Situated among some of Calgary's most picturesque landscapes, the adjacent communities of Valley Ridge and Crestmont – both originally developed in the 1990s – offer homeowners access to plenty of nature and established amenities, along with some compelling views.

If you want to have a Calgary community that outpaces all others in population growth, with lots of children and young families, it helps to have a lake.

As more and more people take the plunge into simplified living – moving into spaces that are smaller and offer a lock-and-leave lifestyle – downsizing is becoming a well-heeled buzzword.

"We like to call it right-sizing," said Ismahan Omer, sales manager at Partners Development Group, known for its popular Arrive townhome.

In Crestmont West, the newest extension to the established estate community of Crestmont, some interesting new multi-family designs are hitting the market.