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Monte Vista Renovation I Scottsdale
Architect: Ralph Haver Builder: Fred Woodworth
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona Year Built: 1959 National Historic Registrar: 2009
Design Vision
The Monte Vista project focused on refining a Ralph Haver mid-century modern home while updating the interior for contemporary living.
The renovation aimed to preserve the architectural simplicity that defines Haver’s work while introducing modern materials, improved systems, and a more open interior layout. Particular attention was given to strengthening the connection between the living spaces and the backyard while maintaining the architectural character of the home.
The project balanced restoration with thoughtful modernization so the house could function for modern living while remaining historically significant.
Renovation
The home underwent a comprehensive renovation that upgraded both infrastructure and interior spaces.
The floor plan was selectively modified to create a new primary suite, combining two existing bedrooms into a single larger space. The kitchen and main living areas were also opened up to improve flow through the home.
One of the most significant architectural changes was raising the central ceiling height from eight feet to over ten feet, dramatically improving the sense of space and light within the main living areas. A large 8 x 12 glass slider was installed to connect the interior living spaces to the backyard.
A small 67 square foot exterior laundry room addition was also incorporated to improve the functionality of the home.
Infrastructure & Systems Upgrades
As part of the renovation, the home received major infrastructure upgrades.
The project included all new underground plumbing, a new electrical panel and wiring, updated interior finishes, flooring, and paint throughout the house. These improvements modernized the performance of the home while supporting the updated layout and architectural changes.
Outdoor Living & Landscape
The landscape design focused on restoring the outdoor environment to complement the architecture of the home.
An abandoned swimming pool was restored, bringing the backyard back into use as an outdoor living space. New landscaping was introduced to frame the architecture while maintaining the clean desert aesthetic typical of mid-century modern homes in the area.
Recognition & Historic Status
The completed renovation was featured on the Scottsdale Modern Home Tour in Fall 2019.
The home also remains a contributing property to the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting the architectural significance of Ralph Haver’s work and the care taken during the renovation.