By Leah Demirjian
While “foodie” culture has been the driving force behind green roofs, demonstration kitchens, and farmers markets at several residential buildings in metro cities for the past few years, a slew of new, mixed-use developments are putting a fresh spin on suburban, farm- centric neighborhoods by offering food- and health-focused developments that still maintain a big-city, urban feel.
Pinewood Forrest
Made up four districts that radiate from its village square, Fayetteville, Ga.’s planned Pinewood Forrest offers micro-cottages, mews, and tree homes in addition to age-targeted and traditional townhomes or single-family homes. A “startup incubator” is one of its community amenities, in addition to farm-to-table restaurants, community gardens, and an on-site wellness center. pinewoodforrest.com
The Cannery
A new farm-to-table development in Davis, Calif., The Cannery supports active lifestyles with its spas, miles of bike paths, and a communal gathering barn. Plus, a farm run by the Center for Land-Based Learning teaches planting and harvesting to the roughly 135 families who currently call The Cannery home. livecannerydavis.com
Harvest Green
The Houston area’s first “agri-hood,” Harvest Green, is situated on a 1,300-acre lot in suburban Houston. The residential community provides access to an on-site farm, communal gardens, and personal “ready-to-grow” backyards. An event barn hosts chef- instructed culinary classes and farm-to-table dinners. harvestgreentexas.com