A City of Villages

Irvine

The city that bears the namesake of the man who once owned a huge swath what is now Orange County – James Irvine – is now home to over of 250,000 residents. Over the course of the past fifty years, the orchards of citrus & avocado, the fields of lima beans & cotton and the former Marine Corps Air Station have been carefully transformed into master-planned residential communities.

An article in the Daily Pilot in 1969 cites an upcoming presentation by Irvine Company executives to the Council of the Building Industry Association – “Their reports will trace the background of the property, the largest planned development of its kind in the nation. Due to its size, single ownership and strategic location, this vast complex is viewed by many as the prototype of future urban developments.”

That prescient statement – “viewed by many as the prototype of future urban developments” – still holds true today – Irvine continues to be hailed as the model for master planning.

From a full page ad in the Daily Pilot 1974 – “The Irvine Company and the developers listed on this page are partners in a major effort – the creation of a city of villages. Your house and your village are designed to improve and mature with age.”

Irvine’s official motto is “City of Innovation”, but maybe like that vintage 70’s ad says, it should be “A City of Villages”, which is really what the place is about – a cohesive series of interconnected residential communities with housing, dining, shopping, schools, parks, pools, and seemingly-endless amenities woven together with sensible transportation corridors, myriad bike lanes and pathways, all designed with the resident in mind.

Irvine | Real Estate

Discover the epitome of luxury and lifestyle in Irvine, where residential real estate reflects a tapestry of elegance and innovation. Irvine’s homes cater to a spectrum of buyers, from those seeking entry-level condos to palatial estates.

Irvine’s architectural landscape is as diverse as it is beautiful, featuring a huge swath of aesthetic choices. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek lines of Contemporary & Modern homes or the timeless flavors of Spanish Revival, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Tuscan, Italianate, and Farmhouse Revival, there’s an architectural style to match every taste.

The city’s unique “Villages” concept sets Irvine apart, offering master-planned communities like Northwood, Woodbridge, Shady Canyon, Turtle Rock and Portola Springs (and so many more), each with its own charm and character. These Villages are not just neighborhoods – they’re vibrant, self-contained communities where life’s conveniences are at your doorstep.

Amenities in Irvine are unparalleled, providing a lifestyle that’s hard to match. From resort-style pools and lush parks to award-winning schools and sprawling shopping centers like the Irvine Spectrum, there’s something for everyone. The presence of prestigious institutions and corporate headquarters adds to the city’s allure, making it a hub for both education and career opportunities.

Irvine | Recreation & Shopping

Irvine is a masterclass in planned outdoor living. With over 300 miles of on- and off-street bike lanes and an extensive network of hiking trails, it’s a dream for cyclists, runners, and anyone who likes to stay on the move. The Jeffrey Open Space Trail and Quail Hill Loop are local favorites, offering scenic routes without ever leaving the city.

Parks are everywhere—truly. From the massive Orange County Great Park with its hot air balloon rides, sports fields, and farmers markets to neighborhood greenbelts with playgrounds and picnic tables, Irvine makes it easy to stay active and connected.

Families flock to pools, sports leagues, and community events, while nature lovers hit up Bommer Canyon or hop over to nearby Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Whether you’re training for a triathlon or just out walking the dog, Irvine’s blend of open space and smart design keeps life moving in all the right ways.

Irvine | Brief History

Irvine, California: Master Planning on a Historic Ranch

Built on the former Irvine Ranch—one of California’s largest landholdings—Irvine’s modern development began in the 1960s as a partnership between the Irvine Company and UC Regents. The city was designed with villages, parks, and preserved open space as central elements.

Incorporated in 1971, Irvine has become a hub for business, education, and innovation. Home to UC Irvine, tech campuses, and diverse housing options, it remains a model for suburban planning—combining efficiency, safety, and access to nature.

For a deeper dive into the history of Irvine seen through the lens of real estate development over time, read our in-depth Irvine History here.

A game of tennis, Irvine, CA, circa 1909. Photo courtesy of First American Historical Collection.

Recent Blog Posts

Irvine | Villages & Neighborhoods

Irvine | Lifestyle, Landscapes & Living

Jesse is always out in the local communities, taking photos of the people, places, and landscapes, trying to capture the spirit of the place. Fun fact – with the exception of the historic photos, almost every photo on this website was taken by Jesse. Whether you are a long-time Irvine resident or are only now just considering moving here, we hope you will enjoy these photographs and further acquaint yourself with some of the Irvine homes found in the different neighborhoods of Irvine; enjoy!