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(PHOENIX) — Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is honored to present Skyfire, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece designed by architect Vernon D. Swaback, a distinguished former apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright, founder of Swaback Architects, and recently named an Arizona HistoryMaker™ by the Arizona Historical League, in good company with famous Arizonians Barry M. Goldwater and Sandra Day O’Connor. Skyfire seamlessly unites home and nature, reflecting Swaback’s internationally acclaimed expertise in organic architecture.

Perched atop an exclusive 2.7-acre hilltop, Skyfire commands sweeping 360-degree views of the Sonoran Highlands, Pinnacle Peak, and Scottsdale’s vibrant city lights. This elevated, private setting offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility, all while being conveniently close to world-class golf, shopping, and dining. Enter through a private gate and under a custom Skyfire arch as you traverse Desert Botanical Garden-inspired grounds to this serene retreat. Upon arrival, a custom stained-glass sculpture catches the light as you walk through solid mesquite front doors. Uninterrupted sight lines carry through the frameless ribbon glass windows, capturing the stunning sunset reflected in the negative-edge pool—a living testament to the residence’s name and its architectural inspiration. The living room’s custom-designed geometric fireplace, created by Swaback, elevates the grandeur of the space.

Showcasing modern design elements, Skyfire integrates exposed steel, copper, cantilevered rooflines, canvas-covered terraces, tinted concrete, built-in millwork, tongue-and-groove hardwood plank vaulted ceilings, and clerestory and frameless windows that bathe the interiors in soft natural light—bringing the beauty of the natural surroundings inside. The architectural design elements are extensive.

“Representing a home of such architectural integrity is an honor,” says listing agent Theresa Krakauer. “Skyfire is a harmonious blend of serenity, modern luxury, and timeless design—a truly one-of-a-kind property.”

Beyond its architectural brilliance, Skyfire features extensive modern amenities, including fully paid solar power, EV chargers, commercial-grade Wi-Fi, whole-house water filtration, and home automation for security, audio, and comfort. The primary suite, a private sanctuary, boasts dual closets and vanities, a fireplace, and access to outdoor spaces. The home is complemented by two additional en-suite bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, an upstairs entertainment space with a viewing terrace, and an additional large media room. A noteworthy bonus is an expansive office with panoramic views and a custom-designed sweeping desk, intended to accommodate full-scale architectural plans—perfect for today’s busy executive seeking an exceptional workspace.

The property also includes a four-car garage with extensive storage plus a detached guest house with its own kitchen, fireplace, and private viewing terrace, offering a versatile space for guests or multigenerational living.

Skyfire is anticipated to list at $4M in early October. More than a home, it is an investment in art, architecture, and historic provenance.

For media inquiries, please contact Jennifer Parks-Sturgeon at [email protected] or call (480) 495-3806.

About Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
Since 1947, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has gathered realty craftsmen dedicated to the ideals of integrity and professionalism. From the ownership, management, agents, and affiliate services, every person involved in the company utilizes innovative skills, programs, and technologies to create the finest real estate services company to be found.
The mission of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is to provide its clients with the most responsive personalized service attainable – nothing less will do. The environment within Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is unique in the industry. Seasoned management innovatively supports the efforts of the company’s members to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that invigorates and hones the skills of everyone involved.
Collaboration and networking are fostered to create a synergy that puts the whole company to work for every client. The artistic blending of proven traditions and state-of-the-art innovation is unsurpassed. These assets are positioned on a base of financial stability and corporate staying power.

As the heat finally gives way to cooler, crisp days, fall in Scottsdale becomes a magical time filled with exciting activities, events, and seasonal charm. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Halloween with family, enjoy local festivals, or simply savor the outdoors, Scottsdale has something for everyone this season. Here’s a guide to some of the top fall activities and events to enjoy.

1. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park’s Pumpkin Patch & Halloween Spook-Track-Ula

• Dates: October 11-31
• Location: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

There’s nothing quite like celebrating fall with a classic pumpkin patch and a spooky-themed train ride. At McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, families can enjoy the festive atmosphere with the park’s iconic train, transformed into a Halloween adventure. Kids will love the pumpkin patch, haunted rides, and carnival games, while parents can relax and enjoy live entertainment under the cool autumn sky. For more information, click here.

2. Arizona Fall Fest

• Date: Returns November 9
• Location: Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix (near Scottsdale)

For those who appreciate local culture and craftsmanship, the Arizona Fall Fest is a must-attend event. Though just a short drive from Scottsdale, this festival in nearby Phoenix showcases everything Arizona has to offer—local food and drink, art, music, and unique products from small businesses around the state. Spend the day sampling Arizona-made treats, attending workshops, and supporting local artisans. It’s a great way to celebrate the fall season while supporting the local economy. For more information, click here.

3. Scottsdale ArtWalk

• Date: Every Thursday Evening
• Location: Downtown Scottsdale

If you’re more interested in Scottsdale’s arts and culture scene, be sure to check out the Scottsdale ArtWalk, a long-standing tradition in Old Town. While this weekly event happens year-round, the cooler fall weather makes October and November the perfect time to explore the galleries and streets of Old Town Scottsdale. Enjoy free access to art galleries, meet local artists, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of downtown’s art district. For more information, click here.

4. Hot Air Balloon Rides

• Dates: October through early winter
• Location: Scottsdale and surrounding desert areas

Fall is one of the best times to take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert, with cool mornings and stunning vistas of the desert landscape. Companies like Rainbow Ryders offer sunrise balloon rides where you can experience breathtaking views as the desert awakens. It’s an unforgettable way to embrace the beauty of fall in the Southwest. For more information, click here.

5. Merchantile Market Fall Fest

• Date: November 18, 2023
• Location: Scottsdale Stadium

Celebrate the season at the Merchantile Market Fall Fest, a free outdoor market at Scottsdale Stadium. This festive event will feature a curated selection of over 100 local vendors offering handmade crafts, art, and home décor, perfect for holiday shopping. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food from local food trucks, and interactive workshops. It’s a fun and lively way to support local businesses while getting into the fall spirit.

This free event is family-friendly and offers something for everyone, whether you’re browsing for unique gifts or enjoying the festive ambiance. Make sure to mark your calendars for this one-of-a-kind Scottsdale experience! For tickets, click here.

Embrace Fall in Scottsdale

Fall in Scottsdale is more than just a season—it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween with family, tasting local treats at a festival, or simply enjoying the cooler weather, Scottsdale has something for everyone. So, grab a pumpkin spice latte, put on your coziest sweater, and dive into all the fun fall activities Scottsdale has to offer this year!

Flagstaff, AZ—Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty proudly announces the grand opening of its newly remodeled office in downtown Flagstaff. This marks a significant milestone as the first location to break from the traditional personalized desk model. This modern office space embraces flexibility, innovation, and cutting-edge technology while maintaining the heritage and luxury associated with the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty name.

Located in the heart of Flagstaff, the office occupies a historic property that has seen multiple transformations—from its origins as a private residence to a hair salon—and now to a dynamic space that includes a state-of-the-art real estate office and three stylish vacation rentals.

The remodel was a comprehensive project, gutting the property’s interior and reimagining its layout to meet the evolving needs of the real estate industry. The redesign includes custom furniture, unique design elements, and modern features such as collaborative work environments, sound-proofed phone room, reservable private offices, and high-tech conference room. This innovative setup enhances collaboration and convenience for both agents and clients.

The office’s prime downtown location positions it at the crossroads of Flagstaff’s vibrant culture and business community, with the added benefit of offering luxury, stylish vacation rental accommodations for out-of-town clients and visitors.

“We are extremely proud and excited to open our new office in historic downtown Flagstaff,” Bret Lamberson, Designated Broker/Managing Broker-Flagstaff at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, said. “The extensive work on the building has reinvigorated this property, and it provides an amazing space for our advisors and clients. It also serves as a perfect event space to host our local artists, academics, and business colleagues.”

This space represents the future of real estate work environments—offering flexibility, technology integration, and an inspiring place to connect with clients.

“This is the culmination of research all around the Sotheby’s International Realty network, from Carlsbad to Chicago to Miami, and a laser-focused design team. To see it so well-executed is really a dream come true,” Todd Gillenwater at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty said.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty continues to lead the real estate market with this Flagstaff office’s progressive design and commitment to exceptional service. The company remains dedicated to pushing boundaries while honoring the local community’s rich history.

About Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is a luxury real estate company specializing in extraordinary properties and delivering exceptional service. With offices across Arizona, it continues to lead the market with its commitment to innovation, quality, and client satisfaction.

For more information, contact:
PR
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
[email protected]
russlyon.com

Natural stone adds a rugged yet refined elegance that never goes out of style. Whether it’s used as an accent wall behind a bar, framing a custom entertainment center, or lining walls for a rustic, masculine look, natural stone transforms any space into a functional yet stylish haven. Its versatility shines especially in backsplashes, kitchen islands, and accent walls, where the durability and beauty of sawn thin stone truly come to life.

In this feature, we’ll showcase stunning countertops from five exquisite homes in Scottsdale, each demonstrating how natural stone elevates design while providing luxury and functionality. Get ready to be inspired!

9985 E Palo Brea Drive | Scottsdale

The countertops are a striking blend of natural beauty and luxury. The kitchen’s expansive stone countertop adds warmth and depth to the space, perfectly complementing the rich wood cabinetry. The granite’s intricate veining patterns not only draw attention but create a sophisticated aesthetic.

In the living area, a backlit onyx counter creates an unforgettable statement piece. The stone’s natural pattern, glowing softly with a golden hue, becomes the focal point of the room, adding a touch of art to its functionality. This fusion of light and stone transforms a simple counter into an illuminated masterpiece, enhancing the home’s atmosphere during both day and night.

9889 E Happy Valley Road #2 | Scottsdale

This stunning property highlights the versatility of stone countertops. With sleek designs that complement the expansive layout, the kitchen becomes more than just a place to cook; it’s a statement of style. The counters here exude modern luxury while being immensely practical for everyday living.

10184 E Peak Circle | Scottsdale

In this beautiful home, countertops take center stage. The kitchen features a striking black stone waterfall countertop that creates a bold, modern statement. The countertop seamlessly flows over the sides of the island, showcasing the dramatic effect of the waterfall design. Paired with sleek black cabinetry, this combination delivers a sleek, monochromatic look that exudes sophistication and luxury. The black-on-black palette highlights the natural beauty and texture of the stone, while maintaining an ultra-modern and minimalist aesthetic, making the kitchen not only functional but visually stunning.

42515 N 102nd Street | Scottsdale

This property masterfully incorporates natural stone to create a timeless and elegant atmosphere. In the kitchen, large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the rugged stone landscape, seamlessly blending the indoors with the natural surroundings. Stone accents are a focal point throughout, from the sleek countertops to the textured stone backdrop in the living room, where the fireplace adds both warmth and sophistication.

The open layout allows stone elements to flow from the interior to the outdoor spaces, enhancing the home’s connection to nature. These stone touches offer both durability and beauty, grounding the modern design in a sense of permanence and natural luxury.

41851 N 112th Place | Scottsdale

In another stunning example of thoughtful design, this kitchen features light-toned stone countertops that continue seamlessly up the wall as a matching backsplash. The result is a cohesive and elegant look, where the natural veining of the stone draws the eye and adds texture to the space. The light color of the stone creates a striking contrast against the darker cabinetry, highlighting the cabinetry’s rich tones while maintaining a bright and open feel. This combination of light and dark elements creates a balanced, modern aesthetic that feels both warm and inviting.

Incorporating natural stone into a home not only adds timeless elegance but also elevates the overall design with a touch of luxury. Whether it’s a striking black waterfall island or a light-toned countertop with a matching backsplash, the versatility and beauty of stone make it a standout feature in any kitchen. These materials blend form and function, offering durability while creating visually stunning focal points. As we continue to explore more homes with extraordinary countertops, we look forward to showcasing even more design inspirations that embody both style and sophistication. Stay tuned for future highlights!

Across the state of Arizona, real estate agents achieve significant milestones in their careers every month. This August, we are proud to have been part of these REALTORS’ first sales as Global Real Estate Advisors with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

Enjoy!

Across the state of Arizona, real estate agents achieve significant milestones in their careers every month. This July, we are proud to have been part of these REALTORS’ first sales as Global Real Estate Advisors with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

Enjoy!

Throughout the state of Arizona, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has been proud to represent and participate in the following sales for June.

We refer to these as ‘Significant Sales.’ While all of our transactions are genuinely significant, we hope you enjoy discovering these unique homes based not only on price but also on their architectural, cultural, and geographical significance, as well as those involved in the journey.

Enjoy!

Seller Representation

Dual Representation

Buyer Representation

• 10216 E Venado Trail | Scottsdale
  • Offered at $4,400,000
  • Buyer Representation: James & Cynthia Kolander
• 34729 N Indian Camp Trail | Scottsdale
  • Offered at $2,502,500
  • Buyer Representation: Courtney Woods Olson, Stacy Paluscio, & Darcy Whalen
• 78 Palmas Ct | Tubac
  • Offered at $764,000
  • Buyer Representation: Gary Brasher
• 15884 N Silent Moon Lane | Prescott
  • Offered at $2,900,000
  • Buyer Representation: Linda and Chris Wood
• 18057 W Ivy Lane | Surprise
  • Sold for $609,000
  • Buyer Representation: Lisa Baker
• 11924 E Yearling Drive | Scottsdale
  • Sold for $2,989,916
  • Buyer Representation: Susan Pellegrini and Antonio Pellegrini
• 2935 S Pepita Drive | Flagstaff
  • Sold for $748,000
  • Buyer Representation: Angela Davis
• 27049 N 98th Way | Scottsdale
  • Sold for $6,100,000
  • Buyer Representation: Debbie Negrin, Will Foote, & Jay Pennypacker

With over 140 different organizations helped over the last decade, the Russ Lyon Foundation has turned into one of the more prominent philanthropy organizations in Arizona.

For more than 77 years, the agents, owners and employees of Arizona’s leading luxury real estate brokerage Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty have been involved in community service work and with charitable organizations throughout Arizona, either through individual efforts or through an office within the company.

 The Scottsdale-based luxury brokerage later saw an opportunity to make those efforts even more impactful and formed the Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation in 2014, or as its now called, The Russ Lyon Foundation. The Russ Lyon Foundation is now proud to announce its 10^th anniversary; a full decade of giving back to the communities it operates in. 

 Since 2014, the Russ Lyon Foundation has helped over 140 different organizations and an incalculable number of individuals across the state. Organizations that the Russ Lyon Foundation has assisted have ranged in scope from educational groups to food banks to animal rescues to land preservation groups.

That said, its good works are not just within the state of Arizona. Around 20 volunteers recently returned from Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico to continue building houses with the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation and assisting individuals at the local migrant center who were deported from the United States and awaiting asylum, part of a volunteer partnership that has lasted for the last decade. In addition to home building efforts, this most recent visit led to 750 needy families receiving bags of food and warm blankets as well as assistance for a dog rescue housing over 160 dogs.

While its success is best measured by the organizations and lives it has helped, its efforts have also been regularly recognized by local publications. In 2023, it earned a spot on the Corporate Philanthropy List by the Phoenix Business Journal, securing 22^nd place in terms of charitable contributions and 14^th place in terms of volunteer hours. 

 Todd Gillenwater, the founder of the Russ Lyon Foundation, said, “It has been inspiring and rewarding to see our Russ Lyon Foundation grow over these ten years into a recognized, productive, and successful foundation, involving hundreds of our real estate advisors and employees and doing good work and investing in important charitable organizations all across Arizona. Truly inspiring.”

In the words of Stephanie Stewart, President of the Russ Lyon Foundation, “It has been such a pleasure to be part of the Russ Lyon Foundation over the last ten years. It is rewarding to see it evolve and grow. Each year, more and more agents and employees are serving in their communities and it is heartwarming to see and participate alongside them.” 

 Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty strongly believes that when the communities it operates in have contributed to a company’s success, it is simply the right thing to do to give back. It hopes that the 10^th anniversary of the Russ Lyon Foundation is the first of many anniversaries it will be celebrating in what will hopefully be a very long legacy of philanthropy and community building.