CELEBRATING 150 YEARS
“Since its founding more than a century ago, the Irvine Company has been guided by a unique vision that continues to this day.”
— RAY WATSON
Irvine Company’s first architect and planner
— RAY WATSON
Irvine Company’s first architect and planner
Since the beginning, a deep and abiding respect for the land has guided virtually every step on The Irvine Ranch®.
Honoring the land and embracing a long-term view—these ideals began in 1864 with James Irvine and have been handed down through the decades, fostering and guiding the Irvine Company’s legacy and commitment to the land.
This commitment led the Irvine Company to eventually set aside approximately sixty percent of the 93,000-acre Irvine Ranch as parks and Open Space land areas; one of the largest urban open space land areas in the United States.
Today the public has access to these thousands of acres, representing an important chapter of land conservation and preservation.
Perhaps the best testament and example of Irvine Company’s established history as master planners and builders is the story and success of City of Irvine itself.
Not since World War II would one company have the opportunity to influence, plan and build an entire city. The plan for this modern city would be carefully thought, reflecting a balance of uses and housing types and establishing the highest standards of care for the land and the people who lived there.
As a centerpiece to the plan, the Company contributed 1,000 acres to the University of California system, which would later become the University of California, Irvine, a nationally acclaimed university and the city’s greatest asset.
Starting with a blank canvas of land enabled Irvine Company to powerfully demonstrate its unique attention to detail, planning acumen, and long-term commitment—an example that celebrates the last 150 years, and one of Irvine Company’s greatest achievements. This is the Irvine we know today.
Communities that work seamlessly. Apartments that feel like homes. Offices that offer innovative workspaces and extensive amenities. Resorts that refresh the mind and soul. Open space that’s protected forever. These are examples of how long-range vision can bring balance, opportunity and bring inspiration and meaning to people’s lives.
Much has taken place during the 150-year history of The Irvine Company. Since 1864, the Company has not only shaped the geographic landscape but continues to influence the quality and consistency of life in and beyond The Irvine Ranch.
As we move forward, we thank our community, our partners, and all those who participated in the story, yesterday, today and tomorrow. Let the next 150 years begin.