Paradise Valley, AZ
Southwest Sanctuary
A contemplative desert retreat that blends artful design with the spirit of a wilderness trail, inviting reflection, discovery, and quiet connection to nature.
The goal and request of the owners was to immerse the viewer and participant in the beauty and discovery of the garden, and replicate, wherever possible, the atmosphere and aesthetic of hiking on a 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, 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 taking you through gardens of agave, totem poles, and Mexican fence post cacti peppered with colorful plants of 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, from poolside chaise lounges to 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.
