The Taormina Community was envisioned by a Theosophist named Ruth Wilson as a retirement community related to the adjacent Krotona Theosophical Institute which was established in Ojai in 1924. Originally, residents of Taormina Community were required by the development's covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) to be over the age of 55 and members of the Theosophical Society. A lawsuit and subsequent court decision struck down any resident qualifications.
Homes in the Taormina were originally constructed with French Norman architectural elements favored by Ruth Wilson. These elements include tapered (bell-cast), extended roof overhangs, gabled roof vents, vertical front window shutters, gas street lamps, and earth tone exterior colors. Some newer modular homes do not conform to these elements. The recommended standards of the historic district would require that all new construction on the remaining vacant lots and any significant alterations to existing non-conforming structures meet the intent of the architectural standards for the Taormina Historic District. A Work Permit would be required for alterations to existing structures as well as for new construction. Alterations to landscapes and yards are exempt except that the standards require front yards and landscaping to be well maintained. Front yard walls are not permitted in the Taormina Community. Interior alterations and modifications would not be subject to a work permit but would need to comply with standard building code and City permit requirements as necessary.