Evanston is experiencing rapid growth, thanks to affordable homes and extensive amenities

One of the fastest growing communities in the city, Evanston was designed with lifestyle in mind. Located on the city's northern edge and bounded by two major arteries – Shaganappi Trail and Stoney Trail – the community features easy access to the downtown core and the mountains.

"Evanston's vision was wide-open spaces and a place for families to grow and flourish. It was achieved by creating parks, soccer fields, green spaces and amenities right in the community," said Laura Field, marketing co-ordinator for Qualico Communities, the developer behind Evanston.

That simple formula has attracted residents in droves. The first shovels broke ground on the community in 2007, and by 2013, the population had crested 8,000 residents. By 2017, that number had doubled, soaring to over 15,900, and it's still driving upwards, as the community releases its final phases. At final build out, there will be 3,348 single-family homes and 1,419 multi-family residences.

"Here you can get everything that you need and want in a community," said Field.

Evanston offers 6.3 kilometres of walking trails and bike paths that wind through 16 community parks and seven playgrounds to link up to the municipal pathway system. Gazebos and picnic areas add to the charm and amenity mix.

"Here you can get everything that you need and want in a community." - Laura Field, Qualico Communities marketing co-ordinator

"The green space along the ridge is fantastic," said Evanston resident Minerva Kraushar, adding the community's design really connects people. "We walk our dog along there and you meet some really cool people. Everyone is out there."

Two schools – Kenneth D. Taylor and Our Lady of Grace – have recently opened, and Evanston Towne Centre and Creekside Shopping Centre provide everything from banking to restaurants and yoga studios.

But what really makes the community stand out is its proximity to natural beauty. It's right next door to the gorgeous, untouched grasslands of the Symons Valley and West Nose Creek areas, and offers stellar views of the Country Hills Golf Course and sandstone rocks bluffs.

Just minutes down the road, the newly designed Symons Valley Market will soon be under construction, providing fresh local food and wares, as well as a gathering and event space for all the surrounding communities.

The market's design nods to the ranching and farming history in the area. Designed by FRANK Architecture, the long, low and expansive barn-like forms are placed in the landscape so that they capture direct views to the valley beyond, while creating a central plaza that's perfect for hanging out on sunny, summer afternoons.

Home designs in Evanston run the gamut, including side-by-side designs, laned homes and move-up styles. Zero-lot line product keeps the prices affordable, and for those in the move-up market, larger lots are available, including some backing onto the dry pond.

Builders include Broadview Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Jayman BUILT, NuVista Homes and Trico Homes. Two multi-family projects, Arrive by Partners Development Group and the Loop in Evanston by StreetSide Developments, are attracting attention for their quality of design and price points starting in the $299,000s. Single-family homes start in the $360,000s, plus GST.

A new showhome parade featuring nine new showhomes is in the works, with a grand unveiling planned for May 5.