Defining Desert Living
IN HIS OWN WORDS
Editor’s Note:
Scott Jarson, Editor
EDITOR / PUBLISHER
Debbie Jarson
Scott Jarson
CONTRIBUTORS
Debbie Jarson
Scott Jarson
Alex Jarson
Andrew Jarson
Walt Lockley
Elyse Pidgeon
ART DIRECTION
ps:studios inc.
COVER IMAGE
The “Novak House”
Photo: Andrew Jarson
ADVERTISING
info@azarchitecture.com
Summer in Arizona reminds us of the desert’s dual nature—intense, dramatic, and still full of beauty. As the monsoon clouds gather and the air thickens with anticipation, there’s a certain wonder in watching our landscape shift. It’s a season of extremes, but also of reflection—an ideal time to revisit the places and ideas that continue to shape our identity.
In this issue, we take a closer look at two visionary sites: Paolo Soleri’s Cosanti in Paradise Valley and Arcosanti near Cordes Junction. These iconic desert experiments continue to resonate with us, not just for their architecture, but for their ambition. Having grown up next door to Cosanti, Soleri’s work has long inspired my thinking about place, purpose, and design. We also celebrate the artistry of Cosanti Originals and their hand-cast bells—perhaps the most recognizable sound of the desert wind.
We’re proud to feature the innovative landscape work of Colwell Shelor, whose sensitivity to desert form and flora elevates every project they touch. We revisit one of Alfred Newman Beadle’s finest designs and showcase the wildly expressive “Swag Pad,” a true homage to 1970s style, with input from our friend and designer Troy Bankord. And as always, we highlight recent and upcoming listings, celebrate our award-winning team, and share the stories that help shape our collective experience.
At azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson, we are Arizona’s most distinctive real estate brokerage—dedicated to design-forward, architectural homes at every price point. Our work helps shape what we proudly call Defining Desert Living™️.
All of us here remain deeply committed to serving clients who seek more than just a house—they seek a home that inspires. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring what’s possible, we’re here to guide you with care, expertise, and a passion for the architecture of place.
Welcome Home.
az architecture/Jarson & Jarson members are proud supporters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, The Arizona State University Art Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Taliesin Foundation, Local First Arizona, and AIA Phoenix Metro Allied Member.
Photography: Andrew Jarson
In the midst of our Valley there are cool, irrigated citrus groves in the shadow of Camelback Mountain, along with pockets of Spanish revival, adobe, and midcentury modern ranch homes. There are forests of giant saguaros in the foothills to the north, an area that is known for cutting-edge architecture, and rows of majestic date palms lining streets of historic homes in central Phoenix. All of this makes for a rich, urban landscape that includes modern in-fill architecture, loft projects and stunning high-rise towers. All coexisting within the dramatic backdrop of our unique Sonoran Desert.
azarchitecture understands the contrasts and architectural nuances that set unique homes apart. From Frank Lloyd Wright to Case Study, Eames to Al Beadle, azarchitecture speaks the language of modern architecture.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Robert Murray
COSANTI ORIGINALS
Cosanti Originals windbells have been handcrafted using traditional techniques in their Arizona studios for over 65 years. cosanti.com
Modeled after one of Kusama’s most famous artworks, these lacquer-painted resin objects will bring a bright pop of whimsy to your desk or bookshelf. store.moma.org
Embroidered dog bed in earth tones to make an abstract landscape. dusendusen.com
TERESA TABLE LAMP THE WORLD OF ANNA SUI
Crafted from batch-dyed recycled acrylic, the Teresa Table Lamp is an eye-catching addition to your home decor. store.moma.org
One of Pop artist Keith Haring’s most famous motifs, the barking dog, is featured on this innovative take on a neon sign. store.moma.org KEITH HARING BARKING DOG NEON SIGN
The World of Anna Sui looks at Sui’s eclectic career as a designer and artist, both through her clothing and studio. phxart.org
Inspired by artist Andre Cadere’s notorious wooden sticks casually left in unsuspecting galleries. Reflects a subtle vibrance and thoughtful simplicity. homeunionnyc.com NOIR SKETCHBOOK OUTDOOR BEAN BAG CHAIR
This sketchbook has a soft cloth cover with 60 perforated pages, and is perfect for all your artistic needs. phxart.org
the Original Outdoor bean bag is waterand dirt-repellent - is a generous size and energizing comfort fatboyusa.com
YAYOI KUSAMA PUMPKIN
DESERT DOG BED
Cosanti Originals | cosanti.com
TOURING COSANTI:
The gallery & studio of Italian-American architect Paolo Soleri
Photography: Andrew Jarson
Cosanti Originals, known for their unique and highly collectible windbells handcrafted by local artisans, is located in one of Arizona’s most architecturally unique designated historic sites.
Earlier this year, the Cosanti Foundation welcomed the team at az architecture/Jarson & Jarson on a private tour of the Paradise Valley grounds.
From the mid-1950s to the mid-1970s, architect Paolo Soleri and a team of apprentices designed and built Cosanti; the North Apse, Soleri’s Drafting Studio, the South Apse, the Cat Cast House, Canopied Pool, Student Apse, Earth House, Pumpkin Apse/Barrel Vaults, Foundry, and Gallery are all excellent examples of experimental earthcast concrete structures, as well as Soleri’s pioneering idea to construct a habitat that balances human needs and environmental concerns. During the tour, we visited each
of these structures spread out over the 5-acre site and had the opportunity to hear Scott Jarson’s unique perspective— after personally witnessing several of them being built— having grown up a quarter mile south of Cosanti, stopping by almost daily to watch Soleri work.
The North Apse (1963)
The North Apse is one of the first structures you’ll see when you arrive (besides the gallery, which we’ll discuss later). During hot summer months, this quarter-spherical “apse” provides adequate shade. It was built in eleven distinct segments.
Photography: Andrew Jarson
Scott informed us that the sculptural half wall that resembles a fish to the right of the entrance of the apse once housed a kiln for firing clay. The fish design was carved into a mound of moistened earth, and dry-pack concrete was carefully poured against it, beginning at the bottom and progressing upward. Several days later, the dirt form was dug away, leaving only the concrete positive.
To fund Cosanti, which is essentially a living architectural lab for Soleri’s ideas, he began producing and selling ceramic bells right away. The early bells were all ceramic, with an organic, earthy tone. The bells were originally constructed in this apse, and the ceramics studio directly behind it. If you look up within the ceramics studio, you’ll see a striking big red skylight.
Fun Fact: This red Plexiglass skylight actually served as inspiration for Jesus Corral, who formed a similar skylight in the restaurant Los Olivos, located at 7328 E 2nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. Just a 15-minute drive from Cosanti—it’s actually a great place to lunch after a visit to this site! Pictures of the eating space, dubbed “the blue
room,” where you can really appreciate this inspiration, can be found in photos of the restaurant on Google Maps.
Paolo Soleri’s Drafting Studio (1959)
Once you pass through the North Apse you enter into the creative space of the Ceramics Studio, you will find a door leading to Soleri’s drafting studio. Scott told us the many round, concrete window frames are actually made using sewer pipe connectors. This drafting room is visually appealing from top to bottom, including the door handle as you enter.
The south-facing canvas roof, thoughtfully crafted, can be opened to the outside on cool days. On extremely hot days, the canvas would be misted with water from the exterior, cooling the studio‘s workspace through evaporation.
All of these structures were designed in such a way to keep them cool and conditioned without heavy resources, taking advantage of the position of the sun and utilizing evaporative cooling methods.
The South Apse (1965)
Built after Soleri’s renown grew, this space drew a huge number of prominent big thinkers to learn from him. This site at Cosanti is where multiple “silt-cast” workshops were held. Architectural luminaries such as Will Bruder were an integral part of this experience!
The studio area is accessible via a tunnel entrance. During the summer months, these tunnel walls could be sprayed with a fine mist to cool the courtyard through evaporation. If you look for it, you might spot an old refrigerator built into the side of this structure to the left of the tunnel entrance. This refrigerator was used as a “wet box,” a place to store the ceramics during a hot day to control shrinkage before firing.
Once passing through the tunnel, you will enter into the well of the south apse and see canvas awnings running across the courtyard between the apse and the cat cast house, allowing craftsmen to comfortably work within the entire space between the two structures. During our visit, a couple of artisans were busily working in this multi-purpose studio area, adding hand detail work to their pieces.
Cat Cast House (1965)
The cat cast house is named after the Caterpillar tractor that was used to build it (also called a CAT tractor); a photo of this tractor can be found inside the gallery building on the back wall, among a few other photos depicting when the gallery was being built.
Used primarily as a student dormitory, there are two glassed-in light wells that were once open on top and originally used to accommodate two deciduous Palo Verde trees. When leafed out, this allowed complete shade from the intense summer sun, and when they lost their leaves in the winter, they allowed the most light to enter the space.
The drop-down area inside the center of this house used to be considered the common area and separates the dormitory spaces from the shared kitchen with just a bridge constructed over the common area connecting the spaces.
Canopied Pool (1966)
Behind the cat cast house is the pool located within the courtyard with stairs leading up to it. The concrete shade canopy above the pool was silt-cast on the ground before being crane-hoisted and installed atop twelve repurposed telephone poles. The student apse down below is visible from the pool’s edge (pictured).
The canopy is positioned so that the pool receives full sun exposure during the winter and maximum shade during the summer. The colors were created using a fresco technique, which involved painting powdered concrete pigments onto the dirt immediately before the concrete was cast so that when the canopy was raised, it picked up a light covering of pigment. Growing up in Italy, Soleri was exposed to several frescoes before moving to Arizona.
Fun Fact: There is a video clip floating around somewhere of the band ‘The Monkees’ doing their rock and roll antics around this pool during a concert tour. They were Scott’s favorite band at the time, and he was devastated to find that they were only a quarter mile from his house, and he missed it!
Student Apse (1968)
At the time of its construction, each student produced a design that was cast into the concrete.
We were fortunate to be able to enjoy our lunch in the cat cast courtyard shaded by this apse, a place where many private events, including weddings and musical festivities are held. Overhead, a breeze blew a large custom assembly, a one-ofa-kind chandelier that was hanging from the apse on our visit. (Learn more about Cosanti Originals custom assemblies on
Pumpkin Apse & Barrel Vaults (1967)
Cast in place around mature eucalyptus trees, the Pumpkin Apse features ribbed, vaulted ceilings. These elements were fabricated by soaking cloth with plaster and wrapping it over formwork, producing a smooth, white finish that enhances the natural light reflected into the space.
Scott witnessed the actual pouring of the Pumpkin Apse, and architect Will Bruder, who studied with Soleri, also contributed to its creation. The Pumpkin Apse was designed as a lecture hall, with barrel vaults on either side. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another place that gives you this sense of shelter, grounding, and indooroutdoor connection.
The barrel vaults have large precast concrete windows made from sewer tubes, much larger than those found in the drafting studio, a recurring theme not just at Cosanti. Soleri received a commission to build a private residence, known as the “Dome House,” a house that Scott and Debbie Jarson later helped sell. This house has the same module put in. Architect Will Bruder also used the same concept in some of his own residential designs.
The name “Cosanti” is a compound of two Italian words: cosa (“thing”) and anti (“before”). While “anti” is
often translated as “against,” here it carries the idea of being “before” or “in anticipation of,” as in antipasto, served before a meal.
Paolo Soleri’s concepts reimagine the urban environment, with Cosanti being the first phase of that vision and Arcosanti the second.
Foundry (1967)
In the foundry where most of the bronze (and sometimes aluminum) wind bells are produced, one sees two propanefired furnaces that heat the bronze to around 2,200 degrees. The bells are formed using a procedure known as sand-casting. Each bell is individualized in the sand molding process to ensure its uniqueness.
The original bronze bells all have a greenish patina; in the desert, patinas might take years to develop, thus the process is started and accelerated with a diluted acid solution. Following purchase, the patina on these bells will continue to change tones and get richer over time. Burnished bells were introduced later, but they, like clay bells, are still made using the traditional methods today.
Cosanti has been casting and firing ceramic bells since 1955, using clay that is excavated locally, near Globe, Arizona. The clay is mixed with water to produce what is known as slip and poured into molds, some of which are freeform carved into the earth.
Gallery (1961)
The gallery at the entrance was another early building. If you look up as you step inside, you will see some unique interior lights. Scott said these are made of reverse casting of the bells.
The gallery is currently being used to display bells along with other materials currently available for sale. The structure, however, was originally another drafting studio and has served several
different purposes over the years. The roof of this structure is a prime example of “earth-casting,” and several photos of the earth being pulled away to reveal this below-grade structure can be found on the back wall of the gallery.
Soleri’s idea was to bring everybody into a central village and share resources. While Arcosanti was never completed, it still inspired many architects with how they design here in the desert and around the world, and it still has a small community of residents.
Hundreds of art and architectural students apprenticed here with Paolo Soleri to help construct these unique structures and learn by doing before his death in 2013. And today, thousands of students and volunteers have participated in workshops between the two sites. Architectural students continue to visit Arcosanti for their archives and limited workshops, and occasionally, hands-on classes are still offered to the general public here at Cosanti. To learn more, check out their website cosanti.com for upcoming events or sign up for their newsletter.
Special thanks to Dakota Petersen, Cosanti’s Outreach and Development Ambassador, for helping arrange the tour and guiding us across the expansive grounds.
Chris Hardy, who celebrated his 18th year with Cosanti this past April, is renowned for his largescale assemblies and custom works that incorporate bronze, aluminum, ceramics, and elements from Cosanti’s extensive archival collections. Drawing from a thoughtfully curated selection of bells featuring iconic designs by artisans from both foundries, Hardy reimagines each piece as part of a larger, cohesive whole. For information on how to reserve or commission a special assembly, including large chandeliers, please email christopher@arcosanti.org
In addition to the iconic bronze and ceramic bells that we all know and love, unique oneof-a-kind ceramics and sculptural assemblies are always available in the Cosanti and Arcosanti galleries—and will be coming to the expanded Cosanti Originals online store this summer!
For more information about purchasing oneof-a-kind works, contact info@cosanti.com or visit one of their gallery locations.
Photography: Andrew Jarson
“Those of us who worked directly under Paolo remember his guidance, “I built the instrument; it’s up to you to write the music.”
We, the next generation of Cosanti artisans, drawing inspiration from Paolo’s body of work, are answering his challenge. At Cosanti, we are making meaningful and timeless art that keeps pace with him and his vision.”
Chris Hardy, Cosanti Foundry
ON THE MARKET
NOVAK HOUSE – ALFRED NEWMAN BEADLE ARCHITECT
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Price: $1,399,995
PARADISE VALLEY ARIZONA CONTEMPORARY – CAMELBACK VIEWS
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HIDDEN VALLEY DESERT HOUSE – WENDELL BURNETTE, FAIA
Desert Modern Architecture: Nestled on a five-acre slope in Cave Creek, the Hidden Valley Desert House is a “long pavilion for living” designed by Wendell Burnette, FAIA. This exceptional home features superb materials, detailed construction, and a unique plan, making it a masterwork of living design. READ MORE
Price: $2,295,000
UNMATCHED POTENTIAL – DAVE HANSEN BUILT ESTATE
Nestled on a prestigious R-43 lot in the heart of Paradise Valley’s sought-after Tatum Canyon, this original Dave Hansen-built estate exemplifies timeless Arizona elegance. Crafted with solid block construction and set on a slightly elevated, yet flat and level lot, the property offers the feeling of hillside living without the restrictions—no Hillside Review required. READ MORE
Price: $3,295,000
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THE “SWAG PAD” – TEMPE LAKES ADJACENT
Step into a home where time travel feels real—welcome to the *Swag Pad*, a one-of-a-kind 1970s Custom Golden Heritage home in Tempe, Arizona. Thoughtfully reimagined by designer Troy Bankord, this rare find radiates mid-century magic. From the vintage breeze block privacy walls to the jaw-dropping indoor, air-conditioned pool room, this property is a living tribute to bold design and personal style. READ MORE
Price: $1,595,000
SCOTTSDALE SPANISH MODERN – HEALTH CORRIDOR AREA
Welcome to your updated and remodeled dream home, where luxurious Southwestern Modern design meets spacious living in this 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom oasis. With a private guest house and over an acre of stunning landscaping, this home is designed to provide the ultimate retreat for comfort and style. READ MORE
Price: $2,385,000
MID-CENTURY MODERN – PAUL CHRISTIAN YAEGER ARCHITECT
A rare opportunity to own a restored classic by noted architect Paul Christian Yaeger, famed designer of Barry Goldwater’s Paradise Valley residence. Nestled on a sprawling 35,000 sq ft view lot, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom hillside-style gem combines timeless architecture with sweeping south-facing views of Downtown Phoenix and Camelback Mountain. READ MORE
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ADOBE INSPIRED CUSTOM SOUTHWEST HOME IN THE HEART OF GOLD CANYON
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1961 MID-CENTURY MODERN BUILDING IN MIDTOWN PHOENIX
This 1961 Mid-Century Modern building in Midtown Phoenix is a gem! At 3630+- SF, it offers an open plan ready for your creative endeavor. Original details have been retained. Upgrades include recently installed HVAC system. Available for lease or potential sale, this stand-alone building offers generous parking, great signage, and architectural provenance. READ MORE
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55 ACRE DREAM PARCEL - DRAGOON MOUNTAINS, ARIZONA
Discover a sanctuary of natural beauty at North Cochise Stronghold, nestled in the heart of the Dragoon Mountains of Cochise County, Arizona. This stunning parcel of land, spanning over 55 acres, offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a secluded inholding of Coronado National Forest. Situated just a short distance from the charming towns of Benson and Willcox, this property combines the tranquility of rural living with convenient access to amenities. READ MORE
Price: Call for Availability
STEINER RESIDENCE – AL BEADLE ARCHITECT
Designed by Al Beadle in 1955, the fully renovated Steiner Residence blends original Mid-Century Modern details with thoughtful updates. Features include vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows, copper roof and fascia, stacked concrete block, original floors and fireplace, plus an updated kitchen and appliances. READ MORE
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ICONIC PHOENIX TOWERS PERFECTION CORNER UNIT
Welcome to your next mid-century home! This corner home in Phoenix Towers offers a wonderful view location, sensible floor plan, abundant storage, and superbly updated interiors. A rare find, this apartment-style home includes two bedrooms and two baths, interior unit laundry, updated kitchen and baths, as well as a view terrace overlooking Central Avenue. READ MORE
Price: $399,000
Photography: Andrew Jarson 25
RETURNING TO ARCOSANTI
BY SCOTT JARSON
The World’s First Prototype Arcology
Founded in 1970, Arcosanti is the creation of architect Paolo Soleri and The Cosanti Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring reimagined urbanism. Its mission is to build resilient, equitable communities that are sustainably integrated with the natural world.
A trip to Arcosanti combines both a nostalgic look at our architectural past and a provocative glimpse into what our future could hold. Remarkably, it has now been over fifty years since the first constructions began. I returned recently, perhaps as a way to reconnect with those ideals—how architectural experimentation and utopian thinking can still inform our desert experience.
Arcosanti is a unique place in every sense. Centrally located in Arizona, it’s just about an hour’s drive from Phoenix, Flagstaff, Prescott, and Sedona. It’s an ideal day trip or a fascinating detour if you’re traveling through the Verde Valley. The road leading in piques your curiosity, especially with a Soleri-inspired exit bypass. There’s a tangible sense of mystery and anticipation as you approach. This wasn’t my first visit—but it had been a while, and I was eager to reacquaint myself with its vision.
A Living Laboratory
First impressions affirm that this is a visionary place—one that still deserves far more attention.
Frozen in time, yet quietly evolving, Arcosanti is a living laboratory. It explores not just architectural form but also cultural and societal ideals—something between a utopian maker community and an immersive design experiment.
I’ve always harbored mixed feelings about Arcosanti. As someone who grew up near Soleri’s Cosanti in Paradise Valley, I witnessed the early phases of this desert dream firsthand. Cosanti felt intimate and explosive with energy, a birthplace of raw, conceptual architecture. As momentum shifted to Arcosanti, I could see the gravitational pull redirect. Even today, I find the early work at Cosanti more poetic in scale—but Arcosanti was always the next step.
Returning felt like reconnecting with an old friend. Thanks to a superb personal tour, I came to understand it more fully— from the inside out.
Scale, Vision, and Reverence
Arcosanti is undeniably important. The fact that Soleri realized this much is a marvel. The scale demands commitment and, unsurprisingly, has come at the cost of some of the intimacy
seen in earlier works. Still, what exists here is nothing short of incredible.
Visiting evokes a sense of curious wonder—much like walking through Roman ruins. You may not know the names of the many creatives and volunteers who helped bring this dream to life, but their impact is etched into every cast panel and poured surface. There should be a plaque honoring every hand that shaped it.
Today, Arcosanti continues to honor its mission through ongoing experimentation and application of Soleri’s arcology principles—a fusion of architecture and ecology offering an alternative to unsustainable urban sprawl.
As with many experimental architecture sites, time has taken its toll. Some structures are aging, but they remain bold statements—nearly Brutalist when compared to Soleri’s earlier organic forms. The experience of the place, however, is not in single buildings. Arcosanti is best considered as a whole. The voids between structures are just as important as the massings themselves. There’s a profound spatial dialogue happening here, where form and absence are in conversation.
Relevance and Reverence
It would be a mistake to consign Arcosanti—or Soleri’s ideas— to the past. This is not, and never was, a “hippie hangout.”
These built environments stand as testaments to rigor, vision, and idealism. The mission is as viable today as it was fifty years ago—perhaps even more so, given today’s environmental and urban challenges.
Imagine the effect Arcosanti could have if it were fully funded. People come for the bells and the architecture, but the seriousness and philosophical underpinnings are the true draw. If you have the chance, take the archive tour—you’ll see for yourself.
There’s still an idyllic quality to the place, perhaps even more than when it began. Meanwhile, Phoenix continues to suffer the consequences of unchecked suburban sprawl and
leapfrog development. Seeing, in literal and concrete form, an alternative to what is helps you imagine what could be.
If You Go: Visitors to Arcosanti will explore a site that continues to influence architects, urban planners, and designers from across the globe.
Guided tours are required to explore the grounds and architecture in depth.
Visitor Center Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Tours: Held multiple times daily year-round (excluding major holidays)
Seasonal schedules may apply check: [www.arcosanti.org]
The Visitor’s Center, Café, Gallery & Gift Shop, and restrooms are accessible to day visitors not taking a guided tour.
Read her statement here
Editor’s Note
The legacy of Paolo Soleri is complex and important. It must be viewed in its entirety. Neighbor and classmate Daniela Soleri courageously shared her experience and trauma in an essay that deserves attention and reflection.
Arcosanti has publicly reflected on this essay; their response can be found at arcosanti.org/me-too.
Photography: Andrew Jarson
ARCOSANTI IS NOT A COMMUNE
BY WALT LOCKLEY
To prepare for the nostalgic return of the 1970s, I’m boning up on how communes work, particularly a book by Timothy Miller called “The ‘60s Communes: Hippies and Beyond.”
The best part is the appendix. Every page has roughly 36 names of the American communes whose names and locations are still known. This represents the most complete list of communes ever published as of 1999, according to Miller.
Of those roughly 1,300 names, about 120 were founded before 1965 and still in operation as of 1965. So more than 90% of communes in the U.S. spectacularly happened all at once between 1965 and 1975. So that’s one amazing thing, some sociological fireworks hard to explain.
The other amazing out-of-whack thing is how skimpy Miller’s list is. The data on the “known” commune locations is skimpy, and the number of unknowns goes way beyond what’s visible. The best guesses from him and others are not 1,300, but tens
of thousands of commune locations across the U.S. There’s a lot of brave humor just in these commune names. A quick sample for flavor:
Oyotunji Village - Sheldon, South Carolina - 1970-ongoing Oz - Harmonsburg, Pennsylvania - 1968
Pacific High School - Santa Cruz Mountains, California - 1969-? Packer Corner Farm (Total Loss Farm) - Guildford, Vermont1968-ongoing
The Pad - Ithaca, New York
Google won’t even pretend to respond to questions about the “Sunny Ridge Occult Society and Candy Store,” for instance, established in Cave Junction, Oregon, date unlisted but probably within 18 months of January 1970, fate unknown.
What commune listings could we find in the valley?
Well, first, there’s a “Canaan in the Desert” religious retreat that pops up in Phoenix off of 40th Street south of Shea, in
those horse properties just north of the Mountain Preserve. More formally, it’s the “Canaan in the Desert and the Garden of Jesus’ Suffering and Resurrection,’’ founded in 1968 by the Evangelical Sisters of Mary as a semicloistered residence and retreat house. The order is Lutheran and German and not a bunch of hippies, per se, but the retreat qualifies as a commune for the list.
Also on Miller’s list is an entry for “Old Phoenix Gold MineCave Creek - 1970.” Ho ho, now we’re getting somewhere.
Turns out, in April 1970 a fellow named B.C. Lambert was a Republican candidate for the Arizona Corporation Commission and also the owner of property on Spur Cross Road in Cave Creek. His land included the historic gold mine that was Cave Creek’s first town center around 1890.
Mr. Lambert, therefore, had a problem. Three years before, he’d brought a colony of 25 hippies to the mine as guards, because he was using the property for robot research. (Yes.) The young people “made their winter living quarters in the mine tunnel, where at least one baby was born, and moved outside in the summer.” In semi-nomadic style they raised goats and vegetables, they’d dammed a creek for water, and offended nobody, but Lambert admitted having them hang around was “a political encumbrance, and I will probably have to do something.” (according to “Hippies must face facts of political life,” by Mary Bonnell, Arizona Republic, April 24, 1970.)
Unlikely but true: while drafting this, I realized I’d spoken to one of Mr. Lambert’s gold mine hippies at a party in 2003. Stephen. Stephen was friendly and full of erudite drug trivia so I had to take notes.
Stephen was proud to name himself as one of the “original Phoenix hippies” of the 60s. He’d lived in a cave in Cave Creek for more than a year. As a group they paid $35 a month in abandoned-gold-mine rent. Heat was not really an issue; in summer they lived at night. From time to time they were annoyed by local “hunters” who came around to fire off guns and murder their half-tamed rabbits. But the Original Phoenix Hippies were usually naked, see, and learned an elegant nonviolent solution to this problem. Emerging from the bushes naked was all it took to scare those dudes away fast. (Checks out.) Also on Miller’s list of communes: “Arcosanti - Mayer, Arizona - 1970-ongoing.”
That just doesn’t seem right. I can sit here and count on my fingers good objective reasons why Arcosanti was, and is, a commune. Founded in 1970. Founded on forgotten land. Founded and shepherded by a singular figure with a magnetic personality. Its early character of a place of struggle, socially isolated, offering young people a tribal lifestyle and the chance to reject mainstream culture.
These facts all fit very nicely… I’m not convinced. I’m still resisting the idea.
People may remember that Soleri attended Taliesin West, and some make a big deal out of his Wright “lineage.” People may not remember that Soleri was asked to leave Taliesin West in 1947 or 1948 along with his friend and fellow designer Mark Mills. Those two spent an entire year living outside — in a tent on the slopes of Camelback Mountain, surviving on wild dates, soaking up the sun, drawing, dreaming, and thinking. This gives Soleri very good proto-hippie credentials, starting from scratch, predating the beatnik coffeehouse finger-snappers by years.
Soleri’s personal history also supports that idea, “Arcosanti was a commune.” I’m still resisting the idea. It just doesn’t seem to fit.
Here’s why, I think. Unlike all those other tens of thousands of social experiments from 1970, Paolo Soleri’s is one of the few that you can visit, touch, and feel the finished architectural reality talking back to you. Of those 1,300 countercultural schemes on Timothy Miller’s list, Arcosanti may be the only one that came true.
THE SWAG PAD
LISTING FEATURE
Photography: Andrew Jarson
The “Swag Pad”
Step into a home where time travel feels real— welcome to the “Swag Pad,” a one-of-a-kind 1970s Custom Golden Heritage home in Tempe, Arizona. Thoughtfully reimagined by designer Troy Bankord, this rare find radiates mid-century desert magic. From the vintage breeze block privacy walls to the jaw-dropping indoor, air-conditioned pool room, this property is a living tribute to bold design and personal style.
Every inch of the home offers a sensory experience. Sporting a glamorous 1970s inspired renovation, this home is updated, refurbished, and turnkey ready! Inside, you’ll find groovy details like original walnut cabinetry, flame-finished granite countertops, slatestyle floors, and authentic period lighting. Vintage wallpaper sets the tone, while modern updates add comfort and convenience. The centerpiece? A private indoor pool lounge worthy of a boutique resort— complete with bold tile and retro-chic ambiance.
Outdoors, the design is just as curated. The landscape is a lush blend of citrus trees, grassy retreats, water and fire features, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen—all built for maximum entertaining. This is more than a home—it’s a lifestyle statement rooted in Arizona heritage, with architectural soul and unforgettable character.
Coupled with the available furnishings, this home is ready for your ultimate desert lifestyle. Great Tempe location and ultra-mod decor make this unforgettable. WOW!
You can view more details about this great home at azarchitecture.com
COLWELL SHELOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
“Landscape is like the gift wrap,” Michele said as she and her business partner, Allison, wrapped up their presentation to the azarchitecture team.
Michele Shelor, FASLA, & Allison Colwell, FASLA, welcomed our team to visit their office to learn more about COLWELL SHELOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE , a collaborative landscape architecture and urban design practice that they founded in 2009. We got to learn more about their design process and how they incorporate sustainable measures into every project.
A place you can visit and see their work is actually just steps away from the azarchitecture office at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, where they designed all of the gallery gardens. As Michele put it, you have a gallery on the inside; why not bring it outside? They worked on both the hardscape
and the landscape here and conceptualized everything from the slabs of Arizona Brown Schist that are layered there by hand to the condensation feature in the form of a ‘weeping wall’—a rainwater harvesting strategy seen in several of their projects, including residential spaces, where roof water and HVAC condensation is collected to water the plants.
The museum is currently undergoing a large expansion project, which is already taking shape and is expected to be finished late this year. Allison and Michele said they are a part of this team and are looking forward to this next chapter, which will add about 12,000 square feet to the museum.
Another standout project is the Dot Garden at Black Rock Studio in Old Town Scottsdale. Designed as part of an infill revitalization effort, this compact courtyard space exemplifies how even the smallest urban lots can be transformed into
The ‘weeping wall’ in the interior courtyard is intended to funnel condensate water from the museum’s HVAC system and deposit it into a subterranean riparian garden that irrigates native, drought-tolerant plants. During monsoon season, the sculptural steel wall can guide as much as 25 gallons of water per hour into the courtyard and runnels, which then connect to more water gathered from the museum’s roof and street curb that filtrates through bioswales.
dynamic, memorable environments. Framed by golden barrel cacti, a raised horsetail reed planter, and a concrete bench with an embedded fountain, the garden blends form and function beautifully. It’s a space that blurs the boundary between public and private, serving both as an extension of an architecture gallery and as a semi-permeable streetscape for pedestrians.
Despite its modest footprint and budget, the garden delivers a layered experience of color, sound, and material that leaves a lasting impression — especially when the large glass doors open the gallery to the courtyard, creating a vibrant, open-air gathering space.
A handful of our real estate agents have had firsthand experience viewing some of their residential projects, like the GHOST WASH residence, depicted on page 34, for which Debbie Jarson saw the before-and-after after assisting in the sale of the site on which the house was built.
The GHOST WASH residence was featured in a number of magazine publications, including Martha Stewart Living in March of 2020. Their work at the GHOST WASH residence received award recognition, including an AZASLA Honor Award that same year.
Equipped with an extensive knowledge of native and adapted vegetation, COLWELL SHELOR strives to celebrate the organic material found in both the low and high desert regions of Arizona. They know just where to get and just how to space everything from full-grown cacti to the native 1-gallon plants to have them fill out and thrive.
To learn more about COLWELL SHELOR, visit their website, colwellshelor.com and follow them on instagram @colwellshelor – or better still, if you’re interested in a residential project, ask one of our real estate agents to help put you in touch!
LOOKING BACK
MID-CENTURY MODERN ON ZEN GARDEN SECLUDED LOT
Near-acre irrigated lot offers a desert botanical garden-landscape in a coveted Biltmore-area location. Boasting 5777/SF+- of MCM perfection and space for all: 5 beds, 3.5 baths, gallery, studio, and guest house; architectural details include vaulted/beamed ceilings, clerestory windows, terrazzo floors, and abundant light. READ MORE
Price: $2,495,000
CHARMING MID-CENTURY RANCH
Architecturally Unique 1960s Gem with Vintage Charm & Endless Potential. Step into a 1960s architectural masterpiece where timeless charm meets artistic expression. This truly special home captures the essence of mid-century creativity, featuring striking stained glass windows that bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of light and stunning vintage wallpaper accents that add character and warmth to every room. READ MORE
Price: $349,000
CONTEMPORARY PIESTEWA PEAK BEAUTY
Nestled in the shadows of Piestewa Peak, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom contemporary home combines a California-inspired design with the ease of Arizona living. Offering a superb location with breathtaking Mountain Preserve views, the home provides quick access to Biltmore, Downtown Phoenix, and SR51, placing you in the heart of convenience while maintaining a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere. READ MORE
Price: $1,650,000
ROMAN ROADS TOWNHOUSE – ALFRED NEWMAN BEADLE ARCHITECT
Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, this Roman Roads townhouse is a striking example of mid-century modern design, attributed to the legendary Alfred Newman Beadle. The two-bedroom, two-story property boasts Beadle’s renowned use of geometric precision, floating staircases, and double-volume spaces flooded with natural light from the towering 18-foot-high stacked windows. READ MORE
Price: $770,000
LOOKING BACK
CAREFREE MID-CENTURY MODERN – BLAINE DRAKE ARCHITECT
Designed by Blaine Drake in 1965—one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s original apprentices—this home blends timeless design with modern updates. Set on a 1.6-acre lot, the home offers breathtaking desert vistas and complete privacy. READ MORE
Price: $1,645,000
RENOVATED SANDS SCOTTSDALE – E.T. WRIGHT BUILDER
This exceptional Sands Scottsdale Townhome, originally designed by iconic Valley builder E.T. Wright, embodies the best of late mid-century modern design with Arizona Spanish influences. Reimagined in 2022 with a meticulous, high-end renovation, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence has been transformed into a showcase of craftsmanship, quality, and architectural integrity. READ MORE
Price: $880,000
BEST IN BOTH LUXURY & CONVENIENCE – HISTORIC CASA BLANCA
Nestled in the peaceful, sought-after third phase of historic Casa Blanca, this home offers the ultimate in privacy and mountain views, with no visible side neighbors and a stunning backdrop of Camelback Mountain. This bright and airy single-level detached residence features 2 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a den, and a 2-car garage. READ MORE
Price: $2,500,000
STUNNING 1929 SPANISH COLONIAL REVIVAL – FQ STORY HISTORIC DISTRICT
This stunning 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival home in the FQ Story Historic District showcases vintage Phoenix charm and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The active historic building tax status provides significant property tax benefits. READ MORE
Price: $590,000
LOOKING BACK
BILTMORE MID-CENTURY MODERN – BLAINE DRAKE ARCHITECT
This exceptional residence is part of the exclusive Executive Suites, a 12-home enclave designed by Blaine Drake, a revered Frank Lloyd Wright protégé. A true reflection of mid-century modern design, this home embodies timeless elegance and refined luxury, where every detail has been carefully curated to honor its original legacy. Clean lines, rich materials, and a sophisticated palette create a space that is both striking and inviting. READ MORE
Price: $450,000
CONTEMPORARY PIESTEWA PEAK BEAUTY
Nestled in the shadows of Piestewa Peak, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom modern contemporary home combines a California-inspired design with the ease of Arizona living. Offering a superb location with breathtaking Mountain Preserve views, the home provides quick access to Biltmore, Downtown Phoenix, and SR51, placing you in the heart of convenience while maintaining a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere. PHOTO 2025 ARMLS
Price: $3,500,000
ARCHITECTURAL RARE FIND IN PARADISE VALLEY
This single-level architectural gem spans just over 3,000 square feet, effortlessly blending timeless design with today’s luxury. Situated on a prime view lot in a peaceful enclave, this home boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains and as far as Pinnacle Peak, complemented by shimmering city lights that create a serene, picturesque backdrop. PHOTO 2025 ARMLS
Price: $2,385,000
SPRAWLING ARCADIA RANCH
This sprawling Arcadia ranch is just lovely. The floor plan flows perfectly and includes a large island kitchen with plenty of space to prep, serve and entertain, a beautiful formal dining room, a fantastic great room and family room both overflowing with natural sunlight, private office, super cool Arizona room, and even a guest house. PHOTO 2025 ARMLS
Price: $2,900,000
The Novak House
LISTING FEATURE
The “Novak House”
The Novak House, designed by the renowned architect Alfred Newman Beadle, stands as a testament to modernist architectural brilliance and is one of his most celebrated designs. This stunning home is positioned on a unique mountain site that makes the most of breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the expansive cityscape of Phoenix.
Beadle’s design philosophy is evident in every corner of the house, with the sharp, triangular form blending seamlessly into the natural landscape. The architecture defies traditional norms with its distinctive angular design, maximizing the use of space while minimizing its impact on the environment. Beadle called this home “Hawk’s Nest.”
Not merely a residence, it’s an artful statement in modern living, blending form and function effortlessly. Each room is strategically positioned to capture the awe-inspiring vistas, creating an immersive experience that integrates nature with architecture. This exceptional home offers both privacy and connection to the vast, beautiful desert surroundings, making it an architectural gem for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Fully updated, the Novak House offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history.
With 2 bedrooms, an office, and 2 baths spread over approximately 1,873 square feet, the house provides ample space for comfortable living while maintaining its minimalist elegance.
Whether it’s the location, the views, or the exceptional design by Alfred Beadle, the Novak House represents an extraordinary investment for those seeking a home that is both a work of art and a retreat from the ordinary.
Take a video tour and learn more about this home at azarchitecture.com
Photography: Andrew Jarson
TESTIMONIALS
“We first discovered the Byrne residence on azarchitecture.com. Happily, we now refer to that wonderful Will Bruder creation as “…our home in the desert…” and we have Jarson & Jarson to thank for helping transform a dream into reality. When we first spoke on the phone I felt as if I’d known the Jarsons for a very long time, since I’d been using the website as one of my carefully-selected “go to” resources focusing on architecturally unique homes for years! The tasteful photographs and informative descriptions made it a pleasure to visit the site –and I was visiting often! The depth of knowledge they possess, the demonstrated passion for good design – plus the simple fact they were a genuine pleasure to work with – meant Martha and I knew right away we’d found the right real estate firm.
Scott helped us really appreciate the subtle architectural details, (as well as the superb craftsmanship), of the Byrne residence. Debbie made sure the transaction was managed expertly while deftly coordinating between everyone involved in the closing process. We couldn’t be happier!”
David and Martha Bills
“We have used azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson both on the buying and selling sides. Scott Jarson and his team are quintessential professionals, and a pleasure to work with. Their reputation as the top agency in the valley for architecturally significant homes is proven, and well-earned. We highly recommend contacting them should you be considering either buying or selling in the Phoenix Metro area.”
Paul & Jean Herring
#SAVETHESPIRE
This building was one of the most significant designs produced by Taliesin Associated Architects after Frank Lloyd Wright’s death. We mourn the building’s demolition, but we’re glad that at least a portion of it will continue!
Follow us on Instagram @azarchitecture to get updates on the spire’s relocation project and discover other architecturally unique sites across the valley that help define desert living.
Ascension Lutheran Church
Ranking Arizona named Scott Jarson the #1 real estate agent in Arizona, marking his fifth consecutive year in the top ten! This top ranking reflects Scott’s long-standing impact and achievement in the competitive real estate market.
The firm was also named one of Arizona’s top real estate teams and best places to work. These awards demonstrate the company’s dedication to excellence, not only in real estate but also in cultivating a healthy, collaborative work environment.
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson is the only Real Estate firm in Arizona that specializes in the sales and marketing of Architecturally Unique Homes.©
Since 1990, Scott & Debbie Jarson, have stood by their original mission to celebrate and honor design & architecture. They remain devoted to adding value to architect-designed properties and are committed to celebrating, encouraging and promoting good design.
Over many years, azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson Real Estate have been defining desert living by searching out homes, from modern to historic, that add enjoyment and harmony to our clients’ lives.
A keen aesthetic sense and a deep appreciation for the Valley’s rare and diverse architecture define their commitment to marketing unique properties like no other firm. azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson Real Estate remains deeply committed to historic preservation and are proud EcoBroker ® Affiliates.
Whether you are buying, selling, or just an enthusiast of architecture, remember to contact azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson Real Estate — the Valley’s true expert in Architecturally Unique Homes.©
Meet our team or contact us to learn more about how we can help you.
azarchitecture.com 480.425.9300
