NEWS

Local Developer Turns Ambitions upward in Lake Country

In 1898 John Muir wrote in the Atlantic Monthly, "Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going up into the hills is going home; that mountain parks are useful not only as fountains of timber but as fountains of life." Fast forward 107 years and these words still ring true today in the Okanagan. In a world where the speed of life grows more hurried, many are seeking solace in the calm, rolling hills that rim the valley. Okanagan Land Development Corporation knows this to be true. Their latest property development, ‘The Lakes’, offers the ‘over-civilized’ access to a contemporary community flanked by panoramic lake views and spectacular mountain scenery.

Above Winfield, Don Erdely, Director of Development for Okanagan Land Development Corporation, is shielding his eyes from the summer sun. It’s hard to know if he’s surveying the construction of The Lake below…or if he’s following the spec of a water skier traversing Wood Lake. “That will be the centerpiece of this community,” says Mr. Erdely, pointing to a staked area below. “When we’re finished, that will be a beautiful 2 acre lake, surrounded by an inter-connected walking trail — and a cross-lake boardwalk leading to a vast park area. Oh, and there’s a waterfall, too.” That’s one of the first things you learn about The Lakes — there’s a lot of ‘oh-and-there’s-a’. Okanagan Land Development Corporation, a locally based company owned by Derek Trethewey, has had plenty of experience to draw on to make The Lakes an extra special project. The company is renowned for their imagination, knowledge and commitment to excellence in design, having developed the Cove Beach Resort and The Outback, near Vernon now under construction. “This will be a very distinctive community, visually,” says Erdely, “We’ve placed a strong emphasis on architectural controls.”

Perched on 300 acres, The Lakes straddles a natural plateau above the shores of Wood Lake, and Lake Okanagan, in the heart of the District of Lake Country. Looking around, you are struck by the contrasts of colours. In the distance there is sparkling water, surrounded by lush green orchards, rolling vineyards, and pastoral farms. The heady scent of Macintosh apples and ripening blueberries is everywhere. Breathtaking vistas reward you with stunning views from almost every vantage. When all phases are completed, there will be 1,200 units in The Lakes. The first 71 homesites in Phase 1 sold out in record time and the same interest level is anticipated for Phase 2, which is now selling. “We’ve got a great mix of single family and multifamily sites and we even have a section reserved for an adult community area,” says Erdely, pointing out that commercial spaces are also zoned for.

Though the scope of the development is large, special care has been taken to protect and preserve the natural beauty and landscape of this estate enclave. Plenty of green spaces, parks and undisturbed bush weave throughout the plans, and the whole north side of the man-made lake is designed for indigenous waterfowl and animals, like the Spadefoot Toad. Families of deer and troops of quail are morning regulars on the construction sites in Phase 1.

Though The Lakes is sheltered from the rush of the city, it’s not far from urban amenities that most depend on. A short drive below, sits the town of Winfield — great for groceries and fresh produce from the Farmers Market. If it’s shopping or entertainment you crave, to the west, the city of Kelowna is only a 15 minute drive. Similarly, a run to Vernon by car is about the same distance away. This puts schools, health services, and major business centers within a short commute from home. If your fancy leans towards more active pursuits, there are a number of fishing lakes close by and hiking and biking trails practically start at your front door. (One of the unique features of The Lakes is that it has extensive paved and unpaved hiking and walking trails throughout the development). Other area neighbours include some of the best golf courses in BC.

Don has nothing but good things to say about The District of Lake Country staff and local builders, too. “The District and locals have been very supportive of this project,” says Erdely “They’ve been great to work with and helped make my job easier.” The development allows site owners to choose their general contractors, and the trucks that line Phase 1 are a veritable ‘who’s who’ of the local Okanagan construction industry.

All things considered, it seems that The Lakes is rising to be one of the Okanagan’s most sought after communities. Information about the project can be accessed toll free by calling 1-888-988-5253.