The Walt Disney Company has unveiled plans to introduce new residential communities in the United States as part of its “Storyliving by Disney”. The first project of the Mickey Mouse company will be called “Cotino”: it will include 1900 residences on a 250-hectare (618-acre) plot of land in Rancho Mirage, California.
“I can understand, looking at these projects, why Walt Disney himself loved to escape to the desert every now and then,” he said Michael Hundgen, executive producer of Walt Disney Imagineering, referring to the beauties of the surrounding Palm Springs region, where the residential complex will be built.
A “cathedral next to the desert”, but with Mickey Mouse ears
Prices will not be determined until the next stages of the project, reports CNN, but a company spokesperson said the prices will then be set by whoever sells the houses, an intermediary, rather than Disney itself. The franchise will not only be private, however: part of it will constitute a mixed-use neighborhood that will also include shops, restaurants, entertainment, a hotel and even a park on the beach.
The vocation of this first "Disney citadel" is to offer a 'buen retreat' to a target of buyers who gravitate around 55 years of age: in perspective, a complex that aims for the tranquility of the residents.
The experience? Obviously Disney
Disney Residences will be managed by company staff, who will create special programs and experiences for residents throughout the year. Despite paying a premium homeowners association and a voluntary club membership fee, it's unlikely you'll end up like Disneyland with the stuffed animal of the day. The idea of Disney's 'Storyliving' is something different.
Programs will revolve around recreational activities, wellness seminars and philanthropic initiatives. “Disney Imagineers are exploring the richness of each local region to inspire the theme of Storyliving from Disney community,” Hundgen explained.
“Distinctively designed indoor and outdoor spaces will offer residents new opportunities. Opportunities to explore, engage and create the next incredible chapter in their story,” she added. I don't fully understand, but I adapt.
Another “corporate” city
The trend towards what appear to be very embryonic stages of a future full of small “city states” run by large corporations continues. After the law which in Nevada has given power to Big Tech groups to build entire neighborhoods, or the residential developments of Apple's 'private cities', Google e Facebook, today the Snow White house is also launching into the sector.
I would say that the trend is consolidating.
