| Values | Social equity |
| Economy | Thriving eco-tourism industry |
| Founded | 1930s |
| Location | Florida, United States |
| Founded by | A women's architecture collective |
| Population | Diverse |
| Notable for | New Urbanist town planning |
| Architectural style | Mediterranean-inspired |
| Sustainable features | Low-density • Mixed-use • Ample green spaces • Public citrus orchards |
Citrus Village is a renowned example of New Urbanist town planning located in Florida, known for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, abundant citrus orchards, and strong commitment to social equity. Founded in the 1930s by a women-led architecture collective, the village became celebrated for its low-density housing solutions, mixed-use buildings, and ample green spaces. Citrus Village has since become a thriving community that welcomes diversity and emphasizes environmental sustainability.
In the early 20th century, a group of innovative female architects sought to revolutionize urban planning by advocating for sustainable, community-oriented, and socially equitable developments. In 1930, they formed the Florida Women's Architecture Collective (FWAC) and purchased large swathes of land in central Florida, aiming to establish an idealistic community based on their principles. With the goal of fostering a diverse and inclusive population, the collective began constructing low-density housing solutions, mixed-use buildings, and ample green spaces. They named this new settlement Citrus Village, with its design showcasing Mediterranean-inspired architecture and widespread public citrus orchards.
Under the guidance of FWAC, Citrus Village is characterized by its ample public spaces, wide pedestrian-friendly streets, and low-rise Mediterranean-inspired buildings. The village's master plan prioritizes mixed-use developments, with retail spaces and professional buildings integrated into residential neighborhoods. Due to its low-density layout, Citrus Village has been able to maintain a close-knit community feel where residents can easily access a variety of amenities. The village's commitment to sustainability is further highlighted by its widespread use of solar panels, green roofs, and locally sourced building materials.
Since its inception, Citrus Village has been dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. By emphasizing social equity and maintaining affordable housing options, the village has been able to attract and retain a diverse mix of residents, including families, young professionals, and retirees. In addition, the village boasts an eclectic mix of cultural institutions, including art galleries, theaters, and museums, ensuring that residents have access to a variety of cultural experiences.
Citrus Village is also known for its annual Citrus Festival, a week-long celebration of the village's citrus heritage that features citrus-themed events, parades, and culinary experiences.
Citrus Village has a robust local economy, with diversified industries such as citrus agriculture, tourism, and professional services. The village's proximity to nearby urban centers has made it an attractive location for families and young professionals, further supporting its economy. Community services in Citrus Village include public schools, health facilities, and recreational centers, ensuring that residents have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Central to the identity of Citrus Village is its commitment to sustainable agriculture and citrus cultivation. The village maintains a large community-owned citrus orchard, which not only provides residents with fresh citrus fruits but also supports a network of local citrus producers and businesses. In addition to harvesting citrus, Citrus Village hosts a variety of agriculture-related events and workshops, fostering a strong sense of community around food and agriculture.
Tourism plays an important role in the Citrus Village economy, with visitors drawn to the village's Mediterranean architecture, ample green spaces, and citrus heritage. In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Citrus Village offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports. The village's commitment to eco-tourism has also attracted visitors who are interested in sustainable practices and community-oriented experiences.
Citrus Village has been nationally recognized as a pioneering example of sustainable urban development, frequently serving as a case study for urban planners and architects.
As a community that prioritizes sustainability, Citrus Village has implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint. Examples of these initiatives include extensive recycling programs, composting services, organic agriculture, and widespread use of renewable energy sources. Additionally, Citrus Village has embraced eco-tourism as a means of boosting its economy while encouraging visitors to engage responsibly with the environment and local communities.
Citrus Village, with its emphasis on sustainable urban development, diverse population, and commitment to environmental sustainability, stands as a shining example of the possibilities inherent in New Urbanist town planning.
