West Block in Glenora: A host’s paradise
Already one of Edmonton’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, the feel of fashionable living in Glenora will be reinforced at West Block, thanks in part to the abundance of amenities available for entertaining friends and colleagues alike. Situated in the western portion of the area, along 142 Street and Stony Plain Road, West Block will be comprised of three residential high-rise condominium towers, as well as stacked townhouses and a three-storey commercial building that will provide additional retail space directly on-site – all conducive to creating a seamless atmosphere for entertaining, whether it be for a birthday party, holiday celebration, game night with friends or a work event.
ENTERTAINING IN YOUR UNIT
Ranging from 1,060 sq. ft. to 1,902 sq. ft., and with private outdoor terraces averaging an additional 200 sq. ft., all residences within the luxury high-rise condo units will have ample space with the convenience, ease and benefits of high-rise living. “The open concept offers an impressive sense of arrival when greeting guests, looking opulent, spacious and sleek,” describes Jennifer Jordan, Principal and interior designer at Jennifer Jordan Designs. “It creates a spacious connection between the fireplace and lounge, the dedicated bar area and the dining room and kitchen for hosting either a larger group or a more intimate gathering.” Having been involved in the West Block design from the very beginning, Jordan has contributed to all the suite layouts, with thoughtful planning and consideration of the smallest details with the residents’ needs in mind. “This open concept design connects the party in the kitchen to the rest of the suite,” she says. “The bar area allows for another entertainment zone, and the TV and fireplace in the open area is perfect for a game night. “Each of the suites is also furnished with top-of-theline amenities and premium finishes and appliances, as well as enormous islands that provide the perfect perch or buffet space in the well-appointed chef’s kitchen.” And for residents looking to entertain outdoors but within their own suites, the private terraces can provide an idyllic setting throughout the changing seasons. “This indoor / outdoor relationship is offered to connect the kitchen and hearth of home with the outdoor cooking and seasonal patio space,” says Jordan of the outdoor terrace that is ideal for barbecuing and lounging with guests, all while enjoying views of the river valley and neighbouring tree canopy of Glenora.
ENTERTAINING IN THE BUILDING
For larger affairs, West Block offers plenty of options in the highrise towers for residents wanting to entertain within the building but not necessarily inside their own suites. To that end, West Block is comparable to an impressive luxury hotel experience. “Through every stage of this project our decisionmaking has been about what is going to create the best experiences for residents and their guests,” says Salima Kheraj, Chief Innovation Officer at Beaverbrook Group of Companies, the developers of West Block. “Everything from the high-end fixtures to the meticulously-crafted social spaces have been designed to make an impact.” The amenities within the buildings include The Club, which has an indoor portion containing a fitness room and a nearby flex room perfect for everything from a board meeting to a private yoga class. It can also act as a party room, with the adjacent catering kitchen, which allows residents to book out the facility and host a larger party – all while catering staff prepare and serve meals directly in the full kitchen. Receptions can be held in this area, also using the other side of the indoor section of the lounge, which contains a large TV, wet bar, poker table and pool table. The outdoor portion of The Club also features a covered area with an outdoor TV and other amenities, including cabana beds on the south-facing terrace and a fire table that can be used to stay warm even on the chilliest of fall evenings. And for friends of residents who are looking to spend the night at West Block, arrangements can be made to reserve the on-site hotel suite (complete with kitchenette) on the third floor, accommodating up to four guests at a time.
ENTERTAINING IN THE WEST BLOCK URBAN SQUARE
With a future LRT stop also located on site, West Block’s mixed-use urban square will become a hub of activity, drawing visitors from all over the city – including couples and individuals who will be able to live, work and socialize among their peers at West Block.
“West Block offers the true live-work-play model, and its location is ‘urban burb’ – not downtown, not suburban – but the perfect location to call home in an established community at the front door of downtown,” describes Jordan. The amenities within the urban square alone will provide residents and visitors with all the perks of living in a vibrant, pulsating neighbourhood by offering trendy new restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques virtually at their doorstep, allowing them to grab a bite to eat with friends on site before heading back to their suites to continue entertaining. “There’s premium grocery and bakeries nearby, plus full- and quickserve restaurant options, all offering convenient takeaway or catering options for residents,” says Jordan. To get a real appreciation of the West Block master plan, it’s best to visit their Presentation Centre on 143 Street and Stony Plain Road, where a scale model of the full development is available for viewing, including a fully built and furnished 1648 sq. ft. condo unit for visitors to walk through. Visit westblockglenora.ca for more details. Additional information can also be obtained by visiting the Beaverbrook Store at City Centre West, where visitors can view products and discuss the communities, designs, features and finishes with the Beaverbrook team.