June 25th, 2019

Arden, South Florida’s First Agrihood, Unveils Barn for Food-Focused Events

Original article on BlauJournal.com >

Arden in Palm Beach County, Florida – South Florida’s first “agrihood” with a five-acre farm serving 2,000 planned homes – has unveiled two essential amenities: a community Barn and an elegant two-story clubhouse with resort-style pools and fitness center. The Barn is base of operations for Arden’s large-scale agrihood component. The clubhouse (named Lakehouse) epitomizes the community’s generous approach to amenities.

Arden is set on 1,209 acres west of West Palm Beach and includes a mile-long central lake, 20 miles of trails, and 500 acres of parks and open space. Arden is developed by Freehold Communities, creator of vital masterplanned communities in Florida, Texas, North Carolina, Tennessee and California.

Arden is the only masterplan in South Florida and among the first in the state with a community farm as a central component. Under the direction of two experienced Farm Directors, the Arden Farm celebrates Florida’s agriculture abundance through year-round production. The more than 50 varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers are shared among residents through a Farm Share program. It’s managed organically, where special care is taken to recycle nutrients, increase biodiversity and preserve air, water and soil quality. The farm is a living classroom where residents can connect with where food comes from and be a part of the production through regular volunteer days. (See link to video on Arden Farm, Barn, General Store and recent activities: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSGQAAAzf_o)

The new Barn is where residents gather for seasonal themed events, Farm Share pickups and workshops on a range of topics, from organic gardening to flower arranging. The Barn also features the Arden General Store, providing residents a unique experience for shopping local. Products sold highlight seasonal, Florida made goods that prioritize community and environmental impact. These include local and organic vegetables, fruits, coffees, teas, honey, popsicles, ceramics, natural body care products and so much more.

The two-story Lakehouse is the heart of social and recreational activity at Arden. Its two resort-style pools are configured into the upper-level “Tranquil Pool” and spa, surrounded by private cabanas. The lower-level pool offers water-play areas suited for families. There are also plenty of separate indoor and outdoor gathering spaces for all ages. The upper level of the Lakehouse features a Wi-Fi café serving coffees, smoothies, juices and grab-and-go food items; meeting and event rooms; and an outdoor, covered patio with a fireplace. The lower level includes a large fitness room and a private exercise studio with Wellbeats™ virtual trainers on demand.

“We welcomed more than 2,500 guests to the Grand Opening of the Arden clubhouse and barn which was so gratifying to all of us at Freehold Communities where we immerse ourselves in the local market to create amenities and a community that best expresses their interests and wellbeing,” says Freehold Southeast Division President Andy Smith. “This allows our founders – our first residents – to take pride of ownership immediately and this was clearly evident at the opening where so many came out to be the first to enjoy these special features of Arden.”

Designed to promote healthy living, community engagement and a connection to the outdoors, Arden will include 2,000 homes that will all connect to community green space, including parks, playfields, greenways, nature trails or lakes. In addition to the Lakehouse and farm, the scenic property features 20 miles of scenic and lakefront walking and biking trails; a central lake for fishing, kayaking or canoeing; parks; playfields; and an expansive Great Lawn that is regularly programmed with events and activities by Arden’s full-time Lifestyle Director.

The impressive collection of top-quality homebuilders at the 1,200-acre master-planned community includes Ryan Homes, Lennar, Kennedy Homes and Kenco Communities. Between the four builders, there are more than 20 innovative floor plans to choose from in a wide range of sizes, styles and design.

Freehold Communities is the visionary development team behind Arden and is currently developing over 10,000 residential lots in Texas, Tennessee, North Carolina, California and Florida.

Arden is located at 660 Arden Lake Way, Wellington, FL 33470, just west of the new Palm Beach State College campus and Lion Country Safari on Southern Blvd. For more information about the community, please visit ArdenFL.com.

Read the original article on BlauJournal.com >