Category: Apartments Calgary
The Best Apartment Bedding for Making Your Space Feel More Like You
The Best Apartment Bedding for Making Your Space Feel More Like You
If Apartments are known for one thing, it’s their less-than-ideal size. Having to share a room with several other people is never easy, but there are still ways to make a space your own, no matter how small it may be. This is, no doubt, a weird year for going back to school or starting University, but when you do finally move into your Apartment, the most important part of furnishing it is having comfortable bedding that makes your space feel cozy. Ultimately, you want your choice to turn your dorm into a place you’ll always feel good about going home to.
Because Apartments are usually pretty limited in space, creating a sleeping and studying arrangement that works for you is extremely important. I’m not just talking a set of sheets here either but all the bells and whistles that’ll make your experience more comfortable, whether that’s through special pillows, relaxing foam toppers, or comforters with pockets for corralling your bedside essentials. Below you’ll find 5 different bedding items to help you set up the perfect space for everything from snoozing to snacking.
1. Printed microfiber sheet set
Soft sheets are one thing, but soft sheets that come in cool patterns make all the difference. Since the price for this set is so wallet-friendly, you might as well stock up with two or three styles so you can switch it up when you’re wanting a different vibe.
2. Favorite tee striped reversible duvet bundle
Buying a coordinating set makes things much easier than trying to source everything on your dorm supplies list piecemeal. This kit’s basic bundle comes with a sheet set, sham, and duvet cover. The deluxe builds on the basic with a bath towel set and a water-resistant shower caddy, both of which will be much needed.
3. Ribbed plush bed blanket
You can’t always count on those old radiators to keep you warm when fall and winter roll around. Instead, you can bet on this ultra soft and cozy blanket to wrap yourself in. Be warned though this throw may make it harder to roll out of bed for class!
4. Memory foam lavender-infused mattress topper
Having a foam topper can make a world of a difference in how well you sleep. If you suffer from insomnia or are often under a lot of stress, this special topper is infused with lavender to calm you down when you curl up.
5. Greenery duvet set
While you might not be able to take all your plant babies with you to college, you can at least channel their vibrant green color through your bedspread. This stylish leaf patterned duvet cover also comes with one pillowcase in its Twin XL size and doesn’t require sunlight or regular watering (other than washing)!
TIME TO TALK RENTALS AT UNIVERSITY DISTRICT
Taking a Big Step: Rent with Confidence and Pride
Picking up the fresh set of keys to a new home is a joyous milestone in life, whether you’re renting or buying. And there are a number of reasons to decide to rent. Maybe it has to do with your stage of life: Are you on your own for the first time? A downsizing senior? Or moving with your partner into your ‘first place together’? Or, maybe you need the flexibility that a rental apartment provides. And there is always the perk of easy, maintenance-free living!
Rental living affords huge possibilities for residents who aren’t in the market to buy at this time. Whatever your reason for renting, the options at U/D are plentiful. And we have a few suggestions to get you to that point with confidence so you’re moving with your best foot forward!
What’s New? Introducing Aria!
At U/D, we’re excited to welcome our own amenity-rich, purpose-built rental building called Aria by builder partner Gracorp Properties which is now leasing. Aria features 288-units with one, two- and three-bedroom rentals.
Did you know that it’s also pet-friendly with a fenced-in dog run and wash area?
Have a look here at what life could be like at Aria!
As residents begin to move into Aria in Fall 2020, we know there’s a process and commitment that comes with deciding on the right rental apartment for you at just the right time.
It can be overwhelming, like any move to a new home. Questions swirl in your head as you think: what kind of rental unit suits my needs now? Is it long-term? How many bedrooms do I need, and how much space? Because that determines affordability and looking at a budget is always a good idea. From the amenities nearby, to ground-level to top-floor, and all of the necessities in between, there are many aspects to consider.
But to help make the experience of renting a little simpler we’ve put together some tricks and tips from the trade to be rent-savvy!
Where to Begin on This Rental Journey?
Let’s get down to the brass tacks of renting. Understanding how to approach the rental market can result in a smoother, more cost-efficient and organized journey as you make the big move. First, take a moment to think about what home means to you. Imagine what that looks like, whether it’s the surrounding community and amenities, to cost of living, and the interior design.
Make a list of what those must-haves are, but also identify what things you can compromise on.
Community is Everything
Next, think about your location. Does it matter? If you’ve lived in Calgary for a while or are a lifelong Calgarian, chances are you probably prefer a certain quadrant of the city to live in. Start your rental home hunt there. Everyone has a personal motivation, whether it be staying close to family, creature comforts or beloved local hotspots. Or maybe now is the time to mix it up! Switch schools, live closer to work, or be closer to the mountains! It could be time to cue a change!
There are many reasons to consider the established and growing Northwest, especially University District: proximity to the mountains, the prevalence of parks and handy urban trails, and being close to the University of Calgary! Have a look at our great Northwest guide that will let you shop, play, eat and explore our area of the city.
Tip: Knowing the communities you would want to live in can help determine your budget and what’s available. Here are some considerations when looking at your top choices for a community:
- walkability
- commute time
- amenities
- schools
- healthcare
- public transportation
- views
- inner-city or the suburbs
Make a list and order the importance. Then, spend a day or two in and around the community and see if it feels like home. Have a look to see what’s around like cafes, restaurants, schools, parks and shops! Step into the shoes of a local and think, ‘Is this for me?’
Now, What Can You Afford?
Enter the renting process with a budget in mind to help determine your price range with confidence based on your income. Also, factor costs like utilities, insurance and security deposits.
Tip: A financial plan is key so you can see what the big picture will look like once you move into your home. Apply the 50/30/20 budgeting guideline: allocate 50% to your needs, 30% to your wants, and 20% to your savings. Visit a bank and work with a financial advisor to learn what makes sense for your needs and with your income as budgeting is different for everyone.
If you’re looking to rent at U/D, find the bank around the corner to help with all of your banking needs! Scotiabank will be moving into the community as part of our retail offering, and it has specialty services and savings plans that might suit your needs. Thinking of owning a home down the road? Take a look at their rent versus mortgage calculator!
Tip: After you find your home and move in, get organized so you can really enjoy the benefits of a fresh start rather than managing clutter. Need some suggestions on what to do? Have a look at these fresh tips from local company The Space Reclaimers!
Shop Around
Once you’ve narrowed down your preferred location and budget, the true search begins and what we think is one of the most fun parts of the search! Research which rental properties are available and start scheduling walk-throughs to see the homes first-hand. Take some time to walk around the building to get a better sense of place. It’s okay to trust your instinct when falling in love with a home! The same goes for the home layout, wear-and-tear, privacy, security, parking, and storage.
Tip: Create a list of questions that you have for the landlord. Remember: there are no silly questions! Here is a list to start: May I paint the walls? Are there move-in, move-out policies to be aware? Will the apartment be professionally cleaned before possession? Just a few things to consider for peace of mind!
It’s the One!
You’re at the point where you’ve seen your options and that last one, maybe at Aria in University District, is definitely the clear winner! So what are your next steps? It’s time to take a look at the application process.
Tip: Applications can be filled out while you do your onsite tour, or the landlord may ask you to fill it out electronically. Be prepared to have this information handy to save time and show that you’re a qualified option as a tenant:
- Photo ID
- Payslips
- Proof of employment
- Rental history and references if applicable
- Personal and professional references
- Also, be prepared to do a credit check and understand what that involves.
Congratulations!
The moment that you get the call – you’re the best tenant option! Time to celebrate, so you start dreaming about how to make your place a true place to call home. Here are a few reminders before getting caught up with the excitement. Take time to read and understand the lease and terms, from noise and visitor policies, to parking and buzzer set ups. It’s best if there aren’t any surprises before you make that move. Lastly, renter’s insurance is a must-have, not only because it’s required but it’s best to protect yourself in the event something happens out of your control.
Renting with Pets? Sealed the deal and maybe you’re ready to move in with a fur baby as part of the household? At U/D, pets are always top-of-mind and we have some tips and suggestions for quirky ways to keep your space primed for you and your furry.
Welcome Home!
Planning and budgeting doesn’t stop at renting your new home; there are costs involved with moving and naturally, the fun part of decorating! Decide on what you need to make your home feel comfortable and plan each room in phases so you’re not making large purchases all at once. Find your style and start building your vision! Have a look at local stores, especially in NW Calgary, for some inspiration and decor options that are truly unique. When in doubt, browse show suites for some inspiration. Whether it’s on-point design trends or the Pantone Colour of the Year, chances are local interior designers have already picked it up and applied it to their creations.
Have a look at what our builder partner Gracorp Properties has planned for the Aria interior design.
A Quick Recap!
Let University District be the first neighbourhood to consider renting for its prime location, exceptional buildings with quality construction by trusted builders and close-by amenities that are unlike anywhere else in the city. Here are five of the top reasons to put U/D on your rental location list and turn your compass to NW Calgary!
- Proximity to the University of Calgary with its vibrant classes, culture and amenities
- Exceptional access to downtown by car, transit, bike!
- Natural surroundings that are perfect for pets, healthy living and connections with green spaces and neighbours
- Urban living benefits that come from shopping, restaurants, doctors, sports facilities, parks, entertainment and more at our doorstep
- Exceptional quality construction in an award-winning, LEED-certified development
Connect with the team at Aria to learn more about the amenities, suite features, and availability and connect to their registration page. And welcome home!
University District’s Retail Community Calgary
West Campus Development Trust (the Trust) is launching the new year with the announcement of an additional six new retailers who will be calling University District home.
Located in Calgary’s northwest, University District is quickly taking shape as a highly dynamic, connected, responsible and innovative community, becoming a new destination and landmark for the city of Calgary. Once complete, the community will span 200 acres, including 40 acres of open space, 15,000 residents and jobs and 300,000 square feet of retail along nine blocks.
What sets the community apart from other developments is its connectivity on every level: To existing transit, major roadways, pathways, surrounding hospitals, the University of Calgary and established neighbourhoods. University District is LEED ND Platinum Certified and appeals to residents across all generations for its accessibility, universal design and strong work-life balance.
“It’s rare for a community to have so many key retail tenants secured at this stage of development,” says James Robertson, West Campus Development Trust President and CEO. “It demonstrates their confidence in our project, and the appeal of being part of a leading Calgary community that focuses on being connected and supporting smart and healthy lifestyles. Our new retailers are truly our partners and have been carefully curated to match the desires and needs of our residents and neighbours.”
The new retailers that have joined University District and are anticipated to open in 2020 include:
OEB Breakfast Co.: Chef-driven and bolstered by artistry and passion, OEB Breakfast Co. offers farm-to-table breakfast and brunch fare focusing on seasonal, fresh ingredients from local partners. This will be OEB’s fourth location in Calgary, and customers can expect an open and airy concept space, and the restaurant will also feature a patio where guests can enjoy their morning coffee or mimosa as an “al fresco” experience.
Orangetheory: Offering another fitness option for residents, Orangetheory offers science-backed, technology-tracked, coach-inspired group workouts. To provide flexibility for the needs of residents, nearby workers and neighbours, the University District location will offer classes between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Press’d Sandwich Shop: Obsessed with sandwiches, Press’d invests in the process, like baking their bread from scratch and preparing their vegetables in-house and making fresh guacamole each morning. Their University District location is looking to provide new offerings such as a “build your own” option, in addition to their gluten-free and vegetarian options. They will also have a catering facility to meet the growing demand for their award-winning food at nearby facilities, organizations and businesses.
UC Noodles & BBQ: Providing another choice for a tasty food option, explore the spices and aromas of Asian-style noodles and BBQ dishes. UC Noodles & BBQ will serve fresh dishes to suit every palette.
University District Dental: Offering complete dental care and a flexible schedule, University District Dental will help residents and neighbours keep their smiles healthy. Dr. Jaffer and his team will provide professional, friendly service and be an active part of the University District community.
YYC Cycle: Alberta’s largest spin studio, which has donated more than $500,000 to charities in the past five years, will bring its Bikergang to University District, immersing participants in a fitness experience that has been inspiring Calgarians to be “Stronger than Yesterday” since 2014. YYC Cycle plans to create a studio that will meet the unique needs of University District, including continuing its 10% discount to AHS workers, and offering a greater variety of class times to accommodate the varying work hours of hospital staff and students. YYC Cycle currently has three other locations in Calgary, and two in Edmonton.
These new retailers join the businesses who were recently announced in December, including Blaze Pizza, Copper Branch, Curious Hair Skin Body, Denim & Smith Barbershops, Freshii and Scotiabank, along with the growing roster of previously named tenants including Save-On-Foods, Analog Coffee, J. Webb Market Wines, the ALT Hotel and Cineplex VIP Cinemas.
All of these retailers will be located in phase one (of four) of the Retail Main Street on University Avenue, which has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in a vibrant urban setting. The complete main street experience will offer a variety of essential services, home fashion, daily needs and food, social and entertainment options, incorporating recognized local, national and global brands.
Additional retailers and announcements will be made as University District continues to unfold as a dominant Calgary leader in thoughtful and responsible urban development. Visit myuniversitydistrict.ca for more information, or sign up for the newsletter to be notified about exciting announcements, updates and events from West Campus Development Trust.
About West Campus Development Trust
West Campus Development Trust (the Trust) was created by the University of Calgary to oversee the development of the lands known as University District. With a financial model that provides an innovative approach to land development, profits from the Trust are directed back to the University to fuel its academic mission. Setting a high standard for sustainable neighborhood design, the Trust has created and led a progressive community Master Plan for 200 acres of land. With quality, design and expertise at the forefront, its team and 14-member board of directors are dedicated to creating the city’s premier urban residential community. True to fundamental values of transparency, collaboration and mindful progress, the Trust is creating amazing places for people to thrive. Learn more at ucpg.ca.
About University District
To the west of the University of Calgary and overlooking the Bow River and Rocky Mountains, University District is a comprehensive 200-acre community with a bold new vision for urban life in Calgary. Through a collaborative, people-first design process, the master planning and thorough engagement program forged strong respect between local stakeholders and the Trust. The neighbourhood applies the best ideas in city design and incorporates the wants and needs of surrounding legacy communities – weaving current aesthetic, technology and lifestyle options into the strong social fabric of the city.
Calgary University District Living
Community, convenience, and quality of living.
These are three of the core values at the heart of life in the Calgary University District. Designed to incorporate the perfect blend of work, rest, and play, the entire 200-acre University District area has something for everyone.
From the cute boutique-style stores, the green spaces to the convenience of a discretely located supermarket, residents want for nothing. In the modern, fast-paced world we all live in, time is precious. Professionals and students alike live on tight schedules, so convenience matters. Similarly, the value of community has never been higher. The ability to be a part of a community thriving with like-minded people who believe what we believe is rare.
Here at Aria, we believe in community. We understand the need for convenience, and we see the role both play in improving quality of life. Achieving the synergy between these vital aspects of life is why we designed Aria to be a harmonious, amenity-rich environment. Boasting outstanding internal amenities like a fully equipped gym, yoga space, games room, lounge, on-site storage, and bike lockers. Plus external features like a 20,000 sq.ft. inner courtyard with 8 BBQ areas, demonstration / large group kitchen and dining area, pickleball court, bocce court, fenced-in dog run, and wash area.
Urban living has never been so fun or luxurious. Aria offers suites ranging from 532 sq.ft. to 1,149 sq.ft. across a selection of one, two, or three-bedroom units. Each suite brings a blend of fresh and contemporary interior design, with modernist kitchens with stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, in-suite washers, dryers, and innovative systems for décor and storage. If those exceptional features are not enough, all suites are pet friendly, and select suites are available with a private balcony.
Calgary University District Living is effortless at Aria.
For more information about life at Aria, reach out to Jillian directly by phone via :403 479 4340 by email: jcunningham@mmgltd.com, or alternatively, you can click here to book a consultation.
Calgary University District. Life Works Here.
