The Montebello show home by Astoria Custom Homes brings French countryside elegance to the city of Calgary.

“The Montebello is equal parts elegant and functional,” tells Astoria Custom Homes and Renovations VP and CFO Lisa Stinson of the company’s latest show home. Situated in the picturesque community of Watermark at Bearspaw, just northwest of Calgary’s city center, the Montebello has been garnering a fair bit of attention since opening its doors earlier this year. “It has been receiving some significant accolades,” admits Stinson—though that shouldn’t be a surprise for Astoria, which has already earned a long list of Best New Home and SAM titles over the years.The Montebello brings a touch of Old World charm to its Calgary neighbourhood with tall, sloping roofs and rectangular windows that emphasize the formal symmetry of classic French architecture. The 3,565 square foot, 5-bedroom home is tonally inspired by the waterfalls, bridges and streams and weave through the prestigious neighbourhood, as captured in the curved timbers, smoky sills, stone façade and other exterior accents.Click to see more images of the Montebello show room

Inside, spacious layouts basked in earthy colors evoke a welcoming aesthetic ideal for entertaining. “The immense dual island kitchen is designed for gatherings of friends, families and foodies,” says Stinson, who mentions that highest quality appliances and gorgeous quartz countertops are suited to haute cuisine cooking.A master bedroom with spa-like ensuite is the focal point of the upper floor, nestled atop a gorgeous curved open rise staircase. Meanwhile ground floor workspaces are made convertible with stylish barn doors and three family areas come equipped with the latest technology—not to mention the perfect Man Cave complete with bar, sports table and multiple TV’s. A fully developed basement with outdoor walkout, triple attached garage and expansive outdoor space with Chef’s BBQ and sundeck round out the family-friendly layout, though it is perhaps the stone fireplace—an inviting feature that emanates warmth from the heart of the home—that best represents the Montebello vibe: a blend of sophistication and comfort designed to accommodate real life.