My wife and I attended the University of Arizona at different points in the 1970’s, and, as a result, we developed a deep affection for Tucson, (and surrounds). Although we didn’t meet here, after a serendipitous encounter at an open-air jazz festival in the 1980’s, we fell in love, married several years later, and have since shared a life-long appreciation for both the arts and architecture.

We’re unrepentant modernists – or so I thought – having owned several decidedly modernist homes, one in Houston, designed by a beloved Texas-based architect, Marvin Watson, and two more in Scottsdale, both designed by William P. Bruder. While living in California, we were drawn to The Sea Ranch, and had the privilege of working with Donlyn Lyndon on designs for two modest weekend retreats, before relocating to Washington state, (and thus tabling both of those designs). It was while we were preparing for our move to Bellevue in 2010, that we purchased the Byrne Residence, and then, in 2021, we opted for a unit at Loloma 5, believing we would, once again, resume our urban habits, (alas, we didn’t).

When we started contemplating a second move in as many years, Tucson took on a particular appeal, (meaning we were going to give it serious consideration this time around). While we weren’t opposed to tracking down another modernist gem in the Old Pueblo, the budding idea of taking on a so-called “project house”, despite the challenges we knew we would face, proved to be rather enticing. …well, to be honest, it was probably more enticing to me than to my wife, but… After spending the holidays in Tucson, and as 2021 drew to a close, the search for what we now refer to as casa de la hermosa began.