LIGHT & DREAMY DESIGN
Alves Development creates a memorable `California casual' home in support of youth
Apparently, it's time for some California dreaming.
So on this winter's day when the sky might be grey — apologies to The Mamas and the Papas' song — there's a way for you to get a taste of California without heading to L.A., as the well-known tune says.
In place of travelling, one of the region's newest lottery homes transports you there with its California casual rendition. This grand prize home, in the 41st edition of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Dream Home Lottery, impeccably captures that West Coast feeling when you enter this open-concept bungalow.
“We wanted something new and fresh and that was different in the Edmonton marketplace,” said Lori Elms of Lori Elms Interiors, who worked on the lottery home by Alves Development. “Hopefully in doing so we created a memorable home that people are drawn to that is calming and inviting.”
At 3,331 square feet — 1,835 square feet on the main floor with the remainder on the finished lower level — this three bedroom, three bathroom equivalent home is valued at $1.25 million and comes fully furnished.
“Being comfortable at home has become more and more vital,” said Lisa Alves-antunes, Alves' COO. “This year's lottery home with gorgeous light, natural fabrics and soothing colour scheme perfectly fits the times. Our theme of California casual really translates to airy and light.”
The main floor conveys a spacious feeling with vaulted ceilings and beams. While pastel-like colours — the paint is primarily Benjamin Moore's Winds Breath OC24, described as an off-white — give the home a somewhat beachy feel, gold accents and wood trim add richness and warmth.
The kitchen includes a large, welcoming island with a white farm sink, high-end appliances and a butler's pantry. On the other end of the kitchen is a three-season room, great for entertaining.
The main floor master, meanwhile, temporarily leaves California behind, with the master itself going for an inviting French countryside theme.
Downstairs, the finished space is well appointed with two spacious bedrooms, a yoga room which takes you back to the California coast, an open theatre room, a wet bar and a feature wine closet.
There's also a perfect play space for the kids: a mini playroom that from the outside looks like a house's exterior.
Then there's the home's high efficiency side: integrated solar panels, an electric vehicle charging station and smart home features.
“Our homes have been energy efficient for years now but this year we decided to include the solar panels, EV charger and efficiencies in heating and gas that will make this house more affordable monthly for years to come,” said Alves-antunes.
The lottery is the largest annual fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters, with funds to provide mentoring and after-school programs for thousands of children and youth.
“We enjoy partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters because we support their mission of ensuring that all young people are provided opportunities to reach their full potential,” added Alves-antunes. “The huge numbers of kids they assist is a testament to the effectiveness of the organization and the wonderful work that they are able to do.”