The Desert Southwest offers a vast array of distinctive homes and neighborhoods:

There are cool, irrigated citrus groves in the shadow of Camelback Mountain, pocketed with Spanish revival, adobe, and mid-century modern ranch homes, and forests of giant saguaro cacti in the foothills to the north, often populated by the most cutting-edge designs, and rows of majestic date palms lining streets of historic homes in central Phoenix. Not to mention a rich urban landscape that includes modern in-fill architecture, loft projects and stunning high-rise towers.

For those who appreciate architecture and design, the serenity and dramatic beauty of the Sonoran desert have provided the perfect backdrop to showcase great architecture and innovative design. From the romance of Wallace Neff and Frank Lloyd Wright to the Case-study modernist architects and new “desert school” designs, Arizona architecture is world class.

Original designs from Frank Lloyd Wright, Al Beadle, Will Bruder, Jones Studio, and others; plus prime examples of mid-century modern, Case-study, historic and ranch. Some designs and architects you may recognize, others may remain obscure, but all are unique.

We invite you to capture your extraordinary View of Life in the City in an exclusive environment unlike any other.

Modern vs. Contemporary :

Have you ever wondered what makes a home "modern" versus "contemporary"? Many people use these terms interchangeably, but that can lead to confusion when a home is listed for sale.

The label "modern" in architecture and design indicates an exact time period in our design history during the 20th century. Modern design came into its own in the 1920's and 30's and strongly reflects the emergence of new technology and advances in engineering. This means it relies heavily on mechanized design. Let's look at some "modern" design elements that will make this style more easily identified.

First, "form follows function" in modern architecture. This means that what an object's purpose is determines what form it will take. Modern design plays heavily on vertical and horizontal lines. The frilly and ornamental nature of previous styles was pushed aside for the clean lines and new utilitarian aesthetic.

Frank Lloyd Wright, known for his brilliant cantilever designs, was one of the most well-known modern architects. His famous "fallingwater" house in rural Pennsylvania is a great example of modern work.

What's important to remember is that modern style doesn't change. What was once modern, is always "modern." Contemporary, on the other hand, is an ever changing term. It is used to define what is trendy and in style now. Of course ... 20 years from now, something entirely different will be contemporary.

What is architecture doing in the present moment? That is contemporary. Today's trends see many builder focusing on green designs, with larger projects seeking LEED certification.

Give Brian Dunshie a Call for a personal tour of any of the homes listed in the above search.

Brian Dunshie
Direct - 480-522-6818