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As they evolved, master-planned communities largely consisted of rows of similarly styled mansions lining a golf course, or cookie cutter cottages alongside a lake. There was little variety in these homes, and they were largely big and expensive. Save for a shared clubhouse or pool, opportunities for fellowship were relatively limited in these master communities.
New Trends in Master-Planned Communities
Happily, new trends have emerged in the design of master-planned communities. A new emphasis on building connections among residents is perhaps the largest and most important new trend. Master developments have become more accessible to a broader range of homebuyers now with more builders and price ranges offered. Now, older homeowners have the option to live in communities designed especially for them. Amenities in master developments have taken a big step forward in recent decades and, recognizing that smart home technology is a must for most homeowners, many communities are integrating Internet-connected products into new homes.
Community Building
Rather than relying on proximity alone, new master-planned communities are built around shared interests and socialization. In the digitized 21st century, with much of life’s daily tasks conducted online, meeting and connecting with others isn’t as easy as it used to be. Master-planned communities offer a unique opportunity to fellowship with others and build a true sense of “community” in an organic, authentic way.
There’s no better way to build community than through shared experiences, planned or unplanned. The very design of most new master-planned communities is engineered to create engagement and interaction among residents. Neighborhoods are created around a central communal area with a large green space and amenities. Homes are built on short blocks and walking trails and parks are located throughout the community. All these features encourage residents to meet and get to know each other in an organic, unplanned way.
Many master-planned communities also offer amazing social experiences for their residents. Hillwood’s five Live Smart Communities each have lifestyle managers that plan events to bring residents together in intentional ways for fun, engaging experiences. Examples are holiday parties, quilting classes, wine tastings, concerts, community involvement projects, teen events, movie nights, and much more. Getting together to play cornhole or make thank you gifts for first responders is a great way to get to know and build relationships your neighbors.
Ages & Stages
One of the biggest trends in master-planned communities is the move to a greater variety of home sizes and prices. Now, a single new master-planned community may offer a selection of homes under $300,000, others over $600,000, and many in between. This allows homebuyers in every stage of life to experience the benefits of living in a master-planned community.
Another trend in new master developments is the rise of the active adult residential community. These neighborhoods offer homes, also in a range of sizes and prices, that include special features that appeal to adults 55 and over. These communities offer a host of amenities active adults can enjoy with friends, their visiting children, and their grandchildren. These homes are perfect for adults who may appreciate features that make life easier such as open-concept floorplans, raised dishwashers, and barrier-free showers.
Amenities in Master-Planned Communities
Today’s master-planned communities include countless amazing amenities for their residents. These features are thoughtfully designed to bring residents together over shared interests. Here in North Texas, you can find master-planned communities that offer resort-style pools, deluxe workout facilities, stocked fishing ponds, ADA-compliant inclusive playgrounds, and much, much more.
Harvest by Hillwood is a unique community in Argyle/Northlake, TX that offers residents of all ages the opportunity to embrace an agrarian lifestyle. Harvest homeowners can work in the community garden and have their own private garden plot. Those who have little gardening experience can take classes and get free help from the community’s on-site farming expert. Working in the community garden offers Harvest’s residents the opportunity to build connections and enjoy the benefits of a farm-to-table lifestyle.
Smart Home Technology
Another of the most popular trends in master-planned communities is smart home building. The smart home industry was worth an estimated $79 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow to $314 billion by 2026! New master-planned communities are embracing this growing interest in home technology and are incorporating it into their new homes.
For example, Pecan Square by Hillwood equips every home in the community with the latest technology that today’s consumers want such as speedy half-gig internet, full-home WiFi coverage, a Ring video doorbell, and an Amazon Echo Show. Residents love these technologies for the convenience, safety, fun, and productivity they add to daily life.
Browse Hillwood Communities
Whether you are looking for an agrihood, an active adult community, or a technology-equipped smart home, Hillwood Communities has a home for you. You’re sure to find a master-planned community that’s perfect for your family and your lifestyle. Contact us today.
