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Sotheby’s International Realty’s Weekly Win – September 26th 2022

Weekly Win:  Sotheby’s International Realty Brokerages Awarded for Service Excellence

Seven Sotheby’s International Realty brokerages were awarded for their service excellence based on customer satisfaction at the ninth annual Aires Broker Network Summit in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The annual summit recognizes real estate brokerages throughout the United States who provide the highest level of relocation customer service.

Art, Business, Community, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Multi Purpose, Real Estate, Russ Lyon

Iconic Estates: Pristine Pools

Summer is in full swing, and there’s nothing better than diving into a refreshing, cool pool! In fact, in Arizona, a pool is not just a beautiful luxury, but a necessity. Not surprisingly, 6 of the Top 10 Cities in the US for Swimming Pools are in Arizona. In the desert, nothing is more beautiful than a sparkling swimming pool in the backyard.

Arizona’s top estates feature resort-style swimming pools with all the best amenities. From lazy rivers to infinity edges, luxury spas, and water-park-style slides, you can find beautiful piscines throughout Arizona.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has a talented team of luxury lifestyle professionals across the state who can help track down the perfect home with a Pristine Pool, perfect for entertaining, hosting parties, and relaxing with family! Plus, pools complement the architectural features of the home and provide a focal point for the landscape.

Dive into these Pristine Pools featured in this month’s ICONIC Estates!


Stay and play in local luxury this summer with a staycation. When the temperatures go up, the rates go down, and that’s one great reason to live in The Valley of the Sun. We are fortunate to live in a place that so many travelers seek out for vacations. We have an exceptional array of high-end, luxury resorts with world-class dining, sophisticated spas and extensive amenities to enjoy—just minutes from home.

So, if you’re short on time, appreciate a good value or a vacation that takes all the work out of it, look no further than the end of your nose for the next city you’ll visit. And let them know the folks at ICONIC LIFE sent you.


“Can fashion even be sustainable? I’ve been covering sustainable fashion for seven years now, and still, I am asked this question. I know most people would assume no, fashion can not be sustainable since the very act of producing clothing requires resources—lots of them.

Fortunately, we have a growing number of passionate fashionistas who actually do care about the environment, including myself, and we’ve learned a thing or two about how you can make fashion more sustainable without abstaining from buying (or wearing) clothes. And don’t worry, we do not believe in sacrificing your personal style to any extent to participate in sustainable fashion either.”


Without a doubt, the King of Jazz would consider Ellington Heights—a sleek and stylish gem—a superb work of art. Nestled in the sun-kissed upper canyon of Silverleaf, the design for this magnificent estate collected inspiration from the social, artistic, and cultural dynamism of the Roaring Twenties era.

An absolute dream team has come together like an orchestra, including award-winning architect CP Drewett, master builder Gary Fries and interior design firm leader Claire Ownby, each playing their individual parts to create beautiful music together in construction and home design. This one-of-a-kind property is listed by Allan MacDonald. ⁠


Architecture, Art, Business, Community, Entertainment, Inspiration, Life, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

Iconic Estates – Crave Worthy Culinary Kitchens

Any food aficionado dreams of a chef’s kitchen to prepare exquisite dishes and entertain friends and family. Plenty of preparation space, top-notch appliances and even butler’s kitchens show up in the top residential kitchens in luxury homes. Create restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home in a gorgeous culinary kitchen.

Whether cooking for one, two or thirty, Arizona’s top estates, listed by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s team of expert agents, will have just what you need. Thoughtful design creates spaces that allow for expert navigation throughout the cooking process, and some feature outdoor kitchens that complement the interior spaces for cooking year-round.   

Whether you’re searching for a modern, open kitchen, a grandiose traditional kitchen or a cozy Southwestern style, these ICONIC Estates will impress any chef de cuisine.   

Experience the many flavors of culinary kitchens in this month’s ICONIC Estates!

Prominent racecar driver Kevin Buckler crosses the finish line to victory creating award-winning wines at his Adobe Road Winery. Buckler and his wife, Debra, launched Adobe Road in 2002, and today the winery produces a large variety of wines, many awarded 90 points or more. The winery purchases grapes from several vineyards throughout Sonoma County and was named Adobe Road in honor of the road in. Petaluma on which he first purchased fruit. Whether behind the wheel of a car or behind the scenes creating a Cabernet blend, Buckler continues to push boundaries and win with Adobe Road Winery.

As part of our exclusive relationship with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, ICONIC LIFE takes you along on a tour of an incredible Italian villa inspired by the ICONIC Getty Villa outside of Rome. This beautiful home, designed by Juan Sandoval,is nearly 52,000 square feet under roof. The designer had every element custom-made and carved on site. See incredible marble floors, a 2,000-bottle wine cellar, a secret passageway, grand ballroom and more! This home is represented by Cheryl Anderson.

In recent years the dining scene in the Valley of the Sun has elevated to the point that the culinary delights in the desert regularly draw the epicurious traveler. But many are surprised that the top table in town is the hotel restaurant at the Sheraton Grand Resort at Wild Horse Pass.

Not only is Kai Restaurant one of the city’s best fine dining establishments, but it’s also the only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond restaurant in the state. Even more interesting, it’s the only fine dining Native American restaurant in the world. We so encourage you to check it out.

Architecture, Business, Entertainment, Golf, Inspiration, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

ASCENT AT THE PHOENICIAN® UNVEILS DESIGN FOR THE SUMMIT ROOFTOP TERRACE AT MOUNTAINSIDE CONDOMINIUM BUILDING

 Ascent at The Phoenician® is unveiling the design for The Summit Rooftop Terrace at its new luxury condominium building, which will offer 360-degree views of the Valley and Camelback Mountain.

Designed uniquely for the Ascent mountainside condominium owners, residents will enjoy their own private rooftop community terrace featuring soft seating, fire tables, multiple gathering spaces, and an activity lawn in addition to the dramatic views.

Ascent at The Phoenician® is situated at the base of Camelback Mountain, overlooking The Phoenician® Golf Course and located adjacent to The Phoenician®, a Luxury Collection Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Ascent at The Phoenician® recently released an intimate residential building of 40 luxury condominiums on Camelback Mountain consisting of one-bedroom plus den, two-bedroom, two-bedroom plus den, and three-bedroom plus den plans. Prices are estimated to range from $1.5 million up to $5 million. 

With the dramatic views of the Valley during the day and city lights at night all set right on Camelback Mountain, the mountainside residences are generating strong interest for their spectacular panorama. Ascent at The Phoenician offers an extraordinary way of life at Scottsdale’s most coveted location on Camelback Mountain.

Todd Patrick, Vice President of Sales and marketing

The mountainside condominium residences follow the early sales success of the Ascent Golf Villas, which Ascent began selling in mid-February. The Golf Villas include homes ranging from two-bedroom to three-bedroom plus den/office plans, extensive indoor-outdoor living, private two-car garages, and views of both the golf course and Camelback Mountain. Current prices range from $2.16 million up to $3.195 million. Construction of the Golf Villas is now underway.

The mountainside condominium residences will enjoy a prime location adjacent to the Mountain Club, a private club for owners at Ascent. Programs, amenities and private events at the Club will celebrate the iconic Camelback Mountain and will include a private pool, fitness and movement rooms, social spaces and demonstration kitchen for cooking classes and private chef experiences. Architecturally designed as a modern interpretation of the historic Jokake Inn on The Phoenician® grounds, the Mountain Club will be an intimate gathering place for connection, wellness, celebration and relaxation.  

Ascent at The Phoenician® residents will have a connection through the cactus garden to all of The Phoenician® hotel’s restaurants. Also, residents will have the opportunity to join the Phoenician® Amenity Access Program that provides Ascent real estate owners with access to resort amenities, including the pools and fitness facility and preferred pricing for golf, spa, food and beverage, and other services.

With more than $2 billion of real estate projects in planning and development, Replay has properties in some of the world’s most sought-after settings. The team for Replay’s condominium residences and Golf Villas includes design partners from the Valley’s best internationally recognized talent: Nelsen Partners, an architecture and planning firm founded in 1990; Vallone Design, a leading, full-service interior design firm specializing in exquisite residential and commercial interior design; Floor Associates, a landscape architecture and planning firm; and bulthaup Scottsdale, a globally recognized company producing premium kitchens custom-made in Germany.

Joe Bushong and Leslie Jenkins of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty are the listing agents for Ascent at The Phoenician®. For more information on the remaining Golf Villa homes or to register for updates including Priority Registration for the first release of mountainside condominium residences visit ascentatthephoenician.com or call 480-534-4086.

Art, Business, Community, COVID-19, Entertainment, Inspiration, Life, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

Russ Lyon Foundation Brings Back ‘Love Your Neighbors’ campaign to Raise Funds to Benefit Arizona Housing Fund

The Russ Lyon Foundation is bringing back their Love Your Neighbors campaign to raise money for the Arizona Housing Fund. In 2020 $5,290 was raised. The sale is happening now and only runs through Sunday, August 22, 2021.

The Love Your Neighbors apparel is being produced by local company SideBar and just $20. New to the 2021 lineup is the apparel coming in a stonewashed blue-gray color option, women’s v-neck, unisex tank and bandana. They are available online, click here.

Every item ordered benefits the Arizona Housing Fund (AZHF). AZHF is a dedicated and sustainable revenue source that grants funding to the nonprofit agencies that build and operate Permanent Supportive, Low-Income and Working Poor Housing. Its equity grants will enable more housing units to be constructed, meeting the growing needs of our communities in Arizona with the goal of reducing homelessness.

There has never been a more important time for everyone to come together and support the Arizona Housing Fund. This foundation gives families a fighting chance to stay in their homes and helps others find housing.

Betsy Dickinson, President of Russ Lyon FOundation

The Russ Lyon Foundation seeks to provide valuable and meaningful service work within communities as well as charitable investments. Since the foundation began in 2014, more than $500,000 has been contributed towards various 501c3 Arizona-based organizations through direct donations, matching funds, sponsorships, and fundraisers.

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

Iconic Estates | Pristine Pools

Summer is in full swing, and there’s nothing better than diving into a refreshing, cool pool! In fact, in Arizona, a pool is not just a beautiful luxury, but a necessity. Not surprisingly, 6 of the Top 10 Cities in the US for Swimming Pools are in Arizona. In the desert, nothing is more beautiful than a sparkling swimming pool in the backyard.

Arizona’s top estates feature resort-style swimming pools with all the best amenities. From lazy rivers to infinity edges, luxury spas and water-park-style slides, you can find beautiful Pristine Pools throughout the Valley, Northern Arizona and in the Tucson region.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has a talented team of luxury lifestyle professionals across the state who can help track down the perfect home with a Pristine Pool, perfect for entertaining, hosting parties and relaxing with family! Plus, pools complement the architectural features of the home and provide a focal point for the landscape.

Dive into these Pristine Pools featured in this month’s ICONIC Estates!

James Beard award-winning Chef Christopher Gross is leading a new chapter at the Wrigley Mansion in Phoenix. He’s reimagined this classic venue as the new home for fine French dining in the Valley with his newest version of Christopher’s restaurant—an ICONIC culinary experience in the making. Christopher’s is the restaurant Chef Gross has dreamed about opening for years. Check out his stunning venue and menu.

Ascent at The Phoenician, developed by Replay Destinations, is introducing 40 luxury living condominium residences—set to break ground in fall 2021—following the early sales success of its golf villas, introduced earlier this year.

Ascent came to be when The Phoenician recently deaccessioned a nine-hole golf course. “We are the master developers of this gated, 25-acre community,” explains Todd Patrick, Replay Destinations’ vice president of sales and marketing. “Part of it will include single-family homes built by Cullum Homes and the rest will be the luxury living golf villas and condominiums.”

The condominium residences will range from one-bedroom-plus-den to three-bedroom-plus-den floor plans, with current prices set from $1.5 million to $5 million. Joe Bushong and Leslie Jenkins of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty are the listing agents.

Summer is the best time of year for grilling, and with all of the delicious marinade recipes and grilling tips out there, it is the perfect time to show off your proverbial chops using some incredible grilling accessories.

Grilling can seem like equal parts art and science, and grill masters know to trust their intuition when it comes to making delicious meals on the barbecue. However, technology has enabled us to take some of the guesswork out of grilling—making our fave dishes come out great every time.

Whether you are new to grilling or are a seasoned pro, some tips, tricks and gadgets can help you get the best results.

Architecture, Art, Augmented Reality, Business, Community, COVID-19, Education, Entertainment, Life, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

February Newsletter

The Sotheby’s International Realty® 2021 Luxury Outlook is a deep-dive into high-end residential markets across the globe, reflecting on an unprecedented year for real estate and global wealth. The report looks at what’s in store for some of the world’s primary and secondary markets as well as the wealth trends that will drive discretionary investment in the coming months. Read more
Sotheby’s Masters Week Auctions in New York achieved $95.4 million across an exciting week of four live auctions and a successful online auction. Nearly half of all sold lots exceeded their high estimates and 15 lots exceeded $1 million. The Master Paintings Evening Sale realized $61.1 million making it the highest total for a Master Paintings Sale at Sotheby’s New York since 2012 and setting 7 new auction records.  Read more
It’s been a long year, so we have good reason to rejoice when thinking of the interior design trends coming up in 2021. From the growing importance of sustainable materials to elegant elements and a celebration of individuality and uniqueness, our 2021 trend edit will provide you with a curated look that will bring your home into the New Year with sensational style. Read more
Amazon dropped big announcements this week. In the span of 24 hours, its CEO, Jeff Bezos, revealed he’ll be stepping down from his role later this year. Then the corporate giant unveiled its plan for its second headquarters to be built in Arlington, Virginia, just outside Washington, DC. The 2.8 million-square-foot HQ2, PenPlace, will transform Arlington’s skyline. Designed by global architecture firm NBBJ, who led the design of Amazon’s Seattle headquarters, PenPlace is the next step of Amazon’s expansion. Read more
Although some countries have reopened their borders, many travellers are still unable to venture out during the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. This has forced tourism industries to rethink how they can promote tourist attractions online. One way of getting tourists to travel abroad from the comfort of their own homes is through virtual reality (VR) technology and 360-degree videography. We round up the best virtual travel tours and online travel experiences that can be enjoyed online right now. Read more
It’s been a long time since most of us have used our dining rooms for one of their intended purposes—hosting a good old-fashioned dinner party. At some point later this year, we hope, gatherings like this will be possible, but until they are, we know that you could use a little inspiration in the meantime. (And you can always “host” your own intimate gathering without inviting guests, right?) Here, we’ve gathered 15 of our absolute favorite dining rooms from the pages of ELLE Decor over the past year—each and every one is memorable in its own way and will leave you wanting more. So grab your best china and silver and get ready to set the table—we hope these 15 stunning displays of style and flair will help bring you some cheer until we’re all back together in the dining room. Read more
We often create these “grazing boards” for family dinners, but of course, they’re absolutely perfect for parties and occasions. Even my daughter helps add her favorite foods to the boards for snacks. 
Speaking of occasions, Courtney Whitmore of PIZZAZZERIE created a Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Board to share! I’m absolutely tickled pink with how it turned out, and I’ve decided it will be a Valentine’s Day tradition. Read more
Architecture, Business, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

Bret Lamberson Lists Historic Federal Building for Sale in Downtown Flagstaff for $4.3 Million

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, is proud to announce the listing for sale of the historic Federal Building in Downtown Flagstaff.  Originally built in 1937 as a post office, the Flagstaff Federal Building is currently being used as an office building. 

Located at 114 N. San Francisco St. in Flagstaff, the historic brick building is masterfully crafted and in the heart of Downtown Flagstaff, adjacent to the world-famous Monte Vista Hotel. It is listed for sale at $4.3 million by Flagstaff Branch Office Manager and Real Estate Advisor Bret Lamberson of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. 

The Federal Building is on the National Historic Registry and features 17,780-square-feet, 14,335 of which is office space. The inside is lined with beautiful, historic tile and character.  Sunshine can be seen peering through the building’s windows and skylights creating an opulent glow that radiates throughout the space. 

I am excited to bring this classic building to market. Our entire community has loved it for decades, and we look forward to passing the legacy on to a new owner.

Bret Lamberson

The building has 3 floors. One level is a basement, and the other two levels are above ground and also include 12 private parking spaces. 

Architecture, Business, COVID-19, Entertainment, Fitness, Life, Multi Purpose, Real Estate

Homegating 2020

With attendance at sports events on hold, “home-gating” is the new tailgating and no one effortlessly combines outdoor entertaining with luxury-living like Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Arizona’s leader in luxury real estate presents its most lavish top “home-gating” properties.   Six reasons that make “home-gating” the new alternative to traditional tailgating in 2020.   

The first stop on the exclusive “home-gating” tour is a 5 bed 7.5 bath one-level home in Desert Mountain. Located at 42725 N 102nd St, this property is listed at $10,999,999 by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Agent Tami Henderson. Dissappearing Glass Walls between the backyard and the kitchen, dining, and living rooms along with a 25-meter infinity pool, rainfall water feature and linear fire pit will keep guests entertained for hours at this exquiste estate that spares no expense on its grandeur and awe-factor. 

Next on the tour head north to Flagstaff, Arizona for a rare and beautifully built Dennis Dixon home that sits on 2.23 tree covered acres.  Offering the ideal outdoor space for entertaining, the home is located at 1485 Tolchaco Rd.  The 5 bed 4.5 bath home is listed at $1,600,00 by Agent’s Valerie Core, and Freddi Paulsrud of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and boasts a full bar with an abundance of outdoor entertainment space for guests. From the moment guests walk through the grand archway, they will be greeted with soaring 19-foot ceilings on their way to one of many entertainment spaces, including a private guest retreat. 

The third stop on the “home-gating” tour takes us to Tucson for a Santa Barabara style home. The 3 bed 3 bath home, listed at $1,595,000 by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Agent Susanne Grogan, boasts an a generous Chef’s kitchen that includes Quartz counters and a full butler’s pantry for the ultimate“home-gate.” Located at 2255 E Ambassador Ct., the home also includes sprawling entertaining spaces outside  with a covered outdoor seating and built-in BBQ that opens to the dining area and kitchen, allowing for inside-outside entertainment space. 

Back in the Valley, the fourth stop on the tour on showcases at an exquisite Spanish Colonia Candelaria designed estate in Paradise Valley. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Agent Michel Edery is offering this grand estate at 5239 E Roadrunner Rd for $3,000,000. Among the other jaw dropping amenities, the 7 bed 6.5 bath estate offers the ultimate rooftop “home-gating” experience. Sports fans can enjoy the breathtaking nearby mountain views by while enjoying a full kitchen and bar setting under the stars.  There’s also an adjacent home theatre when ready to head indoors.

Host the “home-gate” of your dreams at 23035 N Church Rd in Scottsdale. The 7 bed 10 bath estate sits on over 8 acres with an array of outdoor entertainment. Listed at $7,299,000 by agents, Frank Aazami and David Mayo of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, the secluded estate is home to fire pits, an outdoor tennis court, pools, and a full outdoor kitchen and BBQ. Be the envy of all “home-gaters” at this exquisite property.  After watching the big game, guests can also head to the wine room for a 2006 Bordeaux or take a break at the putting green, and relax in the steam shower. 

The final stop on the tour brings us to 19042 N 102nd St, a 4 bed 7.5 bath Bing Hu designed Custom Home in Scottsdale. Listed at $5,900,000 by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Agent Chey Castro this high-end estate can host a variety of “home-gates”. Whether in the movie theater, or in the luxurious outside seating area, enjoy a breath-taking upstairs bar that opens to a 1,000-square-feet of covered patio space with a fireplace and incredible views of the city lights. 

View more homes to homegate at here

Entertainment, Fitness, Multi Purpose

Arizona’s Secret Beaches

Arizona is typically known for its hot summers and desert landscape, but did you know it also offers a piece of paradise to cool down and relax? Visit these secret beaches to cool down from the Valley of the Sun!

Willow Beach
Located on the Black Canyon Region of the Colorado River, Willow beach has 235 miles of shoreline to explore with some of the most unique scenery and wildlife to see.

Roper Lake State Park
After a long day of driving or hiking, the natural hot springs at Roper Lake State Park are inviting and invigorating. Enjoy desert vegetation, an accessible fishing dock, and stunning views of Mount Graham.

Cattail Cove State Park
The beach, boat ramp, and 61 campsites at Cattail Cove State Park offer a broad spectrum of activities for all to enjoy. There are also boat-in campsites along the lake shoreline within the park. The 2,000 acre park has been operated by the Arizona State Parks Board since 1970

River Island State Park
River Island State Park is ideal for campers and can provide a scenic respite, a desert escape, or a fun filled water adventure. it offers 37 campsites, sandy beach, cove and boat launch area. RISP is a year-round destination for those looking to discover the great outdoors.

Havasupai Falls
Havasupai Falls Arizona is a major destination for hikers who want to visit the blue-green waterfalls. Hidden in the Grand Canyon, and difficult to get reservations for, this paradise is for those who can plan ahead and enjoy hikes of eight miles or more.

London Bridge Beach
London Bridge Beach is located just over the London Bridge. This park runs along the Bridgewater Channel, with twelve ramadas equipped with BBQ, two covered playgrounds, buoyed swim area, walking paths, grass areas, restrooms, dog park and much more.

Redwall Cavern
Redwall Cavern is an awe inspiring natural amphitheater carved by water flowing into the limestone Grand Canyon walls. Near the cave entrance, you’ll see incredibly well-preserved fossils of ancient marine creatures.

Butcher Jones Beach
Nestled along Saguaro Lake and the Salt River, Butcher Jones Recreation site is an unforgettable waterfront destination. A sandy beach and eye-popping blue water offer endless fun for the whole family.