When you’re building a custom home in Calgary, you’re not just designing for aesthetics—you’re designing for Calgary’s unique climate and the way life is lived here. From freezing winters to warm, sunny summers, your home needs to be built to handle all that this city throws its way, while still providing comfort and style year-round.
At Nero Contracting, we specialize in helping homeowners create homes that not only look great but function perfectly in Calgary’s environment. Here are key considerations to keep in mind when designing a home that fits both Calgary’s climate and lifestyle.
1. Optimize for Energy Efficiency
The most important thing to consider in Calgary is energy efficiency. With our long winters, heating costs can be substantial. A home that’s built to keep the heat in and the cold out will save you significant money over time.
Focus on:
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High-efficiency windows: These will help minimize heat loss, especially if you’re building in a south-facing area where sun exposure is high.
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Proper insulation: Calgary’s weather can swing dramatically, so investing in top-notch insulation (both in the walls and attic) will keep your home comfortable in both winter and summer.
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Smart heating systems: Consider radiant floor heating or energy-efficient HVAC systems for cost-effective climate control.
At Nero Contracting, we make sure that your home isn’t just beautiful—it’s built to stand up to the city’s weather and keep your energy bills low.
2. Consider the Layout and Flow
Calgary is a city of active families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. Your home should reflect that lifestyle. Open floor plans continue to be popular because they maximize space, light, and airflow.
But we also encourage thoughtful zoning. For example:
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Mudrooms with plenty of storage for outdoor gear—essential when the city’s winter months can be messy.
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Dedicated workspaces: Whether for remote work or home-schooling, Calgary’s growing trend of flexible living means having a quiet, functional office at home is essential.
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Indoor-outdoor flow: Design your outdoor living space to be just as usable as the indoor areas, whether it’s a backyard fire pit, a deck, or a patio. Calgary’s summer nights are meant to be enjoyed outside!
3. Maximize Natural Light
Calgary’s winters can be long and dreary, but natural light can make all the difference in your home’s warmth and comfort. When designing, think about:
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Larger windows on the south-facing side to capture light during winter months.
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Strategically placed skylights to bring in sunlight throughout the day, especially for areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
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Light-colored finishes in your interior—think white walls, light wood floors, and neutral tones—which will reflect the light and make your home feel more open and airy.
We work with architects and designers to ensure your home is as bright and welcoming as possible, no matter the season.
4. Plan for Seasonal Shifts
In Calgary, the transition from winter to summer happens fast. Your home should be equipped to handle these seasonal shifts without excessive wear and tear. Consider:
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Durable materials: Calgary’s climate is tough on finishes. Choose weather-resistant materials for exteriors—like fiber cement siding or stone—to handle the elements.
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Efficient drainage systems: Calgary’s spring melt and rainstorms can flood basements if not properly planned for. We make sure your custom home has effective drainage solutions to protect your property.
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Landscape for all seasons: If you’re building a garden, choose plants that thrive in Calgary’s unpredictable weather. We can also help you design landscaping that’s both beautiful and low-maintenance, especially during winter.
5. Future-Proof Your Home
As Calgary continues to grow, so will the needs of its residents. Building a custom home means thinking ahead:
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Smart home technology: Equip your house with the latest in smart thermostats, security systems, and energy-efficient devices.
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Space for growth: Whether it’s additional rooms for a growing family or extra storage space for your ever-expanding hobbies, it’s smart to design with future flexibility in mind.
At Nero Contracting, we consider your long-term needs so that your home remains a perfect fit for your life in Calgary, no matter how things evolve.
Building a Home Designed for Calgary’s Climate and Lifestyle
When you build a home in Calgary, you’re not just building for today—you’re building for all the seasons and all the changes that come with time. Whether it’s handling snowstorms, making the most of sunny days, or ensuring comfort year-round, your custom home should reflect the unique challenges and beauty of Calgary’s lifestyle.
At Nero Contracting, we understand what it takes to design homes that are built to last in our city. We’ll guide you through every stage of your custom build—from design to construction—ensuring your home is both a reflection of your dreams and the best fit for Calgary’s climate.
Ready to start planning your dream home? Let’s chat about how we can bring your vision to life in Calgary.