Aravella

When architect C.P. Drewett envisioned the design of Aravella, it was based on juxtaposing an archaic element with contemporary aesthetics. Aravella is a lyrical term for “where desert light meets timeless form.”

The building blocks of the house can be seen in its mortar-washed cobblestone walls, which look like ancient stone remnants from a ruin. Drewett embedded the walls with steel banding, used black-painted metal fascia to outline the home’s exterior and added black basalt as an accent. The result is a historic vibe with a modern twist.

Set at an angle on an acre lot to capture views of Camelback Mountain, the four-bedroom, 6,691-square-foot house features generous windows that provide abundant light, and multiple courtyards that offer sunshine or shade—depending on the need—to enjoy the desert locale.

Aravella’s hemlock ceilings and cobblestone walls flow from inside to out, creating a fluid transition to the outdoor living environment. The backyard’s sunny ambiance is enhanced with a sheer-edge pool with a built-in spa and sun shelves, several sitting areas and fire features, and a cooking zone with a built-in barbecue and dining bar. A detached one-bedroom guest casita connects to this welcoming outdoor oasis.

The layout of the interiors is, by design, a bit random, as it was conceived once the cobblestone walls were in place. One wing contains the primary suite and office, while the other wing is dedicated to two guest suites with a den in between. A massive fireplace wall in the great room, a gracious dining area with a built-in wine wall, and a state-of-the-art kitchen are some of the home’s highlights.

Project Details // Aravella
Location: Paradise Valley, AZ
Community: Cameldale Estates
Architecture: Drewett Works
Builder: Bedbrock Developers
Architectural design: Ownby Design
Interior design: IMI Design
Landscape architecture: Greey|Pickett
Photography: Kevin Brost