If you’re looking for a cozy neighborhood to call home, look no further than the “Hamlet” of Sherwood Park. Yes, I got that right. While most people think of Sherwood Park as a city, and there has been incredible growth reflected in the strong housing market and new business starts, the place I call home is actually designated as a “Hamlet”. It honestly makes me think of an old English town set in the days of Robin Hood with his band of men living rough in Sherwood Forest.
There are a variety of communities within Sherwood Park for you to choose from. The original areas, such as Sherwood Heights and Brentwood, feature mostly bungalow style homes on quiet streets lined with huge elm trees. Subdivisions that were built up during the 1970’s – 1980’s saw a number of split-level style homes included in the development of the area. As builders began to be more conscious of style and design, and less focused on simple practicality, the home features evolved. They now included architectural guidelines that helped to maintain the streetscape and home values in the area. The interior of the home models now included ensuite baths, kitchen islands, dens, bonus rooms and flex spaces. Homes were no longer just a place to lay your head, they became a reflection of the owner and their lifestyle. The areas built from the 1990’s and onward emphasized curb appeal. The use of detailed trim, stonework, and multiple roof lines embellish the exterior of these homes. Additionally, luxury finishes and features were now expected, hardwood and tile floors, walk-in showers, and granite countertops became the norm. As it is still a lower cost to build upward instead of outward, two story models became the preferred style of home, and bungalows in these areas are harder to find.
Regardless of the year or location the home was constructed in, the overall design of each community in the park ensures it is pretty much self-sufficient. Which means all services necessary to your lifestyle are conveniently located within a 5-minute drive of your home. From retail, food, pharmacy, & automotive, to healthcare, education and physical activity, the area you choose to call home will provide everything you need. There are many more perks of living in “The Park”, with over 130 parks and playgrounds to visit, as well as Millennium Place, the Emerald Hills Leisure center, Greenland and Salisbury Garden centers, Heritage Hills Wetlands, Broadmoor Golf and country club and so many more.
That said, as with all families, there were many factors we considered when deciding where we wanted to live and raise our family. The shorter commute to work in a well-established community with large trees, an abundance of playgrounds and Excellent Schools was a must for us. Then there’s the Peace of mind in knowing we have access to Top-Notch Emergency Services when needed (I know you may think I am biased, but facts are facts). We had originally planned to buy an acreage, as the county of Strathcona is made up of both urban and rural properties, which would have kept us within the school district and close to all the amenities. However, we were extremely lucky to find the property we now live on. We love the tree lined street, the heritage of the home as it has a plaque out front noting it to be one of the first homes ever built in Sherwood Park. The size of the lot is tremendous, as it is actually a lot and a half. The land already had multiple kinds of fruit trees, raspberry bushes, plus a garden space and a pond. The home had been increased in size with the addition of a cedar sun room, and the outbuildings include a huge heated shop and a double size shed. So basically, we feel like we live on an acreage but are literally less than 5 blocks from the school, shopping, dining, and so much more. Talk about convenience!
We also love the entrepreneurial spirit in our “Hamlet”, and have discovered a few hidden gems for both casual and formal dining. Café Haven and Roasti Coffee Co are great for a quick on- the-go bite to eat and of course amazing brewed coffee. I would highly recommend the locally owned and operated Vicky’s Bistro & Wine Bar. Here they fuse traditional Greek food with western cuisine creating delicious dishes that are suitable for both casual and special occasion dining. If you enjoy the flavours found in Mexican food, La Patrona is the place to go. The Chef grew up in Mexico City and previously worked at a Michelin-starred restaurant before moving to Sherwood Park. This restaurant serves up authentic Mexican food that does not disappoint. We always enjoy supporting local businesses and are eagerly waiting on the 70 Acre Brewing Company to open its doors. I mean who doesn’t think a brewing company that serves up baked pretzel and Neapolitan pizza in their neighborhood isn’t a great idea!
I could go on and on about the neighborhood I call home but I think it’s fairly obvious that I am sold on Sherwood Park. Besides, the home market indicates that many of you are also sold on the area, as homes in “The Park” are moving like hot cakes off a griddle! Currently we are averaging only 19 days from listing a property to having it sold! So, if you are interested in making a move into my neighborhood, send me a note, I’d be happy to chat.
Sincerley,
Brendan Rost
Information herein deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
