Preserving the tranquility of nature
Creating true value for residents.
Spread over the hillside along Okanagan Lake, a short 10minute drive from downtown Kelowna, lies Wilden, a community that has mastered the art of growing in population without losing its pristine beauty.
The name Wilden was inspired by the wilderness this stretch of land is known for, which ranges from rolling hills and rocky terrain to lush forests and wetlands that are a haven for animals, plants and waterfowl.
Wilden is the largest masterplanned community in the Okanagan Valley.
One of the things that makes Wilden so unique is that almost 50 percent of it is being preserved as natural open space and public parkland.
Growing the community slowly and sensitively is the vision of Blenk Development Corporation, a Kelowna-based, family-owned company.
The Blenk family actually resides in Wilden and so does their core management and engineering team – all are living and breathing the vision manifested in the master plan over 20 years ago.
Wilden’s story dates back to 1995, when the first parcel of land was purchased. Over the next few years, the community continued to grow as more land was acquired.
The very first building lot was sold in September 2003 and the community’s first homes were built during the spring and summer of 2004.
Since then, approximately 40 to 50 homes have been added to Wilden each year. Not surprisingly, Wilden’s very first resident still lives in the neighbourhood!
Currently in the second phase of development, Wilden boasts 730 homes and approximately 2,400 residents. The estimated value of all homes built to date is upwards of $500 million.
Not only have the sales of these homes contributed to the local economy, but the planning and construction has created countless jobs.
Wilden is about a third of the way to completion. Of the 12 neighbourhoods that are built, 11 are completely sold out, and there are five more neighbourhoods in the planning stage.
As of today, Wilden has 10 lakeview lots for sale, and 105 singlefamily lots will be released in the fall.
An additional 100 single-family lots are expected to be released in 2019.
Wilden is also quickly moving towards self-sufficiency, meaning that it will soon be more than just a place to live, but also a place to work, play, shop and socialize.
Currently in the planning process is Wilden Village and Market Square, which will encompass shops, parks and other amenities. It will be a commercial hub, social gathering spot, and venue for seasonal markets, festivals and community events.
Upon completion, Wilden will encompass 2,800 homes of which approximately 1,800 will be single-family residences and 1,000 will be townhomes and apartments.
Kelowna’s dramatic growth in recent years, combined with Wilden’s close proximity to the downtown core, budding Glenmore area, UBC campus and airport, makes it the perfect time to move ahead with some higher density multi-family sites included in the master plan.
As Wilden continues to grow, new development will stay within designated pockets identified in the master plan.
It will include wide greenbelts and more restored wetlands, giving every home easy access to recreational areas and pedestrianonly parks making sure that residents savour the joy of balanced living.
Despite being so close to Kelowna’s vibrant social, economic and academic hubs, the thoughtful land preservation throughout Wilden will ensure the community is always naturally tucked away from the buzz of the city.
This tranquility translates to exceptional long-term value and quality of life for Wilden residents.
Wilden has mastered the art of growing in population without losing its pristine beauty.