An expansive art collection inspires a couple’s latest homebuilding adventure.

Perched at the zenith of the Silverleaf neighborhood in North Scottsdale and surrounded by spectacular Valley views, an inviting abode is a study in place—both inside and out. From sophisticated landscaping replete with native species to subtle Southwestern architectural details, the home is a celebration of the desert and of the homeowners’ histories.

“My wife was born in Casa Grande, and I am a fourth-generation Arizonan,” explains the husband. “My mother and her eight sisters used to buy baskets from the local Native American population on their ranch in Liberty. We have been gradually collecting mostly indigenous art, including paintings, photographs, pots and baskets, for the entirety of our 58 years of marriage. We started with small and less expensive things, since that was all we could afford, and have gradually been able to broaden our reach to more significant items.”

Self-admitted serial homebuilders—“I think we’re up to eight now,” the wife remarks—the couple had a clear concept of how their next abode would serve them and their impressive collection. 

Having previously spent a few years in a different enclave in Silverleaf, the pair looked to new heights for their next dwelling. “We decided to see if we could move up the mountain and gain a view,” notes the husband. “We wanted a single-level house that had lots of wall space for our art. Plus it had to be functional and have an easy flow from area to area. Over the years, our personal styles in home layout and decor have evolved, but we always gravitate toward interiors that are relatively light, clean, not overcrowded and not overstuffed. For us, functionality is the most important element of a home.”

Architect Gary Wyant and project manager Scott Edwards, who had built the couple’s last house, helmed the new home build. “The couple’s initial vision was a place for casual living and entertaining, paired with a strong emphasis on creating the right space to display their beautiful art pieces,” says Wyant. “We made a few minor plan changes during construction but for the most part the vision stayed consistent from beginning to end.” 

More traditional Southwestern elements, such as thick wood ceiling beams, rustic carved doors and white plaster walls, serve as a subtle homage to the region but allow for more contemporary touches to add an in-the-now feel to the house.

“The wife was always on the lookout for some eclectic pieces she could mix in during construction, including the repurposed antique doors we were able to creatively work into the entry between the foyer and the great room,” Edwards recalls. “These pieces added an element of fun and color to the spaces, and we always love the challenge of marrying the old with the new.”

Clean-lined furnishings, airy textiles and minimalistic light fixtures help create a soft atmosphere where the couple can enjoy their art, the view and the simple joys of desert living. “The husband and wife wanted clean, timeless interiors that served as a backdrop to their incredible collection of art,” says interior designer Jamie Hedstrom. “The hard surfaces of the home are dark, rich woods contrasted with high-gloss whites. We chose understated, quiet finishes that wouldn’t compete with the gallerylike quality of the home.” 

As thoughtful and serene as the interiors are, the property’s exteriors are just as stunning. “The home’s architecture had a dramatic influence on the front and backyards,” says Phoenix Home & Garden Masters of the Southwest award-winning landscape architect Donna Winters. “The landscape resembles the clean and ordered look that occurs within the house.” Ironwood and olive trees are a nod to the quiet Mediterranean inspiration of the home, while stately cactus species, including cardon and Mexican fence post, provide a minimalist and low-maintenance touch. “The great joy is in blending the home with its surrounding environment. The goal is to make the exteriors feel as natural as the interiors.”

“The owners wanted clean, timeless interiors that served as a backdrop to their incredible collection of art.”

—Jamie Hedstrom, interior designer

SOURCES

Architect: Gary Wyant, Calvis Wyant, Scottsdale, calviswyant.com. Project manager: Scott Edwards, calviswyant.com. Interior designer: Jamie Hedstrom, Wiseman and Gale Interiors LLC, Scottsdale, wisemanandgale.com. Landscape architect: Donna Winters, Enchanted Garden Landscape, Phoenix, enchantedgardenaz.com.

Striped chairs (fabric by ralphlauren.com) and sofa: leeindustries.com.

Bar stools: lawsonfenning.com.