Settled in an area of natural beauty amongst rolling mountains and the Provo River, the Whitaker Farms development in Midway, Utah is a stunning example of creating a project that offers high-end development while maintaining a connection with the land and historic farming community. Originally a 100-acre parcel and farm owned by the Whitaker family, a portion of it was sold for development with the intention of preserving the pastoral views and rural feel of the community.
Development and conservation pairing perfectly
Development of the project began with annexation into the city of Midway and ongoing concept development. The project included 80 acres for development and would feature 50 total home lots, allowing for future homeowners to have larger lots and sight lines with flexibility in design to maintain open space.
“This project was one that demanded a deep understanding of the area and a commitment to preserving the natural farmland and beauty of the region,” said Mike Johnston, Senior Project Engineer with Atwell. “Beyond any functional needs or challenges, Midway is an area that appreciates the rural small town feel that it has, and we worked diligently to be able to keep that spirit while still advancing a really wonderful development for the area.”
Ultimately, 20 acres remained as preserved open space for residents and the community to enjoy as part of the thoughtful design. At the heart of the project, 15 acres remained an open meadow, being a focal point for many of the homes with views of the tallgrass pasture, streams that cut through the land, and a clubhouse area for residents to enjoy. Other homes face outward from the property with views of the adjacent Provo River conservation corridor, which is a blue-ribbon trout fishing river, well known for its beauty and ample fish. The Whitaker development offers not only beautiful views of the river but also includes a private access point to the river itself for residents.
Community connections and creating solutions
Central to the development was the incorporation of community access while preserving the farmland in perpetuity. The new development sits next to an iconic park in the area known as Memorial Hill, which is an ancient limestone formation that pays tribute to veterans of all wars of the United States and includes the names of local veterans who served. The team designed new roundabouts entering the project to allow access to the park for everyone while adding landscaping and beautifying the two entrances to the community as part of the process.
“We worked with the local community stakeholders, ranging from the American Legion – which takes care of Memorial Park – to adjacent homeowners, and the city itself to ensure that Whitaker Farms was truly a win-win for all involved,” said Johnston. “I think one of the major wins and successes of this project was how our team partnered with residents, the city, the county, and our client team. We actually developed a new parking location for Memorial Hill and deeded land to the county park, and it’s become a real asset for the Midway community. We were also able to add a new road on the north side that has helped the neighbors as well.”
Unique, modern designs with touches of a traditional farmhouse style
The homes at Whitaker Farms represent some of the most luxurious options in the region, offering residents a feel and style that you might find in the English countryside with large stone fireplaces, steep roofs, along with natural materials and design intended to meld into the surrounding landscape.
Whitaker Farms homes have been highly praised, and the area is viewed as one of the most desirable in the region.
The hills of Midway now host not just beautiful homes, but a testament to what happens when development is done right. For future residents walking the preserved farmland trails, fishing the pristine Provo River, or gathering at Memorial Hill to honor our veterans, Whitaker Farms will serve as an example that the best developments don’t just create houses but build lasting moments and legacies for generations to come.
