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Architecture, Business, Entertainment, Real Estate

Thalia Kyriakis Lists Eleven Arches

The Estate was Originally the Home of Louise N. Grace, Heiress of Eastern Shipping Magnate W.R. Grace

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, is proud to announce the historic estate listing of Eleven Arches, also known as the Grace Mansion. The privately gated enclave expands over 4.38 acres in the heart of the Catalina Foothills and includes a main home, detached guest quarter casitas which offer endless possibilities for a gym, wine cellar, art studio and additional office space. The estate is listed for $6.5 million by Thalia Kyriakis, broker associate for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Built in 1937 by notable architect Josias Joesler, the historic property exemplifies the iconic late 19th and 20th Century Revival architectural style. The property underwent a five-year restoration process and was then listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

From the 15,502-square-foot estate enjoy resort-like grounds, complete privacy, immaculate mountain views, and unrivaled city views.  Capturing its history, the residence was intelligently renovated to allow a warm and intimate feeling, yet serve as the perfect setting for entertaining grand gatherings. 

This estate is absolutely extraordinary, Joesler’s residential masterpiece. An enclave of this magnitude in one of the most coveted locations in the Catalina Foothills is unparalleled. The architectural quality and gracious scale of the property is captured from the moment you arrive at the privately gated drive. The main house immediately highlights the beauty of the first level which encompasses the grand entry hall and the exquisite two-story foyer. A private retreat is found on the first level within the master bedroom wing. The master bedroom wing offers generous amounts of living spaces including a media room, personal office, his/her bathrooms and closets, and a private serene terrace.

Thalia Kyriakis

Kyriakis says the dramatic staircase in the grand entry hall leads to the second level, which can also be accessed by an elevator. The second level includes two generously scaled guest suites, each with a private terrace overlooking endless city views. 

The 5,553 SF guest-living quarters offer an additional seven bedrooms along with five baths. The first casita features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen, living area, fireplace, private patio. Casita Two includes two bedrooms and one full bath while Casita Three has one bedroom, one bath. The guest quarters provide a versatile use of space to satisfy proprietors needs. 

The 4.38 acres of land incorporate a striking pool, one of the largest residential pools in Arizona, a multitude of covered patios, and a picturesque breezeway. The estate’s oversized lot allows for room to build with an incredible 2.389 acres that are unused.

The Eleven Arches property incorporates a sophisticated ambiance paired with an inspiring sense of history from 1937. 

Architecture, Business, Entertainment, Real Estate

Luxury Headlines | May 2021

$6.575M remodeled Santa Fe-style Scottsdale Home AZ Central

5 of the biggest luxury home sales in April AZ Big Media, Rose Law Group

6 peaceful homes in Arizona The Week

A Golfers Dream Home In Scottsdale Arizona Spa & Wellness

Best of Real Estate Agents in Phoenix City Lifestyle Phoenix, Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Buying in Phoenix? Don’t Count on the Flood of New Developments Dampening Prices Mansion Global

How to Buy a House Above Listing Price and Appraised Value Flagstaff Business News

NHL hockey star Mike Modano sells upscale north Scottsdale home for $4.85M AZ Central

Phoenix equestrian property with 2 houses, 14-stall barn on market for $6.8 million AZ Family

Russ Lyon SIR Kicks Off the Kentucky Derby Phoenix Business Journal, luxuryrealestate.com

Russ Lyon SIR Represents the Seller of a $4.2 Million Scottsdale Home luxuryrealestate.com

Scottsdale home on 2.5 acres with wine room, full bar on market for $4.5 million AZ Family

The Life Aquatic | 4 More Homes With Architectural Water Features Sotheby’s International Realty, Financial Editorial

Tucson estate with two houses, indoor lap pool, batting cage on market for $7.5 million AZ Family

Unfinished Paradise Valley Estate on market for $13 million AZ Family, Newsbreak

Architecture, Business, Entertainment, Equestrian, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Sells El Rojo Grande for $14,750,000

The Estate Sits on 173 Acres of Pristine Land in Arizona’s Most Beautiful City and was Formerly Owned by the Wrigley Family

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, is proud to announce the sale of El Rojo Grande Ranch in Sedona, Arizona. 

The sale was a combination of two listings on the same property. The main residence sits on 82 acres and sold for $11,250,000 and an additional 91 acres closed for 3,500,000, totaling 173 acres and $14,750,000. The same buyer purchased the combined listings. 

Agents Ed Pennington and Jeanette Sauer of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty represented the seller, Ingrid Hills. The estate was originally built for the iconic Wrigley family and was later sold to the Hills family of Hills Bros. Coffee. 

The property had been on the market since 2006 and in that time Hills received multiple offers from developers, all of which she declined. Hills wished to preserve the natural beauty of the land and Sedona. 

I am so proud that we were able to procure the perfect sale where the seller, the buyer, and the community of Sedona and the surrounding areas are happy and appreciative. We feel blessed to be involved in this sale and appreciate the efforts of Roy Grimm, the local agent, who brought an incredible buyer to us. The seller did the right thing by refusing to sell to developers while waiting for the perfect buyer to come along.  We, as a community, should applaud her efforts.

Ed Pennington, Real Estate Advisor

The spectacular property is a world-class getaway, just 1.5 miles away from Sedona. The perfect retreat offers stunning, forever views of Sedona’s famous red rocks with much of the land backing up to the Coconino National Forest. 

The main residence is a 6,700-square-foot Southwestern-style estate that boasts soaring walls of glass that yield unmatched views of Sedona. Additionally, there is a beautifully refined 1,300-square-foot guest casita and 1,600-square-foot caretaker’s quarters. In total the property boasts 5 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms. 

The expansive property also features a gym, an amphitheater, multiple terraces, a lap pool and a spa. Additionally, on the property is a private 2.5-acre park that is bordered by refined red rock. The setting sun draws a rich color from the iron-stained rocks allowing for a peaceful retreat or a sophisticated event complete with covered picnic tables, a bandstand, stone fire pit, barbecue area, and bathroom facilities. 

The spectacular property also boasts state-of-the-art equestrian facilities including multiple barns, a tack room, locker rooms, 3 arenas, a veterinary clinic, stables, and a private cantina bar.

Architecture, Art, Business, Community, Entertainment, Inspiration, Real Estate

Iconic Estates | Opulent Outdoor Living

This month, we take you through some of Arizona’s most luxuriously appointed estates with opulent outdoor-living spaces. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s lifestyle advisors expertly navigate our beautiful state landscape to find unique outdoor living solutions for each client.

With Arizona’s desirable climate being one of the top priorities for out-of-state buyers, outdoor-living spaces are in high demand. The concept of continuous, seamless indoor and outdoor living is one of the most popular estate attributes, as we realize the importance of biophilic design in the home. Continuity through flooring materials, walls and ceilings connect the interiors and exteriors of the home for a seamless transition into outdoor living.

Luxe outdoor spaces are fully designed with comfortable outdoor living rooms, elegant dining spaces and lounging areas that complement indoor spaces. Outdoor kitchens are in high demand and can be found in Arizona’s top estates.

Explore these ICONIC Estates with opulent outdoors.

Photo by Stokkete / Shutterstock

Temperatures are heating up and here comes a whole lotta fun! We turned to acclaimed chef and wine expert Mark Tarbell, founder of Tarbell’s, for his picks for the best wine bottles to drink this season for any activity from a bike ride to a clam bake.

Photo by Tom Tietz / Shutterstock

For some of Sedona’s 3 million visitors each year, the opportunity for renewal comes in many forms—outdoor adventure, spiritual journeys and the appreciation of the natural beauty that is Sedona. With its Red Rock cliffs and mesas, and the vast trail system that surrounds this city, visitors hope to find a reprieve from their daily lives in search of a powerful connection with nature.

Photo Courtesy of Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

Since 1929, the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Arizona Biltmore has dazzled celebrities, politicians and luxury travelers with the master architect’s unique style and playful sense of glamour. In 2020, the hotel closed for more than a year to undergo the largest renovation in its history.

Reimagining an icon can be challenging, but the Arizona Biltmore emerged from her facelift by PHX Architecture and others this May with a look that is sexy, bold and modern, but still pays homage to its history.

Architecture, Business, Entertainment, Golf, Real Estate

Daniel Wolski and Frank Aazami Represent Seller and Buyer of $7.7M Scottsdale Estate

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty (Russ Lyon SIR) is proud to announce that Daniel Wolski and Frank Aazami have represented the seller and buyer of a Desert Mountain estate for $7,700,000 in Scottsdale.

The 8,258 contemporary home was built by Phil Smith and is positioned hillside with commanding views of the Geronimo golf course, valley vistas and evening lights. Finishes were styled by interior designer David Michael Miller and include Indian Rosewood Cabinetry, German-designed plumbing fixtures, Bees’ Wing Eucalyptus interior doors, Venetian plaster throughout and flooring of South American Mahogany, French limestone and Calcutta marble. The home is exceptionally engineered with subterranean water tanks, a natural gas generator, a steel frame wall system, 2nd level concrete sub-flooring and commercial-grade windows and doors. The home offers 3-bedrooms, 3.5-bathrooms and a 4 car garage.

Architecture, Art, Business, Entertainment, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Represents Seller and Buyer of Desert Prairie for $7,025,000

(Scottsdale, Arizona) – Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty (Russ Lyon SIR) is proud to announce that Debbie Negrin, Jay Pennypacker, Will Foote and Lesley Vann have represented the seller and buyer of the award-winning Estancia home, Desert Prairie for $7,025,000 in Scottsdale.

The Desert Prairie design team includes Drewett Works (architecture), Argue Custom Homes (builder), Lindsey Schultz Design (interior design), Ownby Design (interior furnishings), and Greey Pickett (landscape). Its timeless materials and a seamless indoor/outdoor floor plan and the architectural materials include undulating limestone, Madre Perla quartzite, hemlock inset ceiling details, a forged steel fireplace and copper roofing fascia. Featuring 4-bedrooms, 4.5-bathrooms, a walk-in wine room and a climate-controlled 3-car garage.

Architecture, Art, Business, Entertainment, Inspiration, Real Estate

Significant Sales | May 2021

Will Foote, Debbie Negrin, Jay Pennypacker | Dual Representation | $6,500,000 | Scottsdale
Anne Morrissey, Karen Baldwin, Bee Francis, Kathleen Benoit, Joanie Barreiro | Dual Representation | Scottsdale | $5,650,000
Anne Morrissey, Karen Baldwin, Bee Francis, Kathleen Benoit | Buyer Representation | $5,600,000 | Fountain Hills
Grant Almquist, Joe Bushong, Chad Christian | Buyer Representation | Phoenix | $5,250,000
Jennifer Wilson | Seller Representation | Paradise Valley | $5,195,000
Debbie Negrin, Jay Pennypacker, Will Foote | Seller Representation | Scottsdale | $5,000,000
Architecture, Business, Community, Entertainment, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Announces the Highest Residential Sale in the Santa Catalina Foothills Since 2007 at $3,723,000

The Estate was the Home of Donald Diamond, a Prominent Philanthropist and Land Developer Behind Projects Across Arizona including the Tucson Airport Commerce Center

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, is proud to announce the sale of Donald R. Diamond and Joan B. Diamond’s Spanish Colonial Tucson estate. The estate closed for $3,723,000 and is the highest residential sale in the Santa Catalina Foothills since 2007. 

Diamond, born in New York, moved to Arizona in 1965 and attended the University of Arizona and was one of Arizona’s most notable philanthropists and land developers. 

His notable projects include The Canyons, Tucson Airport Commerce Center, the Riverside Plaza, Paloma Village, and Scottsdale Crossing at Calendar Stick Office Park with many philanthropic donations including $15 million to build the Diamond Children’s Medical Center. 

Global Real Estate Advisor Bryan Durkin of The Durkin Group at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty represented the Diamond family in the sale. Durkin has been a real estate agent in Tucson for 21 years. 

It was a great honor being selected as the agent to list the Diamond Estate as this home had never been on the market before. We marketed this home around the globe and were so pleased to find the perfect buyer locally in Tucson who appreciated the value of such a unique property and understands the Foothills. This is a trophy property that proves the old saying, ‘location, location, location’ when talking about price.

Bryan Durkin

The sophisticated estate was completed in 1982 and was designed by highly renowned Southern Arizona Architect Lewis Hall, specifically for Diamond. The home was intelligently designed to unify comfort and luxury to create an unforgettable resort experience. 

The 10,618 square foot estate is located in Tucson’s most premier and coveted neighborhood, The Canyons, a community that Diamond himself developed. The sprawling 7.3-acre estate is perched above the city on the best ridgetop lot in the Foothills that borders the Coronado National Forest, offering forever views of city lights and the Santa Catalina Mountains.

The Diamond Estate features a 7,632 square foot main house that boasts 2 luxurious bedroom suites. The grand master bedroom is a personal oasis home to a fireplace and a reading nook that opens to a beautiful private patio with a spa with unobstructed views of Finger Rock. Imported hand-painted tiles, a jacuzzi tub, and a steam shower bring luxury and refinement to the master bathroom. 

The main house also features a private office and adjoining library that overlooks the grand living room with solid hardwood floors, a stunning fireplace, beamed ceilings, and soaring window walls that offer unmatched dramatic views. In addition, the estate boasts an astonishing chef’s kitchen with a hand-painted mural by Andrew Rush, a media room, 2 full-sized bars, and a walk-in temperature-controlled wine cellar. 

The 2,589 square foot guest house features 3 bedrooms, 3 fireplaces, Saltillo floors, a full kitchen, and private patios. 

A striking pool and grotto incorporate boulders and the surrounding desert environment to create an unrivaled ambiance while reflecting the Santa Catalina Mountains. The adjacent pool house features 2 changing rooms, a bathroom, a sauna, and a lower-level exercise room. 

My father’s legacy lives on through his developments, philanthropic endeavors, and this house. He put his heart and soul into creating it and succeeded in making this large estate our home. I am excited for the new owners to create memories in this amazing estate, it is truly the most remarkable house I have seen in Tucson.

Helaine Levy, Diamond’s daughter
Architecture, Art, Business, Entertainment, Golf, Land and Lots, Real Estate

Russ lyon SIR Presents Top Homes in Tubac, the Nation’s Best Small Arts Town

A Rich History and Exquisite Modern Touch, These Timeless Tubac Homes Exude Western Luxury

 Recently named the winner of the Best Small Art Town National Contest for its 100 eclectic shops and world-class galleries, Tubac, Arizona has a rich history dating back more than 350-years ago. Located just 45 minutes south of Tucson and with a population of just under 1,400 people, this western town is also home to some rather impressive residences.  Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to present its latest offering of timeless homes for sale in Tubac. 

Leading the charge is a 5th generation Arizonian, Gary Brasher, who is proud to represent all these listings while serving as the Managing Broker of the Tubac office for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. 

I love the history of Tubac and it is truly where Arizona began. It is so exciting to walk the streets of this great town knowing the Spanish Conquistadors walked the same streets over 350 years ago.  With the Santa Cruz River flowing through the community and being home to the largest Natural Cottonwood-Willow forest in the United States, Tubac is truly the place where art, history and natural beauty all come together.

Gary Brasher

Topping the list is a historical staple in Tubac, the Kenyan Ranch. Started in 1936 as a dude ranch, 80 Kenyon Ranch Rd is listed for sale for $2,600,000. The 75-acre retreat exudes lavish western comfort with a 4,399 square foot main house, 17 guest casitas, and 4 stand-alone homes. The Kenyan Ranch also boasts a 2,000 square foot lodge, commercial kitchen, 3 private wells, hot tub, horse facility, massage rooms, and a sweat lodge. Trees naturally frame the estate, creating picturesque aesthetics throughout. The 20 bed, 35 bath ranch is listed by Agent Catherine Marrero and Broker Gary Brasher of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Next on Tubac’s tour is a 5 bed, 5 bath home situated on 5 acres in the wild refinement of Tubac. 7 Camino Cocinero is listed for sale for $1,475,000.   The entire property is fully enclosed with western rusted steel fencing providing privacy, security, and a pristine desert property. The property also features a 2,000 square feet RV garage, a guest casita, and private walking paths perfect for early evening walks in Tubac. The resort-style backyard features an opulent cobblestone pool with chaise lounges covered in a cabana-like fashion. 

The next timeless Tubac home is a bright Spanish estate in the Tubac Country Club. 22 Avenida Villaescusa is listed at $1,450,000. The 4,389 square foot estate blends old-world charm with modern amenities creating an elegant harmony. Gracious spaces provide an indoor/outdoor living experience fit for Southern Arizona. The 4 bed, 5 bath estate also boasts soaring windows that invite natural light, a sophisticated courtyard, a grand wine closet, and beautiful desert views on just under an acre. 

20 Calle De Hoy is an enchanting 2 bed, 2 bath home in the Tubac Country Club Fairway Estates. Listed for sale at $685,000, the estate is situated between the second fairway and the third green on the renowned Tubac Golf Course. The 2,212 square foot home features towering Cottonwood trees and forever views of the Santa Rita Mountains. The beautiful home, masterfully constructed out of burnt adobe brick which provides character and quality construction, is Tubac living at its finest. 

Spanish-inspired architecture and meticulous craftsmanship meet desert beauty at 62 Madera Ct. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is representing Dorn Homes Development for its luxury developments at Tubac Golf Resort. The 3 bed, 3 bath home is under construction and will be situated on approximately 1/2 acre with breathtaking views of the Santa Rita Mountains. Listed for sale at $675,260, the master-planned community is surrounded by the true American Southwest.

Architecture, Art, Business, Entertainment, Inspiration, Real Estate

Iconic Estates | May 2021

Welcome to our first issue of ICONIC Estates presented by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, featuring stunning estates represented by the firm’s dynamic force of lifestyle advisors. 

This month, we’re celebrating the resurgence of gardens. Over the last year, our outdoor spaces have provided peace, calm and tranquility during challenging times. More than ever, landscape architects report their clients are creating and enhancing private outdoor spaces designed for entertaining, recreation and outdoor living. 

Trends include neutral colors, wildflowers, plants that sustain bird and bee populations, traditional hardscaping patterns and curvilinear design. The view of water, if even from a pool, rounds out the highly desirable natural environment. 

What are some of the top properties across Arizona showcasing in their gardens?

Enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine of the sun by acclaimed restaurateur Laurent Halasz of the highly successful FIG & OLIVE at FRANCINE, one of our fave new restaurants inspired by the South of France located in Scottsdale Fashion Square.

When you think about your home in the future, you think about smart home technology and innovation to do things in new and better ways, making things easier or more efficient. 

From teleconferencing to shading to cooling to pouring…a perfectly chilled glass of wine at the end of the day…here are some must haves for your home you can have now.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate, is proud to announce its top two sales in April.

If you’re familiar with luxury brands like Baccarat and Lalique or simply love crystal, dive into the future of designing with luxury fine crystal. Fine crystal may date to the 1500s, but its quality, craftsmanship and evolution have kept it relevant in 21st Century design. Find out how designers are bringing this luxe classic home.