Traditional Neighborhood Design Inspired Newfield’s innovative future
“Traditional” may not be a term people associate with “innovation,” but hear us out: Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) is, in fact, turning out to be the answer to homebuyers’ modern-day desires – and the blueprint for inventive communities like our very own Newfield, a highly anticipated town that will set a new standard for TND and open-space preservation on the Treasure Coast.
TND follows a planning concept in which residential neighborhoods are designed in the format of intimate, early 20th century villages and neighborhoods. In essence, these are pedestrian-oriented neighborhoods with a mix of commercial and residential uses, and centralized public places where residents can engage – an alternative to more contemporary developments, which entail hopping in a car and leaving a community altogether to enjoy some time “out on the town.” Imagine a variety of home styles with front porches and detached garages in the backyard, all nestled in a community with a walkable Main Street, public parks, town greens, village squares, and additional spaces for recreation.
Located in Palm City, Newfield is an innovative master-planned community that will embody the characteristics of a TND. Once completed, the multigenerational and pedestrian-friendly town will offer an array of villages – comprising homes in various sizes, styles, and prices – naturally integrated with civic spaces including parks, community gardens and potential schools, as well as small-scale retail and office space. Rooted in connectivity, conservation, and sustainability, Newfield blends the activity and walkability of a quaint city with the warmth and connectivity of small-town suburbia – all situated within an expanse of preserved land that houses wildlife and offers immersive, nature-oriented experiences.
This resurgence of TND – what some call “new urbanism” – is no surprise to us. We believe there’s a growing need for more consistent and effortless connection between our neighbors. A strong sense of community is the foundation for Newfield – and that connectivity is embedded into every element of its design.
Take, for example, our floorplans, which have been thoughtfully designed to maximize spaciousness and flow, fostering connectivity and personalization. Whether it be an open layout, a versatile flex room, or seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, Newfield’s homes are designed to meet the desires and needs of various homebuyers, from the young professionals and retirees to large multigenerational families and more. Newfield’s floor plans will include three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath townhomes ranging from 1,855 to 1,862 square feet; three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath twin villas ranging from 1,901 to 2,323 square feet; and a variety of single-family homes ranging from 1,960 to 4,035 square feet. Single-family homes will include two to four bedrooms, two-and-a-half to four-and-a-half baths, and either a two- or three-car garage.
Furthermore, Newfield neighborhoods will include rear-access garages and driveways in alleys behind homes, enabling residents to greet neighbors from the front porch and watch children play safely in the front yards. The community’s overall design gives an intimate village feel while encouraging physical activity – its many paths and trails will connect residents to their neighbors, the many amenities throughout the community, and the Village Center in just minutes.
Today’s homebuyers are also increasingly curious and passionate about the environment, leading them to seek communities that offer intimate connections to nature while implementing sustainable practices. Conservation and sustainability are at the forefront of Newfield: the community has earned widespread public support for its permanent protection of 70% of the total 3,400-acre property in Palm City, which includes pasture, wetlands, forests, and lakes.
Last year, we unveiled the initial phase of KC Trails – a vast network of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding – which includes about 450, wildlife-rich acres designated as the Kiplinger Conservancy. Once complete, the miles of trails will also include scenic overlooks, benches, and boardwalks. The Kiplinger Conservancy also serves as Martin County’s first-ever gopher tortoise preserve.
Additionally, Newfield Farm – managed by Agmenity and helmed by Lead Farm Manager and Farm Educator Andrew Gerren – will span more than 100 acres and incorporate sustainable farming practices to produce year-round access to fresh, nutrient-dense foods. The farm will serve as a dynamic community resource for farm-based experiences, educational programs, communal gardens, and a multitude of events, including The Market at Newfield Farm, which we debuted in 2023. This year, the 4,000-square-foot Newfield Barn is set to open as a multifaceted operation featuring educational programming, cooking classes, demonstrations, and tastings, as well as a retail store and product stand.
With its emphasis on community connectivity and the environment, health and happiness are innately woven into the fabric of Newfield. Gleaning inspiration from TND, Newfield is on track to be an enriching community Martin County residents will be proud to call home.
Currently underway, Phase 1 of Newfield includes the community’s first village, which will serve as the town center and include approximately 1,250 residential units, along with retail, restaurants, small-scale offices, recreational amenities, and ten miles of trails. Once complete, Newfield will bring 4,000 new homes to Martin County.