It is an eye-catching revelation at the border of the city’s industrial zone, but at the same time its architecture matches perfectly with the modern steel-and-glass design of Genesis Place recreation centre next door.

“It really has distinctive architecture, but at the same time it carries the theme that began with Genesis Place, it blends well with its surroundings,” says Lisa Thomas of Renascence Development, the Kelowna, B.C.-based developer that has built a name creating some of the most contemporary multi-family projects in Alberta and B.C. THE edge is their first project in Airdrie.

Even better than its eye-pleasing aesthetics is its location next to the $12 million Genesis Place sports, recreation and leisure complex. Residents don’t have to bear with high condo fees because they have to maintain lavish in-house amenities like gyms, because THE edge is already beneficially located next to the best fitness centre in town.

“A lot of new developments foist these additional shared amenities to their residents which only brings condo fees higher, but at THE edge you live next door to Genesis Place which has six pools, including hot tubs and dive tanks, the latest exercise equipment (iPod ready), tennis courts, hockey arena — it’s all here!” says THE edge’s Sales Manager, Julie Dempsey.

“Our residents can also create closer ties to the community through this, because it brings them in contact with other residents of Airdrie. It makes for a really close and tight-knit environment,” she adds. “We see it as a great opportunity for our residents to interact with the greater community through sports and fitness.”

THE edge is a four-storey, two-building contemporary condominium community that will have a total of 119 units when complete. It lies adjacent to East Lake and East Lake Park, which has also created a peaceful environment for residents, and one that encourages an active lifestyle. “Residents in the second building that is soon to begin construction will get beautiful views of the lake and the nearby mountains,” Thomas says.

Unique architecture, edgy style, and open floor plans are the signature aspects of the project. Nine-foot ceilings, designer finishes (in four colour schemes), five appliances and heated underground parking (for two-bedroom units) are all standard.

A variety of one-bedroom to two-bedroom plus den suites are still available ranging from 622 square-feet to 1,050 square-feet. On the top floor only a few unique suites remain with 12-foot vaulted ceilings and magnificent mountain views to the west. Prices range from $181,900 to $231,900.

“We’re very affordable considering the value buyers get with each unit. Finishes are top of the line; sleek, clean lines predominate the design of each suite creating a real contemporary vibe,” Thomas adds. “It’s designed for people who crave urban living with peace of mind, who prefer being on the edge of city life.”

Thomas adds that they are attracting a lot of single professionals and young couples, as well as empty-nesters and retirees looking to downsize. “Our designs really appeal to a wide sector of the market. Plus, because of our location near Airdrie’s industrial area, we get a lot of interest from people who want to eliminate long commutes to work. Workers at the new CrossIron Mills in Balzac have also been interested because it really is that much closer to work.”

Phase one is 70 per cent sold and construction on phase two is anticipated to commence soon. Three new show suites were recently opened, which is expected to draw even more potential buyers. “We have been extremely busy over the past few months and now with the opening of the new show suites, we expect to really gain ground.”

Most of the popular floor plans are still available in phase two and interested parties are encouraged to reserve now to take advantage of preconstruction pricing. 

Fast Facts
Community: East Lake Industrial park
Project: THE edge
Developer: Renascence Development
Style: Apartment condos
Size: Starts at 622 sq. ft.
Price: Starts at $181,900
Address: 604 East Lake Blvd. N.E., Airdrie
Hours: Mon to Thurs – 1 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays – noon to 5 p.m.
Website: http://www.livingattheedge.ca