Watercolour Westport Stories

In this episode, Kevin Rankin, General Manager of Watercolour Westport, sits down with Gord Cooke from Building Knowledge Canada to explore how great building science shapes the way Watercolour homes feel — quieter, healthier, more resilient, and more comfortable.Gord shares why decades of Canadian research, better materials, and stronger trade partnerships have made it possible to build Net Zero Ready homes at a community scale. They break down “house-as-a-system” thinking in a simple, down-to-earth way and explain why today’s building methods matter so much for everyday living.A practical, thoughtful conversation about building better — and why now is the perfect time to choose a home designed for the future.______________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this episode, Stephen and Wafa sit down with the Mayor of Westport, Robin Jones, for a warm, thoughtful conversation about what makes this village so special. Together, they talk about the authenticity of small-town life, the vibrancy of the greater Westport area, and how newcomers and long-time residents alike help shape a community rooted in connection.The mayor shares her journey from a 34-year policing career to village leadership, the importance of volunteers, and the collaboration that supports everything from local businesses to healthcare access. They also explore what life looks like year-round — from winter activities to local services, arts groups, trails, and the new Hilltop Park that’s quickly becoming a favourite lookout.A heartfelt invitation from the Mayor for you to explore the community and belonging. Discover why Westport continues to capture the hearts of those who visit — and those who stay.________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this episode, Stephen and Wafa chat with Gord Cooke, building science expert and President of Building Knowledge Canada.Gord shares insights from his decades of experience helping builders across the country create homes that are healthier, more efficient, and built to last. Together, they explore what makes Watercolour Westport unique —and why new homes that aren’t Net Zero Ready are obsolete._______________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Meet a new Watercolour homeowner who celebrated the end of a 40-year career in Hamilton’s steel industry with a move to the calm rhythm of village life in Westport.George shares what it’s been like to settle into the community — from morning walks to hockey nights and pontoon rides on the lake — and how small-town living has brought him a new sense of joy, connection, and peace.Enjoy a conversation about finding purpose, rediscovering old passions, and embracing a slower, more meaningful way of life at Watercolour Westport.________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this episode, Stephen and Wafa sit down with Petra, a homeowner who traded Niagara living for the charm and walkability of Westport.Petra shares how a spontaneous visit turned into a life-changing decision, what it’s been like settling into the Watercolour community, and how everyday moments — from porch chats to time on the water — have made this village feel like home.A heartfelt story about slowing down, connecting with neighbours, and discovering the joy of living surrounded by nature.________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this episode, Stephen and Wafa sit down with Leigh Verge, a homeowner and model home host at Watercolour Westport.Leigh shares her journey from city living in Mississauga to finding a new pace of life in Westport — where walking trails, live music, and friendly neighbours have become part of her everyday. She reflects on what drew her and her husband to Watercolour, the joy of community connection, and what it’s like to live in a Net Zero Ready home built for comfort and care.A heartfelt story about slowing down, finding belonging, and discovering a new rhythm of life in Watercolour Westport.________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this episode, Stephen and Wafa sit down with Pam Garcia, a mom of four whose family traded city life for small-town living in Westport.Pam shares what it’s been like raising a young family here — from homeschooling and gardening to finding calm, connection, and community in a walkable village. She reflects on the joy of slowing down, building friendships, and living in a place where neighbours look out for one another.A heartwarming look at what it means to grow roots in Westport_____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Living surrounded by nature and walkable places means you can thrive. Watercolour homeowner and community leader Randall Goodfellow shares with Stephen and Wafa how living in Westport brings together nature, purpose, and connection.Randall shares his journey from Ottawa to Westport, his lifelong passion for maple syrup farming, and how his love of the outdoors has evolved into a deep commitment to local initiatives — from trail building and cycling routes to tourism and community development.Together, they discuss how Watercolour’s intentional design fosters both wellness and belonging — where every walking path, green space, and gathering place reflects a community built for connection._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this special episode, Stephen Rolston, founder of Land Ark Homes, and Marketing Lead, Wafa, reflect on the journey of Watercolour Westport and the values shaping its future.Discover some of the places around North America that inspired community, to the thoughtful details that make each home a place of belonging. Stephen and Wafa share candid insights about what drives their work and how Watercolour continues to grow as a neighbourhood unlike any other.Together, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at the passion, purpose, and people behind Watercolour Westport, inviting you to see not just the homes, but the heart of the community._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

In this episode of Watercolour Westport Stories, Stephen and Wafa welcome LuAnne, a resident who shares why life in Watercolour feels so meaningful.From walkable neighbourhood design to the comfort and sustainability of Net Zero Ready homes, LuAnne highlights what makes the community unique — and why it’s the only fully fossil fuel–free neighbourhood of its kind in Canada. She reflects on the joy of living in a place where neighbours know each other by name, where daily needs are just steps away, and where the natural environment is cherished and protected.This heartfelt conversation touches on gratitude, community, and the values that guide Watercolour Westport.______________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Meet Allison Scheuermann of Scheuermann Vineyard and Winery to hear the inspiring journey behind one of Westport’s most cherished destinations. From humble beginnings and entrepreneurial experiments to planting vineyards, building a thriving winery, and welcoming thousands of guests each year, Allison shares how family, faith, and community have shaped their story.Join us for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, hospitality, and the joy of creating a place where people feel at home._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

What makes a community thrive? In this episode, Stephen and Wafa sit down with Seamus Cowan, owner of The Cove Inn—a cornerstone of Westport’s hospitality and culture.Seamus shares the history of The Cove Inn, what it means to run a family-owned business in a small town, and how the spirit of connection is woven through both The Cove Inn and Watercolour Westport. From live music every night all year round,  to welcoming travelers from near and far, this iconic spot has become a gathering place where neighbours and visitors alike feel at home.Together, Stephen, Wafa, and Seamus explore the value of community, the importance of hospitality, and how places like Westport nurture a sense of belonging that goes beyond bricks and mortar._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Too many roads, stop lights, traffic, and poor land planning have made escaping the GTA the next big migration. Keith spent his whole life in the GTA and Southwestern Ontario before moving to Watercolour, and he immediately noticed what had long since been missing from his hometown: no traffic, small town charm, personal connection with neighbours, and close encounters with natureIn this episode, Keith shares how he almost didn’t move to Westport and why he is so glad that he did!  Drawing from his background in solar technology, he tells us why he has enjoyed having a home built with all-electric power, solar panels, and a backup battery for peace of mind living._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Have you ever experienced the feeling of all the stress and frustration leaving your body, like a huge exhale? That’s what residents of Watercolour feel every time they return home.In this episode, Peter and Linda talk about their experience of living in Watercolour. As some of the earliest residents, they’ve had a lot of time to get to know the community and the technology in their home. They talk about all of the ways they stay active and involved throughout the year, and how much they appreciate the approachability, integrity, and vision of Watercolour._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about us ⁠on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

It’s the things you can’t see in Watercolour homes that make them so exciting. At least, that’s the case for Dave, a military veteran with a background in technology and a familiarity with the construction industry.Many things influenced Dave’s decision to move to Watercolour, but the exciting technologies and forward-thinking building techniques were among the top deciding factors. High-speed internet, his appreciation for nature, and reduced commutes helped seal the deal. In this episode, Stephen and Wafa talk to Dave about what drew him to Watercolour and how he is connected to the town that inspired the community, Seaside, Florida._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about us ⁠on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

When Stephen Rolston, founder and owner of Land Ark Homes, decided to get back into home building to create a new kind of community, he knew that he wanted to do things differently in all aspects of his business. The first person he called was Kevin Rankin, who now serves as Watercolour Westport’s General Manager.In this episode, Stephen and Wafa are joined by Kevin as they discuss the aspirations behind Land Ark Homes 2.0 and how they hope that their pioneering efforts in the area of Net Zero home building will pave the way for many more builders to create sustainable communities rather than continue to build obsolete housing. _____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Every element of Watercolour Westport has been thoughtfully designed, from the length of each block to the parks and protected land. Each decision was informed by sustainability and a desire to preserve the natural beauty and historic feel of Westport for generations to come.In this episode, you’ll meet Mark Snider, who has many years of experience as a land planner.. He is also a Westport boy, born and raised. In this conversation, he shares what it was like growing up in Westport and how he is helping Land Ark design smart and sustainable neighbourhoods that will help preserve the unique character and setting of the village.____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about us ⁠on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

What’s better than waterfront cottage living? How about the cottage lifestyle without the waterfront upkeep?Meet Lorne, who made the move to Watercolour with his wife Doris, after realizing that they no longer wanted the upkeep of a waterfront cottage property. Moving from Ottawa, Lorne has rediscovered the friendly, small-town feel, how much he enjoys all of the events in Westport, and the benefits of a simplified and slower way of living. They have a home and cottage in one. Then came adding solar panels to their home. The family has embraced the security of having this backup power source in case of future energy disruptions._____________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠us on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

When cities became huge hubs of commerce and culture, neighbourhood communities were replaced with condos and green spaces were paved over. People began to spend more time commuting and less time getting to know their neighbours. For many, city living is now isolating and overwhelming.That was true for Beth and her husband, who realized one day that everything they’d loved about their home and community had changed over time. They started seeking out the village vibes they’d grown up with, and explored many communities before finding Watercolour. In a sort of “Goldilocks moment,” they realized that it was exactly what they were looking for.In this discussion with Stephen and Wafa, Beth talks about developing and changing communities, shifting cultural values, and how Watercolour residents and the existing community in Westport mutually benefit from the development of this thoughtfully created neighbourhood._________________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.

Living in a big city, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the people around you.But, in Westport, the small population of year-round residents band together for volunteer initiatives and community events to keep the town thriving and build relationships.Joe and his wife decided to downsize and simplify their lives by moving to Westport, where they quickly felt at home in the community. As Wafa chats with Joe, he shares about his passion for antique cars and how he was able to find like-minded neighbours who inspired him to revive the Westport Car Show. He also talks about the ease of working from home and how much he enjoys the picturesque setting of Westport for his photography hobby.________________________________Connect with Us! Learn more about ⁠on our website: https://watercolourwestport.com/⁠Book a tour: https://calendly.com/watercolour-westportFollow us on social media to stay connected: ⁠Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/watercolourwestport/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatercolourWestport⁠⁠YouTube⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@landarkhomesThanks for listening—and welcome to the story of a community like no other.