If you know where to look, deserts bloom all year long. You can start with these deluxe dwellings in posh southwest towns.
10 Altazano Drive, Santa Fe, New Mexico
$4.9 million
Boasting fantastic vistas of the Sandia and Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley, this historic seven-bedroom estate’s stone walls flow into a 13,400-square-foot interior, which encompasses the original ’20s-era structure and a new wing designed by architect Meisa Batayneh. Ceramic fireplaces, Cherrywood ceilings, and a beautiful mosaic are just a few of the many bespoke details. Just as enticing, the recreation areas include an indoor Olympic-length swimming pool and tennis court, a giant sundial, and an outdoor life-size chess game a la Marostica in Italy.
40102 N. 107th St., Scottsdale, Arizona
$1.275 million
Beautifully landscaped with cacti and other desert plants, this remodeled contemporary single-story home in the tony Desert Mountain community features an open plan with a split master bedroom floorplan. In the spacious great room, expansive doors open to a private backyard outfitted with a fireplace, a spa, and a heated swimming pool with beautiful mountain views. Optional gold and lifestyle memberships are available from the club.
1011 W. Cielo Drive, Palm Springs, California
$2.695 million
Nestled into the mountains and surrounded by a grove of palm trees, this mid-century marvel was designed in 1956 by renowned modernist architect Walter S. White. The home’s lofted foyer has an open steel staircase that leads to the upper-level living areas, which have tons of windows, sweeping wooden ceilings, and a circular steel fireplace. On the lower level, which houses a family room and bedrooms, walls of glass showcase the stunning desert landscaping and a patio with a perfectly circular swimming pool that looks like something straight out of a Slim Aarons photo. The home is on the National Historic Register.
218 Calle Diamante, Sedona, Arizona
$1.29 million
Sedona’s striking red rocks are the backdrop for this luxe dwelling in the exclusive Casa Contenta community. A large curved wall of windows frames those vistas from the large living area, which has wood-beamed ceilings and a fireplace. It flows into a deluxe kitchen with Viking appliances. A large patio with a Kiva fireplace extends the living area outside, and there’s another patio for the two guest bedrooms, each with en suite bathrooms. The gated community also offers a swimming pool, tennis courts, and other amenities.
More from Make It Better:
- How Toxic is Your House? 7 Steps to a Safe, Healthy Home
- Peek Inside This Colorful and Sophisticated Chicago Bungalow for Instant Home Design Inspiration
- See This Winnetka Family’s Stunning Rebuild After a Devastating Home Fire (Plus 4 Critical Fire Safety Tips)
Tate Gunnerson is a Chicago-based freelance journalist with an equal appreciation for natural beauty and good design. He is a passionate supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the National Kidney Foundation.
