Self-Guided Tour of Mid-Mod Neighborhoods in Phoenix

by | Oct 24, 2022 | Phoenix Lifestyle

Did you know our website has a section dedicated to mid-mod neighborhoods in Phoenix? We’ve laid out essential information like the property features, history, and architects of all the mid-century modern neighborhoods in the area. Visit our Featured Neighborhoods section of the website to learn more.

Arcadia

Decades: 1950s-1960s
Notable Architects: Charles and Arthur Schreiber, Frank Lloyd Wright and Ralph Haver

Once covered in citrus groves, Arcadia is now home to some of the most prestigious homes in the valley. As development began in the 1950’s there was undoubtedly some contemporary design influence.

From the David and Gladys Wright house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built for his son in 1951, to homes designed by Ralph Haver and Charles and Arthur Schreiber Arcadia has some modernist masterpieces.

With a prime location in the shadow of Camelback Mountain in between Old Town Scottsdale and the Biltmore Arcadia boasts large lots, mountain views and a premium upscale lifestyle. Lots of grass, large palm trees and breeze block accents dot the neighborhood.

While a few original designs still exist around 1500 sqft, some homes in the neighborhood are now over 12,000 sqft. Most of the current mid mod homes range from 2100 to 5000 sqft with 3 to 6 bedrooms and 2 to 5.5 baths. The lifestyle and location that Arcadia provides combined with the opportunity to own a fantastic mid mod home makes it great choice to make your own.

Hy-View Scottsdale

Decades: 1950s-1960s

Tucked into the southwest corner of Scottsdale at the foot of the Papago Mountains lies Hy View. The neighborhood was built between 1958 and 1965 by the E.L. Farmer Construction Company. There were 10 floor plans and 28 elevations offered. Initial prices were from $14,300 to $17,300.

The designs of the homes ranged in style from ranch to contemporary. The varied styles and rooflines give the neighborhood a great feel and homes have their own unique spirit. With above average lot size, views of Camelback Mountain and the Papago Mountains, Hy View is tucked nicely away along the Arizona Canal.

The location provides a close proximity to Old Town Scottsdale, Arcadia and even downtown Phoenix. Residents enjoy quick access to walking and biking trails, hiking and nearby parks. Hy View provides a terrific location for an upscale lifestyle.

For those who want to capitalize on the premium location, the variety in elevations and floor plans leaves something for everyone. Current homes range in size from 1164 to 2650 sqft with 3 to 4 bedrooms and 1.75 to 3 baths. Hy View is a terrific neighborhood to consider when looking for a mid century modern home.

Janet Manor

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Janet Manor is a quiet enclave of contemporary homes that were designed by Ralph Haver and built by Fred Woodworth from 1956 to 1959. The contemporary homes touted “the finest in indoor-outdoor living”. The homes also highlighted being amongst mature citrus, moderately priced and coming with Carrier air conditioning systems.

The neighborhood is dominated by arguably Haver’s most iconic design. The center ridge, low slung roofline with its 4 large trapezoidal windows in the front of the house. The patio port provides covered parking and a large front patio at the entrance. The front block work varies between normal block and brick, clinker brink and weeping mortar. A range in color selection as well as the front or side patio port entrances give the facades nice variety.

Current homes in the neighborhood have 2 to 4 bedrooms with 1.75 to 3 baths between 1566 and 2148 sqft. The quaint pocket of homes is tucked away among the trees of North Central. A versatile central location with close access to downtown Phoenix and the Biltmore.

Marion Estates Phoenix

Decades: 1950s-1960s
Notable Architects: Al Beadle and Ralph Haver

Marketed in the early 1950’s as “Arizona’s Most Scenic Subdivision” Marion Estates still takes in spectacular views of Camelback Mountain and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve while sitting at the edge of Paradise Valley.  Initial buyers had the opportunity to build one of the plans offered by the Cullom Construction Company or build a custom home on the 1/3 acre lots. Homes ranged from $11,000 – $20,000 in 1953.

There is an excellent mix of mid century modern styles, rooflines and designs within the neighborhood. Flat roof homes, lung slung rooflines and even the only two story Ralph Haver home sit in Marion Estates. Some great desert landscaping, clerestory windows and breeze block set off the front of the homes. The nature of the desert terrain as it slopes up the hill from the south side of the neighborhood provides a natural feel with views all around.

Current homes in the neighborhood range from 1,163 to 6,600 sqft with 3 to 5 bedrooms and 1.75 to 5.5 baths. A prime Phoenix location just west of the head of Camelback Mountain Marion Estates is a classic upscale neighborhood. Within minutes of Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Biltmore, Old Town Scottsdale and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport the location doesn’t get much better.

Marlen Grove

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Marlen Grove was marketed in the early 1950’s as the kind of Arizona living you hear about. Easy elegance expresses the personality of the homes. Architect Ralph Haver designed 4 elevations for the 2 and 3 bedroom homes that were built by the Perry-Brignall Construction Company from 1950 to 1953. Quality materials and modern design were touted to attract buyers. The homes started between $12,250 and $14,000 in 1951.

The lush and tucked away neighborhood is highlighted by the low slung roof elevation with high clerestory windows and angled carport and patio posts. There are several other elevations including a low slope roof with gable end and another low slung roof design. Great variety and creativity are prevalent in the neighborhood with the application of breeze block, front walls, landscaping, color and textures of the facades. The stylish homes possess a quiet elegance.

Current homes in the neighborhood range from 2 to 5 bedrooms with 1 to 3 bathrooms between 1150 and 2756 sqft. Above average lot size and fantastic mature landscaping provide a great canvas for the stylish homes. A prime location in North Central Phoenix just east of 7th St. Within minutes to Uptown, Midtown and Downtown Phoenix.

Mayfair Manor

Decade:1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Mayfair Manor was designed by Ralph Haver and built between 1949 and 1953. The homes were marketed showcasing the beamed interior ceilings, large carports and covered patios. The 3 bedroom, 1.75 bath homes started at $10,700 in 1951.

There are 2 original elevations in the neighborhood. A low pitch gable end roof with clerestory windows tucked under the eaves and a low slung center pitch roof with a front window wall. The latter shows off angled posts for the post and beam support in the carport and rear patio. A nice variety in sand blasted or painted block, color accents, and landscaping give the homes individual character.

Current homes in the neighborhood are 2 to 4 bedrooms with 1 to 2 baths between 1107 and 2000 sqft. The location in North Central Phoenix provides quick access to lifestyle amenities as well as Downtown Phoenix and the Arizona Biltmore.

Northwood

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

The homes in Northwood were designed by Ralph Haver and were built from 1953 – 1957. Northwood was marketed in 1952 as “The house that 500 housewives built.” Women were asked what they wanted in a home and the design was based around their feedback. The end result was a 1288 sqft, 3 bedroom, 1.75 bath home with a large living & dining area and over 800 cubic feet of closet space. The homes started at $12,000 in 1952.

The block homes in the neighborhood come in 3 elevations. The low pitch gable end, the low slung roof with flat carport and the center ridge low slung design. All of these designs are accentuated by either clerestory windows or a front window wall. Breeze block accents and bright colors jump out across the neighborhood.

Current homes in the neighborhood offer 3 to 5 bedrooms with 1.75 to 3 baths between 1288 and 2507 sqft. Large lots and mature landscaping are a nice addition to the homes. The location in North Central Phoenix provides quick access to the desirable lifestyle of the area.

Paradise Gardens

Decades: 1950s-1960s
Architect: Al Beadle

Paradise Gardens was developed from 1958 to 1964. The homes were designed by acclaimed architect Al Beadle and were built by the A-1 Construction Co. Sitting at the base of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve was the perfect location for laying out the neighborhood with large lots and native desert landscaping. Paradise Gardens was marketed as “The home where dreams come true”. The homes started between $16,850 and $18,850 and the end of 1959.

Beadle designed 4 floor plans for the development. The Saguaro, The Ocotillo and The Cholla were 3 bed, 2 bath while the Palo Verde was a 4 bed, 2 bath. The original designs ranged from 1400 to 1800 sqft. The clean lines are accented by floor to ceiling glass, breeze block and established desert landscaping. The homes possess an understated class with stylish, but modest facades.

The neighborhood currently offers homes between 1425 and 3688 sqft with 3 to 5 bedrooms and 1.75 to 3.5 baths. The established neighborhood has a tucked away feel and the large lots give each home ample space. The variety and designs of the homes still shine today. The location just off Shea Boulevard and the 51 freeway provide quick access to Central Phoenix, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale.

Starlite Vista

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Tucked away in the trees of North Central Phoenix lies Starlite Vista. The homes were designed by Ralph Haver and were built from 1953 to 1959. The advertisements focused on the contemporary and modern design of the homes to differentiate and attract buyers. Homes started at $13,500 in 1956.

There is some nice variety in design across the two elevations. The low slung roofline design with flat roof carport and the single low pitch gable roof both have style and are highlighted by clerestory windows. The variety in color pops, shadow block, siding and breeze block make the homes unique. Great landscaping throughout the neighborhood really add to its appeal.

Current homes in the neighborhood range from 1344 to 2483 sqft and come with 3 to 5 bedrooms and 1.75 to 3 baths. The homes sit on large lots between 9,000 and 11,000 sqft. Starlite Vista is a quiet pocket of homes close to all the action of North Central Phoenix.

Town & Country Manor

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Town & Country Manor was designed by Ralph Haver and built by Fred Woodworth from 1956 to 1960. The single elevation in the neighborhood named “The Solarius” highlighted the “convertible patio”, a terraced design above the front patio and part of the car port. Indoor-Outdoor living was promoted as a focal point to the design. Homes started at $12,500 in 1956.

The single elevation in neighborhood is Haver’s most notable. The center ridge, low slung roof with 4 large front windows and patio port. There is a great variety in this neighborhood to vary the design. Some homes have a fireplace whose chimney rises above the center ridge of the home. Others vary block design, have enclosed patio ports and utilize breeze block in the design.

Current homes in the neighborhood range from 2 to 4 bedrooms with 1.75 to 3 baths between 1232 and 2315 sqft. Located within minutes of Arcadia, South Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix and Sky Harbor International Airport.

Town & Country Paradise

Decade: 1960s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Town & Country Paradise sits just north of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve in Phoenix. The homes were designed by architect Ralph Haver and built by Fred Woodworth from 1960-1969. The neighborhood was marketed as “The Valley’s Finest Home Investment” with homes of the “Finest Contemporary Design”. Homes started at $16,400 in 1960.

Four different models were designed by Haver and launched with names tied to a Polynesian marketing theme. The model names were: The Kona Palms, The Marianas, The Tahitian, & The Koko Palms. The varying elevations and floor plans came with 3 to 4 bedrooms and 1.75 to 2.5 baths. All of the models had a distinct look yet tied together perfectly in the neighborhood. The variety in carport style, window design and breeze block implementation make each home have a unique presence.

Current homes in the neighborhood range from 1189 to 2835 sqft and have 2 to 4 bedrooms with 1 to 3 baths. The underground utilities and above average lot sizes give the homes and neighborhood a nice feel. The location just off Shea Boulevard and the 51 Freeway make getting around easy in the central location with close proximity to Phoenix, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale.

Town & Country Scottsdale

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

Just south of Old Town Scottsdale, Town & Country Scottsdale is a quintessential mid century modern neighborhood. The homes were designed by renowned architect Ralph Haver and were built by Fred “Woody” Woodworth in 1959.  Homes in this neighborhood were a bit more expensive than the typical development in Scottsdale in the late 1950s, selling from $13,500 to $16,950.

The contemporary designs stressed indoor-outdoor living. A repeating variety of materials and treatments are used on the exterior façades of the homes. These include concrete block, shadow block, breeze block, wood siding, and varied brick arrangements. Clerestory windows, window walls, and front patio-ports are highlights to the homes.

With 62 homes, Town and Country Scottsdale is an excellent example of a medium-size postwar neighborhood. It was placed on the national historic registrar in 2009 and nearly all homes in Town and Country contribute to its historic character. As one of two historic single-family neighborhoods in all of Scottsdale, primary owners enjoy ½ off their property taxes and the ability to apply for city funds for restoration projects.

A 5-minute walk to the east leads homeowners to El Dorado Park, complete with lakes, bike paths, and sports fields. The prime location just off Scottsdale road gives residents quick access to a premier lifestyle with close proximity to Old Town Scottsdale, Tempe, Sky Harbor Airport and Phoenix.

If you are interested in mid century modern home in Scottsdale the Town and Country neighborhood is one of the best around. There are four distinct models in the neighborhood with varying design, rooflines, and floor plans. Current homes have 3 to 4 bedrooms, 1.75 to 3 baths and range from 1300 to 2400 sqft. The majority of homes still retain their original style as intended by Ralph Haver and offer a superb lifestyle and location within the city.

Village Grove Scottsdale

Decade: 1960s
Notable Architects: Charles and Arthur Schreiber

Just east of Old Town Scottsdale sits Village Grove. The subdivision was built between 1960-1969 by the Allied Construction company. With 5 floor plans and 27 exterior styles the homes started at $14,500.

The stars of the neighborhood are the modern elevation designed by Charles and Arthur Schreiber, one of the most iconic single-family homes of the mid century era in the valley.  The low slung roofline is accented by post and beam columns that perfectly frame the large front windows and entryway. The block pattern near the front door serves as a trademark to these homes.

Large lots and mature landscaping give the neighborhood a lush and well-maintained feel. Current homes range in size from 1350 to 2536 sqft and come with 3 to 6 bedrooms with 1.75 to 4 baths. The location a stones throw from Old Town Scottsdale only increases the desirability of the neighborhood. With high style and a fantastic location Village Grove is a great spot to make your mid mod home.

Windemere

Decade: 1950s
Architect: Ralph Haver

In the shadow of Arcadia High School lies Windemere by Ralph Haver. With air conditioning just getting its footing in 1955, these homes utilized their new technology to differentiate and sell very quickly. The 3 bedroom, 1.75 bath homes were 1144 sqft and priced at $11,500.

The low slung roof design with large floor to ceiling front windows and chimney gave these 36 homes a distinct mid century style. In typical Haver fashion the facades of the homes possess a nice variety due to variations in material selection, primarily brick, block, batten, and paint schemes.

The mature trees and unique appearance to each home give the neighborhood a great feel. Due to the small initial design, many of these homes have been expanded over time. Current homes are 3 to 5 bedrooms and have 2 to 5 baths between 1348 to 2964 sqft.

With a premium location in lower Arcadia this is a very desirable neighborhood. One of the hot spots in Phoenix for those pursuing an upscale lifestyle with close proximity to all the valley has to offer.

 

Want more information about the mid-mod neighborhoods in Phoenix? Don’t forget to visit our Featured Neighborhoods section of the website.

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By Ryan Smith

The founder and president of Mid Mod Phoenix, Ryan is passionate about mid-century modern architecture, real estate, modernism, restoring homes, designing beautiful living spaces, ASU, and enjoying life in the Valley of the Sun. To learn more about any of these topics, get in touch with him at ryan@midmodernphoenix.com.

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