WESTPORT - It's the creation of a walkable, traditional-style neighbourhood of new homes with welcoming verandahs, plenty of sidewalks, natural open spaces and trails.

And where better to develop such a new cottage-lifestyle community than on the edge of the already walkable village of Westport in a location surrounded by 32 lakes and the Rideau Canal? Could it get better? Yes! Add to the ideal location of the development the fact the homes are rated high in energy efficiency and are Net Zero Ready - a first in Canada.

Environmentally conscious Land Ark Homes Founder Stephen Rolston and General Manager Kevin Rankin believe in "social and land stewardship" in their Watercolour Westport home development.

"These are homes of the future but we're building them right now. Why wait?" asks Stephen, who has been creating community developments for 30 years.

"We want to build homes people will love within an active, walkable community," says Stephen. "We think Westport is a natural place for this because of its existing walkability and attractions. It punches way above its 700-people weight."

The development, which got underway earlier this year, has 4 phases, the first being 25 lots with 12 designer finished homes with 5 bungalow styles and 4 different two-storey options. Later phases will include semis and townhomes. Half of the lots and home are already sold / reserved. Interest in the community is very high.

"People are really wanting to get out of the urban crush, the disconnection," says Kevin. "People are rethinking the type of lifestyle and quality of life they want to have."

A perfect combination is buying a home which is highly energy efficient in a back-to-your-roots, walkable neighbourhood. You can keep your car in the garage for days on end. The goal is to create an enduring balance of nature and neighbourhood. Care has been taken in the architectural design of the new houses to be reflective of the style of many of Westport's existing heritage homes.

The houses are built Net Zero Ready using the latest technologies and designs to be more durable and 80% more energy efficient. Advanced construction methods include triple-pane windows, better insulated walls and roof, superior heating, cooling and fresh-air ventilation systems. They promise fibre optic internet to your door so you can work from home in cottage country.

Land Ark is an award-winning homebuilder recognized by its homeowners and industry as a builder that exceeds expectations. Their slogan is "New Homes - New Life - New Possibilities."

Learn more about Watercolour Westport on their website, Facebook and Instagram pages or on YouTube. For more information, send an email or call 343-308-8237.