10 Best Architectural Buildings in Scottsdale, Arizona: A Must-See Guide

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a hub of architectural wonders, showcasing a blend of modern and historical designs that attract enthusiasts and tourists alike.

With its rich history and thriving cultural scene, the city offers a unique architectural landscape that is both visually stunning and contextually significant.

What makes Scottsdale stand out are its iconic buildings that represent the pinnacle of architectural design and innovation.

Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to midcentury gems, these structures not only highlight the city’s diverse aesthetic but also contribute to its vibrant atmosphere and appeal.

1. Taliesin West

Taliesin West, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This site served as his winter home and studio.

Established in 1937, Taliesin West is a National Historic Landmark and a World Heritage site nestled in the McDowell Mountains foothills.

Visitors can explore this architectural marvel through guided tours, which must be reserved in advance.

The tour costs $49.99 and lasts 90 minutes.

2. Scottsdale Civic Center Library

The Scottsdale Civic Center Library, designed by Bennie Gonzales, is part of the Scottsdale Civic Center complex.

Constructed in 1968, it showcases a blend of International Style and regional architecture.

This library was built to replace the original library, one of the oldest buildings in Scottsdale.

The structure reflects openness and modernism, fitting seamlessly into the civic center’s overall masterplan.

Visitors can enjoy the modern design while accessing various resources and services.

The library’s design emphasizes both functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a central part of Scottsdale’s architectural heritage.

3. Scottsdale Waterfront

The Scottsdale Waterfront is a vibrant area featuring a mix of public art, dining, and shopping.

A highlight of the Waterfront is the unique Soleri Bridge, designed by Paolo Soleri. This bridge serves as both a pedestrian path and a solar calendar.

Nearby, visitors can explore historic art galleries, craft breweries, and wineries, making it a prime spot for both locals and tourists.

The area blends contemporary living with cultural experiences seamlessly.

4. The Marshall Way Arts District

The Marshall Way Arts District in Scottsdale is known for its contemporary arts scene.

This area features intimate galleries showcasing diverse art forms like painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed-media pieces.

Local artists are well-represented, making it a great place to see unique and regional art.

The district is also popular for its weekly ArtWalk, an event where galleries stay open late and host special exhibits and artist demonstrations.

5. Hotel Valley Ho

Hotel Valley Ho, located in Scottsdale, opened its doors in 1956.

Designed by Edward L. Varney, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the hotel aimed to combine Hollywood glamor with Arizona’s natural beauty.

The hotel underwent renovations to retain its original modernist features while receiving updates to meet current styles.

It holds a significant place in Scottsdale’s mid-century architecture.

Visitors can enjoy tours showcasing its history and design, making Hotel Valley Ho a notable landmark in the region’s architectural landscape.

For more details, visit Scottsdale Architecture Spotlight.

6. Scottsdale Contemporary Art Museum

The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) is a must-visit for art lovers.

Located at 7374 E. Second Street, this museum showcases contemporary art, architecture, and design.

SMoCA features a variety of rotating exhibitions, including the annual Architecture + Art series.

This unique series invites designers to create innovative installations within the museum.

With admission fees at $10 for adults and $7 for students, SMoCA offers free entry on Thursdays and after 5 p.m. on Fridays. This makes it an accessible destination for everyone.

7. The Phoenician

The Phoenician is a luxury resort set on 250 acres in Scottsdale, near Camelback Mountain.

Built on the grounds of the historic Jokake Inn, it opened in 1988.

This resort includes a newly renovated golf course, a three-story spa, and a fitness center.

The recent $90 million renovation updated its 643 rooms and common areas, enhancing its iconic status in the region.

The Phoenician is a prime example of modern luxury, offering elegance and top-tier service.

More information is available on their official website.

8. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is a standout venue.

Built between 1974 and 1975 by architect Bennie M. Gonzales, it features unique Southwestern design elements.

A major renovation in 2009 modernized the facility while preserving its character.

The center hosts diverse performances, including music, theater, and dance.

Located at the northwest corner of E. 2nd St. and N. Drinkwater Blvd, it is easily accessible and central to Scottsdale’s cultural scene.

Learn more about it here.

9. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West showcases the art, culture, and history of the American West. It is located in Old Town Scottsdale.

The museum features a variety of exhibits on Western and Native American art, artifacts, and cultural items. It occupies a 43,000-square-foot contemporary building.

This museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate and was named “Best Western Museum” by True West magazine in 2023.

10. Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

The Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows showcases mid-century modern design.

Inspired by architects like Eero Saarinen, the resort’s suites blend indoor and outdoor spaces beautifully.

Guests enjoy luxurious amenities like oversized dual showers and private patios.

The resort also features the Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

The bungalows themselves reflect the design aesthetics of icons Charles and Ray Eames.

Each room includes desert-inspired artwork, creating a unique and relaxing atmosphere.

Historical Significance

Scottsdale, Arizona, has a rich history reflected in its architecture. The city’s buildings tell the story of its development, from early Native American influences to modern architectural wonders.

Architectural Heritage

Scottsdale’s architectural roots run deep, reflecting a mix of Native American, Spanish Colonial, and Mid-Century Modern styles.

Key sites include the Farmer’s State Bank of Scottsdale, which opened in 1921 as the city’s first bank.

The Charles Miller House, built in 1913, showcases early 20th-century residential design.

These buildings are not just aesthetically significant; they symbolize the city’s economic and social beginnings.

The Spire, a standalone sculpture by Frank Lloyd Wright, embodies the innovation that characterizes Scottsdale’s approach to architecture.

Each landmark contributes to a narrative that is unique to Scottsdale, marking it as a place where various cultural and historical influences converge.

Evolution Over Time

Over the decades, Scottsdale’s architecture has evolved, mirroring its growth and transformation.

Early buildings like the George Ellis House, built in 1925, offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

The integration of modern designs and materials shows how the city adapted to new trends while respecting its historical roots.

Changes in architectural design reflect broader shifts in society and technology.

For instance, the use of new construction materials and methods has allowed architects to push boundaries.

These developments provide insight into Scottsdale’s dynamic character and its commitment to preserving historical integrity while embracing the future.

Architectural Styles

Scottsdale’s architectural landscape features a mix of Mid-Century Modern and Contemporary Design. These styles enjoy local popularity and reflect the city’s evolution over the years.

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern is a prominent architectural style in Scottsdale. It emerged in the mid-20th century and is characterized by clean lines, large windows, and open floor plans. This style emphasizes simplicity and integration with nature.

Buildings like the Hotel Valley Ho are great examples.

Designed by Edward L. Varney in 1956, this hotel preserves its midcentury charm. Its geometric lines and minimalist aesthetic attract design enthusiasts from all over.

Another hallmark of Mid-Century Modern architecture is the use of natural materials.

Wood, brick, and stone are common. These materials blend the indoors with the outdoors, creating a seamless transition.

This design approach takes advantage of Arizona’s sunny climate, flooding interiors with natural light.

Contemporary Design

Contemporary Design is another popular architectural style in Scottsdale. It features innovative techniques and modern materials.

This style is known for its sleek appearance, open spaces, and extensive use of glass.

Architects like Colin Edward Slais bring this style to life, working on a variety of projects that include residential, mixed-use, and commercial buildings.

Contemporary Design focuses on functionality and aesthetics, often incorporating eco-friendly elements.

Key elements of this style include flat roofs, minimal ornamentation, and a combination of different textures and materials.

The layout often features open floor plans and large windows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding environment.

Contemporary homes in Scottsdale are designed to be both beautiful and functional. They reflect the latest trends in architecture while still paying respect to the desert landscape.

Influential Architects

Scottsdale, Arizona, boasts stunning architectural achievements thanks to the visionary work of key architects. Their designs shape the city’s skyline and culture.

Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright made a significant impact on Scottsdale’s architecture.

In the 1930s, he began spending winters there to escape Wisconsin’s harsh winters.

By 1937, he established his permanent winter home, Taliesin West, in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains.

Taliesin West is a prime example of Wright’s organic architecture, blending structures seamlessly with the natural landscape.

It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts architecture enthusiasts from around the world. Wright’s influence extends beyond Taliesin West, impacting the general architectural style seen throughout Scottsdale.

Will Bruder

Will Bruder is another notable figure in Scottsdale’s architectural scene.

Bruder’s designs stand out for their innovative use of materials and local context.

One of his notable projects is the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. This building showcases his modernist approach and sensitivity to the desert environment.

Bruder integrates sustainable practices and experimental shapes, making his buildings unique landmarks.

His work strives to create dialogue between buildings and their surroundings, emphasizing environmental harmony and human experience.

Bruder continues to influence contemporary architecture with his distinctive and thoughtful designs.