Canadian Company Revives Catalogue Homes with Modern Twist

The concept of building homes from a catalogue has made a notable comeback, with companies like Linwood Homes offering ready-to-assemble packages designed for modern buyers. This method, reminiscent of the early 20th century when Canadian pioneers ordered homes by mail, has evolved but remains a viable option for those looking to build affordably and conveniently.

In the early 1900s, obtaining a home from a catalogue was a practical choice. For instance, in 1910, an eight-room house from Eaton’s cost approximately $945. Today, Linwood Homes continues this tradition, providing customizable home kits that can be shipped anywhere in Canada. Customers have the flexibility to either construct the home themselves or hire professionals to do the work.

According to Mark Taylor, senior design and sales consultant at Linwood in Calgary, the company boasts a selection of 350 stock home designs. Many clients opt to modify these designs or request custom creations tailored to their specific needs.

“Once they have a design, we’ll price a materials package for them,” Taylor explains. “That package includes all the structural components, plywood for the sub-floor, exterior and roof. They’ll receive the exterior shell, which includes roofing materials, fascia, soffits, siding, windows, doors, trims, and the wrap that goes around the house.”

Once a materials package is priced, it remains valid for six to eight months, allowing customers time to plan their projects. Linwood also assists in creating a comprehensive budget for construction based on individual requirements, providing transparency throughout the process.

While customers who choose to undertake a DIY build may risk voiding the Alberta New Home Warranty, many possess the skills and confidence to complete their own projects. Others prefer a more hands-off approach, opting for a turn-key build where Linwood handles everything from supply to construction. There is also the option of a staged build, where Linwood completes the project up to a certain phase, such as drywall, before the customer takes over.

Taylor draws a parallel between the current offerings and the catalogue homes of the past, stating, “It does kind of go back to catalogue homes, or to Beaver Lumber and Beaver Homes. It’s the same concept — buy a package and do your own thing.”

Linwood Homes is among several builders showcasing their offerings at the 2025 Calgary Fall Home Show, taking place from September 26 to 28, 2025, at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park. Attendees can explore various home building solutions and meet special guests, including home renovation personalities Sebastian Clovis of Gut Job and Kristen Coutts of Beer Budget Renos, as well as renovation and lifestyle influencers Marc and Mandy Atiyolil of the Marc and Mandy Show.

For those interested in attending, online ticket purchases can save attendees $2 off the admission price, further encouraging participation in this celebration of home building and renovation. The return of catalogue homes signals a renewed interest in accessible and customizable housing solutions, merging traditional methods with contemporary needs.