Ready to live in Disney's magic 24/7? Here's Cotino, Disney's first residential community
Disney fans who are ready to immerse themselves completely in the brand's magic 24/7 will soon be able to do so at Cotino, the first Storyliving by Disney community, set in the sunny Coachella Valley in California.
"For nearly 100 years, Disney has shared stories that have touched the hearts and minds of people all around the world,” Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, said in a statement. "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."
Cotino will be located in the city of Rancho Mirage, a location that holds significance as a place where Walt Disney owned a home and spent time with his family.
The community is being designed by Disney Imagineers alongside DMB Development, which specializes in large-scale planned communities. Disney cast members will work in the community, giving the same "legendary guest service" as they do in the park.
"These communities will combine the Disney hallmarks of attention to detail, storytelling and guest service to create a place where residents can live the next chapter in their lives to the fullest," said Thomas Mazloum, president of Disney Signature Experiences.
Read below to learn more about what to expect from Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community.
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What amenities will Cotino have?
Cotino will have a town center, featuring an open-air market, dining and entertainment, a beachfront hotel and a managed beach park with recreational water activities – which will require the purchase of a day pass for nonresidents.
Parks designed by Disney Imagineers will be set throughout the community, and people can stroll along promenades and walking paths throughout the neighborhoods.
Residents and nonresidents can opt into purchasing a membership to the Artisan Club, which will offer special amenities inspired by Disney and Pixar movies.
"As the Cotino community continues to come to life, we are excited to share more information about the many opportunities Artisan Club members will have to experience Disney magic right outside their front door and down the block," said Claire Bilby, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Signature Experiences Emerging Businesses. "From Disney entertainment and events to spaces inspired by Disney stories, club members will truly experience Disney story living."
Club members can enjoy "curated experiences" like wellness programming, cooking classes, performances and more.
Designed to look like the midcentury home of the Incredibles family from Disney’s “Incredibles,” the Parr House will sit along the grand oasis, a man made lagoon, and be a gathering place for events, celebrations and "limited overnight accommodations" for members.
Inspiration for the decor will come right from the movie, such as the indoor/outdoor rockwork. The house will have five bedrooms, a kitchen, dining room, boardroom, art studio and elevated patio overlooking the community.
There will be a separate clubhouse with "distinct spaces for dining, wellness, art, recreation and entertainment" and operated by Disney cast members.
Along the beach area, there will be a waterfront clubhouse with an exclusive beach area and water activities.
Who can live in Cotino?
Residents of all ages are welcome, and there will be at least one section exclusively for residents 55 years and up. The community will offer homebuyers a range of homes, like cottages, estate single-family homes and condos.
When can people move into Cotino?
Disney broke ground for Cotino in April 2022 and anticipates home sales to begin this year. Residents are scheduled to move into their new homes in 2024.
Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Disney announces Cotino, its first Storyliving by Disney neighborhood
