Laned homes have been the darling of the new homebuyer set for almost as long as there has been a new homebuilding industry. This type of home usually has a porch or veranda facing the street, or big front windows with unencumbered view of the front yard. It also has a parking pad or detached garage with rear lane access, and it has always been the preferred first home for many.

Traditional designs have typically been utilitarian with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths with an open concept main floor and a basement development option. But lately, there has been a noticeable change in the design.

Over the last decade or so, it was rare to see laned homes larger than 1,500 square-feet in Edmonton. But today, as lifestyle needs of buyers continue to evolve, laned homes have gotten bigger, offering more living space than ever before, many coming with options for spice kitchens, and main floor bedrooms, and more.

While they may no longer fit neatly into the category of starter homes, they still represent a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers compared to their front-attached garage counterparts.

We spoke with a few local homebuilders to explain the laned homes’ continued allure and its new, lifestyle designs.

The charms of laned homes

For Dalyce Keen, Sales Manager, Jayman BUILT Edmonton, laned homes represent “affordability without the compromise,” as homeowners “gain complete privacy while not being attached to another dwelling or sharing outdoor living spaces.”

She adds that Jayman BUILT’s laned homes have a large range of options in size, floorplans and designs options. “Having a rear detached garage option allows for more flexibility with direct access to the backyard from the alley. Also, storage options for those homeowners who have recreational vehicles, toys, etc. with the rear lane access.”

Jacq Lakusta, Sales Manager at Akash Homes, agrees. “With no shared walls, laned homes offer a more private, personalized living experience, providing homeowners with a true sense of individuality and pride in a space that reflects their unique lifestyle, all at a more affordable price than traditional detached single-family homes.”

She points out that Akash Homes’ laned homes have the added feature of side entrances, giving homeowners greater flexibility to make the most of their basement space according to their needs.

Designed for life

A huge advantage of the laned homes is its ability to offer legal basement suites, four--bedroom upper floors, main floor bedrooms for multi-generational living, and more.

“Jayman BUILT offers a total of 16 laned model options to offer a home design to fit any lifestyle,” Keen says. “Our homes include oversized triple pane windows to maximize natural daylight, crafted exterior architecture, award winning floorplans, energy efficiency with our CORE performance including 10 Solar Panels as well as smart home automation.”

Lakusta says Akash Homes puts a premium on innovation. “Our most popular laned homes are designed with functionality so that no square footage is wasted. Buyers express that they love the open-concept designs for their practicality, as spaces create an inviting and spacious atmosphere ideal for families to enjoy.”

Akash’s laned homes also incorporate elevated upgrades as standard to enhance comfort and value. These include quartz countertops throughout, an energy-efficient LED lighting package, an electric fireplace, soft-close cabinets and drawers, and a spacious rear deck for outdoor enjoyment.

Award-winning design

Jayman BUILT’s 2024 award winning Erica model is a star! It features a unique 10-foot-high great room ceiling height and raised kitchen and dining room area. “The Erica checks every box with a gorgeous kitchen, owners retreat with a bright spacious ensuite and walk in closet, two more spacious bedrooms, upper floor laundry with storage space galore,” Keen says.

Jayman also offers an abundance of included value, making the buying process simple and straightforward. Also, every customer gets the opportunity to visit our design centre to personalize the interior of their home with a professional interior designer.

Jayman BUILT offers laned homes in Marquis West, Rosemont, Keswick Landing, Desrochers Villages, The Uplands at Riverview, Trumpeter by Big Lake,Southfork in Leduc, and Nouveau in St. Albert.

“Jayman BUILT has welcomed a large range of homeowners purchasing/securing a laned home. Whether it be your first home with affordability top of mind, investment opportunities with the potential for a legal suite or a right sizer looking to have financial freedom, a laned home is appealing to all walks of life,” Keen says. Find out more at jayman.com.

Fun in functionality

At just over 1,600 square feet, Akash Homes’ the Dover laned home model is highly sought after for its efficient and versatile design, Lakusta says. “The main floor features a den, ideal for use as a home office, children’s playroom, craft or hobby room, or an additional guest bedroom. It also has an open-concept kitchen and living area, enhanced by 9-foot ceilings and quartz countertops throughout the home, provides a modern and spacious feel.”

The second floor includes three bedrooms, a bonus room, and a laundry area. “Though more compact than a traditional single-family detached home, the Dover model offers exceptional functionality and convenience without compromise,” she adds.

Akash’s laned homes appeal to a wide range of buyers, from first-time homeowners, families with children, to empty nesters. Offering generous space and smart layouts, these homes are designed to suit every stage of life. With more attainable price points than traditional single-family homes, buyers can enjoy living in vibrant, amenity-rich communities while having lower mortgages.

Akash currently offers laned homes in many of Edmonton’s most desirable communities, including Alces in the southeast, Crystallina Nera in the northeast, and Copperhavenin Spruce Grove. Find out more at akashomes.com.