Murray estimates the lots could sell out in year or less, and that all the homes in Copperfield might be complete a couple of years from now.

Four Copperfield builders, including Broadview Homes, Homes by Avi, Sabal Crafted Homes and Stepper Custome Homes have two new show homes each. ”These are considered first-time move-up homes,” says Murray. ”All these new models are priced from $220,000 to $290,000, base price. Show homes typoically tend to be on the higher end of the price range, though they have something in the middle and something at the higher end.”

Copperfield is a community designed to provide inner city diversity and style in a warm and welcoming suburban setting. To achieve this, Hopewell’s Architectural Coordinates Design System™ pulls together three major architetural themse that pay tribute to some of Calgary’s fine old neighbourhoods. Home buyers can shoose the style that best express their individual taste.

The first is the Heritage style: ”It’s reminiscent of Elbow Park with front porches, natural materials and gable detailing,” Murray says.

The Urban style is ”similar to the contemporary styling and newly constructed homes in Hillhurst and other character neighbourhood” Murrays says. Together, all three styles ”combine to create diverse and interesting streetscapes.”

The latest phase of Copperfield features lots ranging from 34 to 38 feet wide, with most averaging 36 feet. Many of the lots back onto a future separate school site that will be planted and used for playing fields. These lots will have a greenfield behind them, with no backyard neighbours.

Across the street will be homes with front attached garages, but with lane access as well, offerring a variety of site choices for home buyers.

Safe, private streets, pedestrian-friendly access to local parks are also hallmarks of the award-winning community. ”All of Coppfield’s green spaces and parks are connected with a pathway system, ” Murray says. There are sidewalks throughout the community, and pathways provide shortcuts through the cul-de-sac layout. the community’s network of parks and playing fields continues to grow; in 2004, five new ones were landscaped and equipped with play structures.

Hopewell has taken great care in planning Copperfield as a community alive with greenery. As such, every home buyer receives the Copperfield Personal Landscaping Package - a program that allows for front yard landscaping for every home at no additional charge. ”The Landscaping Package has been excellent for Copperfield and its residents. It’s a wonderful way to take added expense and stress off a buyer’s move, while helping to add colour to the community quickly,” Murray says. ”We’re expecting to landscape approcimately 300 home sites this summer.”

Copperfield is already well-served by two shopping areas, one in nearby McKenzie Towne and the other an 130th Avenue S. E. at Deerfoot Crossing. In addition, Copperfield Corner, a small neighbourhood-style shopping plaza, is being developed. Plans include a Tim Horton’s a gas bar and some other local amenities right in the neighbourhood. A Copperfield community association is also scheduled to be organized this year.

Now entering its third year, Copperfield is well on the way to becoming a mature community. The latest selection of lots is the 10th phase of about 26. ”We’re not quite half-way through, but this year we’ll sevice about half of the community. ” Murray says. ”Copperfield is already growing very fast,” she adds. ”It’s always amazing to see how much has happened since my last visit.