Our Story, Our Vision

The Beginning

July 2021 marked the beginning of an inspiring journey for the Ivanhoe Village Design Committee as they embarked on a mission to transform an underutilized parcel of land into a vibrant community oasis.

In the bustling heart of Ivanhoe Village, right in front of the city’s well, lay a neglected green space. Overlooked for years amidst the activity of Virginia Drive, this small slice of land held untapped potential. Recognizing this, the Ivanhoe Village Design Committee saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the area.

Driven by a shared dream, the volunteers aimed to create a welcoming place for people to sit, gather, and relax in their neighborhood. Their vision was to not only beautify the Virginia Drive Corridor but also to foster a deeper sense of community.

Community Engagement at Virginia Drive Live

As summer turned to fall, the committee saw an opportunity to engage with the community during the Virginia Drive Live event on September 2021. Setting up a booth adjacent to the property, they invited feedback from guests and neighborhood residents. The response was overwhelming. People yearned for a chill spot, an intimate space amidst the openness of nearby parks, and a showcase for local art. They wanted a well-lit area for evening strolls, a vibrant space that discouraged nuisance activities, and a greenspace to enhance the future Virginia Drive Corridor.

Collaborative Efforts and Creative Design

With renewed enthusiasm, the Ivanhoe Village Design Committee worked tirelessly with the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) and the City of Orlando. Their goal: to transform the utilitarian green space into an outdoor gem for Ivanhoe Village. Phase One of their ambitious project aims to reclaim the front portion of the site, turning it from an unsightly void into a striking landscape amenity.

Like what you see so far? Help us make this vision a reality:

DONATE HERE to help Ivanhoe Village raise money towards Commissioner Stuart’s matching grant

CLICK HERE to learn more about the design.