Calgary’s Sterling Homes honoured in national awards
Now in its second year, Built Green Canada’s Maverick Awards reward and profile leadership in sustainable building, across three exclusive categories—these saw entries from British Columbia through to Ontario. One of the finalists for the Innovation Award is Sterling Homes Calgary’s Amber Model Net Zero Showhome. This award’s purpose is to recognize creative ways sustainable building is happening and progressing industry—and this project serves as a blueprint for greener luxury living with the core principles of integrating high-efficiency energy systems and durable materials, making it applicable to a wide range of projects.
The Amber Model in Sirocco is a net zero showhome that represents a fusion of luxury and sustainability in residential living. Its net-zero design features a full $40,000 solar array, high-efficiency Voltex Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater, and a Daikin One+ Smart Thermostat, which collectively ensure significant monthly energy savings, while the enhanced insulation and triple-pane windows also help ensure superior thermal comfort. The exterior is fortified with hail and fire-resistant Hardie materials, combining durability with visual appeal. The return on investment is evident through the reduction in utility bills and increased home value.
Certified BUILT GREEN® Net Zero Energy+, this third-party verification underscores the home's delivery on outstanding energy efficiency, health and comfort. Its innovative features benefit homeowners through enhanced living standards and financial savings, while contributing positively to the environment—a win-win scenario that paves the way for future developments in sustainable housing.
Inside, the Amber Model spans 2,516 square feet and is thoughtfully laid out with a private flex room adaptable for use as a home office or main floor bedroom. The open-to-below floor plan accentuates the spacious great room and upstairs bonus room, enhancing the home's grandeur. The luxurious primary suite, complemented by up to four additional bedrooms and a tandem garage, offers ample space for comfortable living.
The Amber Model in Sirocco has profoundly reshaped Sterling’s approach to sustainable building, setting a new benchmark for integrating luxury with eco-consciousness. Their aim was to challenge the outdated notion that eco-friendly homes must sacrifice comfort or aesthetic appeal. The success of the Amber Model proves that advanced, sustainable technologies can be seamlessly incorporated into high-end designs, redefining the status quo.
“We are driven by a commitment to reducing environmental impact and meeting the growing demand for sustainable homes,” says Director of Operations at Sterling Homes Calgary, Mike Cole. “This project highlights our dedication to leading the industry towards greener practices.”
From a company perspective, this project has underscored the importance of investing in sustainable technologies and has motivated Sterling to continually explore and integrate such innovations in future developments. They have adopted a holistic approach, considering not only the immediate environmental benefits but also the long-term health, comfort, and financial advantages for homeowners.
They’ve also learned that consumer education plays a vital role in the success of sustainable homes. By demonstrating the tangible benefits—such as reduced energy costs, improved air quality, and enhanced comfort—they are finding they can drive greater understanding and demand for eco-conscious living.
This award’s nomination is not just about recognizing a single project, but about celebrating a movement towards a more sustainable, luxurious and responsible way of living at Sterling Homes. This company has over 70 years of experience, building a legacy of quality and trust in the Calgary market, where they’ve constructed over 1,500 homes. They’re a Qualico company, which is one of the largest privately owned real estate companies operating in Western Canada and the United States.
The Maverick Awards are another step forward in Built Green Canada's mission to progress sustainability practices and recognize leadership; this year, four winners have been announced in conjunction with title co-sponsors, Jayman BUILT and SkyFire Energy. The Mavericks awarded Jim Zsiros of J. Zsiros Contracting with the Ambassador Award for exemplifying the power of hands-on ambassadorship—he’s created a ripple effect that’s elevated green building standards, particularly Built Green, across the region. Meanwhile, for this Innovation Award sponsored by Excel Homes, s2e Technologies was recognized for their London-based project, EVE Park, which is aiming for a net zero residential development rethinking suburban living: addressing high performance buildings and smart parking. While the Transformational Award had a tie this year. One of its winners is Best Builders for their Phoenix House in Delta, a remarkable rebuild setting a new benchmark for low-carbon renovations, while addressing resilience and holistic sustainability. The other is Spring Creek Mountain Village in Canmore, which has transformed from a mobile home park into an impressive multi-phase community largely fueled by geo-exchange, which embraces social, environmental and economic sustainability.