Disney Unravels Plan For Residential Homes That Bring ‘Storyliving’ To Doorsteps

The Walt Disney Company has officially unveiled plans to launch multiple residential neighborhoods across the US as part of its ‘Storyliving by Disney’ venture.

Its first project, named ‘Cotino’, will feature 1,900 residential units on a 618-acre property in Rancho Mirage, California, and will be developed in partnership with DMB Associates. 

“You can see and feel why Walt Disney himself used to escape to the desert,” said Michael Hundgen, Executive Producer of Walt Disney Imagineering, referring to the area just outside of Palm Springs.

At the moment, as per CNN, no prices have been revealed just yet, though a company spokesperson told the site the price tag will be set by the homebuilder instead of Disney itself.

In addition to the different neighborhoods made up of condominiums and family homes, the brand will develop a mixed-use district for public use, with amenities including shopping, dining, entertainment, a hotel, and even a beach park. 

There’s the possibility some of its neighborhoods will be specially designed to cater to residents aged 55 years and older, in what could be a “retirement community” of sorts.

Homes in Disney neighborhoods will be managed and maintained by “cast members” who will curate special programs and experiences for the residents throughout the year. 

However, it’s unlikely you’ll get surprise appearances from your favorite characters or receive discounts for the company’s theme parks or merchandise, despite paying a premium homeowners association and voluntary club membership fee.

Rather, it appears the programs will revolve around recreational activities, wellness seminars, or philanthropic undertakings.

“Disney Imagineers are exploring the richness of each local region to inspire the theme of Storyliving by Disney communities,” explained Hundgen. 

“Distinctively designed indoor and outdoor spaces will offer residents new opportunities to explore, engage, and create the next incredible chapter of their story,” he added. 

[via CNN and The Walt Disney Company, images via The Walt Disney Company]