Kingsmith Homes is one of three builders breaking ground just outside of the town, on a ridge nestled by Nature Conservancy of Canada land and overlooking Jumping Pound Creek.

It’s the blend of natural beauty and the ability to build a quality home close to all the amenities that is appealing to buyers, says Kern Kingsmith, owner and president of Kingsmith Homes. For more than 20 years his company has catered exclusively to people wishing to build in Cochrane.

“The development is located on a great piece of land that backs directly onto Jumping Pound Creek and is just a short drive to Calgary,” says Kingsmith. “The neighbourhood has a cosy feel.”

While the neighbourhood may be comfortable it is anything but cutesy. The Kingsmith show home in Jumping Pound Ridge is an elegant Craftsman inspired bungalow that has been a popular destination for buyers since opening in September.

“We see a variety of people gravitating towards the bungalow design,” Kingsmith says. “A lot of baby boomers and a ton of young families are moving into Cochrane right now; these are the people coming to the show home.”

In addition to the bungalow design, Kingsmith offers a number of stock and custom plans. Kingsmith says the builder can also modify a stock plan to suit a customer’s needs.

Cedar shingles and exposed beams painted in traditional colours, typical of the Craftsman style, accentuate the show home. Once the 170-home development is complete two years from now, each of its addresses will reflect the Craftsman style, but will also have its own personality. Kingsmith says the high architectural control in the neighbourhood means the properties will hold their value.

The show home’s 1,506-square-foot main floor and 1,350-square-foot basement underscore the company’s commitment to using the highest standard of building materials. Upon opening the wood-and-leaded glass front door, you are led into a hallway with a view of the kitchen and living area. Light floods in from every direction thanks to the open design. To the right is the laundry room complete with oversized sink, stackable Frigidaire washer and dryer, and plenty of cupboard space for laundry supplies. To the left is a space that can be used for a den/dining room and to the right is a powder room that features timeless brushed metal fixtures.

The hall leads to the glory of the home, the kitchen. With its large granite island, deceptively deep cupboards and corner pantry, even those who don’t cook will gladly spend time in the well-organized space. A vaulted ceiling and large skylight in the kitchen give the room a bright, airy feel, while the creamy coloured cupboards and brown-and-beige flecked granite countertops balance it with warmth.

The kitchen is connected to an eating area and living room, which are illuminated by large windows spanning the width of the back of the house. Adding to the natural light, potlights, strategically placed throughout the home, give the space a warm glow. Built-in speakers in the ceiling make the area perfect for entertaining.

On chilly days, guests can gather around the focal point—the gas fireplace—complete with built-in shelving and tiles that echo those used in the kitchen backsplash. During warmer times, they can soak up the sun on the large deck, spanning the back of the house and overlooking the ridge.

The master bedroom is also on the main floor and features the same laid-back elegance found elsewhere in the home, such as large windows, substantial crown mouldings and nicely-finished hardwood floors.

The ensuite boasts a soaker tub, his-and-hers sinks with marble countertops and a standalone shower. At the other end of the ensuite, the walk-in closet is found, along with storage galore.

The downstairs is equally bright and roomy and features two bedrooms, a well-appointed bathroom, storage room, bar, and a large room for an entertainment area.

To visit the show home, drive west on Highway 1 from Calgary, exit north on Highway 22, and turn west onto George Fox Trail before crossing the Bow River. Turn left into Jumping Pound Ridge at the intersection with Bow Ridge Road.