Tamarack Homes is making waves with the opening of new model homes at two Ottawa developments: Findlay Creek Village and The Meadows, as part of a broader brand reimagining. Sales manager Megan Van Rijt explains that the refresh comes alongside a leadership transition, with Michelle Taggart and Steve Parkes assuming roles as co-presidents last fall, succeeding their uncle Chris Taggart and Steve's older brother Scott Parkes. This marks the third generation of family leadership. New appointees Van Rijt and marketing manager Christie Shayler are injecting fresh ideas into the longtime building firm.
New Leadership and Brand Refresh
While planning for the model homes began before the new appointments, the current team is overseeing their completion. “It’s just a really exciting time for everyone,” says Shayler, citing updates to the Tamarack brand and logo, revamped sales centres in Ottawa and Kingston, and the debut of new models. “We’re rocking and rolling.”
Findlay Creek Village Townhomes
At Findlay Creek Village in south Ottawa, four new townhome models have been constructed and styled by decorator Sarah Taggart, replacing models from 2022. These join four existing single-family home models. The popularity of townhomes and evolving buyer preferences drove the change. Van Rijt notes that the single-family models remain timeless and did not require updates: “When you walk into our singles, you would have no idea that they were done four years ago. They are pristine; they are gorgeous.”
The selected townhome floor plans represent Tamarack’s most sought-after designs: two end units (the Harmony and Camden), the smallest model (the Abbey), and an interior unit with a mudroom (the Samira).
Design Philosophy
The models aim to be “timeless, fresh, new, but attainable,” says Van Rijt, ensuring visitors don’t feel priced out by excessive upgrades. Each home showcases a range of upgrades: the Harmony has the most extras, while the Abbey has virtually none, appealing to first-time buyers. Sarah Taggart describes the style as a mix of modern influences, coastal warmth, and layered touches. Van Rijt adds, “It’s really transitional, comfortable, livable, but still chic.”
The townhome models opened in February to positive feedback. “People loved the layouts, the designs,” says Shayler. “They really enjoyed seeing all of the options available for them.” The homes target first-time buyers, professionals, and young families, who are the primary purchasers.
