Paradise Valley, AZ
Southwest Sanctuary
This contemplative desert retreat blends artful design with the spirit of a wilderness trail, inviting reflection, discovery, and quiet connection to nature.
The owners’ goal was to immerse visitors in the garden’s beauty and sense of discovery, recreating, wherever possible, the atmosphere and aesthetic of a hiking trail.
Using Japanese principles of anticipation, balance, and discovery, we were able to create an inspirational journey through the garden. The goal of the garden was reflection, quiet, and calm.
While they knew the features they wanted – including a pavilion, a private master bath outdoor shower, spa, several destination firepits, putting greens, and a turtle shelter for Sunny, their pet African tortoise – they gave us free creative latitude on how to bring it to life. The details were up to us, their only request was we provide the best we had to offer.
Gallery
With a foundation of mutual trust, we built on their guiding principle that nature is a crucial part of the healing process. The garden evokes a sense of discovery, with stabilized granite paths that simulate a hiking trail. Along the way, you pass gardens of agave, totem poles, and Mexican fence post cacti dotted with colorful plants in yellow, red, pink, and every shade of green. Natural stone walls and fence posts define different pathways and gathering places, which encompass everything from an outdoor kitchen with a stone pizza oven to cozy fire pits, poolside chaise lounges, and putting greens. Their landscape is a healing garden of reflection that celebrates the diversity of the Southwest desert.
More Inspiration
Tucked beneath the watchful gaze of Camelback Mountain and the iconic Praying Monk, this Paradise Valley residence embraces its natural surroundings with a refined, desert-conscious transformation.
