Townhouses: A viable option for everyone
June 10, 2019
Townhouse living today far surpasses the starter homes of generations gone by.
The ‘Shaughnessy Residences’ by Alabaster Homes, nominated as a finalist for five Ovation Awards including – Best New Kitchen: Under $50,000; Best Residential Community: Multi-Family, Best Townhouse/Rowhome Development (Production): 1,500 sq. ft. and over; and Best Interior Design Display Suite: Multi-Family Home – is an excellent example of an architectural style reminiscent of early 20th century Westside Craftsman homes.
The classic exterior boasts a curved gable-roofline enhanced by a secondary curved shed roof that creates a unique visual identity and timeless statement, complementing the surrounding neighbourhood. Once inside, one realizes the benefits of townhome living.
Featuring an efficient floorplan to maximize space for the needs of growing single- or multi-generational families, units include two to three generously sized bedrooms, private bathrooms, and a second-floor den that can be reconfigured as a home office or baby’s room.
The kitchen includes innovative storage solutions (a magic corner hardware turns the inside corner cabinet into a highly functional storage space in lower cabinets,) ample workspace, and state-of-the-art integrated Miele appliances for a streamlined and efficient work area.
The kitchen’s orientation and energy-efficient appliances promotes ecological living with large double-glazed windows strategically placed over the kitchen sink and on opposite sides of the home to provide maximal natural lighting and cross-ventilation. Private landscaped patios and decks for outdoor entertaining create a natural extension of living space. Direct access to the secure underground parking in the private garage provides added convenience and security.
Each home has an electric charging station, individually metered so owners can charge independent of the common strata circuit. A flex-room on the lower level, capable of being utilized as a bicycle storage and repair room, facilitates a sustainable commuting lifestyle.
Construction details meet or exceed Vancouver Building Bylaw and Built Green Gold-level best practices. When it comes to looking for your starter home, or maybe your forever home, townhomes provide viable options for all family configurations. When sourcing townhomes, it is a good idea to know your builder, and check their prior developments. The HAVAN Ovation Awards is a good starting point. These peer-reviewed awards are a nod in the right direction.
Visit ovationawards.ca to view Alabaster Homes and other industry-leading builders and designers.
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About Ron Rapp
Ron Rapp is the interim CEO of the Homebuilder Association of Vancouver (HAVAN)