Nestled along two miles of picturesque waterways between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Palencia is a breathtaking resort-style community located in the desirable region of St. Johns County, Florida. With nearby beaches and waterways, preserved wetlands, eclectic shopping and dining options, and easy access to downtown Jacksonville, Palencia offers residents an exceptional lifestyle. The master plan for this unique Spanish Land Grant property was creatively designed to blend various home styles, creating an inclusive community where tidy condominiums, snug townhomes, expansive estates, live/work spaces, marsh front properties, and natural features coexist.
The unique property has a wide variety of vegetative cover, topography, natural land features, and viewsheds. Considering these environmental aspects, the PRIME AE team initiated the expert master planning process utilizing a McHarg-inspired development suitability analysis, identifying the optimum areas for various densities, infrastructure, and community uses.
Our team identified the optimal location for the Palencia village center utilizing a suitability analysis based on topography, low quality vegetative cover, the least environmental impact, and the best programmatic location. Following the traditional Mediterranean village form, the village center sits atop the property’s highest topographical elevation and serves as the heart of the community. Offices, homes, live-work residences, retail studios and the fitness/aquatic/tennis center all combine to create a unique architectural identity for Palencia and also provide world-class amenities for its residents.
At the end of Main Street lies the village green, inspired by the grand plazas of Andalusia, Spain. With its refreshing water features and dramatic views, it serves as a focal point for community gatherings and events. Other features that weave the beauty of the landscape into everyday Palencia life include a community trail system, a tidal marsh protection plan, a two-mile boardwalk, a fishing pier, and customized neighborhood parks.
PRIME AE’s attention to both natural and structural detail has helped establish Palencia into a beacon of elegant living within St. Johns County.
