Lake Bonavista is not just a neighbourhood—it’s a vibrant community with a rich history and a unique focus on lakeside living. Established in 1968, Lake Bonavista holds the distinction of being Canada’s first manmade residential lake community, offering a way of life that blends natural beauty, recreational activities, and urban convenience. Much of the credit for this groundbreaking development goes to E.V. Keith and his company, Keith Construction, whose visionary approach to real estate development forever changed Calgary’s suburban landscape.
Keith Construction, founded by E.V. Keith, was a pioneering force in Calgary’s real estate market during the 1960s and 1970s. Known for pushing boundaries, E.V. Keith believed in creating communities that offered more than just houses—they provided a new way of life. Before embarking on the Lake Bonavista project, Keith Construction had already made a name for itself with Willow Park, Calgary’s first golf course community. This development showcased E.V. Keith’s innovative spirit, integrating recreational amenities into residential living, a trend that was still relatively new in Canada.
Keith Construction’s reputation for taking bold risks set the stage for what would become its most ambitious project: Lake Bonavista. Inspired by lake communities in California, E.V. Keith saw an opportunity to introduce a similar concept in Calgary, offering residents a chance to live by the water even in a landlocked province like Alberta.
When developed in the late 1960s, it brought a fresh concept to Calgary’s real estate scene: a neighbourhood built around a 52-acre manmade lake, with a 25-acre park that includes a stunning 65-foot hill and waterfall. This innovative design set Lake Bonavista apart from typical suburban developments and quickly made it a highly desirable place to live. The idea of a community centered around a lake—where residents could enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and skating—was virtually unheard of in Canada at the time.
Within the community, there is another elusive lake for residents looking for more privacy. Lake Bonventure is located south of Lake Bonavista, with access available to only waterfront residents or access from the lake from their backyards via a private pathway.
Cottage country is not a term used in Alberta, but Lake Bonavista is a model for it. A small centrally located shopping mall, Lake Bonavista Promenade, includes a grocery anchor tenant, Safeway, banks, local stores and a neighbourhood pub, maintaining a lake town feel, all located only 20 mins from downtown. Located near the C-train station, Lake Bonavista is an easy commute to downtown, only a short walk next to homes in the area. Within the community, there are four elementary schools, two junior high schools and a community arena, with two ice surfaces, a gymnasium, a dance studio and a meeting room that support a strong local figure skating group and hockey community.
When Lake Bonavista was developed in the late 1960s, it brought a fresh concept to Calgary’s real estate scene: a neighbourhood built around a 52-acre manmade lake, with a 25-acre park that includes a stunning 65-foot hill and waterfall. This innovative design set Lake Bonavista apart from typical suburban developments and quickly made it a highly desirable place to live. The idea of a community centered around a lake—where residents could enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and skating—was virtually unheard of in Canada at the time. The
Within the community, there is another elusive lake for residents looking for more privacy. Lake Bonventure is located south of Lake Bonavista, with access available to only waterfront residents or access from the lake from their backyards via a private pathway.
Cottage country is not a term used in Alberta, but Lake Bonavista is a model for it. A small centrally located shopping mall, Lake Bonavista Promenade, includes a grocery anchor tenant, Safeway, banks, local stores and a neighbourhood pub, maintaining a lake town feel, all located only 20 mins from downtown. Located near the C-train station, Lake Bonavista is an easy commute to downtown, only a short walk next to homes in the area. Within the community, there are four elementary schools, two junior high schools and a community arena, with two ice surfaces, a gymnasium, a dance studio and a meeting room that support a strong local figure skating group and hockey community.
The development of Lake Bonavista wasn’t without its challenges. At the time, there was no clear regulatory framework for building manmade lakes in Alberta. E.V. Keith’s vision was so novel that local authorities had no established permitting process for such a project. Yet, Keith Construction pressed on, excavating the lake and eventually filling it with water diverted from nearby Fish Creek, even before all the necessary permits were finalized.
This bold move showcased the determination and entrepreneurial spirit of E.V. Keith and his team. By navigating uncharted waters—literally and figuratively—Keith Construction laid the groundwork for a new style of community development that would be replicated across Calgary and other parts of Canada. Lake Bonavista was more than a new neighborhood; it was a proof of concept that manmade lakes could thrive in urban environments, creating a blend of natural and residential spaces that enhanced quality of life.
One of the key attractions of Lake Bonavista is its focus on outdoor living and recreation. The lake itself serves as a year-round hub for activities, from summer swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking to winter ice skating. Residents enjoy exclusive access to the lake and the private beach, making it a perfect place for family gatherings, picnics, and community events.
In addition to the lake, the community is known for its well-maintained park spaces, walking paths, and playgrounds. Lake Bonavista is ideal for families who value outdoor activities and a close-knit neighborhood atmosphere. The Homeowners Association, established during the community’s development, plays a crucial role in managing the lake and its amenities, ensuring that the beauty and functionality of Lake Bonavista are preserved for future generations.
The success of Lake Bonavista sparked the development of other lake communities throughout Calgary, such as Lake Midnapore, Chaparral, Auburn Bay, and Mahogany. However, Lake Bonavista retains a special status as the original lake community—an enduring symbol of innovation in Calgary’s urban development. Even as new communities emerge, Lake Bonavista’s history and character keep it at the top of many homebuyers’ lists.
E.V. Keith’s vision for Lake Bonavista was one of many innovative projects undertaken by Keith Construction. The company’s impact is still felt in Calgary today, with many of its developments maintaining their appeal and value over the decades. E.V. Keith’s forward-thinking approach helped transform the Calgary real estate market, setting a precedent for future developments that combined residential living with high-quality recreational amenities. His willingness to take risks and challenge the conventional suburban model left a lasting imprint on the city.
Living in Lake Bonavista means waking up to lakeside views, taking a morning stroll along tree-lined paths, and having the convenience of schools, shops, and recreational amenities right at your doorstep. With its blend of natural beauty and community-centered living, Lake Bonavista remains a shining example of what makes Calgary’s lake communities so special.
Whether you’re drawn by the idea of relaxing on a private beach, taking a sunset paddle, or simply enjoying the calm of lakefront living, Lake Bonavista offers a lifestyle like no other in Calgary. It’s a place where history meets modern living, creating a unique and timeless neighbourhood that continues to thrive more than five decades after its creation.
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