The open living area, with vaulted ceiling, sky lights and clerestory window maximize the sense of space and light and contribute to passive solar heating. A healthy, beautiful environment is created by the alder wood flooring, wool carpet in the stairwell, low VOC paint throughout the house, and marmoleum flooring in the the kitchen, bathrooms and storage room. Energy efficiency is enhanced by the heat exchange unit and energy star appliances. Costs for heating, electricity and water average $55 per month. Taxes for 2009 were $1861.
The private fenced backyard is a haven for growing fresh vegetables, fruit and berries. Raised beds and large oak barrels can be used for annual vegetables, and two rain barrels with 400 gallon capacity are nearby for sustainable watering.
The community shares a 9.8 acre piece of land and a wide variety of amenities. These include a 3500 square foot Common House with a large kitchen, 2 guest rooms, a recreation and a dining room with wood stove, and laundry facilities; a centrally located play space for the children; a workshop; an extensive common garden with individual and common gardening areas; an orchard; a composting facility; and a wetlands area that sustains a variety of wildlife. The community is designed with a car-free inner core, and parking on the periphery. All homes and shared areas are wheelchair accessible. Find out more about this unique community at creeksidecommons.ca