WSJ House of the Week May 22 *A rare opportunity to own a visually striking and deeply livable architecturally significant home in the high Sonoran Desert. This exceptional 2 acre Carefree estate is 3319 square feet total. The main residence is 2,577 square feet of living space, originally designed and built in 1980, and thoughtfully restored in 2019, by renowned architect and long-time Taliesin professor Michael P.
Johnson. The newly built modernist 768 square foot guest house (detached from main house) and the heated pool were also designed by Michael P. Johnson and built by The Construction Zone, who also executed the restoration on the main house. The main residence features 2 en-suite bedrooms, an office/library, den, powder room, bonus room and laundry room.
The guest house features 2 en-suite bedrooms, full living room and kitchen as well as a washer/dryer. Both the main residence and the guest house are equipped with owned solar panel systems that currently offset the property's electricity usage, resulting in no monthly electrical costs.
An electric vehicle charging station further enhances convenience and future-forward livability. All major systems were replaced or updated during the 2019 restoration, offering peace of mind alongside architectural distinction. The striking back patio in the main residence, crafted from Cumaru wood (Brazilian teak), features a plumbed gas-powered firepit and a 100-inch retractable projection screen.
Though private and secluded, this home is just a 10 minute walk to Civana Wellness Resort and Spa and within close proximity to the shops and restaurants of Carefree and Cave Creek, private and public golf courses, hiking and cycling trails and boating.
Architectural Highlights: The entire property embodies the organic architecture design principles pioneered by Frank Lloyd Wright, where structure, light and land exist in quiet harmony - as expressed through the lens of Michael P. Johnson's mid century aesthetic.
Every line, material and sightline has been carefully considered to frame the surrounding desert, capture natural light and create a seamless dialogue between indoors and out. The main residence features warm natural materials, striking butted glass windows and sculptural forms inside and out.
The heated pool integrates seamlessly into the landscape and architectural composition. Multiple patios provide distinct spaces for relaxation and entertainment. The guest house provides a striking modern contrast to the main residence, where both original organic architecture vision and modern aesthetic expansion addition are authored by the same architect.
The estate's generous acreage provide a sense of seclusion and serenity, with ample space to take in panoramic desert vistas, Black Mountain views, dramatic skies and the ever-changing light that animates the architecture throughout the day. More than a home, this is a living piece of architectural legacy - an authentic expression of Taliesin inspired design, refined over decades and brought forward with clarity and intention.
For the discerning buyer who values design, provenance and place, this is truly a one-of-a-kind offering.
