Palmer says Walden was designed mainly for buyers from mid-20s to 40s. “They really like the architecture of the area.” The homes available in addition to the local stores, parks and pathways shared with the neighbouring community, Lake Chapparal, are what he sees buyers are drawn to. Not to mention the affordable price points starting in the mid $300,000s.

The Arlington uses a contemporary, clean-line design approach contrasting the Sherwood II’s blend of glam with traditional flair. Palmer says the styling of the Sherwood II “touches on everybody’s taste.”

“Sherwood II” obviously reveals it is not the original. The show home is two feet narrower than the Sherwood, which is also available for wider lots within Walden. The Arlington also has a wider option to be included in the roughly 14 different plans Excel offers in this community.

Step onto the large cream, faux-marble tiles in the Sherwood II’s entrance and you will only get a peek of what’s to come in the kitchen and second floor. Yet, a full and intriguing view of the living and dining area is right there for all to see. Black-and-white accents–drapes, pillows, and artwork–blend with the dark-stained hardwood yet pop against the light tone-on-tone furniture, area rugs, walls and built-ins.

The clever placement of a built-in between the dining and living area has two-sided closed storage for its base and open shelving from counter-height to ceiling. This storage unit defines the two rooms as separate spaces, but allows a connection to take place at the same time. An optional two-way fireplace is also available in this location.

Part of the home’s traditional feel comes from its fireplace that is surrounded by large columns and a hefty mantle. Yet no hearth interrupts the dark chocolate floor, which butts up to its face. The touch of glam comes from the reflective surfaces–mirrors and stainless steel–used for side tables and lamps.

Wrapping around the U-shaped staircase with its dark wrought iron spindles, you’ll find the kitchen. Cream marble countertops match the traditionally-styled cabinets, setting a background for the black appliances to pop like artwork—tying into the rest of the main floor. A small desk sits beside the corner pantry facing the living room to provide more function to the kitchen in addition to its large island.

The rear entrance, tiled to match the front entryway, has enough depth for more than one person to use it at once. A half-bath and rear entry built-in bench are tucked away from the living areas to provide privacy and room to hide “the mess”.

The master bedroom veers left at the top of the stairs taking you into a light mustard-coloured room with dark wood furniture. A deep closet with double doors provides sufficient storage space and a charming feature in the ensuite is the huge free-standing tub beside the glass shower.

Next to the upstairs three-piece bathroom are two more second floor Sherwood II bedrooms. Each one decked out with clever kids’ room solutions—fun drapes, bedding, paint, furniture and storage. They also have small walk-in closets to store (or hide) kid stuff. 

Visit the show home at Walden Garden S.E.  or http://www.excelhomes.net for more information and show home hours.