North Irvine Lifestyle

The Northern Sphere Planning Area is full of amenities that enhance the quality of life for its residents. Parks, shopping centers and schools are all close to home for residents in the villages of the Northern Sphere.  And to the east, there are miles and miles of trails to roam and explore.

Preserved Open Space
Northern Sphere villages provide quick and easy access to the Northern Open Space Preserve, some of the most significant preserved lands in California.  Here, hikers take in the scene at Limestone Canyon and the Sinks, a 40-million-year-old geological formation.

Parks & Recreation
The Northern Sphere includes 60 parks that are within steps from homes – about 172 steps on average (the Orange County average is 645 steps).  The Jeffrey Open Space Trail is the star. Its 75 acres and a 4-mile trail are a perfect respite for families.  The Northern Sphere parks are an important part of the city’s overall park system, which is ranked No. 1 in the nation by the Trust for Public Land.

Schools
The Northern Sphere’s seven schools include Jeffrey Trail Middle School, Woodbury Elementary, Cypress Village Elementary, Eastwood Elementary, Portola Springs Elementary, Stonegate Elementary and Irvine’s newest – Loma Ridge Elementary, which opened in 2019.  All are part of the Irvine Unified School District, which is ranked among California’s best.

Shopping
Exceptional shopping and dining options are woven into the Northern Sphere’s villages.  These centers also act as the cultural hubs of the villages. More than simply places to buy goods, these centers are places to gather and socialize with friends and family.  Over time, Irvine Company also reinvests into these centers to ensure they remain vibrant and full of the brands Irvine residents want.