Village Farm Wins Austin Chronicle’s Best New Planned Community Award
In an era where urban planning is increasingly focused on sustainability and community, the concept of an “agrihood” is emerging as a transformative model. Village Farm, nestled just eight miles east of downtown Austin, is leading the charge with its innovative approach to blending agriculture with urban living. This unique community has recently been honored with the Austin Chronicle’s Best New Planned Community Award, a testament to its groundbreaking design and impact.
What is an Agrihood?
An agrihood is a planned community centered around agriculture, integrating farming into the daily lives of its residents. Unlike traditional neighborhoods, where green spaces might consist of manicured lawns and ornamental gardens, agrihoods like Village Farm put food production and sustainability at the heart of the community. Residents are encouraged to engage with the land, whether through farming, gardening, or simply enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of their neighbors’ labor.
Village Farm: A New Paradigm in Urban Living
Village Farm is a shining example of this urban planning trend. Conceived to address affordability issues while fostering a strong sense of community, this agrihood is redefining what it means to live in the city. The community is built around the existing Green Gate Farms, a working four-acre organic farm that serves as the heart of Village Farm. Here, residents can learn to farm, purchase freshly harvested produce, and participate in weekly farmers markets and community events.
The design of Village Farm emphasizes efficiency and sustainability. More than 100 tiny homes, averaging just 399 square feet, are arranged in a walkable layout, promoting a small-footprint lifestyle. These homes are not only energy-efficient but also designed to foster daily interactions among residents, creating a tight-knit community where people know their neighbors and share in the joys and responsibilities of agrarian life.
Community and Connectivity
One of the standout features of Village Farm is its commitment to creating a vibrant, connected community. The development repurposes the existing Oak Forest RV park, providing utility hookups and infrastructure, while incorporating car-free zones to prioritize walkability and social interaction. Regularly programmed events and communal gardens further unite residents, making Village Farm not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
A Model for the Future
The success of Village Farm has not gone unnoticed. Austin’s City Council, led by Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison, has recognized the potential of agrihoods to address urban challenges and enhance quality of life. A recent City Council resolution aims to encourage the development of similar communities across Austin, signaling a shift toward more sustainable, community-oriented urban planning.
As Village Farm continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a model for what the future of urban living could look like. Its recent accolade as the Austin Chronicle’s Best New Planned Community is well-deserved and highlights the impact this innovative agrihood is having on both its residents and the broader Austin community.
Village Farm is not just a place to live—it’s a way of life, one that prioritizes sustainability, community, and a deep connection to the land. As more people seek out alternatives to traditional urban living, the success of Village Farm suggests that agrihoods could play a key role in shaping the future of cities, both in Austin and beyond.