Calgary is a city brimming with natural beauty and vital ecological corridors. Here, prairie grasslands and verdant river valleys are interspersed with ancient stands of aspen trees – some almost 4,000 years old – and 600-year-old forests of Douglas fir.

Despite urbanization and climate change, these forests have thrived and grown. These days, one can also find a selection of non-native tree species, planted by early settlers, current residents, developers and the City, all of which contribute to Calgary's urban forest.

With new residential developments popping up everywhere – along with a growing selection of culinary gems, coffee shops, yoga studios, craft breweries and funky boutiques – the buzz around Calgary's inner-city community of Altadore just keeps getting stronger.

With every passing year, the events of the First and Second World Wars become ever more distant parts of our country's history. Remembrance requires work, and any excuse to think about or discuss these conflicts and the sacrifices of Canadian veterans helps keep their memories alive.

In this context, three southwest Calgary neighbourhoods that wear their military history on their sleeve are especially significant.

Public art installations, plenty of green space, beautiful architecture and thoughtful urban planning that retains the site's heritage all come together to form a heady mix in Currie.

Calgary communities that provide convenient access to desirable amenities and major roadways are leading the way in growth.

Redevelopment projects lead to new communities in established areas

Most people think of new communities as being on the outskirts of the city, often in areas where amenities like shopping and schools are still lacking.

But there are a growing number of new communities springing up in well-established areas of Calgary, as redevelopment occurs on lands once used for non-residential purposes.

Dear Santa,

I know you're pretty busy these days getting ready for your epic journey. You must receive millions of letters. I can't imagine how time-consuming it is for you, but if you have a chance, please read mine.

A new Symons Valley Ranch Market rises from the ashes

A project is underway to redesign and rebuild the Symons Valley Ranch Market, after a devastating fire roared through the historic building and iconic grounds in late January of this year.

"The market had become a real gathering point for the community," said Ken Aylesworth, the market's managing partner.

Overture at Currie Barracks offers luxury living in one of Calgary's most exclusive and accessible communities

For homebuyers looking to downsize while maintaining the luxurious feel and amenities of a much larger space, a penthouse condo at Overture in Currie Barracks could be the perfect fit.

Overture is a four-storey, three-building collection of 63 upscale, executive, single-level living residences and penthouse condos brought to life by Jayman Modus. However, only two fourth-floor penthouse condos are still available – interested homebuyers need to act fast if they want to carve out a space in this exclusive new development and in-demand community.

"These penthouse condos are the ideal setting for working professionals and mature couples looking for luxury living in a complete, central community," said Ray Laprairie, a REALTOR® with Jayman Realty.

Major infrastructure and landscaping changes pave the way for Currie development

A new, major interchange is in full operation, with infrastructure built and the next stage of the massive Currie mixed-use development ready for launch.

"Last year we were focused on infrastructure. We started and completed the Flanders Avenue interchange," said Chris Elkey, senior director, real estate, Canada Lands Company (CLC), which is overseeing the project. "So that opened last fall. We had a big community event and it was a big success. It's operating. We're going to do the landscaping on it this year but for all intents and purposes it's opening and operating as it was designed to do."