Paradise Hills Residence

Paradise Valley / Arizona / USA

Echo Canyon Nestled within the confines of a wedge-shaped lot

The Paradise Hills Residence is grounded by a solid masonry base, elevating the home to capture sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and distant glimpses of Camelback Mountain. The soft curves of the site walls and roof elements gently guide the approach, creating a sense of invitation and fluidity as one draws closer to the home.

entrance approach at custom Echo Canyon residence

Birds Nest – Scottsdale Custom Home – Modern Architecture

The entry walk is framed by basalt-clad fin walls that introduce a sense of presence, with a large oculus above drawing light into the space. The vertical grooved texture of the basalt enhances the sense of verticality, while the narrow glass slots between the walls allow light to filter through, casting a play of light and shadow that extends into the rooms beyond.

Approaching the residence, a dance of opacity and transparency begins with a curving block wall adorned with sandblasted, SATIN-ETCH, glass panels. This concealed masterpiece encloses a charming courtyard, a haven for yuccas, agaves, and an ironwood tree. As sunlight filters through the sandblasted glass, dappled light gently caresses the walkway leading to the house, setting the stage for the sensory experience that awaits within.

In the open, airy living room, the fireplace is anchored by basalt stone piers, subtly integrated with metal elements that also house the television. The large windows invite abundant natural light, while extending the reach of the basalt cladding from the interior to the exterior, dissolving the boundary between the two and unifying the living space with the surrounding landscape.

Pocketing multi-slide doors allow the interior to seamlessly open up to the exterior terrace, creating a space that invites relaxation, social gatherings, and moments of quiet reflection. The expansive views, complemented by the sparkling pool, are framed by a soaring metal-clad roof that provides much-needed shade from the harsh desert sun. Native desert vegetation along the perimeter of the terrace softly transitions the built environment into the natural landscape of the site below.

narrow, linear skylight in Echo Canyon custom residence

Once inside, the foyer and halls, adorned with curated art, lead to an open great room that effortlessly blends the interior with the exterior. A facade composed of 14-foot-tall glazing provides a panoramic view of Camelback Mountain, creating a seamless connection to the majestic landscape beyond. A narrow linear skylight bathes the great room in natural daylight, while VERTICAL LIGHT BAFFLES FORMED BY the roof structure introduces a captivating play of shadows, SHADDOW AND LIGHT,, adding depth and dimension to the space.

At the heart of the great room, a millwork element defines the kitchen and bar area, offering ample storage while subtly defining the circulation path. This central feature serves as a room within the larger space, drawing the eye and enhancing the open feel of the surrounding areas. A floating ceiling cloud above introduces warmth, ensuring the kitchen remains visually connected to the adjacent rooms without blocking the flow of natural light from the clerestory windows above.

The continuity of design is further emphasized by the Douglas fir ceiling, extending from the interior to the covered terrace, unifying the, INDOOR AND OUTDOOR living spaces. Interrupted only by linear slots housing lighting and mechanical fixtures, the ceiling creates a sense of openness and flow throughout the residence.

Echo Canyon_Modern Custom Home in Phoenix, AZ

The siting of the Paradise Hills Residence offers an intimate connection to the surrounding landscape, allowing one to begin the day with the soft light of the rising sun illuminating the eastern sky behind Camelback Mountain. As the day closes, the shifting colors of the hills and mountains create a tranquil backdrop, offering an ever-changing, serene view from both inside and outside the home.

Above the covered terrace, a round oculus becomes a celestial focal point, allowing a sunspot to gracefully glide across the patio and yard. This outdoor haven serves as a gathering place for friends and family, providing the perfect vantage point to marvel at the spectacular view of the Praying Monk. A thoughtfully landscaped yard, framed, ACCENTUATED by a rust-colored wall and a natural desert palette, becomes a playground for grandchildren and dogs.