For the new home purchasers of Hearthstone by the Bay that day can’t come soon enough. Phil McKenzie of Hearthstone Communities Limited (which will operate the Hearthstone Club amenities) pointed out that hundreds of retirement facilities were studied in order to come up with the right answers for the ultimate retirement residence. Combined with the condominium expertise of Davies Smith Developments, they were able to distill all that knowledge and develop an outstanding product. “People were always asked to compromise in retirement, and trade space for services,” said Phil, “At Hearthstone you own your own condominium and take on the services you want.”
Morris and Janet Bartlett are currently renting after selling their home. “We’re getting used to the condo lifestyle,” said Janet, “I miss my house, but not near as much as I thought I would.”
Both Morris and Janet are active and like to travel, but they didn’t want to have to move again later in life. The three things that sealed the deal for the Bartletts; was the location (they always wanted to live by the lake), the fact that they own their own suite, and the different level of services that were available to them at their discretion. “We really liked that we could purchase additional services as we require them,” said Morris.
The idea of owning holds special appeal to Audrey and Bill Coward, along with the extensive offering of graduated services. “If we want to cook in our kitchen or eat downstairs in the dining room – we can choose,” said Bill.
Bill likes to follow the migration of the swans and Audrey loves the butterfly park. Having access to the best trail in the city and being so close to the lake was important to the Cowards. Joan Kilgour is looking forward to enjoying the walking path, as well. “I don’t drive,” said Joan, “So the thought of having everything right there – medical, housekeeping, shopping, dry cleaners, etc. – it all sounded really good to me.”
Thelma Leadbeater was one of the first purchasers at Hearthstone. Her sons live at Palace Place and suggested she take a look, but she was hesitant and didn’t think she could afford it. “When I found out I could afford it, I bought it on the spot,” said Thelma. “It’s just perfect, and has everything I could think of.”
Roland Rom Colthoff of Quadrangle Architects was cognisant of the urban design guidelines that they had to deal with, but wanted to add colour to the predominantly monochromatic skyline, while being sympathetic to the other buildings in the area. With the lake as the focus, large terraces and wonderful outdoor spaces were integrated.
Inside this classic building, interior design specialist Alessandro Munge of Munge//Leung wanted to bring a level of sophistication to the lobby and common areas with a neutral palette.
Suites are priced from the low $200’s. One or two-bedroom layouts may include a den and all feature a relaxing sunroom. An extra large shower stall in the master bathroom, along with a resting seat and optional grab bars, are part of the considerate inclusions that are incorporated into the overall design. Luxurious appointments include five-inch crown mouldings, gourmet kitchens with modern appliances and custom cabinetry, plus in-suite laundry facilities.
After looking at more than 20 retirement places over the past year, Eric and Joan Glustein said that Hearthstone was the answer to their prayers, and Eric added that they can’t wait to move in. “This is our last move and it had to be good,” said Joan, “Everyone we dealt with was so professional. We had no doubts at all.”
“If you’re looking at renting over the long term, you tend to procrastinate,” said Phil McKenzie of Hearthstone Communities. “If you’re an owner, why would you wait?”
The sales office is located on Marine Parade Drive, just east of Parklawn Road. To book your appointment and to view the model suite, call 416-259-4466.
For information on Davies Smith’s accomplishments and company philosophy, visit www.davies-smith.com.
