I once worked for an editor who would ironically chant, “I love my job. I love my job,” through gritted teeth, trying in vain to make it true by saying it aloud. To which I posit that she was ill-suited to her title and/or did not have the temperament for this line of work to begin with. Being an editor-in-chief can be a mixed bag. There are hundreds of details to stay on top of, countless variables and frequent curve balls, but at the end of the day, the pros far outweigh the cons. 

I am frequently asked what the best part of my job is. Yes, I get to see many truly jaw-dropping homes and gardens, which is exciting and inspiring. But without hesitation, I tell you that my favorite part of my day-to-day is the people I meet and understanding the ways they embody their creativity. I always love interviewing architects because early on I wanted to be one. I’m in awe of the way interior designers interpret spaces in ways that mere mortals would never think of. And walking through a garden with someone with a true reverence for nature can be uplifting in a way that is difficult to describe. 

Every year since 1990, with the designation of “Master of the Southwest,” Phoenix Home & Garden recognizes Valley individuals who embody creativity, true talent and originality. In this issue, we add six worthy names who have, without question, earned their place in our roster of more than 300 of their predecessors. 

On the pages ahead, we proudly introduce you to custom home builder Austin King; landscape designer Charlie Ray; interior designer Britany Simon, architect Ron Brissette; architectural designer Jeff Kamtz; and photographer Werner Segarra. Their talents are as mighty as their stories, and we hope you love getting to know them as we have.