In the 1960s, amid Disneyland's construction and opening, Walt Disney himself envisioned launching a corporate-controlled planned community that would serve as "a living blueprint of the future." It was hoped that the town would incorporate cutting-edge technological features into a tightly regimented network of residential and social systems that would, theoretically, function as a sort of suburban utopia.
Well, that idea completely flopped after Disney died (though its remnants eventually became parts of the EPCOT section of Disney World). But now, nearly 60 years after Disney's death, the mega-corporation is back to finally finish what the Original Imagineer began:
Fans will soon be able to call Disney home.
On Wednesday, the company announced the launch of Storyliving by Disney, a new community for Disney fans to live in that incorporates the company's brand of magic.
"These master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests and write the next exciting chapter in their lives -- all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities and special touches that are Disney hallmarks," Disney said in a press release.
Here's an official ad:
And some concept art:
Can I be brutally honest?
I'd rather be eaten by a whale than live in this place.
Mind you, it's not merely that it sounds like one of the most corporatized, saccharine, un-genuine living arrangements ever conceived.
It's that they actually mean for it to be that way:
Disney Imagineers will develop the community's concept while working with developers and homebuilders. Storyliving communities will also include a club membership so that residents can access curated experiences, such as wellness programming, and entertainment, such as live performances, cooking classes, seminars and more. Some neighborhoods will also be for residents ages 55 and up.
Ahh, yes, the totally realistic unscripted arrangement of a "curated experience." That's what you want in a neighborhood. Nothing unbelievable and unfulfilling about that.
I think I'll at least wait until prices come down a bit before buying a house there.
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