Gilbert, Arizona is home to some of the most striking architectural buildings in the state. With a blend of modern design and historic charm, the town offers unique structures that capture the essence of its vibrant community.
Exploring the best architectural buildings in Gilbert provides insight into the town’s rich cultural and aesthetic landscape.
For architecture enthusiasts and residents alike, these buildings showcase innovative designs and thoughtful planning. From residential homes to public spaces, Gilbert’s architecture highlights the creativity and skill of its architects.
This article will provide a look into the top architectural buildings that define Gilbert, Arizona.
1. Higley Center for the Performing Arts
Higley Center for the Performing Arts is located in Gilbert, Arizona, near the San Tan 202 freeway. This venue features modern architecture that sets the tone for professional events.
The center has a 1235-seat concert hall and a versatile space for smaller events. It’s known for hosting local, regional, and national performances.
For more details, visit the Higley Center for the Performing Arts.
2. Gilbert Temple, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
The Gilbert Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is a prominent landmark in Gilbert, Arizona. Located at 3301 South Greenfield Road, this temple stands out with its stunning architecture and meticulously landscaped grounds.
The temple was formally dedicated on March 2, 2014. Before its dedication, a public open house attracted over 407,000 visitors, showcasing the building’s exquisite interior.
Its design features a grand central spire and intricate stonework. This temple serves members from 37 stakes in the Southern Phoenix Metro and Cobre Valley areas. Learn more about the Gilbert Arizona Temple.
3. Freestone Recreation Center
Freestone Recreation Center in Gilbert, Arizona, is a state-of-the-art facility. Spanning 50,000 square feet, it offers a wide range of activities for visitors.
The center features an elevated jogging track, rock climbing structures, and multiple courts for basketball and other sports.
It’s designed to be a fun and engaging space for everyone.
Unlike exclusive clubs, no membership is needed to enjoy the amenities. For more details, visit Freestone Recreation Center.
4. Water Tower Plaza
Water Tower Plaza is a historic site in downtown Gilbert. The plaza surrounds the iconic Gilbert Water Tower, which was built nearly a century ago.
The park features amenities like a splash pad and decorative lightings on the tower, making it a popular gathering spot.
For more information, visit Water Tower Plaza in Gilbert.
5. Perry Branch Library
Perry Branch Library is a key landmark in Gilbert, Arizona. It has a joint-use facility catering to both students and the public.
The building features classic architectural elements and offers several programs and resources beyond basic library services.
Visitors can enjoy the spacious 18,500-square-foot area and volunteer opportunities by contacting Donna Petersen. More information about the Perry Branch Library can be found on its official page.
6. Saint Xavier University Campus
Saint Xavier University opened a branch in Gilbert in August 2015. The campus featured a modern four-story building.
The infrastructure was backed by a $34.2 million funding through revenue bonds. It was Gilbert’s first institute of higher education.
Despite the promising start, the campus closed in early 2017. Saint Xavier agreed to pay $4 million to the town for ending the lease early.
7. Joe’s Farm Grill
Joe’s Farm Grill, located in Gilbert, is renowned for its unique architectural design. Originally part of a family farm, the building has been transformed into a retro-futuristic burger stand. This architectural style blends old-fashioned charm with modern sleekness.
The restaurant emphasizes local sourcing, using ingredients from The Farm at Agritopia and other Arizona farms.
Visitors can enjoy fresh, high-quality meals in a setting that echoes back to mid-century America. The blend of architecture and fresh food makes Joe’s Farm Grill a standout attraction in Gilbert.
For more details, visit Joe’s Farm Grill.
8. The Barn at Power Ranch
The Barn at Power Ranch offers a spacious event venue. It includes 5,389 square feet of indoor area and a 9,000-square-foot event lawn, making it ideal for various events.
The facility features a 450-square-foot kitchen with modern appliances. This includes an oven, a four-shelf warming oven, a large refrigerator, and a freezer.
The barn also hosts classes and programs for the community. Its versatile space can be adapted for private events. Located in Gilbert, Arizona, it is a popular choice for gatherings.
9. SanTan Village
SanTan Village is a lively, open-air lifestyle center in Gilbert, Arizona. It features a blend of retail, dining, and entertainment options.
Located at 2218 E. Williams Field Rd., the complex invites visitors to explore a wide range of shops and restaurants.
This family-friendly destination is known for its engaging atmosphere and variety of activities. To learn more, visit SanTan Village.
10. Desert Sky Park
Desert Sky Park is a notable addition to Gilbert, Arizona’s landscape. Opened in 2019, it offers a vast area of 110 acres.
Located just south of the 202 freeway and north of Power Ranch, the park serves dual purposes: flood control and recreation. Its amenities include soccer fields, volleyball, and pickleball courts.
Residents are invited to share their ideas for future phases of development, ensuring the park meets community needs. Learn more about Desert Sky Park on its official page.
Architectural History of Gilbert, Arizona
Gilbert, Arizona features a diverse array of buildings that showcase its rich history and modern growth. This blend highlights the town’s early roots and evolving influences.
Early Development
The architectural history of Gilbert began in the early 1900s. One key structure is the Gilbert Water Tower, built in 1927, which remains a focal point for the town.
Another significant building, the Gilbert School, dates back to the early 1900s.
Many buildings from this period still stand, such as the Clement’s Garage Building and the Tone Building.
Constructed in 1934, Clement’s Garage reflects the practical styles of the era. The Tone Building, built by Albert Tone in 1929, also highlights early commercial design in Gilbert.
The Higley General Store is another example, named after an early landowner, Stephen Weaver Higley.
These structures reflect Gilbert’s roots as a small farming community, and their preservation offers a glimpse into the town’s past.
Modern Influences
In recent decades, Gilbert has seen an influx of contemporary architecture. Newer buildings blend innovative designs with traditional elements, creating a unique aesthetic. The town maintains a delicate balance between historic preservation and modern growth.
HD South is a modern hub that celebrates Gilbert’s history. It serves as a community center that bridges past and present. This site hosts events and fosters a sense of unity among residents.
The growth of residential areas reflects modern architectural trends. Energy-efficient homes and commercial buildings with sleek designs are now common.
New developments ensure that Gilbert keeps pace with growing demand while still valuing its historical heritage.
Impact of Architecture on Local Culture
Architecture in Gilbert, Arizona, shapes both the community’s development and its cultural identity. These buildings not only provide essential services but also become landmarks that resonate with local traditions and history.
Community Development
Architectural designs influence the social dynamics of Gilbert. By creating public spaces, like parks and community centers, architects help foster a sense of belonging.
For example, buildings designed by firms such as Plans by Dean Drosos can serve as community hubs.
Residential projects, such as those by BMA Architecture, emphasize sustainability and accessibility.
These designs improve the quality of life by creating more livable neighborhoods and addressing the community’s needs.
Cultural Significance
Buildings like the original Gilbert School and the Gilbert Water Tower are vital for preserving the town’s history. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the past, fostering a connection between the present generation and their heritage.
Modern architectural practices also reflect local culture by incorporating traditional elements into contemporary designs.
This harmonizes new developments with the town’s existing character, ensuring that Gilbert’s cultural essence remains intact even as it grows.
Sustainability in Gilbert Architecture
Sustainability in Gilbert architecture is driven by the use of green building practices and innovative design techniques. These methods aim to reduce environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency in residential and commercial buildings.
Green Building Practices
Many architects in Gilbert integrate green building standards like LEED certification.
This includes using sustainable materials such as recycled steel and reclaimed wood.
Water conservation is achieved through low-flow plumbing fixtures and drought-tolerant landscaping.
Advanced insulation and energy-efficient windows are commonly used to minimize energy loss.
Eden Architects, for example, focuses on eco-friendly solutions including renewable energy sources like solar panels.
Builders also implement practices such as graywater recycling, which reduces the need for freshwater.
These efforts help create sustainable and environmentally responsible buildings.
Innovative Design Techniques
Architects in Gilbert employ innovative design techniques to boost sustainability.
One notable project is the International Pavilion at Northern Arizona University.
This building uses cutting-edge technologies to manage energy use efficiently. It incorporates solar hot water systems and large-scale graywater recycling.
Adaptive reuse of older structures, like the transformation of the Johnston farmland into Barnone, is another innovative approach.
These techniques repurpose existing buildings to avoid new construction, thus conserving resources.
High-performance building envelopes and passive design strategies further enhance energy savings.