When the shuttered King Edward School was transformed into cSPACE King Edward, an incubator for artists, non-profits and entrepreneurs, it proved an ambitious example of the economic, environmental and social benefits of preserving, rather than demolishing, Calgary's historic buildings.

As one of Calgary's oldest communities, Sunnyside weaves together a poignant blend of architectural styles. Modern infills sit alongside century homes, while walk-up-style apartment buildings wink at neighbouring new-build, mid-rise condo towers.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has many Calgary businesses seeing red, Graywood Developments is betting on black ink for its two new condo projects here in the city.

On an afternoon stroll, residents of the neighbouring communities of Cliff Bungalow and Mission can feel like they've gone back in time. They might encounter structures built in the Queen Anne, Spanish Colonial, Classical and Georgian Revival styles, all from the early 1900s, within only a few blocks.

However, combing through the city's historic neighbourhoods is no longer an activity reserved for area residents, as Heritage Calgary is helping people learn about Calgary's past through self-directed walking tours.

Its name may evoke calmness and serenity, but the story behind one of Calgary's leading landmarks is anything but peaceful. As it evolved from a lightning rod for dissension to a symbol of unity, the Peace Bridge was judged not only for mistakes made, but also conventions challenged and lessons learned. In the process, this iconic footbridge earned the respect of friends and foes alike, one step at a time.

Nicole Butz - Mission
For Nicole, the day begins with a short stroll from her riverside, two-bedroom condo (she has a downtown view and awakens to the honking sounds of geese) to La Boulangerie Bakery Cafe on Fourth Street to grab a latte.

She calls herself an ardent inner-city junkie. "I don't really do the suburbs well, and Mission's vibrant but a little bit out of the core, so you get a different vibe. It just feels like home."

Calgary's most walk- and transit-friendly communities

While Calgary is still viewed by many as a car-centric city, there are many other ways for Calgarians to get around – whether you choose to walk, bike or take transit. Just ask the residents of the following communities, the proud recipients of some of the city's highest walk and transit scores from www.walkscore.com.

Abundance of options underlines the importance of setting priorities

A million dollars used to buy a lot of home for your money.

But what will $750,000 – $1 million get a homebuyer in Calgary today?

Stephanie Campbell, a REALTOR® with Kirby Cox & Associates, says the answer depends entirely on the home's location and your lifestyle priorities.

A crash course in Calgary bridges

Most Calgarians probably don't stop to think about the city's bridges every time they cross over them by car, by bike or on foot. However, many of these important structures have interesting backstories or architectural designs that make them special.