Southern Arizona is culturally diverse, so you will find distinct styles and architectural features throughout the region. These styles even vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, depending on which population was the first to settle there. For instance, many neighborhoods were settled by early immigrants from Mexico, and those neighborhoods and architectural styles are built on the concept of community planning. You will find many examples of outdoor courtyards, street-abutting buildings, and homes built right next to each other. Here’s a look at some of the most prominent architectural styles in Southern Arizona.
Pueblo Style
You’ll see many, many examples of various Pueblo style homes throughout Southern Arizona. Due to how popular this style became, there are examples in old neighborhoods that were originally settled by Mexican immigrants, as well as newer neighborhoods paying homage to the style. Southwestern Pueblo style architecture can be broken down into a few distinct substyles:
- Pueblo – This is the original style of architecture brought to Southern Arizona from Mexico. It utilizes thick, heavy adobe walls; heavy wood features like doors, roof beams, and awnings; and rounded corners. These homes were directly influenced by the original cliff dwellings of the Southwestern Native American tribes.
- Pueblo Revival – This style was most popular between 1920-1950. It was categorized by rounded corners, thick walls stuccoed in earth tones, irregular parapets, and multi-story buildings. It was inspired by Mexican pueblos and Spanish Mission-style architecture in Mexico. It also utilizes flat roofs and wooden roof beams called vigas.
- Post-War Pueblo – This style began around 1955, and was inspired by original Pueblo architecture. It is defined by additional decorative details, vigas, and canals. It began to become less popular around 1965.
Sonoran Style
Sonoran style homes were originally constructed between 1840-1890 and are row houses that are similar to what you’d find in Mexican neighborhoods. They are defined by adjacent structures that are very close together, with a private but communal outdoor space at the center of the block. This space typically would contain a well, ramada, and outhouse. When you look at many of these homes today, you can see that they have become less communal, and any community gathering spaces have been swallowed by private homes. The interiors are defined by high ceilings, adobe walls, and vigas.
Spanish Colonial Style
Spanish Colonial style homes were constructed between 1915-1945. The primary characteristics are inspired by several different eras of Spanish Baroque, Spanish Colonial, Moorish Revival, and Mexican architecture. The main features of these homes are smooth stucco walls, elaborate chimneys and fireplaces, a clay tile or flat roof, and elaborate entryways. Many of these homes also have additional details like bell towers, domes, balconies with iron railings, and window grilles made from wood or wrought iron.
Ranch Style
The Ranch style home was most popular in Southern Arizona between 1935-1970. The main characteristics of Ranch style homes are an L or U-shaped primary living area, with a large front yard. This architectural style was developed to encourage familial closeness and the ideas of openness and hospitality. Additional architectural features include low-pitched roofs, simple facades, and low ceilings.
Bungalow Style
Between 1905-1930, Southern Arizona saw a rise in Craftsman Bungalow style homes. These homes feature high concrete porches, tapered columns, low-pitched roofs, gabled or hipped roof features, and overhanging eaves. They are crafted from stone or woodwork, but feature a mix of materials throughout. The primary defining characteristics are a simple form, use of local, natural materials, and a focus on handcrafted materials.
Mediterranean Revival Style
The Mediterranean Revival style was most popular between 1920-1930. These homes feature multistory plans, huge and symmetrical exterior facades, stuccoed walls, a flat or low-pitched tile or terracotta roof, elaborate arches, parapet walls, balconies and/or porches with wood or wrought iron railings, window grilles, and huge, elaborate entry doors. These homes were built with the idea that more than one generation would live under one roof, and they are designed to maximize space while also encouraging togetherness.
Looking for a New Home in Southern Arizona? Contact Castle & Cooke Today
If you’re looking for a new home in Southern Arizona and are interested in learning more about these architectural styles, contact us at Castle & Cooke. We offer thoughtfully planned communities that focus on vibrant living, opportunities for social and cultural growth, and comfortable homes. To learn more about our designed communities and move-in ready homes, call us today at (520) 441-8580 or contact us online.