SUNSHINE AND STYLE
Large windows, charming architecture star in well-designed Wembley duplex in Airdrie
A home that has both an attached garage and large front-facing window on its main level is an uncommon combination. But in a driveunder configuration, such as the Wembley by Excel Homes, both of these sought-after qualities are achieved.
The Wembley is a 1,493-squarefoot duplex with three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms that’s displayed as a show home in Chinook Gate, a new master-planned community by Brookfield Residential on the west end of Airdrie.
Its drive-under format means the garage is located on the ground level, below the main level. In this case, it’s accessed from the back of the home, which means the entire front elevation can focus on charming architecture and wellsized triple-pane windows.
The front of the Wembley stands out with a prominent window on each of its three storeys, including one that provides views of the front yard from the great room on the main floor.
The proportions of the U-shaped kitchen, located at the back of the main floor, are substantial. This makes it easier for meal preparation to be a team effort — with multiple people on different tasks and not crossing paths. The stretch of counter facing the central dining area has an eating bar with seating for three people.
Also featured in this functional cooking space is a pantry, fullheight backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, including an over the range microwave. The sink sits under a window that overlooks a rear-facing deck.
It’s easy to imagine the deck, stretching 18 feet by six feet, as a place to enjoy a coffee on a warm summer morning, or an after dinner glass of wine with friends.
The dining area boasts visual interest. Short walls on either side help define the space, while maintaining the overall open-concept of the main level. As displayed in the show home, the primary wall in the dining area is primed to be an accent feature. It’s shown with stylish wallpaper, but adding a paint colour that pops would do just as well.
With the foyer on the ground level instead of the main, someone can stand at the front door without having sight lines of the private ends of the home.
The garage is a tandem orientation, and located next to a flex room or storage space. Full of potential, the flex room can take on any role the homeowner needs, such as an office, yoga studio, exercise hub, or children’s toy room.
On the top level, the front-facing master bedroom is 11 feet six inches
by 11 feet five inches, and has an ensuite and walk-in closet.
The secondary bedrooms sit side-by-side and a few steps from both a full bathroom and laundry area with a stacked front-load washer and dryer.
Chinook Gate launched earlier this year. One of the benefits to its location is its proximity to Chinook Winds Regional Park. It features three playgrounds, a skate park, a multi-use court, volleyball courts, ball diamonds, a toboggan hill, and a spray park, according to the City of Airdrie website.