Not surprisingly, many buyers in the bungalow-style estate addresses have made the move to Gateway Villas from sprawling yards and rural homes, says Sandy Gregg, area sales representative with Willowbrook Homes.

“It’s really an easy transition to go from a farm, ranch or acreage to this location because it’s like living in the country.”

Features in Willowbrook’s attached bungalows include generous master bedrooms with walk-in closets and luxurious ensuite baths, open floor plans with nine-foot ceilings, eating bars adjoining spacious kitchens and massive windows which showcase the enviable views only possible in the foothills.

Back yards that allow gardens, as well as low-maintenance vinyl decks with aluminum railings are also included in the villas’ features, so residents can fully take advantage of their natural surroundings.

A show suite, the Thoroughbred model, is open weekends from noon to 5 p.m. or by appointment (861-0536) so buyers can get a glimpse of what to expect in their own Gateway Villas address.

Walking through, it’s hard to believe this stunning abode is not a single-family home. From it’s large up-front study to a main-floor laundry room complete with broom and linen closets just inside the rare double-attached garage, right up to the entertaining-sized  kitchen and hotel-worthy master suite, this home brims with well-appointed space.

While Willowbrook is a custom builder, few upgrades were put into the show home so buyers can see how far their money stretches. Ranging from $255,000 to $400,000 (the latter including basement development), the user-friendly digs are a great alternative to Calgary living.

“Nearly everything you see in the show home is included in our specifications. Knock down ceilings, single hung windows, four-inch door headers, wood reveal cabinet edging – these are standard features for us. We also use estate siding, architectural shingles, vinyl-coated decks and aluminum railings – it’s all low-maintenance,” she says.

Meanwhile, those who want to craft their home to suit their lifestyle and taste have the freedom to make design changes to any of the plans the builder features.  As a result no two homes are alike in the complex. The show home’s handsome tile underfoot, alder cabinetry in the kitchen and bath, and a winding staircase to below hint at personal touches buyers can build into their own villa home.

“We may start with the same floor plan but no two homes end up looking alike,” says Gregg, adding the majority of buyers have also opted to develop basements, often giving them more than 2,000 square feet of elegant living space.

A dozen lots are still available.  Buyers may choose from a selection of floor plans offering single-level living footprints from the 1,171-square-foot Shetland, to the 1,351-square-foot Buckskin – the latter which is set to open as the new show home in June.

“It’s a beautiful plan, lovely and open, that uses the space very effectively.  A large den, master ensuite with double sinks, soaker tub, huge shower, and skylight are standard features of this home.”

The serene, unique location of Gateway Villas is further enhanced with many outdoor leisure possibilities such as the adjacent Turner Valley Golf Club and all the many hiking trails and camping facilities in nearby Kananaskis country.

Current Willowbrook buyers range from their late 30s to 70s, many of whom are retired ranchers or “downsizers” looking to maintain the feel of rural living. Meanwhile, would-be residents transitioning from Calgary with a penchant for the arts are delighted with the thriving live arts community.

“That’s another thing people love about living here. The arts are alive and well in our neck of the woods.  We have many musicians living in the area as well as potters, sculptors, fabric artists and craftsmen. There are lots of concerts, and there is just tremendous talent here,” says Gregg, who herself is a Turner Valley resident.  CL

To get to Gateway Villas in Turner Valley, take Hwy. 2 south, exit at the Okotoks turnoff to 2A which takes you through Okotoks to the junction of Hwy. 7 to Black Diamond. Turn left at the four-way stop onto Government Rd. and exit right at the Turner Valley Golf course sign. Head past the golf course and follow the signs to Gateway Villas.