NORTHSTAR

A modern community rooted in design and connection

By Heather Shoning

In southwest Longmont, just minutes from Boulder, the Northstar community by Markel Homes captures everything that defines modern Colorado living—expansive open spaces, mountain views that never get old, and homes designed to reflect the people who live in them. Blending convenience, craftsmanship, and contemporary design, Northstar offers a rare opportunity to build a semi-custom or full custom home within one of the area’s most thoughtfully planned neighborhoods.

A Setting That Balances Serenity and Accessibility

What makes Northstar so appealing isn’t just its homes, but its sense of place. The neighborhood maintains an intimate scale that encourages connection while preserving personal space. Northstar sits in an enviable location, surrounded by protected open space and trail systems that connect homeowners directly to nature. Residents enjoy sweeping views of Longs Peak and the Flatirons, along with miles of pedestrian paths and bike routes that wind through the community. 

Despite its tranquil, tucked-away feel, the neighborhood is just minutes from the vibrant small-town energy of Longmont’s historic downtown and a short drive to Boulder’s restaurants and trailheads.

“It’s special,” says Kate Clement, director of sales and marketing for Markel Homes. “You feel like you’re tucked away in your own private corner of Longmont, but you’re only minutes from everything you need—schools, restaurants, shopping, trails. It’s the best of both worlds.”

At the heart of the neighborhood lies Clover Meadows Park, a Longmont city park complete with a playground, picnic areas, and a bike skills course—perfect for families and residents who loves to stay active outdoors. It’s an amenity that brings people together, a hallmark of what Markel Homes strives for in every community it creates: spaces that invite connection, conversation, and community spirit.

Designed for the Way You Live

Markel Homes is known for its architectural diversity and attention to detail, and Northstar is no exception. The community features 66 home sites, ranging in a variety of sizes up to an acre, giving homeowners both breathing room and a sense of privacy. The assortment of lot orientations—from cul-de-sac enclaves to west-facing sites ideal for capturing sunset views—allows each buyer to find the perfect fit for their lifestyle.

The homes themselves are available in six semi-custom floor plans and several architectural styles, from modern farmhouse to midcentury modern to rustic modern. Whether you’re drawn to sleek lines and glass expanses or warm wood and timeless textures, each plan is designed to balance beauty with functionality. Open floor plans maximize light and flow, while outdoor living spaces cater to the Colorado lifestyle.

Semi-Custom or Fully Custom—Your Choice

One of the biggest advantages of buying at Northstar is flexibility. Buyers can select a semi-custom home from Markel’s existing library of plans—pre-designed by the company’s in-house architecture team—then personalize the finishes, materials, and details to make it their own. Those who want to go further can embark on a full custom journey, working directly with Markel’s design and construction professionals to bring a unique vision to life.

“It’s truly a collaborative journey,” Kate says. “We work closely with our buyers to finalize specifications, finishes, and timelines. It’s a hands-on experience that ensures every home reflects its owner’s vision and lifestyle.”

For many buyers, building a home can feel daunting, but Markel has honed its process over more than five decades to make it approachable and enjoyable. The company’s TrueDesign system outlines each step clearly—from initial vision and concept planning through design details, contract, finishes, construction, and homeowner orientation.

Semi-custom buyers can often take advantage of shorter build times, especially when selecting a spec home or a home already under construction—sometimes moving in within 60 days. For fully custom builds, the process typically spans 12 to 18 months, depending on permitting and design complexity.

Every home Markel builds is backed by its TrueAssurance warranty program, providing long-term peace of mind and dedicated customer support even after move-in day.

A Legacy of Local Craftsmanship

Founded more than 55 years ago by Michael Markel, the company remains a family-run, Boulder-based builder with deep roots in the community. Over the decades, Markel Homes has become synonymous with quality construction, sustainability, and design-forward thinking—earning numerous awards and multiple honors from the Denver Home Builders Association’s Parade of Homes, including recognition for its Northstar model home.

As Michael Markel famously said, “Good design is a way of thinking, seeing, and doing things. We think authentic design and smart design—and we always have.” That philosophy runs through every home the company builds, from the layout of a kitchen to the placement of a window capturing a mountain view.

Sustainability Meets Style

Northstar homes are more than beautiful—they’re also built with intention. Each home comes standard with ENERGY STAR certification, and many qualify for Zero Energy Ready and LEED for Homes designations. Markel’s partnership with the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS program means homeowners can breathe easier knowing their homes are constructed to reduce pollutants, VOCs, and allergens.

Additionally, Markel emphasizes water conservation, resource efficiency, and indoor air quality, making every home healthier for both residents and the environment. This commitment aligns perfectly with the Colorado ethos of conscious living—where sustainability isn’t a buzzword but a way of life.

Building Your Colorado Dream

For homebuyers seeking a balance of design freedom, quality craftsmanship, and a truly local experience, Northstar by Markel Homes delivers. Whether you’re ready for a semi-custom home designed around your lifestyle or a full custom masterpiece built from the ground up, the process is designed to be smooth, creative, and deeply personal.

From first handshake to final key handoff, Markel Homes brings decades of expertise—and genuine passion—to every project. Northstar isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive, surrounded by the beauty of Colorado and supported by a builder that understands what “home” really means.

For more information, visit markelhomes.com.