Calgary area: The Guardian by Hon Developments

Sales continue to climb along with the excitement as the finishing touches are being made to The Guardian, the newest landmark in the up-and-coming Victoria Park neighbourhood.

Crafted by Hon Developments, The Guardian consists of two towers, which are Calgary’s tallest residential buildings. The first tower – sold out and fully occupied – has been well-received by buyers.

“We’re very pleased with the response to the second tower as it’s now more than 60 per cent sold despite the economic downturn,” says Ernest Hon, director of sales and marketing. “Calgary and its people have proven to be resilient time and time again so we remain deeply confident in the continued growth and success of our city. We’re committed to this city and are in this for the long haul.”

Hon notes that buyers are excited to see the progression of construction on the second tower and the reassurance of timely completion. “We’re now in the process of completing the interiors of the suites, as well as the common area spaces, and we’ve just recently completed the sidewalks and landscaping of the building. We’re expecting to welcome the first residents of the second tower in September.”

The Guardian has a variety of plans available with one-bedrooms from 441 to 572 sq. ft., two-bedrooms from 809 to 979 sq. ft., and Paramount Suites up to 2,619 sq. ft.

“We’ve seen an almost equal spread of purchases across our suites,” Hon says. “Our one-bedrooms have sold particularly well to first-time buyers and young downtown professionals in the first stage of their career, which is bringing a lot of energy to the community. But our two-bedrooms have also proven quite attractive to established, professional couples.”

Each of the homes at The Guardian have floor-to-ceiling windows, modern open-concept interiors and large balconies offering downtown, river and mountain views.

A top selling feature is the spectacular kitchens that showcase high-end cabinetry manufactured in Italy by Armony Cucine that offers unparalleled quality, functionality and durability and quartz countertops. The appliances are sleekly integrated into the cabinetry and include a professional-grade induction cook top by Germany’s AEG. Elegant bathrooms are also highlighted by Armony Cucine cabinetry, frameless glass showers and a unique micro-mosaic tile feature wall.

“One thing we’re most proud of is the layout of our suites,” Hon says. “Our designers really focused on the floor plans, and optimized them to work with people’s lifestyles. Our living-room spaces are designed so there are no awkward corners; we’ve ensured these spaces are large and spacious.”

The Guardian’s exterior presents distinctive modern architecture with glass window walls and metal panels that, combined with its remarkable height, make a dramatic impact on the skyline. Onsite amenities include a fully-equipped fitness centre, workshop, social lounge and rooftop garden terrace.

Likely the biggest draw though is the location. The Guardian is adding hundreds of residents to Victoria Park, who are both benefiting from and spurring on new retail, restaurants and community spaces in the community.

“The streets are busier with people and Victoria Park is becoming an important and distinct neighbourhood between downtown and East Village,” Hon says. “Construction of the New Central Library is well underway, the National Music Centre just recently opened, and the cycle track has been completed to connect to Olympic Way. It’s a part of a wave of eastward urban development in Calgary that has been in process for years now, and has recently really come to life. And it’s only going to get more interesting.”