Wellington has always protected its small-town, equestrian character. But the village just approved something that would have been unthinkable a few years ago. And Related Ross isn't the only developer making moves here.
Key Takeaways
- Related Ross is paying $28.34 million for 32 acres to build a hotel, retail, restaurants, and 215 residential units.
- Wellington approved an 86-foot height permit, clearing the way for the tallest building the village has ever greenlit.
- Three major developments have been approved in Wellington in less than a year.
Wellington has historically kept itself small. The village is known globally as the equestrian capital of the world, home to the 12-week Winter Equestrian Festival and the National Polo Center. Development approvals of this scale have been rare.
That's changing. Three major projects have been approved in less than a year. And Related Ross just secured the biggest one yet.
What is actually being built here?
The project sits on 66.3 acres at 10400 Stribling Way, land the village originally purchased for $8.46 million in 2003. It's now being sold to Related Ross and ElevateEd for a combined $46.3 million.
The hotel: A seven-story, 175,000-square-foot extended stay hotel with 180 rooms. At 86 feet, it required a conditional use height permit because Wellington caps most new buildings at 35 feet.
The commercial buildings: Two three-story buildings totaling 68,400 square feet of office, retail, and restaurant space, connected by a bridge on the second and third floors.
The lakeside restaurant: A 22,500-square-foot, two-level building with balconies and outdoor seating overlooking the water.
The full program: 210,000 square feet of retail, 105,000 square feet of restaurant space, 75,000 square feet of office, and 215 residential units.
The school: Wingrove Academy, a Pre-K through 12th-grade private school run by West Palm Beach-based ElevateEd, is designed for 1,750 students. The parent operator, Education in Motion, runs 14 schools across Switzerland, the UK, and Singapore. This would be its first U.S. location, with completion targeted for 2028.
Photo: Park Site map project in Wellington (Related Ross).
Why did Wellington approve this?
As Larry Mastropieri explained on the Discover South Florida Podcast: "Stephen Ross made what few would think possible: have Wellington approve a major development like this, when they, historically, always kept themselves small."
The economics are hard to argue with. Wellington acquired this land for $8.46 million in 2003. It's selling it for $46.3 million. That appreciation tells you everything about where land values in western Palm Beach County are heading.
The seasonal equestrian economy also creates real demand. The Winter Equestrian Festival brings wealthy families, athletes, and their support staff to Wellington every year. An extended stay hotel, high-end dining, and retail serve that population directly.
Considering buying in Wellington before more density arrives? Talk to a Wellington real estate agent who understands how development approvals affect property values. Reach out to The Mastropieri Group or call (561) 556-9853.
What else is being developed in Wellington?
Related Ross is not alone. Wellington is being developed from multiple directions at once, similar to what's happening in the Northwood corridor in West Palm Beach.
Marketplace at Wellington: In August 2025, Mark Bellissimo got approval for an 18-acre project with 89 condos, an 80-room hotel, and 117,000 square feet of commercial space.
Meritage Homes: In January 2026, the builder proposed 206 townhomes on recently annexed rural land.
Three major development approvals in less than a year point to a community deliberately expanding its footprint.
Larry Mastropieri noted the shift: "If you drive through Wellington today, you kind of see less horse stuff and more just suburbia. Master developments from GL Homes and others are all over the place."
Wellington is still anchored by equestrian culture, but the residential character is evolving. This project accelerates that trend.
What does this mean for Wellington buyers and homeowners?
For homeowners already in Wellington: The addition of a hotel, dining, and retail at this level improves the area's daily livability. It also puts Wellington on the map for a broader buyer profile that goes beyond the equestrian world.
For families: The private school component is meaningful. Wellington already attracts high-income residents, and a new international school with a track record across three countries adds to an already strong educational draw.
For buyers evaluating Wellington: This is a village in transition. Three major development approvals in less than a year signal a community that is deliberately expanding. Early positioning in that kind of market has historically been rewarding.
For investors: Wellington sits about 16 miles west of Palm Beach. As coastal markets get more expensive and inventory tightens, western communities with infrastructure investment become more attractive. We're seeing the same pattern with institutional buyers in West Palm Beach. This project adds exactly the kind of mixed-use amenities that drive long-term value.
FAQs about the Related Ross Wellington project
How much did Related Ross pay for the Wellington land?
Related Ross is acquiring the eastern portion for $28.34 million (about $885,000 per acre). ElevateEd is acquiring the western school parcel for $14.63 million. The combined sale price is $46.3 million.
What is being built at 10400 Stribling Way in Wellington?
The project includes a 180-room extended-stay hotel, 210,000 square feet of retail, 105,000 square feet of restaurant space, 75,000 square feet of office space, 215 residential units, and Wingrove Academy, a private school for 1,750 students.
How tall will the Wellington hotel be?
The hotel will be 86 feet (seven stories), which requires a conditional use height permit because Wellington's standard limit is 35 feet. The permit was approved on March 10, 2026.
What is Wingrove Academy?
Wingrove Academy is a Pre-K through 12th-grade private school run by ElevateEd. Its parent operator, Education in Motion, runs 14 schools in Switzerland, the UK, and Singapore. This will be its first U.S. location, with completion targeted for 2028.
Is Wellington changing from an equestrian community?
Wellington remains anchored by equestrian culture, but multiple major developments have been approved in the past year. The village is adding mixed-use density while maintaining its connection to the Winter Equestrian Festival and National Polo Center.
Local help for buyers in Wellington
If you're buying, selling, or investing in Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, or anywhere in western Palm Beach County, understanding how new development shapes property values matters. Reach out to The Mastropieri Group, Realtors®.
For practical, hands-on support across Wellington, call (561) 556-9853.
Posted by Larry Mastropieri
Enjoy this blog post? Click here to subscribe for updates
Leave A Comment