Village of Arden blends art roots with natural beauty
Among the gentle hills of Wilmington, Delaware, is a village built on creative expression. "Arden was founded as an art colony and has remained an artisan district. This is a beautiful village with a strong sense of community," says Monica Hill, Realtor with Re/Max Associates-Wilmington. The village boasts an 80% tree canopy, and many homes sit on generous setbacks.
Brick ranch homes in Arden sit along quiet streets and have large front yards.
Arden residents enjoy time by a peaceful stream that runs through Harvey Mill Park.
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Variety of home styles with no cookie-cutter designs
Hill says you won't find cookie-cutter homes in Arden. The community boasts a number of brick ranches and split-level houses. You will also see quaint Cape Cod styles as well as Colonial Revivals. Most move-in ready homes will enter the market between $350,000 and $500,000. Larger houses, or properties with extensive cosmetic upgrades, generally cost between $550,000 and $700,000. Hill mentions a crucial aspect of owning a home in this unique community. "Arden was formed as a single-tax community. When you purchase a home, you don't purchase the land. Instead, buyers receive a lease from the village," Hill says. And although this is uncommon, many who live here don't mind this longstanding ordinance.
This brick ranch home occupies a large corner lot in Arden.
Arden homes come in many styles with many being split-level.
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Residents support a vibrant arts scene in historic Arden
The 100-year-old community has maintained its artistic values over the years through the support of residents and local organizations. The Arden Club hosts many events throughout the year, including concerts and the popular outdoor Arden Fair. The village also boasts more than its fair share of performing arts theaters, such as The Candlelight Theatre, located inside a renovated barn.
This whimsical labyrinth is a well-known landmark in the art village of Arden.
The beauty of Arden shows everywhere including in this bus stop built as a memorial.
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Parks and trails offer quiet escapes and quirky features
This nature-loving community has a number of green spaces for outdoor fun. You can practice your tennis swing on the courts at Harvey Mill Park or stroll along an elevated bridge overlooking slow-flowing streams. Northcrest Park is a small neighborhood space offering a quiet retreat among the residences. You will find other community spaces to enjoy the outdoors, including the tree-shaded Longcome Park or the serene walking paths of Graylyn Crest Park. In the center of Arden, you'll see a grassy labyrinth and a quirky metal slide sloping out from the earth. Next door is the Frank Steven Memorial Theater, where locals can enjoy Shakespeare while taking in the summer night air.
Arden residents can hike one of several footbridges at Harvey Mill Park.
A bench welcomes Arden parents watching their kids play at Northcrest Park.
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Public schools offer IB and CTE programs for local students
Local students are served by the Brandywine School District, and many start their academic journey at Forwood Elementary. The school promises learners thematic instruction, hands-on learning and technology education. These students may move on to Talley Middle School, where advanced learners can participate in the IB program, and sports-minded students can join the many athletic teams throughout the year. Both middle and elementary schools received a B- on Niche. Brandywine High earned a B+ and provides explorative CTE programs in Education, STEM and Health, IT, and Hospitality. Parents may also choose from private school options like St. Edmond Academy or Concord Christian Academy.
Forwood Elementary School, in Arden, is a K-5 school with a student body of over 350 students.
Talley Middle School is a popular place to learn in Arden.
Brandywine High School sits just outside of Arden and is home of the Bulldogs.
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Locals shop and dine near Arden’s western border
Arden contains two shopping plazas along the western edge of the community. Branmar Plaza sits near the southern end, while F& N Shopping Village rests to the north. Both retail hubs contain ACME Market locations for convenient grocery shopping. Most restaurants are found along the western side as well. Locals may grab a slice at Fresco Pizzeria or a breakfast sandwich and latte at Brew Haha. Harry's Savoy Grill is a popular steakhouse serving surf and turf options in a posh setting.
Brew Haha at Branmar Plaza is a favorite spot for Arden folks to meet up with friends.
Sometimes picking up a few needed items can double as exercise at Branmar Plaza in Arden.
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Written By
Ashley Kennedy
Photography Contributed By
Joe Pulcinella
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Angela Ferguson,
an experienced agent in this area.
Welcome to Arden. This 1 bedroom apartment in the Arden Craft Shop Museum Building is ready for immediate occupancy. This unit features a large kitchen with gas cooking, a living room with a large window overlooking the yard, large bedroom and bath. Rent includes heat, hot water and trash. One parking spot in inculded. This is a no pet property. Special Clauses: 1)No smoking permitted 2)Renters
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