Four months after receiving approval from Travis County for initial plans, development has broken ground on a new private residential community in Thomas Ranch outside Austin.

Construction of the Loraloma community and golf club is spearheaded by luxury real estate developers Areté Collective. More than half of Loraloma will be undeveloped, illustrating the developer's goal of reviving a "relationship" between future homeowners and the natural beauty of the land. An exclusive number of initial properties consisting of 25 estate, villa, cottage, and custom-designed homes will be put up for sale later this summer.

To commemorate the launch of the new community, Areté Collective members gathered with several partners to help transplant a 23-foot tall Live Oak tree at the center of Loraloma's first development phase.

Thomas Ranch Managing Director Joe Rentfro said the symbolic ceremony also showcases the "commitment to the reconnection between [the] owners and the simplistic allure of a nature-focused lifestyle."

"We’re honored to have been able to join together with our expert, global partners and leading local talents to officially celebrate the land that will shape Loraloma," said Thomas Ranch Managing Director Joe Rentfro. "As we move forward, we’re excited to bring this vision to life and deliver something truly special for both Austinites and those seeking a more purpose-driven community."

CEO and co-founder of Areté Collective Rebecca Buchan said in the release that she and her company are looking forward to bringing "uncompromised living" to the Hill County with the new community.

"As a project developed and delivered by designers, Loraloma is telling a new story of luxury, celebrating the origins of the land and channeling the cultural allure of Austin,” she said.