Whitetail neighbourhood launches fresh architectural direction for Predator Ridge
By Lori Bamber
Predator Ridge Resort in the North Okanagan offers the unique experience of being completely “away from it all” just a short drive from urban amenities, along with Canada’s mildest climate, world-class golf and a deep sense of community. In the past few years, however, one thing the resort wasn’t able to offer potential homebuyers was a variety of lot sizes. With the development of Predator Ridge’s new Whitetail neighbourhood, that is about to change.
“Whitetail is designed to fulfill the wish lists of a wide range of buyers,” says Claire Radford, the resort’s property specialist. “There will be a few estate lots for people who want that added space and privacy. We’ll also have something that’s been in short supply here, rancher lots in a range of sizes for buyers who prefer a single-level home. ”
Cottage-style properties, with a garage and ample storage, will be “ideal for buyers who want a smaller full-time residence, or who spend winters in the south and plan to be here six months of the year,” says Radford.
The neighbourhood will offer a selection of west- and east-facing lots. “It’s something people are very particular about. Our buyers from Alberta tend to really want to face into the bright afternoon sun while those who have been living in the Okanagan for a while tend to prefer morning sun and the softer afternoon light.”
Each lot will be carefully sculpted to maximize views and privacy, leaving the trees and other natural vegetation in place wherever possible. Located between two Ridge Course fairways, with soothing views of the greens and the lake beyond, Whitetail residents will be within easy walking distance of the resort’s many other amenities.
In addition to the impeccably appointed fitness centre, two golf courses, a sports pub, gourmet dining and 12 kilometres of groomed trails, residents of Whitetail will be just steps away from the new Commonage Market. Opened last summer, it meets the need for everyday basics close to home but also provides a thoughtfully merchandised selection of the Okanagan’s famous farm-to-table cuisine and produce, with tables for a quick lunch or latte.
During the winter, the trails become the main attraction, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing taking the place of golf as the primary way to enjoy the active outdoor lifestyle the resort offers.
Urban designer Bob Evans recently joined Wesbild, Predator Ridge’s parent company, as director of development after gaining widespread recognition in the Okanagan region for his contributions to communities such as Highpointe, Quail Ridge, Tower Ranch, Sonoma Pines and Black Mountain.
“Wesbild has an unparalleled reputation for building high-quality communities throughout British Columbia, and Predator Ridge is just such a beautiful place,” he says. “People talk a lot about the varied, expansive views and the golf here, but what stands out for me is the quietness.”
Under his leadership, Whitetail will be developed with a new architectural direction. “We’re evolving from Predator’s traditional Craftsman roots toward a product that’s more uniquely its own, an architectural style that responds to the Okanagan landscape and lifestyle,” says Evans.
That means introducing natural elements, such as rock and stone, that aren’t found anywhere else, and focusing on the relationship of the architecture to the site, he explains. “We’re creating homes that really capitalize on these great views and provide seamless transitions between the indoors and the spectacular natural setting outside.”
Sales of the new Whitetail properties are expected to begin this summer. “I always encourage people from out of town to come for the weekend,” says Radford. “Don’t just fly in and spend a few hours – when you have time to walk the paths, spend time in the fitness centre, and talk to the people who live here, you start to get a sense of what it’s really like to live here.”
For more information visit www.predatorridge.com
This article was originally published in Tee Times, Predator Ridge’s Resort and Lifestyle Magazine. Republished with permission.