Paradise Valley by Whipple Russell Architects, A Sculpted Hillside Estate in Scottsdale, Arizona
Architecture Design of Paradise Valley
Description About The Project
Whipple Russell Architects’ Paradise Valley is a luxury estate in Scottsdale that fuses desert modernism with hillside serenity, offering panoramic views and architectural elegance.
The Project “Paradise Valley” Information:
- Project Name: Paradise Valley
- Location: Scottsdale, Arizona, United States
- Designed by: Whipple Russell Architects
Sculpted into the Desert: A Residence Rooted in Topography
Sculpted into the Desert: A Residence Rooted in Topography
Perched on the rugged slopes of Scottsdale’s iconic terrain, Paradise Valley by Whipple Russell Architects is a luxurious hillside retreat that redefines contemporary desert living. Nestled among boulders and saguaros, the residence balances bold geometry with site sensitivity, creating a dialogue between built form and the natural environment.
“This project was about honoring the desert without overpowering it,” explains Marc Whipple, founder of Whipple Russell Architects. “We let the topography lead the way and carved the design into the hill, rather than placing it on top.”
The result is an architectural statement that feels both monumental and meditative — a home that appears to grow from the land.
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Form Follows Landscape: Architecture as Elevation
The estate cascades across multiple levels, following the contours of the hillside. Each level was carefully oriented to capture uninterrupted views of Camelback Mountain and the greater Scottsdale valley, while ensuring privacy and natural shading.
The home’s core is wrapped in expansive glass, with walls that slide away to dissolve the line between interior and exterior. Terraces, cantilevered decks, and negative-edge pools amplify the feeling of elevation and openness.
“From every room, you feel immersed in the view,” notes Whipple. “We wanted the residents to live not just with the desert — but in it.”
Material Warmth Meets Desert Precision
The architectural palette plays on warm modernism — board-formed concrete, native stone, and warm wood accents are offset by clean steel lines and minimalist finishes. These choices anchor the house visually in the desert palette, while providing a tactile and timeless materiality.
“We’re drawn to materials that age with beauty,” says Whipple. “Natural stone, raw concrete, and weathered wood have a dialogue with the desert — they absorb light, cast shadow, and respond to the seasons.”
Inside, the design favors clean volumes and natural flow. Sunlight filters through clerestory windows and custom louvered screens, while stone feature walls and sculptural lighting define the interiors with restrained elegance.
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Designed for Living — and Breathing
Sustainability and environmental comfort were essential to the concept. The house utilizes deep overhangs and strategic cantilevers to reduce solar gain. Large operable windows support passive cross-ventilation, while smart home systems control lighting, temperature, and shading based on real-time conditions.
“Desert homes must be intelligent,” emphasizes Whipple. “This one breathes with its environment. It cools when it should, opens when it can, and shelters when needed — all without sacrificing luxury.”
The master suite occupies the top floor, a serene retreat with panoramic glazing, a private terrace, and a spa-like bath carved into stone. Lower levels feature guest suites, a media room, and a fully integrated wellness center.
SEE MORE: Casa J.M.C. by Atelier d’Arquitectura Lopes da Costa, A Harmonious Integration with the Landscape
Indoor-Outdoor Living, Reimagined
The estate’s primary gathering spaces — the living room, kitchen, and dining areas — are oriented around a sweeping terrace and infinity pool that stretches toward the horizon. This fluid connection to the outdoors is a defining feature of Paradise Valley.
A sunken firepit lounge, rooftop deck, and covered patios offer layered outdoor experiences, designed for every time of day and season.
“We created zones of intimacy and celebration,” says Whipple. “From sunrise coffee on the upper terrace to golden-hour dinners by the fire, every space is tuned to a moment.”
Photo credit: | Source: Whipple Russell Architects
For more information about this project; please contact the Architecture firm :
– Add: 15021 Ventura Blvd. #869 Sherman Oaks, Ca. 91403
– Tel: (323) 962-5800
– Email: ea@whipplerussell.com
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