Private interior shared courtyard a unique touch to Pope Ave Townhomes

At Pope Ave Townhomes, a new 21-unit development taking shape in Cochrane’s downtown East End, the first thing residents will see when they come home won’t be a garage door, a driveway or the street. It will be a courtyard.

Front doors will open onto a private landscaped garden-like courtyard tucked inside a U-shaped collection of three-storey homes.

The urban-style development sets a precedent for the town.

Justin Mauro, president of Renova Homes, the developer behind the project, explains that the courtyard was designed to make the development feel more like a small neighbourhood than a collection of individual townhomes.

“The development has a smaller, intimate feel. And, the central courtyard is so unique. It gives the homeowners a private park space that is exclusive to them. This will be a tranquil space for residents to spend time with pets, family and friends, or just relax and take in a nice day,” says Mauro.

Each of the 21 urban-style three-storey townhomes are a variation on the Aspen floor plan with sizes ranging from 1,336 to 1,487 square feet with a double-attached garage at ground level.

Interiors are spacious and designed around an open-concept second-floor main living level with a central kitchen separating the dining and living areas. A large patio door and dining room window bring in plenty of natural light, while opening onto a deck. Most of the second-floor decks will face the courtyard, creating a connection between the private homes and shared outdoor space.

The third floor contains three bedrooms, including the primary suite, which is positioned towards the back of the home with views towards the courtyard and west.

Standard finishes include quartz countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring on the main floor and stainless-steel kitchen appliances. Early purchasers will have the opportunity to personalize their interiors using designer-curated palettes or individual selections.

The development’s location is also a significant feature. Pope Avenue (the development is named after its street location) is in Cochrane’s East End within minutes of the community’s historic downtown and main street with its boutique shops and restaurants. Schools, parks and recreation facilities are also within walking distance, while a skating rink is a block away.

“The East End is really special. Many of Cochrane’s newer communities are built on the outskirts of town, whereas Pope Ave offers the convenience of being able to walk downtown, while still having quick access to Highway 1A,” says Mauro.

That walkability, combined with quick access to the mountains and to Calgary (it’s just 20 minutes away), along with plenty of nature at the doorstep are what is drawing residents to Cochrane, a small mountain town that has experienced considerable growth over the past decade.

“We see people moving to Cochrane for the small-town feel,” says Mauro, noting that the lifestyle is attracting all demographics from young professionals to empty nesters. “Ultimately, these homes will appeal to anyone wanting a lower-maintenance lifestyle without giving up space.”

Pricing on the Pope Ave Townhomes starts at $498,000, including GST.

A show home is currently under construction at 601, 145 Pope Ave. with completion expected in March 2027. In the meantime, prospective buyers can visit Renova’s award-winning Freestone Townhomes show home, located at 103, 525 River Heights Dr. in Cochrane for more information and to get a taste of what is in store. The show home is open Mondays through Wednesdays from 2 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thursdays and Fridays.