The Courtyard Secret: How a Mediterranean Oasis is Redefining the Winter Park Corridor
Currently under construction and scheduled to welcome its first residents in Fall 2027, Terracotta Terrace is a 152-residence active adult community designed for adults 55 and older.
Over the past decade, a growing number of Central Florida retirees and empty nesters have begun trading large homes, yard work, and endless maintenance projects for something far more valuable: freedom. Often referred to as the “lock-and-leave” lifestyle, the trend reflects a shift among today’s active adults who want the flexibility to travel, pursue hobbies, stay socially engaged, and spend less time managing a home.
As Central Florida continues to attract retirees and empty nesters seeking sunshine, convenience, and a more connected lifestyle, a new community taking shape just north of Winter Park is drawing attention for rethinking what active adult living can be.
Currently under construction and scheduled to welcome its first residents in Fall 2027, Terracotta Terrace is a 152-residence active adult community designed for adults 55 and older who want to simplify homeownership without sacrificing comfort, independence, or social engagement. Located along State Road 436 in Casselberry, the community offers residents easy access to Winter Park’s acclaimed Park Avenue district, cultural attractions, dining destinations, healthcare providers, golf courses, and everyday conveniences—all while maintaining a quieter residential setting.
What immediately sets Terracotta Terrace apart is its design. Inspired by the timeless charm of Mediterranean courtyards, the five-story community is built around a secure, landscaped central gathering space that serves as the heart of daily life. Renderings reveal a resort-inspired environment featuring a pool with sun shelf, shaded cabanas, outdoor kitchen and bar, fire pits, walking paths, and spaces intentionally designed to encourage connection among neighbors.
Inside, residents will find spacious one- and two-bedroom apartment homes, along with a limited collection of penthouse suites overlooking the courtyard. A two-story amenity package includes a fitness center, yoga studio, wellness center, theater, community great room, café, salon, and gathering spaces designed to support both active lifestyles and meaningful social interaction.
The community will also feature the nationally recognized SUN® Program, an award-winning lifestyle platform that offers residents a full calendar of fitness classes, educational programs, social events, cultural outings, volunteer opportunities, and wellness initiatives. The program reflects a growing trend among today’s active adults, who increasingly prioritize experiences, friendships, and lifelong learning alongside traditional housing amenities.
Terracotta Terrace is being developed by The United Group of Companies, a national real estate firm with more than five decades of experience developing and managing residential communities across the country. Construction is being led by WPC, whose portfolio includes large-scale residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments throughout the Southeast.
For many Central Florida homeowners considering what’s next, Terracotta Terrace represents something increasingly rare: the opportunity to trade maintenance and responsibilities for flexibility, connection, and a lifestyle designed around making the most of every day.
