By the D23 Team
As Disney fans, we all want to spend as much time in the worlds of Disney as possible—and soon, there will be a whole new way to live a life full of Disney magic. The Walt Disney Company announced today plans to introduce Storyliving by Disney, vibrant new neighborhoods that are infused with the company’s special brand of magic. These master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests, and write the next exciting chapter in their lives—all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities, and special touches that are Disney hallmarks.
“For nearly 100 years, Disney has shared stories that have touched the hearts and minds of people all around the world,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “As we prepare to enter our second century, we are developing new and exciting ways to bring the magic of Disney to people wherever they are, expanding storytelling to storyliving. We can’t wait to welcome residents to these beautiful and unique Disney communities where they can live their lives to the fullest.”
Disney Cast Members have brightened our days at countless Disney Parks adventures, and that special brand of magic will extend to Storyliving by Disney. At each location, including neighborhoods for residents ages 55+, Disney Cast Members trained in the company’s legendary guest service will operate the community association. Through a club membership, Disney will also provide access to curated experiences, such as wellness programming, entertainment ranging from live performances to cooking classes, philanthropic endeavors, seminars, and much more.
Member clubhouse interior of Cotino™ a Storyliving by Disney™ community
Naturally, all this Disney magic is being created with Disney Imagineers in a key role of creative development, working in conjunction with respected developers and homebuilders. “Disney Imagineers are exploring the richness of each local region to inspire the theme of Storyliving by Disney communities,” said “Distinctively designed indoor and outdoor spaces will offer residents new opportunities to explore, engage, and create the next incredible chapter of their story.”
Announcing Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community
If you’re already packing your bags for a Storyliving by Disney community, make sure to circle California on your map! The first Storyliving by Disney community will be built in Rancho Mirage, in California’s Coachella Valley—a location where Walt Disney himself owned a home and would spend leisure time with his family. Additional locations in the U.S. are under exploration for future development.
Recreational area of Cotino™ a Storyliving by Disney™ community
Where better to plant the first stake in the ground for a Storyliving by Disney community than an area that once felt the footsteps of Walt Disney himself? Walt and Lillian Disney escaped to the heart of the Greater Palm Springs area to enjoy a rejuvenating retreat—and soon Disney fans can enjoy the same experience at Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community. Architecture and amenities of this Storyliving by Disney community will reflect the history and present-day inspiration of the rich valley culture.
Cotino is being developed in collaboration with DMB Development, which is highly regarded for its development of large-scale planned communities in the U.S. According to Brent Herrington, the company’s CEO, “Cotino represents the creativity and operational excellence of Disney combined with the extensive community development expertise of DMB Development. We are delighted to collaborate with Disney in this groundbreaking new concept.”
Cotino will welcome homeowners of all ages and will include at least one section expressly for 55+ residents. Home buyers will have a range of home types to choose from, including estates, single family homes, and condominiums.
An aerial view of Cotino™, the first Storyliving by Disney™ community
Per the Specific Plan approval for the development, the community is expected to surround an approximately 24-acre grand oasis featuring clear turquoise waters with Crystal Lagoons® technology, enabling crystalline lagoons of any size to be built sustainably, with low water consumption and using a minimum amount of additives and energy. A voluntary club membership will offer access to a waterfront clubhouse, a club-only beach area and recreational water activities, as well as Disney programming, entertainment, and activities throughout the year.
Town Center of Cotino™ a Storyliving by Disney™ community
Cotino also has Specific Plan approval for a vibrant mixed-use district featuring a range of shopping, dining and entertainment, a beachfront hotel, and a professionally managed beach park with recreational water activities that can be accessed by the public through the purchase of a day pass.
To receive news and updates or to access additional information, visit www.storylivingbydisney.com. Get even more exciting details when you tune in tomorrow to the D23 Inside Disney podcast for an interview with one of the Imagineers behind Storyliving by Disney.
