A new townhome development in Cochrane is redefining suburban living by offering the privacy and space typically associated with a standalone house. Zen Greystone South, a fresh collection by Avalon Master Builder, presents a compelling option for those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle without sacrificing the perks of a detached home.
A Fresh Start in the Foothills
For resident Jessica Dolphin and her 14-year-old daughter, the move to a Zen Greystone South townhome marked a positive new chapter. Relocating from the Harmony community in Springbank following a divorce, Dolphin had a specific checklist: proximity to nature, abundant trees, a double-car garage, a strong community vibe, immediate access to running paths, and ample space for her family and their two dogs, Luna and Zoe.
After touring approximately seven homes in various Calgary communities, she found them too cramped. Her search led her back to the first model she viewed—the Avalon show home in Cochrane's Greystone community. "I really fell in love with it," Dolphin recalls, praising the location just two blocks from the Bow River with its extensive pathway network and park space.
Features That Mimic Detached Living
The development's design philosophy centers on providing a detached home experience. Key selling points that attracted Dolphin include:
- Fenced backyards offering private outdoor space.
- Double car garages, with detached options available.
- The notable absence of monthly condo fees.
- Homes that come fully landscaped, reducing move-in chores.
Dolphin selected the three-storey Hudson model, a laned townhome with three bedrooms. She opted for a net-zero ready build, added a detached two-car garage, and finished the lower level to include an extra bedroom, a full bathroom, and a living area. The open-concept main floor, featuring a large kitchen island and pantry, suited her modern lifestyle.
Location: Bridging Amenities and Wilderness
Situated in Cochrane, a growing town of roughly 35,000 people about a 20-minute drive west of Calgary, Zen Greystone South hits a sweet spot between convenience and natural escape. For an active triathlete and long-distance runner like Dolphin, the river pathways were a major draw. "The river pathways here are phenomenal. I get out every day for a run, and the dogs love it, too," she says.
The area provides easy access to Cochrane's urban amenities while remaining a short trip from the Rocky Mountains. Dolphin also valued being close to a gym and ensuring her daughter had room to grow independently. She commended the sales team, specifically mentioning area sales manager George for his patient guidance through her first solo home purchase.
The development, which Dolphin discovered on social media, successfully merges the practical benefits of townhome living—such as reduced exterior maintenance—with the desirable features and sense of ownership found in detached homes, creating a unique offering in the Cochrane real estate market.
