadina neighbourhood could be done through the committee of adjustment. Today, routine approvals can take two years. When I worked as a planner in the 1980s, it was much easier for planners to fast-track good projects. Unfortunately, today, city staff is laden with an overly-complicated approvals system that puts as much stress on them as it does on the developer. Focus has to be on simplifying the current process and emphasize good design.
PORTFOLIO
55C Residences
55 Charles St. E., Toronto
Coming soon
57 Spadina (rental)
57 Spadina Ave., Toronto
Coming soon
The Massey Tower
197 Yonge St., Toronto
Under construction
The Selby (rental)
592 Sherbourne St., Toronto
Under construction
Waterworks
505 Richmond St. W., Toronto
Under construction
moddevelopments.com
Through our customer feedback, we have learned the importance of ‘service’. You said and we listened. We addressed your needs and improvised; bringing you services and quality no one in the industry offers.
All-electric fireplace showroom and design centre with the largest selection in Toronto and York Region. Combining specialized expertise with over 20 years' interior design experience. On-wall, in-wall, fireboxes, retrofit inserts, mantels, custom cabinetry, stone and brick veneers. Residential and commercial. Trade and volume inquiries always welcome.
Since 1873, Kohler Co. has been improving the level of gracious living by providing exceptional products and services for our customers’ homes and their lifestyles.
Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.
IMPROVE is totally unique to Canada. Based on the international success of similar concepts throughout the world, IMPROVE understands how to make home improvement much easier and more pleasurable for consumers and trades to shop all under one roof.
We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.
Canadian Appliance Source has become the fastest growing provider of Major Home Appliances in Canada for over 10 years, we have grown to include over 13 locations across Ontario & Quebec.
Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.
HomeStars is a free service to help homeowners find reputable renovators, repairmen and retailers by searching its database of 2 million companies and hundreds of thousands of reviews.
X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.
Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.
Pratt Homes addresses pent-up demand for new freehold homes and condos in Barrie
It was a long time coming in Barrie, and Pratt Homes has addressed the pent-up demand for new freehold homes and condos by launching sales at Bear Creek Ridge in October 2017. This new family neighbourhood is located at the corner of Salem and Essa Roads, in the southwest section of Barrie.
Phase 1 freehold detached homes and towns are 90 per cent sold. Phase 1 condos have had a fantastic reception, and are approximately 40 per cent sold. The phase 2 release saw another large portion of homes snatched up buy purchasers. It’s safe to say, purchasers are very enthusiastic about the Barrie new home market.
Why buy in Barrie? The prices are substantially lower than the GTA, the deposit structure is substantially lower for the majority of builders in Ontario, the sizes of the homes are far greater for what you pay than anything south of Barrie, plus the lifestyle is incredible.
Towns start from the mid-$400,000s; detached from the low-$600,000s; and condos from the mid $200,000s. Compare that with GTA prices, and the value is incredible.
Pratt Homes offers deposit structures unlike anything you’ve seen in the GTA. For towns and condos, simply pay $1,000 on signing; $4,000 in 30 days; $5,000 in 60 days; $5,000 in 90 days; $5,000 in 120 days; and $5,000 in 150 days. For detached homes and classic towns, pay $5,000 on signing; $5,000 in 30 days; $10,000 in 60 days; $10,000 in 90 days; and $10,000 in 120 days.
Condominium bachelor/bachelorette suites range in size up to a 1,454-square-foot three-bedroom, two bath layout. Enjoy secure underground parking and balconies that enable barbecuing. Metro Towns (with garages) and Euro Towns (with European-style carports) are all three storeys, have two- and three-bedroom options with dens, private balconies, and are fully above ground. Fully detached homes range in size from 1,900 to 3,000 square feet.
This location is sensational. Residents will live around the corner from the Holly Recreation Centre, which has ice rinks, pools, gyms and a full schedule of activities. The community is also a 10-minute drive to the downtown core, where residents can enjoy an eclectic selection of restaurants and nightlife. Four swimmable beaches with walking trails along the waterfront beckon with opportunities to commune with nature. Plus, the GO station makes it convenient for commuters to get to their destinations from downtown.
Southwest Barrie is a mere 45 minutes to the Greater Toronto Area, and is a similar distance north to skiing at Blue Mountain in Collingwood, Muskoka’s cottage country, and the largest freshwater beach in the world at Wasaga Beach. In addition, avid golfers know the Barrie area for some of the best courses anywhere.
The new phase 3 release is early February 2018 and will include additional 29-foot detached homes, the more affordable Metro and Euro Town collection and the coveted and ever desirable Classic Towns with 9-foot ceilings, a garage and private backyards!
At Bear Creek Ridge, Pratt Homes is offering completely new designs featuring dynamic exteriors that range in style from traditional to modern, and even hybrid, for distinctive streetscapes. The Bear Creek Ridge Community will be unlike any other neighbourhood in Simcoe County.
Pratt Homes has been building fine new residential communities in Barrie for six generations, since 1890. Over the past few months, Pratt Homes developed and released its new brand evolution from “Barrie’s Largest Builder since 1890” to designing homes and neighbourhoods with the stages of family life cycles in mind, paying meticulous attention to beauty and functionality as well as ensuring they offer a home size for every stage of the family life cycle.
In addition, Pratt Homes offers Ontario’s first virtual reality Model Home tours inside the Bear Creek Ridge Office. The Virtual Reality experience gives you the opportunity to walk through and get a feeling for your new home instead of just seeing a blackline drawing.
The Bear Creek Sales Office will be opening Saturday, February 10th, 2018. Visit the Bear Creek Ridge Sales Office, located at 241 Essa Road, Unit 3 in Barrie, just off Highway 400. The Sales Office is open from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and from noon to 5 p.m. weekends and holidays.
The exclusive residences of the Edenbridge Signature, Penthouse and Townhome Collections offer a range of home-sized suites, available to suit your lifestyle.
It has been nearly two years since the federal government's mortgage stress test was first introduced with the intent to cool the hot Canadian housing market.
This holiday season, The Rose Corporation, along with Milborne Group, have partnered with York Regional Police's Holiday Heroes Campaign by committing to donate $2,000 worth of toys. READ MORE
If you've never been to a City of Toronto Community Planning Meeting, do yourself a favour and do so. Or tag along here on our visit to one for 2150 Lake Shore – the controversial former Christie's bakery site. READ MORE
With the increasing demand for ownership housing throughout the spring and summer, September 2019 reached a peak for the highest annual rate of price growth for 2019.
They say teamwork makes the dreamwork, and at MOD Developments, the management team of Gary Switzer and Noorez Lalani provides as solid a one-two combination as anywhere in the development industry.
Through our customer feedback, we have learned the importance of ‘service’. You said and we listened. We addressed your needs and improvised; bringing you services and quality no one in the industry offers.
From a modest machine shop in Baltimore to the surface of the moon, we’ve proudly provided innovative solutions for over a century. Discover the pioneering history of BLACK+DECKER.
Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.
IMPROVE is totally unique to Canada. Based on the international success of similar concepts throughout the world, IMPROVE understands how to make home improvement much easier and more pleasurable for consumers and trades to shop all under one roof.
All-electric fireplace showroom and design centre with the largest selection in Toronto and York Region. Combining specialized expertise with over 20 years' interior design experience. On-wall, in-wall, fireboxes, retrofit inserts, mantels, custom cabinetry, stone and brick veneers. Residential and commercial. Trade and volume inquiries always welcome.
As a cooperative with 1,000 stores worldwide, we not only have enormous buying power, but we have partners in all of the major brands, mills and manufacturers.
Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.
We are the market leader in the manufacturing of skylights and roof windows. It is a result of our intense focus on creating the best quality, most energy efficient daylighting products available.
Canadian Appliance Source has become the fastest growing provider of Major Home Appliances in Canada for over 10 years, we have grown to include over 13 locations across Ontario & Quebec.
Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.
By becoming the standard bearer in the basement renovation industry, we can promote quality materials, professional trades, honest pricing, and better communication standards to create customer advocates and inspire our competitors.
Since 1873, Kohler Co. has been improving the level of gracious living by providing exceptional products and services for our customers’ homes and their lifestyles.
For over 50 years, Faema Canada has introduced the art of traditional Italian Espresso and Cappuccino to Canadians. We carry a variety of premium brands that can be tested at any one of our retail stores. Our selection of machines is only complemented by our assortment of fine espresso blends imported from Italy. Our wide selection of beans can also be brewed and sampled at all of our locations.
X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.
Shelter Furniture recognizes your individual style and are sensitive to your space and your vision for your home. With our in store design services, we help you create unique space that helps bring your home to life.
At Riobel we design, create and assemble faucets, shower systems and accessories in our Canadian facility located in St-Jérôme, a suburb of Montréal. Our modern and fashionable products are designed to fit all kitchens or bathrooms. They are easy to install, while mechanical parts are accessible from above the counter to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Riobel: a benchmark of excellence since 1995!
SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.
HomeStars is a free service to help homeowners find reputable renovators, repairmen and retailers by searching its database of 2 million companies and hundreds of thousands of reviews.
They say teamwork makes the dreamwork, and at MOD Developments, the management team of Gary Switzer and Noorez Lalani provides as solid a one-two combination as anywhere in the development industry. Switzer, with a background as an architect, a city planner and developer, and Lalani, with a law degree and MBA, provide unique leadership and deliver some standout properties.
We spoke with Switzer and Lalani to explore their partnership, and what makes MOD what it is today.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="350"] Gary Switzer Chief Executive Officer, MOD Developments[/caption]
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="350"] Noorez Lalani President, MOD Developments[/caption]
Condo Life: Let's start with an easy one… What's 2019 shaping up like for MOD Developments, and what's your outlook for 2020?
Noorez Lalani: This year has been great for us. First, we've seen the occupancy and registration of Massey Tower, the culmination of seven years of hard work. Secondly, we completed the rezoning of our development at 55-63 Charles St. E. and successfully launched it as 55C Residences in the spring. Finally, Waterworks is well under construction and is looking great.
Twenty-twenty will be another busy year for us. 55C will start construction in the spring, and occupancies for Waterworks will begin in the fall. We're also looking at a few new sites, which we will be able to discuss in a few months.
CL: Your projects in downtown Toronto all seem to be centred around key landmarks and signature locations, focusing on statement architecture as opposed to master-planned communities. Why this strategy?
Gary Switzer: While our projects have all been on unique sites downtown, this has been a combination of opportunity and our ability to see potential in sites that had been overlooked or perceived as too difficult (Massey is a case in point). Our strategy in acquiring sites has always been to find transit-oriented sites in the best locations. This does not preclude us from one day doing a master-planned community.
CL: Any interest in expanding elsewhere, say in Vaughan or elsewhere in the 905 where condo demand is also growing?
Lalani: Quite simply, yes. It would depend on the location and site itself.
CL: What signature MOD features exist in all your projects… say, key qualities or characteristics that speak to your mission and say, 'Yes, this is clearly a MOD development'?
Switzer: Architectural excellence, attention to detail (both on the exterior and interior), livability in the suites and an urbane presence in the neighbourhood.
CL: What have you learned from previous or current projects that you've made note of for future projects?
Switzer: In the end, the focus has to be on the suites and the future homeowners. We're in the business of building homes for real people. All design decisions revolve around that.
CL: How much is purpose-built rental a part of your business – currently and in the near future?
Lalani: We have co-developed two purpose-built rentals to date and are currently looking at another opportunity. We believe that a healthy housing market has to include purpose-built rental.
CL: What are the challenges and opportunities in the rental business?
Lalani: There are financial challenges in developing purpose-built rental in terms of equity requirements, which have made for-sale housing much more attractive to developers, to date. At the same time, the demand for new rental is so great, owing to immigration and high employment, and the development community has responded with more rental housing being built within the last few years than in the previous decade.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="328"] Artist’s rendering of tower at 55C Residences[/caption]
CL: What's next for MOD Developments?
Lalani: More and more great buildings!
And on a personal note...
You seem to have a unique partnership as CEO and president, with complementary skillsets. How does this benefit MOD Developments?
Lalani: Between my background as a lawyer, a banker and obtaining my MBA with a specialization in real estate finance and development, and Gary's background as an architect, planner and developer, MOD has the total "in-house" package: Experience in design, urban planning and development combined with sound business acumen and financial knowledge.
Gary, your background as an architect, city planner and developer is unique in the industry. How does this experience show up in your projects – say, in building inclusions, amenities, locations?
Switzer: My experience has helped MOD develop a reputation for producing buildings of the highest quality in terms of design, construction and customer service. We've learned how to push the envelope with respect to entitlements and produce buildings that set new standards in terms of not just height, but also suite design and concepts in amenities.
What insights did your time as a city planner provide you, say, in terms of how the 'system' works or ways to do things better, now that you're on the development side?
Switzer: It's much more difficult to develop buildings today as opposed to when I was a planner. When I was at Great Gulf and we won the Ontario Association of Architects Award of Excellence for "The Morgan" in 2005, this was at a time when there were no development charges, no Section 37 charges, park levies were half of what they are today, and approvals in the King and Spadina neighbourhood could be done through the committee of adjustment. Today, routine approvals can take two years. When I worked as a planner in the 1980s, it was much easier for planners to fast-track good projects. Unfortunately, today, city staff is laden with an overly-complicated approvals system that puts as much stress on them as it does on the developer. Focus has to be on simplifying the current process and emphasize good design.
PORTFOLIO
55C Residences
55 Charles St. E., Toronto
Coming soon
57 Spadina (rental)
57 Spadina Ave., Toronto
Coming soon
The Massey Tower
197 Yonge St., Toronto
Under construction
The Selby (rental)
592 Sherbourne St., Toronto
Under construction
Waterworks
505 Richmond St. W., Toronto
Under construction
moddevelopments.com
Saunacore is a world leader in the manufacturing of premium quality sauna and steam bath products. Saunacore manufactures sauna heaters, steam bath generators, far infrared sauna rooms, traditional indoor and outdoor saunas, material liner kits, accessories and much more.
Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.
We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.
With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.
Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.
Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.
The BLU GENES Foundation began because of a personal mission to find a cure for a rare and fatal genetic disorders called Tay-Sachs disease. But we quickly recognized a greater need. Many families are dealing with the impact of having a loved one who is affected by a rare genetic disorder.
The story behind the builder of Bear Creek Ridge in Barrie
Don Pratt is a Barrie boy, born and raised. Barrie is a thriving real estate market located 45 minutes north of Toronto. Much like the previous generations of his family, Don spent the majority of his life in construction in the Barrie area then passed the family building legacy on to his daughter Karen Pratt-Hansen and son-in-law Heljar Hansen.
Don recounts a grade school memory of being surrounded by peers as his teacher asked questions about career dreams. As the teacher went through the questions, Don didn’t raise his hand. The teacher asked him directly, “What do you want to do Don?” He simply responded “I want to build homes.”
The Pratt family has been building homes in Barrie since 1890 but Pratt Homes was founded by Don in the early 1970s. At the heart of the company is building attractive and affordable homes to help people achieve homeownership.
Heljar Hansen and Karen Pratt-Hansen with their children.
The Pratt family legacy began when Stephen Pratt emigrated from England in 1890 and constructed two houses in the Cundles Heights area of Barrie. Don was inspired by his family history and when he took over the family business in the mid 1970s, he evolved from building houses to creating communities.
Don and his wife Chris started Pratt Homes in their basement. They created a logo and began a new legacy and now Pratt Homes is the largest homebuilder in Barrie. To this day, Pratt Homes continues to be a family business that creates meaningful communities while supporting industries, families, charities and organizations.
Karen and Heljar sit in the boardroom at Pratt Homes’ Head Office. The entire office is meticulously designed including photography from Peter Lik in every room. There is a gorgeous reclaimed barn wood table; wood acquired from the Pratt family farm. As you enter the boardroom you’re greeted by a picture called “Sacred Sunrise” taken of Cayonlands National Park in Utah. The photograph commands your attention.
The pair are positioned beside each other prepared to recollect memories of the pinnacle moments that built the foundation for The Pratt Hansen Group.
THE EARLY YEARS
Karen Pratt-Hansen has a proud demeanor when discussing her childhood in construction. “The family has always been in construction. It’s been my life. It’s what I know,” she says.
Karen remembers her mom as the chief cook and bottle washer who kept things on track.
“My mom was an integral part of Pratt Homes as well as teaching me about business,” says Karen. “She showed me how to dress professionally because a Pratt Homes representative must care about their presentation.”
When Karen and her brother were younger, they asked for a withdrawal from the bank of dad. The result was different than anticipated. “Mom and dad gathered up cleaning materials, put us in the car, stopped at one of our model homes and said they’d be back once it was clean.”
The Pratts had a family tradition: they children were first to view new model homes. They proudly they walked through the home their dad built, praised the gorgeous decorating their mom did and then played in the kids room.
Karen remembers her parents steering her towards the family business. “Even when I was thinking about practicing law, my parents encouraged me to be a real estate lawyer.”
HOW IT STARTED
Karen embarked upon a journey most students can only dream of and attended university in Australia, majoring in law. During her schooling Karen met her future husband, Heljar Hansen, a Norwegian descendant who obtained his Australian residency to get his MBA and minor in computer sciences.
Unfortunately, in early 2002 Heljar lost his mother and Heljar and Karen went to Norway for the funeral. “It was a very sad time for my family. We honoured and celebrated my mother’s life.” says Heljar.
While in Norway, Karen received a call from her parents sending their condolences and asking if they could stop in Barrie on their way back to Australia; Karen and Heljar agreed. It was during the stopover that Don and Chris Pratt announced that retirement was on the horizon and Karen, Heljar and Karen’s brother should be their successors.
“We were both thinking about living in Australia. Karen had applied for her residency and I already had mine. We weren’t considering moving to Barrie and running the business.” says Hansen.
“I loved living overseas but I missed my family,” Karen says. “I missed Barrie. It was my home.”
Karen wanted to put down roots where her family created a legacy. Karen and Heljar made the decision together; they would take the risk and return to Canada.
A NEW ERA
Heljar and Karen moved to Barrie in November, 2002. Heljar remembers it well — it snowed for five straight months. They returned home on Friday and Monday started at Pratt Homes. Don drove Heljar to the construction site and introduced him to the site superintendent. “Meet my son-in-law, teach him about building,” Don said. Judging by the look on the super’s face, Heljar was positive Don hadn’t informed him until that moment.
“When we came back from Australia, we were learning the business. Dad was still running things. The goal was to take over but we didn’t want the learning curve to be too much,” recalls Pratt- Hansen. Karen and Heljar wanted to ensure the ownership transition didn’t have a negative impact on the business.
“We jumped into the deep end of the pool,” Heljar continues. “We knew we could handle the challenge, we’re not afraid of hard work but to be honest, we felt overwhelmed.” The family worked together to make the transition as seamless as possible.”
Karen learned to manage the business while Heljar was learning construction. They then worked with the sales manager, learning the system that drives the entire machine.
“In the early years we did everything,” notes Karen. “During the week we were at head office, on the weekend at the sales office handing out brochures.”
“We even cleaned houses before predelivery inspections,” Heljar adds.
It took under two years for the Pratt-Hansens to transition ownership of the family business to the Pratt Hansen Group.
A LOOK TO THE FUTURE
Karen and Heljar are leading Pratt Homes during exciting times. The company is designing a new product line, preparing to launch new communities and just released their new brand.
“The fact that the brand has evolved says something about the business because we’ve changed,” Heljar says.
Karen had a great attachment to the previous logo because her dad created it, but she has confidence. “The way the community has embraced our new direction has given me great comfort.”
Karen and Heljar are doing things the Pratt-Hansen way. “We love change. We love doing things new, different and better,” Karen says. “That has been a philosophy of ours but it was different when we evolved the brand. The logo was a foundation of what previous generations built before us.”
“But just because the logo changes doesn’t mean the foundation changes. We’re an innovative company that makes fresh new changes but we also believe in tradition,” Heljar adds.
The Pratt family legacy has become the Pratt-Hansen family legacy. Karen and Heljar hope their kids will continue the family business. Both kids attend community opening and closing events as well as clean homes before predelivery inspections. When it comes to the next generation of Pratt Homes, the preparation work is happening with mom and dad’s help.
“We can only hope. We’re not going to force them, but hopefully they’ve seen what we do and what we’ve done,” says Heljar. “We’ll support them in whatever they want to do but hopefully they want to build.”
Karen feels similarly. “I think, like us, they may go off in their own directions and pursue their own paths, but if, one day, they get a feeling in their gut and remember what it was like to be a part of what we’ve done, we hope they come home to the family business.”
WHAT’S CURRENT AT PRATT HOMES
Pratt Homes has just released for sale Bear Creek Ridge, a family neighbourhood in southwest Barrie. This release of freehold towns, freehold detached and condominiums — priced from the mid $200,000s — is the first look at Pratt Homes’ newly designed floorplans and exteriors. In Bear Creek Ridge, Pratt Homes has blended together traditional, modern and hybrid exterior designs creating Barrie’s most visually stunning community. So far, purchasers are thrilled to see the fresh new look and are quickly buying up the new homes.
Coming in 2018, Pratt Homes will be releasing an incredibly innovative community called Bistro 6, Culinary Inspired Condo Living. Bistro 6 will be located inside Pratt Homes’ newest neighbourhood, Hewitt’s Gate.
PRATT HOMES
Go online to register and to find out more about all of Pratt Homes’ communities.
Registration is open for the 2020 NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS), the largest annual home renovation and residential construction show in the world. The show, owned and operated by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) offers special registration discounts for international delegations.
IBS will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center, Jan. 21 to 23, where it will again co-locate with the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) for the seventh annual Design & Construction Week (DCW). The two shows are expected to host more than 2,000 exhibiting brands spanning more than one million net sq. ft. of exhibit space, for the largest annual gathering of the residential design and construction industry.
“It’s our goal for the NAHB International Builders’ Show to be the event of the year for our members and industry professionals,” says NAHB Chairman Greg Ugalde, a homebuilder and developer from Torrington, Conn. “Nowhere else will you find top-level education sessions, a variety of networking opportunities, special events and an exhibit hall full of innovative products all in one place. This is truly an event you can’t miss.”
Attendees with a full conference registration will have access to more than 150 education sessions led by renowned experts on a wide range of industry topics. New this year, Master Workshops, previously known as Master Sessions, will be held on Monday, Jan. 20, the day before the show officially kicks off as part of pre-show education and will be open to all registered show attendees for an additional fee.
IBS will again feature six Centrals that offer specific areas of focus within the building industry with their own schedule of events. A variety of activities are available inside the Centrals including workshops, networking events, roundtable discussions and guided product tours of the exhibit hall. The High-Performance Building Zone will feature real-world construction demonstrations, and IBS Live will host presentations focused on what’s next in homebuilding. Additionally, the IBS show floor will feature the CEDIA Pavilion, a space showcasing exhibitors which specialize in technology solutions for the home.
The 2020 show will kick off on the morning of Jan. 21 with an Opening Ceremonies event featuring basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson. That evening, OMNIA Nightclub at Caesars Palace will host the Official IBS House Party. Other events throughout the week include the Young Pro Party Wednesday night at On The Record at Park MGM, followed by the IBS Closing Concert Thursday night with a performance by award-winning rock band, the Doobie Brothers.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour NAHB’s official IBS show homes, The New American Home (TNAH) and The New American Remodel (TNAR). The homes are designed to showcase innovative building technologies, emerging design trends and the latest building products. The showcase products in the homes are provided by members of the NAHB Leading Suppliers Council.
Groups of five or more international IBS registrants can take advantage of exclusive registration discounts and special show benefits when starting a delegation. Delegates receive complimentary expo pass registrations for their group, as well as discounts on 1-day education and full registrations. For a full list of offerings, visit: buildersshow.com/delegation.
The NAHB International Builders’ Show is not open to the general public. Renovation professionals and their affiliates are invited to register by visiting the show’s website at buildersshow.com.
Owned and operated by two generations of the Passero family, Silvergate has carefully nurtured a reputation for exceptional quality and a commitment to customer service.
Housing markets in Southern Ontario will lead in home price growth this year, and are expected to continue to do so in 2020, according to a new report from ReMax.
All-electric fireplace showroom and design centre with the largest selection in Toronto and York Region. Combining specialized expertise with over 20 years' interior design experience. On-wall, in-wall, fireboxes, retrofit inserts, mantels, custom cabinetry, stone and brick veneers. Residential and commercial. Trade and volume inquiries always welcome.
X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.
Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.
From a modest machine shop in Baltimore to the surface of the moon, we’ve proudly provided innovative solutions for over a century. Discover the pioneering history of BLACK+DECKER.
Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.
Saunacore is a world leader in the manufacturing of premium quality sauna and steam bath products. Saunacore manufactures sauna heaters, steam bath generators, far infrared sauna rooms, traditional indoor and outdoor saunas, material liner kits, accessories and much more.
Canadian Appliance Source has become the fastest growing provider of Major Home Appliances in Canada for over 10 years, we have grown to include over 13 locations across Ontario & Quebec.
Since 1873, Kohler Co. has been improving the level of gracious living by providing exceptional products and services for our customers’ homes and their lifestyles.
Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.
With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.
By becoming the standard bearer in the basement renovation industry, we can promote quality materials, professional trades, honest pricing, and better communication standards to create customer advocates and inspire our competitors.
Located in the heart of Durham Region but just east of Toronto, Pickering and Ajax comprise one of the fastest growing areas in Ontario.
Pickering, for example, with a population already at about 94,000, is expected to grow to 190,000 people by 2031, drawn by the city's divers and stable economy. Pickering is home to a variety of national and international companies, in industries such as energy, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and pharmaceutical.
The area also has available land and space to facilitate this growth. The Pickering Innovation Corridor boasts 800 acres of greenfield, prestige employment land, located along a limited access transportation route directly adjacent to the site of the future Pickering Airport.
Pickering is in major transition, with new growth targets set for the city. The new and developing community of Seaton, for example, is preparing to welcome 70,000 new residents and 35,000 new jobs.
Neighbouring Ajax is similarly prosperous, as the town has a well-deserved reputation for progressive thinking. Among the major projects underway is a redevelopment of the downtown, with new public spaces at Pat Bayly Square.
The future of downtown Ajax comprises a focus on "active, livable, innovative, vibrant and eco-focused," according to the Town.
Lowrise living
Still sometimes considered suburbs of Toronto, Pickering and Ajax appeal to those in search of single-family and other ground-oriented homes, since, well, there is new lowrise home development in the area. And, like elsewhere in the GTA, "missing-middle" type housing such as townhomes, as well as condos, are also gaining popularity here.
Nautical Village, on Pickering's waterfront, is a welcome natural amenity enjoyed by residents, with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as a splash pad and park. An expansive waterfront trail runs along Frenchman's Bay and during the summer, Millennium Square hosts open air concerts.
Pickering and Ajax boast a number of golf courses, including Glen Cedars, Hawthorne Valley, Seaton Golf, Pickering Golf Club and Watsons' Glen.
Ajax is home to Ontario's only quarter horse racetrack, Ajax Downs, and for those who really love games of chance, there's Casino Ajax.
Live and love in nature
Pickering is blessed with a natural location along Lake Ontario, with kilometres of waterfront greenspace. Add in more than 85 parks, sports fields and trails, as well as three conservation areas, public areas around Frenchman's Bay and the Hydro Marsh, and it's all a pretty unbeatable locale for nature lovers.
Ajax boasts its own expansive system of cycling and walking trails totally 74 kms. Veterans' Point Garden commemorates the town's history and is dedicated to the HMS Ajax, the DIL Plant and the employees who lived in Ajax during the World War II.
And being so close to Toronto, Pickering and Ajax naturally benefit from the transit and highway infrastructure expansion taking place in the area. Durham Region Transit and GO Transit, as well as Hwy. 401 as the main arterial hub west to the DVP into Toronto or east to Hwy. 115, getting around, to and from Durham Region has never been easier.
Location, location, location
Pickering and Ajax are located just east of Toronto in Durham Region; Pickering population, 94,000; Ajax population, 119,670
Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.
We are the market leader in the manufacturing of skylights and roof windows. It is a result of our intense focus on creating the best quality, most energy efficient daylighting products available.
As a cooperative with 1,000 stores worldwide, we not only have enormous buying power, but we have partners in all of the major brands, mills and manufacturers.
SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.
We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.
IMPROVE is totally unique to Canada. Based on the international success of similar concepts throughout the world, IMPROVE understands how to make home improvement much easier and more pleasurable for consumers and trades to shop all under one roof.
Through our customer feedback, we have learned the importance of ‘service’. You said and we listened. We addressed your needs and improvised; bringing you services and quality no one in the industry offers.
Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.
Shelter Furniture recognizes your individual style and are sensitive to your space and your vision for your home. With our in store design services, we help you create unique space that helps bring your home to life.
Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.
At Riobel we design, create and assemble faucets, shower systems and accessories in our Canadian facility located in St-Jérôme, a suburb of Montréal. Our modern and fashionable products are designed to fit all kitchens or bathrooms. They are easy to install, while mechanical parts are accessible from above the counter to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Riobel: a benchmark of excellence since 1995!
HomeStars is a free service to help homeowners find reputable renovators, repairmen and retailers by searching its database of 2 million companies and hundreds of thousands of reviews.
For over 50 years, Faema Canada has introduced the art of traditional Italian Espresso and Cappuccino to Canadians. We carry a variety of premium brands that can be tested at any one of our retail stores. Our selection of machines is only complemented by our assortment of fine espresso blends imported from Italy. Our wide selection of beans can also be brewed and sampled at all of our locations.
HomeFest will inspire you to see the potential of your home and the ways you can mesh your living space with your life stage to create a vibe that is more in-tune to you.
Bear Creek Ridge is a new family-oriented community in southwest Barrie
It’s been over two years since new freehold homes have been released for sale in Barrie and now Pratt Homes is making it happen. In October, Bear Creek Ridge will launch freehold towns, freehold detached homes and condominiums.
Pratt Homes has completely innovated their product line with brand new floorplan designs accompanied by a stunning collection of traditional, hybrid and modern exteriors that will create some of the most unique streetscapes Barrie has seen. With prices starting in the upper 300,000s, it will pay to leave the GTA for a life in Barrie.
This past summer, Pratt Homes released their new brand evolution. Previously touted as “Barrie’s Largest Builder Since 1890,” the company is now intent on a more family-based approach with their evolved image of “Welcome to the Family.”
“Over the past year, we’ve focused on designing our brand and product line to be more inclusive of new home purchasers at every stage of their family lifecycle,” said Todd Palmer, marketing director for Pratt Homes. “It’s tough buying a new home and we want people to feel like we’re really taking care of them.”
This past winter, Pratt Homes received some great recognition for satisfying homeowners by being nominated for a Tarion Customer Satisfaction Award.
The new family focus will come to fruition this fall when they release their upcoming new neighbourhood Bear Creek Ridge.
“We have condominiums, freehold townhomes and freehold detached homes ranging from 606 square feet right up to 3,000 square feet,” said sales director Cynthia Grassing. “We’re offering a new home to accommodate families of every size.”
Bear Creek Ridge is located in southwest Barrie at the corner of Salem Road and Essa Road. It’s conveniently located only a few minutes from Barrie’s south-end restaurants and shopping. It’s also right around the corner from the Holly Recreation Centre.
Bear Creek Ridge is a 10-minute drive from Barrie’s beautiful waterfront, the downtown core with Barrie nightlife, independent Restaurateurs, the GO Transit station and four swimmable beaches with walking trails.
Barrie is only a 45-minute trip north of the GTA up Highway 400, which puts you closer to the largest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga Beach, the incredible skiing of Blue Mountain in Collingwood and at the front door of the Muskoka Cottage country. Plus Barrie is surrounded by some of the best golf courses and bike trails you’ll ever see.
PRATT HOMES Bear Creek Ridge
Go online and register today to get a sneak peek before the grand opening.
Registration is open for the 2020 NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS), the largest annual home renovation and residential construction show in the world. The show, owned and operated by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) offers special registration discounts for international delegations.
IBS will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center, Jan. 21 to 23, where it will again co-locate with the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) for the seventh annual Design & Construction Week (DCW). The two shows are expected to host more than 2,000 exhibiting brands spanning more than one million net sq. ft. of exhibit space, for the largest annual gathering of the residential design and construction industry.
“It’s our goal for the NAHB International Builders’ Show to be the event of the year for our members and industry professionals,” says NAHB Chairman Greg Ugalde, a homebuilder and developer from Torrington, Conn. “Nowhere else will you find top-level education sessions, a variety of networking opportunities, special events and an exhibit hall full of innovative products all in one place. This is truly an event you can’t miss.”
Attendees with a full conference registration will have access to more than 150 education sessions led by renowned experts on a wide range of industry topics. New this year, Master Workshops, previously known as Master Sessions, will be held on Monday, Jan. 20, the day before the show officially kicks off as part of pre-show education and will be open to all registered show attendees for an additional fee.
IBS will again feature six Centrals that offer specific areas of focus within the building industry with their own schedule of events. A variety of activities are available inside the Centrals including workshops, networking events, roundtable discussions and guided product tours of the exhibit hall. The High-Performance Building Zone will feature real-world construction demonstrations, and IBS Live will host presentations focused on what’s next in homebuilding. Additionally, the IBS show floor will feature the CEDIA Pavilion, a space showcasing exhibitors which specialize in technology solutions for the home.
The 2020 show will kick off on the morning of Jan. 21 with an Opening Ceremonies event featuring basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson. That evening, OMNIA Nightclub at Caesars Palace will host the Official IBS House Party. Other events throughout the week include the Young Pro Party Wednesday night at On The Record at Park MGM, followed by the IBS Closing Concert Thursday night with a performance by award-winning rock band, the Doobie Brothers.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour NAHB’s official IBS show homes, The New American Home (TNAH) and The New American Remodel (TNAR). The homes are designed to showcase innovative building technologies, emerging design trends and the latest building products. The showcase products in the homes are provided by members of the NAHB Leading Suppliers Council.
Groups of five or more international IBS registrants can take advantage of exclusive registration discounts and special show benefits when starting a delegation. Delegates receive complimentary expo pass registrations for their group, as well as discounts on 1-day education and full registrations. For a full list of offerings, visit: buildersshow.com/delegation.
The NAHB International Builders’ Show is not open to the general public. Renovation professionals and their affiliates are invited to register by visiting the show’s website at buildersshow.com.
Owned and operated by two generations of the Passero family, Silvergate has carefully nurtured a reputation for exceptional quality and a commitment to customer service.
Housing markets in Southern Ontario will lead in home price growth this year, and are expected to continue to do so in 2020, according to a new report from ReMax.
Through our customer feedback, we have learned the importance of ‘service’. You said and we listened. We addressed your needs and improvised; bringing you services and quality no one in the industry offers.
All-electric fireplace showroom and design centre with the largest selection in Toronto and York Region. Combining specialized expertise with over 20 years' interior design experience. On-wall, in-wall, fireboxes, retrofit inserts, mantels, custom cabinetry, stone and brick veneers. Residential and commercial. Trade and volume inquiries always welcome.
IMPROVE is totally unique to Canada. Based on the international success of similar concepts throughout the world, IMPROVE understands how to make home improvement much easier and more pleasurable for consumers and trades to shop all under one roof.
Since 1873, Kohler Co. has been improving the level of gracious living by providing exceptional products and services for our customers’ homes and their lifestyles.
Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.
At Riobel we design, create and assemble faucets, shower systems and accessories in our Canadian facility located in St-Jérôme, a suburb of Montréal. Our modern and fashionable products are designed to fit all kitchens or bathrooms. They are easy to install, while mechanical parts are accessible from above the counter to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Riobel: a benchmark of excellence since 1995!
By becoming the standard bearer in the basement renovation industry, we can promote quality materials, professional trades, honest pricing, and better communication standards to create customer advocates and inspire our competitors.
Saunacore is a world leader in the manufacturing of premium quality sauna and steam bath products. Saunacore manufactures sauna heaters, steam bath generators, far infrared sauna rooms, traditional indoor and outdoor saunas, material liner kits, accessories and much more.
HomeStars is a free service to help homeowners find reputable renovators, repairmen and retailers by searching its database of 2 million companies and hundreds of thousands of reviews.
With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.
Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.
For over 50 years, Faema Canada has introduced the art of traditional Italian Espresso and Cappuccino to Canadians. We carry a variety of premium brands that can be tested at any one of our retail stores. Our selection of machines is only complemented by our assortment of fine espresso blends imported from Italy. Our wide selection of beans can also be brewed and sampled at all of our locations.
As a cooperative with 1,000 stores worldwide, we not only have enormous buying power, but we have partners in all of the major brands, mills and manufacturers.
Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.
Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.
Shelter Furniture recognizes your individual style and are sensitive to your space and your vision for your home. With our in store design services, we help you create unique space that helps bring your home to life.
From a modest machine shop in Baltimore to the surface of the moon, we’ve proudly provided innovative solutions for over a century. Discover the pioneering history of BLACK+DECKER.
We are the market leader in the manufacturing of skylights and roof windows. It is a result of our intense focus on creating the best quality, most energy efficient daylighting products available.
SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.
Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.
We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.
Located in the heart of Durham Region but just east of Toronto, Pickering and Ajax comprise one of the fastest growing areas in Ontario.
Pickering, for example, with a population already at about 94,000, is expected to grow to 190,000 people by 2031, drawn by the city's divers and stable economy. Pickering is home to a variety of national and international companies, in industries such as energy, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and pharmaceutical.
The area also has available land and space to facilitate this growth. The Pickering Innovation Corridor boasts 800 acres of greenfield, prestige employment land, located along a limited access transportation route directly adjacent to the site of the future Pickering Airport.
Pickering is in major transition, with new growth targets set for the city. The new and developing community of Seaton, for example, is preparing to welcome 70,000 new residents and 35,000 new jobs.
Neighbouring Ajax is similarly prosperous, as the town has a well-deserved reputation for progressive thinking. Among the major projects underway is a redevelopment of the downtown, with new public spaces at Pat Bayly Square.
The future of downtown Ajax comprises a focus on "active, livable, innovative, vibrant and eco-focused," according to the Town.
Lowrise living
Still sometimes considered suburbs of Toronto, Pickering and Ajax appeal to those in search of single-family and other ground-oriented homes, since, well, there is new lowrise home development in the area. And, like elsewhere in the GTA, "missing-middle" type housing such as townhomes, as well as condos, are also gaining popularity here.
Nautical Village, on Pickering's waterfront, is a welcome natural amenity enjoyed by residents, with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as a splash pad and park. An expansive waterfront trail runs along Frenchman's Bay and during the summer, Millennium Square hosts open air concerts.
Pickering and Ajax boast a number of golf courses, including Glen Cedars, Hawthorne Valley, Seaton Golf, Pickering Golf Club and Watsons' Glen.
Ajax is home to Ontario's only quarter horse racetrack, Ajax Downs, and for those who really love games of chance, there's Casino Ajax.
Live and love in nature
Pickering is blessed with a natural location along Lake Ontario, with kilometres of waterfront greenspace. Add in more than 85 parks, sports fields and trails, as well as three conservation areas, public areas around Frenchman's Bay and the Hydro Marsh, and it's all a pretty unbeatable locale for nature lovers.
Ajax boasts its own expansive system of cycling and walking trails totally 74 kms. Veterans' Point Garden commemorates the town's history and is dedicated to the HMS Ajax, the DIL Plant and the employees who lived in Ajax during the World War II.
And being so close to Toronto, Pickering and Ajax naturally benefit from the transit and highway infrastructure expansion taking place in the area. Durham Region Transit and GO Transit, as well as Hwy. 401 as the main arterial hub west to the DVP into Toronto or east to Hwy. 115, getting around, to and from Durham Region has never been easier.
Location, location, location
Pickering and Ajax are located just east of Toronto in Durham Region; Pickering population, 94,000; Ajax population, 119,670
X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.
Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.
Canadian Appliance Source has become the fastest growing provider of Major Home Appliances in Canada for over 10 years, we have grown to include over 13 locations across Ontario & Quebec.