Oriole Homes Corp. developed many condominiums and single family homes in the 1970’s in Margate, Florida. Some of this green space originally began in November 1971 at a Margate City Counsel meeting. Garden Patio Villas along with other residential housing was being developed and plotted. Discussed was the requirement that the developer keep at least 5% open for green space. As a trade off, the developers were allowed to create a higher density in dwelling units which surrounded the golf courses and serve as open space for these unit owners. Since the City of Margate requested green space and golf courses, members and owners have enjoyed their homes and green space for 50 years!
Oriole Homes Corp. developed Garden Patio Villas Association and it was incorporated on July 23, 1976. In 1977, 83 villas were completely built and people quickly purchased into this Homeowners Association. Beautiful olive trees were planted at each villa with a community clubhouse, pool and shuffleboard court.
The City of Margate desired to continue to create a larger green belt of space in the city. Oriole Homes Corp. cooperated with the city to build Margate Executive Golf Course and was opened in 1985. The 9-hole golf course was along the side of Garden Patio Villas where families and friends enjoyed golfing for decades.
In 1995, Members voted to make the Association a 55+ community. Through the last 45 years, the Board of Directors and Members have changed hands; but Garden Patio Villas remains a friendly, small neighborhood. In 2015, hurricane Wilma took many trees, roofs and porches in the area. Today, Garden Patio Villas still has a beautiful view of birds, trees, other wildlife in our lovely green, small community!
In 2021, the beautiful 9 hole golf course adjacent to us was closed. Unfortunately, this land is being redeveloped. Garden Patio Villas continues to beautify our common areas with green space, trees, bushes and pretty flowers that Members of our community continue to enjoy today!
Here are some photos from some of the history of Garden Patio Villas:
