It's common to see scorpions skittering across the Arizona desert. But a home built in the shape of a scorpion? That caused us to do a double take.
Designed by architect Eddie Jones of the Jones Studio, the Scorpion House in Scottsdale, AZ, is on the market for $5.5 million. Built in 2001 on a little over an acre of land, this place named after a predator was designed to be harmonious with its surroundings.
Its curved concrete walls fit into the surrounding arroyo, preserving rather than distributing or fighting for attention with the natural setting.
"Hillside contours, boulder field, distant views, and stands of old saguaro, shape the cast-in-place concrete ledge. Interlocking the curvilinear retaining walls, a protective shell of oxidized titanium plates integrates the 'scorpion' forms with desert shadow," notes Jones Studio in its description of the design.
But it's not just the home's exterior that packs a dramatic punch. Its 4,792 square feet include four bedrooms and five bathrooms. Splashes of red throughout contrast with the earth tones of the house and its surroundings.
The stunning kitchen features red cabinets along with double ovens, a double sink, and other aluminum appliances. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide breathtaking views, including from the master bedroom.
"The seamless, floor-to-ceiling glass walls project diffused natural light onto the geometrically positioned limestone floors," notes the listing. Debbie Negrin of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty is the listing agent.
And while the home is surrounded by arid desert, water makes an appearance in the shape of a hemispherical pool, a great spot for scanning the desert sky at night or just relaxing during the day.
The home is about 40 minutes north of downtown Phoenix and is surrounded by parks, preserves, and the 3-million-acre Tonto National Forest.
Discussing its construction, the Organic Architecture Guild writes, "Careful consideration for views, heat gain mitigation, and maintaining privacy determined a radial house plan that would focus on the natural landscape. The team was committed to the ideals of sustainable building."
For example, the roof and upper wall forms are covered in light-weight titanium zinc panels. "The dark metal panels will gracefully endure for many years to come, require no maintenance, improve with age as they patina, and help the house to gracefully blend into the desert shadows," the Guild writes.
While graceful isn't a word often associated with a predatory arachnid, it works for this desert beauty.