In this industry insider feature, we are pleased to introduce you to Patricia Bains, Junior Development Manager. We sat down with her to chat all about Gardena, our extraordinary master planned community in Burquitlam.
What excites you most about Gardena?
There are so many great things about Gardena, but what excites me the most is the spa! The dark, moody aesthetic, extensive saunas and steam room reminds me of Bota Bota in Montreal. The outdoor barrel sauna followed by a lounge at the fire pit sounds like a perfect way to relax on a cold, rainy day.
What will homeowners like most about living at Gardena?
Gardena has something to offer for everyone. The wellness enthusiast will love the spa which includes both indoor and outdoor saunas and showers to offer hot/cold therapy, as well as a steam room. For the fitness buff, the gym offers a full range of exercise machines spanning one level comprised of a cardio area with treadmills, ellipticals and spin bikes, a weightlifting section with cross training equipment such as battle ropes, plyometric boxes and punching bags. For the aspiring or seasoned yogi, the gym also includes a yoga/barre studio with interactive fitness mirrors. Better than an expensive club gym!
What are your favorite features in the homes at Gardena?
There are so many great features, it’s hard to choose one! One of my favorite features is the large format tile in the showers and baths, giving a hospitality type feel. Also, the Bosch gas cooktop and wall oven are great features, especially as someone who loves to cook and spend time in the kitchen. But the feature that makes the biggest impact in the homes in my opinion are the high ceiling heights which make the spaces feel bright and inviting.
What’s the most important feature that you look for in a community?
Walkability. My ideal neighbourhood is one where you can easily access public transportation, green spaces, and local amenities by foot. Having these spaces nearby is key to a healthy lifestyle, as it encourages walking which promotes better mental health, provides more opportunities to meet your neighbours, and naturally keeps you active. The convenience of having restaurants, grocery stores and community centres within walking distance not only saves time but also fosters a stronger sense of community.
What do you think is the biggest draw for living in Burquitlam?
The location! Burquitlam is one of the Lower Mainland’s hottest up and coming neighborhoods. Burquitlam is conveniently connected to downtown via rapid transit and the highway ensuring you never feel isolated, yet close enough to nature that you feel a certain sense of seclusion and calm. The restaurant scene is bustling, with delicious cafés and Korean BBQ options. The new 55,000sf Bettie Allard YMCA just opened as well, which offers a gym, group fitness classes, aquatic centre and community spaces. There are also many walking, biking and hiking paths nearby, allowing you to take advantage of the natural landscape.
What makes Gardena Extraordinary?
Intracorp’s continued focus on quality, innovation and integrating wellness into the built environment is evident in every aspect of Gardena. Design minded aesthetic, resort-like amenities and a central location are what makes Gardena extraordinary.
Learn more about Gardena here.