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LOVING SMALL TOWN LIVING
PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
EDITOR New Home + Condo Guide
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+ The growing popularity of Net Zero Homes. Page 16
As the saying goes: “there’s a small town in each of us,” and these tight knit bonds of community can be found anywhere you live. Calgary’s builders and developers all acknowledge this I the design of Calgary’s new communities.
Genesis Builders Group has certainly embraced this adage in the design of their new homes and communities, and in 2025, they are poised to bring these same small town values to a happening new community near you. Find out more in the cover story inside.
Also in this issue, we explore literal small towns in the southern Alberta region and why many are now looking to these villages and hamlets not only to chase the quiet and relaxed lifestyle, but also for affordability. Check inside to see if the small town living lifestyle is for you.
We also look at the popular home design innovations that buyers are looking for in their new home. Spice kitchens, a separate private entrance, and developed secondary suites are some of the new design features that have become almost a standard in many new home floorplans.
With costs of energy on the rise, no wonder the Net Zero home is becoming more popular. We look at what this means for the new homebuyer in our feature on Green living.
We also ask you to keep an eye out or more information on the coming New Home Expo this spring that seeks to bring all the biggest names in the industry in one roof and give homebuyers the best chance to see what everyone has to offer without having to drive to all the new showhomes and communities. If you’re in the market for a new home, the Expo will be the one event you don’t want to miss. Follow us on our social media and subscribe to our nexthome.ca/newsletter to get updates.
Let us be your guide in finding your new home.
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SOUTHEAST
1. ARTESIA AT HERITAGE POINTE
By: Brookfield Residential Builders: Augusta Fine Homes, Homes by Avi, Brookfield Residential liveinartesia.com
2. RANGEVIEW By: Genstar
Builders: Excel Homes, Homes by Avi, Truman Homes, Cardel Homes genstar.com
3. RANGEVIEW
By: Section23
Builders: Baywest Homes, Homes by Avi, Jayman BUILT Rangeviewyyc.com
4. COPPERSTONE
By: Vesta Properties copperstoneliving.com
5. SETON RIDGE
By: Brookfield Residential
Builders: Brookfield Residential, Excel Homes, Morrison Homes. exploresetonridge.ca
6. LEGACY
By: Westcreek Developments
Builders: Carlise Group, My Legacy Park, Aldebaran Homes, Trico Homes, Jayman, Shane, Stepper, Luxuria, Sterling, WestCreek Homes, Morrison Homes, Crystal Creek LEGACY PARK by Brad Remington Homes legacylife.ca
By: Hopewell Residential and Qualico Communities Builders: Broadview Homes, Hopewell Residential, NuVista Homes and Sterling Homes hotchkissliving.com
12. WALDEN
By: Genstar
Builders: Cardel Homes, Excel Homes, Homes by Avi, California Homes, Cedarglen Homes, WALDEN PLACE by Cardel Lifestyles AXIS by Rockford Development HOLLAND PARK by Excel Homes waldenliving.ca
13. WESTMAN VILLAGE By: Jayman BUILT Builders: Jayman BUILT westmanvillage.com
16. COLOURS OF SETON TOWNHOMES By: Trico Homes coloursofseton.com
17. SORA By: Melcor
Builders: Douglas Homes, Homes by Avi, Rohit Homes, Akash Homes, Sterling Homes liveinsora.com
LIFE HAPPENS IN GENESIS HOMES AND COMMUNITIES
The story of Genesis is one of growth and perseverance. From humble beginnings, Genesis has expanded steadily, guided by resilience and determination, to become a valued contributor to the Calgary Metropolitan Area’s (CMA) thriving land development and home building community. Since 1991, Genesis has been developing amenity-rich communities across the CMA and began building homes in 2005. From the tranquil canals in Airdrie to protected green spaces, integrated pathway systems, and developments like Logan
Landing that embrace the natural topography, Genesis’ communities reflect a deep respect for the land and its possibilities. “Our tagline of ‘Creating Tomorrows’ is more than just a guiding principle – it’s about building not just homes, but the foundation for dreams that turn into memories.” says PS Sidhu, COO.
“Genesis stands out because we put you at the heart of everything we do. From the first plans to the final details, we focus on creating communities with amenities that make life more convenient, and homes designed to fit the way you
live today. It’s all about building spaces where you can truly thrive.” Sidhu says.
Genesis builds approximately 400 homes a year, and they are currently building in over 13 communities within the CMA.
GROWING COMMUNITIES
Genesis views growth as more than just expanding its footprint – it’s about enhancing the customer experience and creating communities that truly reflect the way people live today. The introduction of two new communities, Logan Landing
(south Calgary) and Lewiston (north Calgary), emphasizes modern living and a seamless connection to the natural beauty of Calgary’s landscape.
As in Logan Landing, Lewiston, and other existing Genesis’ communities, a variety of housing options are offered to suit different lifestyles and needs. Whether choosing to build a personalized home or selecting a quick possession home, the latter provides a shorter purchase to possession timeline. These homes maintain the same high standards of detail and quality as every
one of their builds, ensuring the Genesis experience is consistent no matter the choice.
As an integrated homebuilder and land developer, Genesis continues to grow due to its commitment to building more than just homes. The focus is on creating vibrant, connected communities that offer a high quality of life for families both now and in the future. With these new communities, the mission of designing spaces where people can thrive, enjoy the outdoors, and have everything they need right at their doorstep remains strong.
LEWISTON
The lively, up-and-coming community of Lewiston in Northeast Calgary is ready to welcome approximately 1,000 families, providing affordable housing options while embracing sustainable development. With plenty of green spaces, wellconnected pathways, and a cutting-edge Storm Park, Lewiston is designed to be a place where residents can thrive.
“We’re incredibly excited to introduce the first of our nextgeneration communities,” says Iain Stewart, CEO of Genesis Land. “Lewiston isn’t your typical suburb – it’s greener, more compact, walkable, and thoughtfully planned to be welcoming for people at every stage of life.”
This vibrant community will bring 1,000 new homes to the area, including a 6.5-acre neighborhood hub with 30,000 square feet of retail space and 100 condo units. As part of the broader Lewisburg community, Lewiston will achieve a density of about 8.5 units per acre and strengthen the nearby employment and commercial centers. The development is expected to create nearly 4,700 jobs while making the most of existing infrastructure.
Lewiston’s homes will be built by Genesis Builders, McKee Homes, and Sterling Homes, offering a variety of choices such as duplexes, front-attached homes, multi-family units, and townhomes.
LOGAN LANDING
Logan Landing is one of the last available new communities along the Bow River, one of Calgary’s most cherished natural features. A unique location developed with a focus on creating harmony, between the natural landscape and quality living design, each neighbourhood offers a variety of housing choices to fit your lifestyle.
Living in Logan Landing allows you to embrace nature and enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing the convenience of established amenities and quick access to major roadways.
Logan Landing offers a masterplanned community with access to the Bow River, over 150 acres of open space, breathtaking valley and mountain views, traversing pathways, restaurants, retail shops and a school. The proximity to the Seton Commercial Core, the South Health Campus (Hospital), YMCA and a high school offer abundance of educational, employment and recreation opportunities.
Housing choices in Logan Landing currently include duplex, lane, townhomes and front attached homes are from Cedarglen Homes,
Genesis Builders, Partners Homes, and Sterling Homes. Showhomes for both Lewiston and Logan Landing are now open, visit genesisland.com for more information.
NEW IN 2025
Coming soon is Huxley along the borders of East Calgary. Huxley is the perfect balance between amenity-rich city living and the comfort of a small-town lifestyle. The community was designed for living closer to what you love. Huxley embraces the rural grasslands character of the natural space that was there before and will continue to preserve the natural environment with greenspaces and a wetland park.
The grand opening for this new community is set to take place in the fall of 2025.
SPEC HOME SPECIALTY
Genesis Builders is proud to offer a variety of quick possession homes, making it easier for families to find their perfect fit without the long wait. Genesis maintains spec homes available at different stages of construction across the CMA.
“We offer a mix of front-drive,
laned, duplex, and townhomes as quick possession options,” he shares. says Mike deBoer, Vice President of Homebuilding at Genesis Builders Group.
These spec homes are available in Airdrie (Bayview, Bayside), Calgary (Homestead, Lewiston, Vermilion Hill, Alpine Park, Logan Landing, Heartwood, Keystone Hills), Cochrane (Fireside), Chestermere (Clearwater), and Rockyview County (Harmony).
“Depending on the stage of construction, buyers might even have the chance to personalize their home while still benefiting from a shorter possession timeline,” deBoer explains.
For more information on spec home availability visit genesisbuilds.com/ quick-possessions
Builders: Broadview Homes, Genesis Builders, Homes by Avi, NuVista Homes, Sterling Homes, Shane Homes liveinvermilionhill.com
5. HARMONY
By: Bordeaux Developments and Qualico Developments
Builders: Augusta Fine Homes, Baywest Homes, Broadview Homes, Daytona
Homes, Homes by Avi, Genesis Builder Group, NuVista Homes, Sterling Homes, StreetSide Developments, and Trico Homes’ executive bungalows coming soon liveinharmony.ca
6. ALPINE PARK
By: Dream Unlimited. Builders: Cardel Homes, Calbridge Homes, Genesis Builder Group, Homes by Dream, Woodland at Alpine Park by Homes by Avi alpinepark.ca
7. WEST83 TOWNHOMES By: Trico Homes west83townhomes.com
8. WEST DISTRICT By: Truman Homes trumanhomes.com
9. WEST SPRINGS By: Trico Homes tricohomes.com
10. YORKVILLE By: Mattamy Homes mattamyhomes.com/calgary/ communities/calgary-yorkville
11. CRESTMONT VIEW
By: Qualico Communities Builders: Homes by Us, Augusta Fine Homes crestmontview.ca
12. ENCORE II WEST GROVE ESTATES By: Bri-mor Developments Builder: Cedarglen Homes encorewestgroveestates.com
Builders: Morrison Homes, Sterling Homes, Trico Homes, Homes by Avi, Partners Development Group, Streetside Developments Experiencesirocco.com
15. FISH CREEK EXCHANGE & PARK SOUTH By: Graywood Developments fishcreekexchange.ca
16. SHAWNEE PARK By: Cardel Homes Builders: Cardel Homes cardelhomes.ca
17. BELWOOD PARK By: StreetSide Developments bellwoodpark.com
18. SIROCCO STREET TOWNS By: Partners Development Group partnershomes.ca
19. HUDSON IN CREEKSTONE By: Highfield Land Management Builders: Augusta Fine Homes, Broadview Homes, Crystal Creek Homes, Fifty6 Homes, NuVista Homes liveinhudson.ca
20. THE VILLAGE TRINITY HILLS By: Metropia liveintrinityhills.ca
21. BRAWN LANDING @ WENTWORTH By: Trico Homes tricohomes.com
22. CREEKSTONE By: Apex Developments and Quadra Developments
23. SILVERTON STREET TOWNS By: Logel Homes logelhomes.com
24. SILVER SPRUCE By: Apex Developments
Builders: Brookfield Residential, Excel Homes silversprucecalgary.com
25. UPPER GREENWICH By: Partners Development Group Builders: Partners Homes, New West Luxury Homes, Fifty6, Luxuria Homes uppergreenwich.com
26. SILVERTON By: Cardel Homes
Builders: Cardel Homes single-family and
cardelhomes.com
#InsideCalgary
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ Calgary
WHAT’S HAPPENING Trico Homes starts the year with a bang by introducing three new showhomes in the brand-new community of Creekview in the southwest. The new 2,538 sq. ft. Lawson front-drive garage model makes its debut here, and with five bedrooms standard, it is the perfect multi-generational home. Showhomes forTrico’s best-selling Raeya and McKinney laned homes are also now open. A grand opening event is scheduled on March 1. Go to tricohomes.com for more information.
New leadership for Cantiro Multi-Family
Cantiro is thrilled to announce the appointment of Chris Johnstone as Director, Multi-Family, a pivotal role that will drive the strategic growth of Cantiro’s multi-family and investment property housing projects across Edmonton, Calgary, and the Okanagan.
With 25 years in the industry in both Calgary and Edmonton, Johnstone brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership expertise to Cantiro’s growing team. As Director, Multi-Family, he will oversee management,
sales, operations, and strategic growth; ensuring that Cantiro continues to deliver innovative, high-quality multi-family housing that enhances communities and exceeds customer expectations.
“We are excited to welcome Chris to the Cantiro family as we continue to expand our multi-family operations,” said Paul Fereday, Executive Vice President, Multi-Family. “Chris’ extensive experience and commitment to excellence align perfectly with Cantiro’s
mission to deliver vibrant and thriving communities.”
Johnstone will be leading a portfolio of multi-family developments across Alberta and British Columbia; including, Heritage Valley in Edmonton, and Arbour Lake in NW Calgary.
TRICO HOMES IN CREEKVIEW
DID YOU KNOW?
Southern Alberta has 8,153,535 acres of farmland. In 2021, Alberta’s total farm area was 49.2 million acres, making it the second largest in Canada.
New Morrison estate home opens
Lewisburg starts
The New Northwest continues to expand as Genstar introduces the latest community in the booming sector - Lewisburg.
“We’re currently selling phase 1 where homebuyers can find a mix of single-family front garage homes, duplexes and laned homes,” says Genstar Marketing Manager, Christian Orme.
Lewisburg’s award-winning builder group includes Excel Homes, Cardel Homes, Homes by Avi, Prominent Homes and Truman Homes.
Lewisburg is a master planned community conveniently located
Estate homes are hot in Calgary, and Morrison Homes latest showhome – Lynnwood – is taking luxury and convenience to a whole new level. It certainly makes the new, exclusive enclave of The Pointe Estates in Legacy in the southeast stand out.
“Our Lynnwood Estate showhome debuts in the serene and picturesque southeast community of Legacy. This showhome promises to be a masterpiece, capturing hearts with its unmatched design and charm,” says Max Conrad, Marketing Manager at Morrison Homes.
The 3,008 sq. ft. home features a triple car garage, and oversized kitchen island, and a dramatic opento-above staircase, plus a ton of other luxurious detail that the multiple award-winning builder is known for. A Grand Opening event is scheduled for February 15. Find out more at morrisonhomes.ca.
off of Stoney Trail with direct access to the Rotary Greenway. Lewisburg will offer a commercial shopping centre, a pond and pathway system, three multifamily sites, a future school sites
and various parks and playgrounds throughout the community. “The grand opening for our show home parade will be later this spring,” Orme adds. Find out more at genstar.com.
Cardel Homes introduces Metro One
Cardel Homes introduces its ambitious multi-family development in the southwest, Metro One in Silverton.
Mike Selinger, Cardel Homes’ Regional President- Calgary Region says they are excited to bring Metro One to the market for all it can offer new home buyers. He says Metro One will have all the aspects of what drives the Cardel brand: the project’s unique Silverton location, exceptional product design, the proven Cardel quality standard, a focus on healthy living, the right price position, and a memorable customer experience. “We are targeting to launch presales in Q2, 2025,” he tells Inside Calgary.
Cardel is the land developer for the Silverton project. The 175-acre parcel surrounds a future LRT station and is
Esker Park grows
being planned as a vibrant, urban, and progressive new community. Find out more at cardelhomes.com.
Shane Homes began officially pre-selling Esker Park’s front drive and laned homes, and showhomes are expected to be available by the late spring or early summer.
Esker Park in the northwest is a community being developed by Shane Homes and they are the exclusive homebuilder here as well.
“Esker Park offers a convenient location and access to major roadways in Calgary. There is lots of greenspace in the community which includes parks and playgrounds. As well as the recreation opportunities found in nearby Sage Hill Lake,” says Shane Homes Area Manager Troy Dixon.
It is a boutique community with only 350 lots and is located between Shaganappi Trail, 144 Ave. NW, and Sage Hill Drive. Go to shanehomes.com for more info.
1. BAYSIDE ESTATES
By: Genesis Land Development Corp. Builders: McKee Homes, Genesis Builders Group genesisland.com
2. COOPER’S CROSSING By: Westmark Holdings Builders: Harder Homes, McKee Homes, NuVista Homes; Emerald New Homes and Douglas Homes cooperscrossing.ca
3. SAWGRASS PARK
By: Hopewell Residential sawgrasspark.com
4. SOUTHWINDS
By: Mattamy Homes Builders: Mattamy Homes mattamyhomes.com/calgary
5. CANALS LANDING
By: Genesis Land Development Corp. Builders: Mckee Homes, Crystal Creek Homes, Genesis Builders Group, WestView Builders CANALS by Slokker Homes genesisland.com
6. ELEVATE COLLECTION AT COOPER’S CROSSING By: Vesta Properties vestaproperties.com
7. MIDTOWN
By: Wenzel Developments & Apex Developments
Builders: Shane Homes, Excel Homes, Trico Homes midtowninairdrie.com THE TOWNS ON 8TH townhomes by Shane Homes shanehomes.com
8. CREEKSIDE CREEKSIDE VILLAGE By: Carlisle Group
9. GEORGETOWN @REUNION by Slokker Homes
10. VISTA CROSSING IN CROSSFIELD By: Dream Unlimited Builders: McKee Homes, Homes by Dream vistacrossing.ca
Builders: Douglas Homes, Excel Homes, Shane Homes, Rohit Homes liveincobblestone.com.
LEAN INTO GREEN NEW HOMES
Living a green lifestyle is easier than ever. Energy-saving appliances are readily available, dual-flush toilets and low-flow showers are more popular, and many new homes now come with smart thermostats. Houses themselves are becoming more sustainable, as more of Calgary’s homebuilders turn to Net Zero homes.
Net Zero refers to a home producing as much energy as it uses in a year. With the added burden of the carbon tax, homeowners’ heating bills can go up substantially and the need to have more sustainable practices, such as Net Zero, goes a long way in alleviating those costs.
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
Today, more new homes come with energy-saving features and solutions, including better insulation, triple-pane windows, and even their own solar panels that enable homebuyers to save on energy costs. Net Zero homes bring all these together for a greener future, and Brookfield Residential and Jayman BUILT are showing the way in Calgary.
BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL
Brookfield Residential Sustainability and Innovation Manager, Lindsey Wachowicz, says Net Zero is important for future homebuyers to consider because it is an 80 per cent more efficient home. She explains that there are three
components that make a home a Net Zero home: the building envelope, mechanical system, and a renewable energy source.
“With a tightly built and well insulated building envelope, and an ASHP (air source heat pump)–the home runs more efficiently and based on home modeling, the energy used can be offset from the solar panels over an annual bases – this can help futureproof your home of any electrical rate increases,” she tells NextHome.
“With the advanced construction methods and materials, the additional benefit of a tightly built home is it is a quieter home. Last, ultimately knowing you are helping support the environment, our net
Brookfield Residential
zero Purcell 24 home we built in Riverstone saves 15.3 tonnes GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions/ year. That is equivalent to get 13 gas powered vehicles off the road per year.”
Brookfield Residential was one of the first builders to fully explore the sustainable home design with the completion of their passive house in 2019. At the end of 2024, Brookfield Residential introduce into market Energy Efficiency packages which includes a limited Net Zero and net zero building envelop offering. In 2025, Brookfield’s focus is to continue to find innovative solutions in an effort to make an energy efficient home more attainable.
Find out more at brookfieldresidential.com.
JAYMAN BUILT
Jayman BUILT has prided itself in being at the cutting edge of home design innovation in Alberta, and their hit line of advanced, energysaving home models have proven that environmental sustainability and good business can go hand in hand.
“Our Jayman BUILT Net Zero certified homes – known, as the Quantum Performance Ultra
E-Homes, prevent 10.84 tonnes of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere, and can save homeowners up to $1,2622 on their energy costs annually,” says Dave Krasman, Director, Corporate Purchasing, Jayman BUILT.
“Not only is this home good for the environment, but good for homeowners’ pocketbook. As building code is requiring Net Zero Ready by 2030, it was important for us to ensure we can meet these advancements in code requirements today, not some time in the future.”
Jayman introduced the Quantum Performance Ultra-E home in 2021 and expanded its offering in 2022, with the Path to Net Zero. “They have been well received by the market, with a handful sold each year since launching,” Krasman says. Today, buyers can build a Jayman Net Zero home in every community they build in, as long as the homesite has 200-amp servicing.
“A mix of laned and frontattached showhomes are available to tour with our Net Zero offering, which includes 30 or more solar panels, a proprietary wall system with Net Zero building envelope and triple pane R-8 windows with argon fill and an air source electric
heat pump mechanical system. There is no noticeable change to the design, layout or functionality of the home. We have 12 Quantum Performance Ultra E-Showhomes in Calgary and eight in Edmonton available to tour.”
Building a Net Zero certified home does add approximately $80,000 to $100,000 to the home’s purchase price, he points out. “However, these prices do vary based on the ‘step’ you choose along the process. Every Jayman BUILT home we build comes with what we call our Core Performance – this is a set of standard, energy efficient inclusions like 10 solar panels, tankless hot water heater, high efficiency furnace, triple pane windows, and more. They come standard on all Jayman BUILT homes and save our homeowners up to $1,300 annually on their energy bills.”
For more information, visit jayman.com.
Jayman BUILT
Brookfield Residential
BELTLINE
1. SOVEREIGN ON 17TH By: Homes By: Avi homesBy:avi.com
2. PARK POINT By: Qualex Landmark qualex.ca/ParkPoint
BRIDGELAND
3. BRIDGELAND CROSSINGS II By: Gablecraft Homes liveat.bridgelandcrossings.com
4. RADIUS By: Bucci Developments bucci.com/radius
5. ALVARO By: Cruz Custom Homes alvarroyyc.com
6. BRIDGELAND HILL By: Gablecraft Homes liveatbridgelandhill gablecrafthomes.ca
EAST VILLAGE
Developer: CMLC
7. ARRIS RESIDENCES
By: Bosa Development arrisresidences.ca
8. EVOLUTION By: Bosa Development evolutioncalgary.com
9. VERVE By: Fram Building Group framhomes.com
EAU CLAIRE
10. LANDMARK AT WATERFRONT By: Anthem Properties waterfrontcalgary.com
11. PARKSIDE AT WATERFRONT By: Anthem Properties waterfrontcalgary.com
KENSINGTON
12. EZRA By: Birchwood ezraonrileypark.com
13. SOLA By: Ocgrow Group of Companies solacalgary.com
21. BROOKLYN TOWNHOMES By: Trico Homes tricohomes.com
1. CHESTERMERE
CHELSEA
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: Trico Homes, Truman Homes, Anthem, and Luxuria Homes chelseachestermere.com
CHELSEA COURT TOWNHOMES
By: Trico Homes tricohomes.com
DAWSON’S LANDING
By: Qualico Communities.
Builders: Broadview Homes, Morrison Homes, NuVista Homes, Sterling Homes, Trico Homes, and Truman Homes liveindawsonslanding.ca
KINNIBURGH NORTH
By: Pollyco Developments
Builders: SunStar Homes, Paramount Homes, Luxuria Homes, NewLook Homes, Twenty First Century Homes, Everwood Homes, Landstone Homes, and Red Square Homes kinniburgh-chestermere.com
KINNIBURGH SOUTH
By: Golden Triangle Development
Builders: Golden Triangle Home Builders, 3D Homes, Wave Homes, and Green Cedar Homes kinniburghsouth.com
SOUTH SHORE
By: GDS on behalf of Edgewater Communities Inc.
Builders: Crystal Creek Homes, Prominent Homes, Madison Avenue Group, Green Cedar Homes, and Avalon Master Builder liveatsouthshore.com
WATERFORD
By: Douglas Developments
Builders: Artistique Homes, Devine Custom Homes, Douglas Homes, and Green Cedar Homes lifeinwaterford.com
By: Qualico Communities. Builders: Broadview Homes, NuVista Homes, Shane Homes, Sterling Homes, Trico Homes, and Truman Homes bridgeport.qualicocommunitiescalgary.com
2. STRATHMORE THE RANCH
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: WestView Builders theranchunited.com
3. LANGDON BRIDGES OF LANGDON
By: Pollyco Developments
Builders: Paramount Homes, Green Cedar Homes, SunStar Homes, Kelly Kustom Homes, and Landmark Group. bridgesoflangdon.com
PAINTED SKY
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Broadview Homes, NuVista Homes, and Sterling Homes paintedskyinlangdon.com
CALGARY’S HOTTEST TRENDS IN
HOME INNOVATION
The second-floor laundry room, the walk-through pantry, even the half bath on the main floor – everyday items that we now see in today’s homes - all have been products of home design innovation through the years.
Improving the way people live through better home design is the goal of every homebuilder, and it’s not just tweaks to floorplans. It can be through the introduction of new materials, home automation features, or including former upgrade features as part of the standard builder package.
Home design changes with the homebuyers needs, market conditions, and lifestyle
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
demands, and today builders are seeing demand soar for finished basement developments as among the top priority for buyers.
Secondary suites also in high demand, says Jayman BUILT COO, Dave Hooge. “Developing basement suites became a favoured choice, providing additional living space or rental income potential and of course acting as mortgage helpers.”
“Many of our homes sold last year had a basement development which can have various uses such as additional rental income, or more rooms for the family to grow into,” says Excel Homes Marketing Manager, Kristina Plank. “Our
buyers have been looking for a home with more usable space, so we have improved upon some of our best-selling floorplans, as well as created new models that are all about maximizing space.”
Separate entrances to these secondary suites are also a popular add-on and some builders are even offering this as part of their standard package.
Here are what other home design innovations builders are offering in 2025.
CEDARGLEN HOMES
Whether as a mortgage helper to bring in renters, as a feature to accommodate multi-generational
Jayman BUILT
living, or just as extra living space, the secondary suite development has become one of the most requested improvements in home design at Cedarglen Homes.
“Cedarglen Homes is excited to continue to offer high quality, legal secondary suites in all our communities across Calgary. These suites are available to add onto all our models including front-drive garage homes, laned homes and paired homes,” says Cedarglen Homes Content Marketing Specialist, Janelle Jalali.
“Reflecting on our sales from 2024, we saw many homebuyers adding legal secondary suites to their homes – whether to accommodate a live-in family member or to generate rental income,” she says.
“For those who did not add a full suite, many still chose to include a side entrance and to have the basement roughed-in to accommodate a secondary suite in the future.”
Jalali says Cedarglen Homes recognizes the desire for these types of additions and have pre-designed several floorplan options for homebuyers to choose from including side entrances, secondary suites and alternate basement development options. “These pre-designed options make it easy for homebuyers to personalize their new homes to suit their needs.”
Cedarglen Homes currently has seven secondary suites that are open to view in showhomes across the city. Jalali says these homes show a variety of different floorplans that homebuyers can choose from. They are found at 173 Mitchell Road NW in Glacier Ridge, 118 Rowley Way NW in Rockland Park, 191 Lucas Common NW in Livingston, 8 CreekView Common SW in CreekView, and 79 and 83 Ricardo Ranch Avenue SE in Logan Landing, and 158 Setonstone Green SE in Seton. Go to cedarglenhomes.ca for more information.
EXCEL HOMES
Excel Homes has always underlined the need for constant
improvements in home design to fit the evolving lifestyle needs. Marketing Manager Kristina Plank says paramount in all this is the need to make use of every inch of livable space.
“Excel Homes is excited to have quite a few new models that are all about maximizing square footage while still creating functional floorplans. We achieve this by making sure that our floorplans have an open concept layout, multi-functional rooms such as flex rooms and pantries and large windows that allow for plenty of natural sunlight, making any room feel more expansive.”
Excel’s floorplans maximize storage with tons of shelves and closets, as well as utilize every corner, nook and cranny to create more storage solutions, she adds.
New are zero lot line models that that not only maximize space utility inside, while also minimizing land costs by having the home extend right to the property line.
New is their Oxford ZLL (zero lot line) model that features four bedrooms, plus a bonus room and two flex rooms.
“The Oxford is spacious and thoughtfully designed at over 2,500 sq ft. On the main floor is a flex room that can be used as a home office or converted to a guest bedroom,” she says.
Cedarglen Homes
Excel Homes
Upstairs, there is an impressive primary suite with a four-piece ensuite and large walk-in closet, separated from the additional 3 bedrooms. It still has room for a spacious bonus room in the middle.
It also has options for a fully developed 1- or 2-bedroom basement for additional rental income. “Larger families are buying this home as there is plenty of room for the whole family to grow into,” Plank says.
The Oxford is available for sale in the north communities of Homestead, Savanna, Livingston, Starling and Lewisburg, as well as Excel’s south communities of Creekstone, Silver Spruce, Mahogany, Rangeview and Seton Ridge. “We have two Oxford show homes under construction in our brand-new communities of Lewisburg and Starling that are expected to open this spring, and another alternate 3-bedroom layout Oxford that will be coming to Rangeview this fall,” Plank says.
“Another new model Excel is excited for is the Maverick which
will also have four bedrooms standard. We have 2 Maverick show homes under construction in our brand-new communities of Starling and Seton Ridge that are expected to open in late spring.”
Find out more at excelhomes.ca.
JAYMAN BUILT
Jayman BUILT isn’t resting on its laurels. After sweeping local, provincial and national housing awards last year, they are intent on following through with more design improvements to benefit their buyers.
“We are always excited when we launch our new specifications each year. For 2025, we are especially so,” says Jayman BUILT COO, Dave Hooge. “Jayman BUILT has offered 4 specification levels over the last number of years but this year we have replace our Ultra specification with our new ‘BESPOKE’ specification.”
He says BESPOKE, as the name suggests, allows for the ultimate in personalization, with Jayman’s most luxurious finishings, including Jenn Air and Fulgor Milano
appliances and Hacker Kitchen, German-made cabinets.
Other inclusions are open-rise, mono-stringer stairs, camouflaged or hidden front entry closet doors and high-end lighting fixtures. All Jayman BUILT homes come with their consistent non-optional features, including 10 solar panels and smart home technology.
Popular among buyers right now are kitchen upgrades, Hooge says. “Popular choices included extending cabinets to the ceiling for additional storage, incorporating built-in ovens with separate cooktops for improved functionality, and installing undercabinet lighting.
There are a couple of recently opened showhomes that visitors can see Jayman’s latest designs. The Bentley 24 (1,920 sq. ft., front-attached garage home) and Avery20 (1,731 sq. ft., laned home).
“We have Bentley showhomes in Mahogany, Legacy and Glacier Ridge – featuring a stunning full height fireplace in the great room, extending up to the second floor and all showhomes showcasing a third-floor development option with outdoor living space. The Avery 20 showhome in Belmont, Glacier Ridge and Mahogany is an efficient laned home with features normally not seen in a laned product. The Belmont showhome features a third-floor patio, that is a must-see.” Go to jayman.com for more information.
Jayman BUILT Cedarglen Homes
Excel Homes
3. THE WILLOWS OF RIVER HEIGHTS
By: Calbridge Developments
Builders: Calbridge Homes, Nuvista Homes, Janssen Homes, and Kingsmith Homes thewillowscochrane.com
4. PRECEDENCE IN RIVERSONG By: Jayman Living Builders: By JaymanBUILT, and Trico Homes riversongcochrane.com
5. JUMPING POUND RIDGE By: Slokker Homes jumpingpound.com
6. SUNSET RIDGE By: Melcor Developments
Builders: Excel Homes, Homes by Avi, JaymanBUILT, and Landmark Homes liveinsunsetridge.ca
7. RIVERCREST
By: Slokker Homes , Qualico Communities
Builders: Broadview Homes, Kingsmith Homes, Janssen Homes, Sterling Homes, Trico Homes, Victory Homes, and 3D Developments
COCHRANE
1. FIRESIDE By: Calbridge Developments
Builders: Calbridge Homes Janssen, NuVista Homes, Cardel Homes, and Genesis Builders Group firesidecochrane.com
2. HEARTLAND
By: Rohit Communities
Builders: Akash Homes, Daytona Homes, Prominent Homes, and Rohit Homes heartlandcochrane.ca
Avalon Master Builder, Douglas Homes, Green Cedar Homes, Prominent Homes, Vertos Townhomes by Ocgrow Group of Companies, and Rohit Homes
Highfield Land Management
Look Master Builder, Mountain Pacific Homes, and Trico Homes
MONTERRA ON COCHRANE
Aspen Creek Designer Homes, Cornerstone Luxury Homes, and
SOUTHBOW LANDING
Broadview Homes,Daytona Homes, Douglas Homes, NuVista Homes, Sterling Homes, and Trico Homes
NORTHEAST
NOTE: Please match map numbers with property listings.
1. SADDLESTONE
By: Genesis Land Development Corp.
Builders: Genesis Builders Group saddlestonecalgary.com
Builders: Broadview Homes, Douglas Homes, Jayman BUILT, Shane Homes, Sterling Homes, Trico Homes and StreetSide Developments. liveinambleridge.ca
10. LIVINGSTON
CONDOS & TOWNHOMES
By: Logel Homes. livingstonviews.ca
11. UNIVERSITY DISTRICT
By: University of Calgary Properties Group Builders: Crystal Creek Homes, Jayman BUILT, Homes by Avi, Rohit Homes, Gracorp Properties, Brenda Stafford Foundation myuniversitydistrict.ca
12. SAGE WALK CONDOS & TOWNHOMES
By: Logel Homes. sagewalk.ca
13. CARRINGTON
By: Mattamy Homes mattamyhomes.com/calgary/communities/ calgary-carrington
14. SAGE HILL CREST
By: Genesis Land Development Corp. Builders: Calbridge Homes and Genesis Builders Group genesisland.com
“I was born in a small town, and I live in a small town…” John Cougar Mellencamp certainly captured the romance and essence of living in a small, tight knit community in his iconic song. Today, the opportunities to experience this type of lifestyle in the southern Alberta region are growing and may be the best bet yet for new homebuyers.
Calgary started as a small town, but even though the city still embraces the values and lifestyle it had in those pioneering days, a growing population of 1.5 million inhabitants makes it seem a little harder to be defined as such. Even its neighbouring small
communities like Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks and Chestermere aren’t so small anymore.
Small town living still has its charm and allure, and many buyers still like the lifestyle that these compact communities offer.
“Living in a small town allows you to enjoy the way life was growing up. Where you know your neighbours and they lend you some sugar if you need it, or help shovel the walk,” says Heather Dougall. She moved from Calgary to the community of the Lakes of Muirfield in the tiny hamlet of Lyalta east of Calgary and has live there for nearly a decade. She’s loving every minute of it.
“You are awoken by birds, not sirens. You have quiet and serenity and wide-open skies where you can see the stars at night,” she says.
“A small town fosters community and camaraderie in a way that living in the city just no longer provides,” says Justine Hall of CreekWest Custom Homes. “For example, in days gone by, we used to know our neighbors’ names, stop and chat with them, stop in for a coffee and the kids stayed out till the streetlights came on. That was my generation. My kids... don’t know the neighbors even though both sides of our house have kids about the same ages.”
Lakes of Muirfield, Lyalta
It’s this connection – to nature and to the community – that is the allure of the small town, and many are still just an hour or less away from Calgary’s city centre. Communities like Crossfield, and Beiseker to the north, Langdon and Lyalta in the east, and High River to the south offer not only less hustle and bustle, a more contemplative lifestyle, and more importantly a wider edge in affordability.
THE JUNCTION, BEISEKER
On the rolling plains where the sweeping grassland of southcentral Alberta meets the sheltering blue skies await a residential lifestyle of unlimited potential that many can only dream about. The Junction Beiseker taps this potential. Country living never looked as amazing as in The Junction in Beiseker, a new exclusive community just outside Airdrie, 44 minutes from Calgary International Airport and 50 minutes from Calgary Downtown.
The Junction is a small development with larger lot sizes and design flexibility. “We don’t want to be just another cookie cutter builder in a development. We want the style of our clients to shine through and the Junction gives that opportunity,” Hall says.
To date, CreekWest has three homes that have been built and moved into in the Junction last year. “We have 3 more in production and 2 more waiting to break ground!”
Buyers, she says, have been drawn to the substantially lower price to build and own their own home on a lot larger than in the new developments within Calgary and its neighboring towns.
There is a sales center in Beiseker, as well as an upcoming show home (end of feb/ early march) check out the website www.creekwest.net or, www.thejunctionbeiseker.com
MONTROSE, HIGH RIVER
The meandering Highwood River that runs through it, the rolling prairie grasslands surrounding it, and the misty Rocky Mountains just on the horizon, High River a unique place to call home.
And many have. The population of the town about 70 kms south of Calgary has grown by leaps and bounds no doubt attracted by the engaging scenery and lifestyle, but also of its affordability.
According to the Government of Alberta, High River had a population of 15,308 in 2023, and the town about an hour south of Calgary saw its population rise 2.08 per cent year-over-year, and 8.44 per cent in the last five years.
Much of the new residents can be found in the community of Montrose. Established in 2006, Montrose has proven to be just what High River needs, offering laned homes, and front drive homes from Homes by Dream and Hopewell. The community was untouched by the flooding in 2013.
The Junction, Beiseker
Montrose, High River
“Montrose appeals to those seeking a relaxing atmosphere and a natural environment bringing back memories to people raised in small towns while offering amenities both within the community and conveniently close in town,” says Dream’s Michael Tandara.
Find out more at escapethecity.ca.
PAINTED SKY, LANGDON
Under the cotton candy clouds of a prairie sunset, the hamlet of Langdon promises the lifestyle and values of a small town and a convenient, recreation-filled lifestyle that blends the best of rural and urban living. It’s only 20 minutes to Calgary, and 15 minutes to Chestermere, so residents get to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Langdon was nicknamed the “Good Luck Town” because of its location on the horseshoe of CPR railway lines from which the town
grew. Maybe the lucky horseshoe that has long been the symbol of the town is beginning to work.
Qualico Communities just opened three new showhomes in the new Langdon community of Painted Sky.
New showhomes from NuVista Homes, Broadview Homes, and Sterling Homes give new homebuyers the experience of living in this young community in the growing prairie hamlet of Langdon.
“Painted Sky is a haven for families looking for an alternative to city living,” says Qualico Communities Marketing Manager, Monica Bilyk. “The community offers larger lot sizes than those in the city and triple-car garages, which allows residents to park their recreational vehicles more easily throughout the year.”
Painted Sky is located just off of Glenmore Trail east of Calgary, which allows for quick access to
the city for those who work in the city and to amenities found in East Calgary and Langdon.
Bilyk says they are seeing quite a few people from SE Calgary communities moving to Painted Sky for the great schools and the easy commute to southeast Calgary..
Bungalows start from the high $600s and Front Garage Homes start from the mid $700s. for more information, go to paintedskyinlangdon.com.
LAKES OF MUIRFIELD, LYALTA
Lakes of Muirfield is a golf course community and will have a maximum build of 700 homes, so it will always be a small town, says Heather Dougall, who is handling sales for the developer, Chapel Rock Developments. “Almost all of the homes here back onto the golf course or greenspace.”
Lakes of Muirfield is only 22 minutes from Calgary and has good access to Highway 1, Country Hills Boulevard and McKnight Boulevard. “All of these connect to the Stoney Trail ring road, so accessibility isn’t a problem,” she adds.
A welcome centre is slated to open this year, as well as new showhomes. Go to lakesofmuirfield.com for more information.
Painted Sky, Langdon
Lakes of Muirfield, Lyalta
NOTE: Please match
1. RANCHERS’ RISE
By: Bordeaux Developments
Builders: Baywest Homes, Sterling Homes, Wolverine Custom Homes okotoksranchersrise.com
2. DRAKE LANDING
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: Lifestyle Homes, Sterling Homes, Prominent Homes drakeunited.com
3. MOUNTAINVIEW
By: Apex Developments
Builders: Sterling Homes, Excel Homes mountainviewokotoks.com
5. D’ARCY
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: Partners Development Group, Anthem, Trico Homes, Sterling Homes darcyokotoks.com
6. WEDDERBURN
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: Partners Development Group, Luxe by Luxuria, Prominent Homes, Sterling Homes, Anthem wedderburnokotoks.com
7. HAMILTON HEIGHTS
By: Telsec & Trico Homes Builder: Trico Homes hhestates.ca
8.
By: Partners Development Group partnershomes.ca
2
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