As Pursuitist fans know, I’m a big admirer of Walt Disney. Not only am I inspired by the work of Disney, but I also have great family connections with the parks — my family has appeared in Disney TV ads and has been featured nightly at the “Magic, Memories, and You!” projection show on Disney’s Cinderella Castle. However, when we received our invite to visit Disney’s Golden Oak, their new luxury community, the destination exceeded our expectations (See our initial review, impressions and photos of Disney’s Golden Oak here).
Quality. From Walt Disney movies, theme parks to the Golden Oak project, Disney is all about the quality. Quality that includes amazing experiences, being exceptional and not cutting corners. These themes thrive at Golden Oak. The attention to detail at their new luxury community is remarkable — they take quality and “plus it.” They take something great and make it even better. Plussing.
The Pursuitist had the opportunity to chat with Page Pierce, the vice president of Disney’s Golden Oak. Learn how the Disney tradition of “plussing” is at home within Golden Oak.
Q. How long has the plan for Golden Oak been in the works?
A. The concept of a luxury home development for guests with a high affinity for Walt Disney World began to take shape in 2005, and was announced as Golden Oak in June 2010. Around that same time, Four Seasons approached Disney about opening a hotel near our theme parks in Florida. Disney Imagineers went to work to create the designs and plans for what is now Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort.
Q. How is Golden Oak unique compared to other experiences at WDW?
A. This is the first time that families have had the opportunity to actually live at Disney. Additionally, through something we call the Disney Connection, Golden Oak homebuyers have access to VIP passes that provide admission for the pass-holder and up to four guests to eight Disney parks and attractions with no block-out dates. Other amenities include door-to-park transportation, merchandise discounts and free parking.
Q. At the end of the year, how many homes will be built?
A. We are very excited by the progress at Golden Oak. About a dozen families have moved into the community as of July, with even more on the horizon. When complete, Golden Oak will encompass 450 homes across 980 acres.
Q. Tell us about the Club House, what will be benefits for your residents?
A. Summerhouse, the private club for Golden Oak homeowners, is now open, offering residents and their guests exclusive access to lounge areas, a lap and family pool, a game room and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. The Resident Services team is based at Summerhouse, providing guests with concierge-style assistance – from making dinner reservations to arranging VIP park tour guides and door-to-park transportation. When fully operational, Summerhouse will feature food and beverage accommodations in both indoor and outdoor dining areas.
Q. Seriously, you will have concierge garbage pick-up?
A. Yes! Residents don’t need to worry about hauling their garbage out to the curb – we’ll take care of it.
Q. How will Golden Oak residents take advantage of the Parks?
A. Homebuyers who close on the purchase of a home before the end of this year will receive a complimentary three-year Golden Oak VIP pass that provides access for the passholder and four guests to eight Disney World parks and attractions, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, DisneyQuest and ESPN Wide World of Sports. Residents can also enjoy no blackout dates, free parking, door-to-park transportation, and more as part of the Disney Connection.
Q. When will the Four Seasons resort open — and what will be some shared luxuries?
A. The Four Seasons is anticipated to open in 2014 and will offer Golden Oak residents multiple dining options and access to luxury spa amenities.
Thanks to Disney and Page Pierce for the interview.
