Hummingbird —William P. Bruder FAIA Architect

This stunning design by Will Bruder is easily recognized as one of his finest and is celebrated internationally. Included in numerous publications, this significant home has been beautifully restored and certainly is one of the most expressive celebrations of architecture in the region. A delightful play of light and form, the materials include a palette of colored resins, glass, steel, concrete and metals.  The hillside site in Paradise Valley offers a superb view-panorama nestled in the eastern saddle of Mummy Mountain.

The home is fully automated and offers unique controls and audio visual detailing. The Courtyard includes a custom commissioned sculpture collaboration design by artist Mayme Kratz and Architect Mark Ryan. The Bedroom wing was seamlessly expanded with the assistance of Jack Debartelo III/Debartleo Architects.

Originally known as the Townsend Residence, there is generous space with three bedrooms, den/library/office, bonus room or guest and lower retreat.  A translucent fiberglass screened motor court accommodating a three car garage. Designed to accommodate a desert lifestyle that emphasizes indoor/outdoor relationships, as well as a showcase for extensive art and modern furniture collections, the home incorporates five intertwined circles and crisp, curvilinear geometry. Screened from the street, the approach to the home features a canyon-like space that echoes the surrounding natural mountain forms. Visitors enter through an impressive 7’6” pivoting glass door under a custom aluminum canopy. Once inside, the curving concrete masonry opens to reveal dramatic and impressive distant views and a commanding panorama of Paradise Valley to the north.

Sculpted processional of interior wall forms draw the eye through an ever-changing series of interior volumes, ending in a 310’ arc of glass. A dance of natural light floats in and out of the spaces, assisted by dozens of strategically placed glass and resin window squares enhancing subtle and unique view vignettes. Interior walls are further enhanced with hand applied smooth reflective plasters.