Arizona Residential Architects 27 (ARA 27) Magazine

Ten Reasons to Hire an Architect ARA

1. An Architect can help you create and focus your dream house into a built reality.

Architects see the big picture. A skilled architect can help you develop and integrate your list of requirements with the other complex factors to create a unique Arizona home just for you by prioritizing your needs.

2. An Architect is a licensed professional.

Architects are educated, trained, and tested in a large range of areas, including aesthetic design, ergonomics, sociology, ecology, law, building codes, construction materials and technology. This breadth of knowledge allows foresight when evaluating competing requirements and restrictions.

3. An Architect will solve your problems with creative, elegant solutions.

Architects are trained to make buildings both functional and beautiful. An architect will be able to show you alternatives that you might not have considered possible.

4. An Architect is trained in communication.

An architect has experience effectively communicating through written word, drawing, and verbally with the key members of the project including clients, contractors, engineers, and authorities in the manner best suited to the situation.

5. An Architect has experience.

Most architects consider architecture a passion more than a vocation. They draw on past experience. They are an integral part of the design/construction community with contacts in all the fields.

6. An Architect can make your life easier!

Architects can bring pictorial suggestions to the table and assist in decisions for space planning, materials, and finishes transforming your abstract ideas into a form you can visualize.

7. An Architect is cost effective.

A well-conceived, designed, and coordinated project is more economical. Changes made on paper in the design phase are much less expensive than those made during construction.

8. Architecture is a good investment.

Great design sells from consumer products to cities. A well designed home has a higher resale value.

9. An Architect can make your building project environmentally friendly.

Skilled architects work with the environment to create spaces that are sustainable and comply with ever demanding energy performance requirements.

10. An Architect can guide you through an entire project as your advocate.

An architect will be able to assist with every aspect of a project from choosing a site, city permitting, design review board submittals to construction administration. Whether you choose to start a project from the ground up or remodel an existing space, an architect will be able to help the project run smoothly during each stage avoiding disruptive surprises.

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By Nick Tsontakis AIA, NCARB, MRAIC

Arizona Residential Architects is a ground breaking community of design professionals. Our purpose is to support and inspire quality design work with the most influential and talented professionals and trades in our state.

Fifteen leading residential architectural firms in Arizona decided to form Arizona Residential Architects in the Fall of 2010 to foster relationships within the design community and promote exceptional work in a challenging economic market. The ARA members invited valued colleagues to join and network with the ARA architects. These industry partners included respected landscape architects, interior designers, builders, banking institutions, real estate profes sionals, craftsmen, and construc tion trades such as cabinetmak ers, window and door manufac turers, and material suppliers.

The featured projects in provide examples of how architects approach sites and client programs. We dig deep to come up with ideas and a direction for each particular challenge. Architects are trained to be environmentally and socially responsible.

ARA Continuing Education Course

A committee led by prepared a three-hour continuing education course for the residential appraisal community. The committee has also prepared an abbreviated version of the course to present to bankers, realtors, and homeowner

The ARA network promotes collaboration among those who share in the passion of designing and creating an inspiring, well-crafted home.

associations. The course highlights the importance of design in the construction industry.

A filmed version of the continuing education course was recorded on June 15th, 2022 at Skysong, the ASU Innovation Center in front of a live audience. We plan to share this with appraiser, realtor and banker groups nationwide.

C.P. DrewettPhoenix Home & Garden: Master of the Southwest 2024

Gordi Rogers (2002)

Vern Swaback (1997, 2013)

Mark Tate (2021)

Nick Tsontakis (2018)

Craig Wickersham (2023)

Congratulations, C.P.!

Steve Thompson (1953-2023)

Dale Gardon (2012)

Mike Higgins (2009)

Lee Hutchison (2000)

Eddie Jones (1994)

Brent Kendle (2017)

Clint Miller (2010)

180 Degrees (2020)

Nick Tsontakis AIA, NCARB, MRAIC is principal of Tsontakis Architecture. He has been in private practice since 1981. He is also director and publisher of ARA.

Mike Higgins

Carson Architecture and Design

inspiring living

Candelaria Design

Candelaria Design

With more than 30 years of experience in custom residential architecture, both new build and renovations, as well as boutique commercial projects, Candelaria Design takes inspiring living to a whole new level. Through their creative ideas and thoughtful designs, Candelaria Design, and the man who started it all, Mark Candelaria, AIA, are truly an inspiration to clients and industry peers alike.

With more than 30 years of experience in custom residential architecture, both new build and renovations, as well as boutique commercial projects, Candelaria Design takes inspiring living to a whole new level. Through their creative ideas and thoughtful designs, Candelaria Design, and the man who started it all, Mark Candelaria, AIA, are truly an inspiration to clients and industry peers alike.

Mark formed Candelaria Design Associates in 1999 with the belief that the architectural design process should be creative and fun, not tedious and uninspiring. Mark’s talent of sketching by hand and his expertise in spatial design earned him the prestigious title of Master of the Southwest in 2005 by Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine. He was also named as one of the top 125 architects in the Western United States by Western Interiors Magazine.

Mark formed Candelaria Design Associates in 1999 with the belief that the architectural design process should be creative and fun, not tedious and uninspiring. Mark’s talent of sketching by hand and his expertise in spatial design earned him the prestigious title of Master of the Southwest in 2005 by Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine. He was also named as one of the top 125 architects in the Western United States by Western Interiors Magazine.

Candelaria Design has been ranked as the No. 1 Residential Architecture Firm in Arizona repeatedly by Arizona Business Magazine. Some of the firm’s most prestigious honors include the Pacific Coast Builders Gold Nugget Award for custom homes over 6,500 square feet and the first LEED-certified home, The Zona Verde Home located in Paradise Valley, and the architect chosen to design the HGTV Smart Home located in Scottsdale in 2017.

Candelaria Design has been ranked as the No. 1 Residential Architecture Firm in Arizona repeatedly by Arizona Business Magazine. Some of the firm’s most prestigious honors include the Pacific Coast Builders Gold Nugget Award for custom homes over 6,500 square feet and the first LEED-certified home, The Zona Verde Home located in Paradise Valley, the architect chosen to design the HGTV Smart Home located in Scottsdale in 2017, and Iconic Magazine’s Iconic Haus 2020.

Candelaria Team

Candelaria Team

In the age of technology and rapid, impersonal communications, it is comforting to have the ability to instantly take an idea or concept from a client and manifest the notion with pen to paper. Candelaria’s hand-selected team of talented architects and project managers follow a careful and deliberate process in each custom luxury home or boutique commercial design. The firm’s philosophy is rooted in the initial human connection and enhanced with the latest technology that allows the team to produce designs that encompass a spirit and custom craftsmanship unlike any other offered today.

In the age of technology and rapid, impersonal communications, it is comforting to have the ability to instantly take an idea or concept om a client and manifest the notion with pen to paper. Candelaria’s hand-selected team of talented architects and project managers follow a careful and deliberate process in each custom luxury home or boutique commercial design. The firm’s philosophy is rooted in the initial human connection and enhanced with the latest technology that allows the team to produce designs that encompass a spirit and custom cra smanship unlike any other offered today.

Candelaria Lifestyle

Candelaria Lifestyle

Candelaria Design has taken the notion of ‘inspiring living’ and expanded it to encompass annual self-guided European travel tours and custom luxury home furnishings designed with these world travels in mind. Currently, they offer tours of Italy and Spain. Both tours immerse guests in European ancient architecture, sweeping views of the land, culinary cooking classes, fine dining on local cuisine, antique shopping treasures and endless fun. Mark’s love of traveling, cooking and design has also inspired his own line of home accessories including a custom-designed Pasta Maker available in ‘race car red.’ For more information on Candelaria Design, we invite you to visit candelariadesign.com.

Candelaria Design has taken the notion of ‘inspiring living’ and expanded it to encompass annual self-guided European travel tours and custom luxury home furnishings designed with these world travels in mind. Currently, they offer annual tours of Italy and Spain and are planning to expand their travels. Both tours immerse guests in European ancient architecture, sweeping views of the land, culinary cooking classes, fine dining on local cuisine, antique shopping treasures and endless fun. Mark’s love of traveling, cooking and design has also inspired his own line of home accessories including a custom-designed Pasta Maker available in ‘race car red.’ For more information on Candelaria Design, we invite you to visit candelariadesign.com.

6900 east camelback

MEREDITH THOMSON, VIVIAN AYALA, MARK CANDELARIA, EVELYN JUNG

Mark Candelaria

Mark Candelaria

SCOTTSDALE | 15507 NORTH SCOTTSDALE RD., STE 120

PELLASCOTTSDALE.COM

GILBERT | 190 SOUTH MCQUEEN RD., STE 101

PELLAGILBERT.COM

TUCSON | 6970 NORTH ORACLE RD., STE 100

PELLAOFTUCSON.COM

FLAGSTAFF | 555 WEST FOREST MEADOWS ST., STE 14

PELLAFLAGSTAFF.COM

Colleen & Connor Olson

Kelly

Kim Cooper

Leanne King

Melinda Muller

Dave & Rick Elton

David Koon

Suzye Kleiner

Denise Pruitt

Jim Geldien & Mark Ficklin

Stephanie Altdoerffer

Rob, Michelle & Sandy Alder

Vicki Kaplan

DALE GARDON DESIGN

Dale Gardon, AIA, LEED AP

Principal

20885 N. 90th Place, Suite 100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

dale@dalegardondesign.com

www.dalegardondesign.com

480.948.9666

With over 25 years experience designing custom homes, Dale Gardon leads the residential design team and helps them create unique one-of-a kind residences for the diverse clientele the firm has had the privilege to work with. From concept to reality, Dale takes the vision each client has for their home and makes it a reality. Located directly off Market Street in DC Ranch, the award winning studio office looks more like a residence than a commercial building. Warm rich earth tones greet you at the door, and there is comfortable atmosphere that embraces you. Dale has designed homes ranging from 1,800 s.f to over 15,000 s.f. with budgets that span from $45 to over $1,200 p.s.f. Each custom residence is designed, crafted and personalized to the needs and desires of each client. Design distinction is what makes the difference in their homes, incorporating indoor/outdoor living environments, pool grottos, and other special features or spaces. They blend those unique characteristics into a cohesive design composition in the architectural style desired by the client. Careful consideration is given to the site and orientation of the home, integrating the site topography, solar orientation, and views to the best advantage to create the finest living experience. From traditional to contemporary styles, each residence design that is created by the firm embraces a sense of comfort, and has the uniquely individual design elements that make it truly a custom home.

Mesa | Surprise | Flagstaff | Tucson

centralazsupply.com

Phoenix | Scottsdale | Gilbert

C.P. Drewett, AIA, NCARB

DREWETT WORKS PRESIDENT AND FOUNDING ARCHITECT

Driven by a passion for design, mathematics, and physics, architect C.P. Drewett, AIA, NCARB, has established himself as one of the most sought-after professionals in his eld. Pushing the edge of everything he does, he is known for his innovative, compelling work and modernist style. In 2001, C.P. launched his award-winning architectural rm, Drewett Works, in Scottsdale, Arizona, and has amassed a vast portfolio that focuses on the upper end of residential, commercial, and masterplan projects. C.P.’s deep respect for regional architectural traditions and his reputation for creating artful, timeless, and innovative designs have earned him respect among his peers and discerning clientele. No stranger to acclaim, Drewett Works is the recipient of a multitude of honors, and its work has consistently appeared in high-end design publications. Current rm projects span the U.S. from Florida to California as well as Loreto and Los Cabos, Mexico. The rm recently published its rst book: STRATA: a desert dwelling (Oscar Riera Ojeda Publishers), featuring the company’s biggest single-residential project to date.

As a building professional, your vision is to provide great design options for your customers. At Windsor Windows & Doors, our passion is to bring you a versatile line of window and door products to exceed your expectations and inspire your customers. Windsor’s product line provides vast design options, plus the quality craftsmanship for which we are known. Our easy-to-work-with professionals focus on providing you the right window and door product for your customers’ needs, making Windsor Windows & Doors a true partner in your success.

L a C a n t i n a ' s i n n o v a t i v e d o o r s ys t e m s f e a t u r e e x p a n s i ve g l a s s p a n e ls t h at o p e n

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M u l t i S l i d e D o o r S y s t e m

S c o tt s d a l e , A Z

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15685 N. GREENWAY HAYDEN LP SUITE 115

With decades of designing the finest homes in the American Southwest, Urban Design Associates provides a full scope of architectural services.

We believe the key to a successful experience is capturing our clients’ vision and fusing creativity and functionality to create their perfect place for celebration and renewal.

480-905-1212

OFFICE@UDA.EMAIL Udaltd.com

Experience the architectural brilliance of the Pinnacle View residence, where design seamlessly flows from the front courtyard through the entire home to the rear. A unique hallway extends across the home, with clear-story windows bathing the hallway in natural light. A vaulted ceiling with pendant lights, creates a captivating architectural rhythm that leads to a view of ocotillos.

Experience Extraordinary Living with EcoLuxe Interiors for Your Home

Whether you seek a modern oasis or a classic sanctuary, Sesshu Design is your gateway to timeless sophistication. We have a passion for crafting remarkable environments with a focus on wellbeing. Our design stewardship approach guides thoughtful decisions with quality craftsmanship and exceptional materials, creating stunning results that

will surpass your expectations. With Sesshu Design, every project is a masterpiece in the making.

Visit our website at sesshudesign.com and envision the possibilities for your home. Contact us today, and let Sesshu Design Associates elevate your personal environment to extraordinary.

JAMES HANN DESIGN, AIA

James Hann AIA Principal

9834 E. Kalil Drive

Scottsdale, Arizona 85260

jameshann@jameshanndesign.com www.jameshanndesign.com

480.661.0517 - O

480.510.1450 - M

James Hann is an artist. Although Architecture is a technical discipline, to him, it is still an art form on a human scale. Licensed in several states, with over 40 years of experience, he strives to create design work as both sculpture and a functional living environment.

Every commission is unique and must meet certain criteria to satisfy a client. The process of design involves effective communication and being a good listener. "Understanding and meeting our clients' needs is probably the single most important factor in achieving success with a project. Architectural design is a very personal process ... from concept to completion."

While many Architects' design work occurs within a fairly narrow design range, Hann prefers to be known for his creative solutions involving a fairly wide range of design styles. His strength is in the diversity of his work and his

James Hann

Explore PORCELANOSA: global leaders in luxur y tiles, bathrooms, and kitchens. With over 40 years of exper tise, our innovative and elegant designs elevate Arizona residential projects. Visit our new Scot tsdale showroom for timeless craf tsmanship and sustainable solutions.

Stone: Santorini Granite (Bookmatch)

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Contour House

Architect: Kendle Design Collaborative.

Photography: Bradley Wheeler

Contour House

Desert Wash

Architect: Kendle Design Collaborative.

Photography: Michael Woodall

202 S Price Road #101 Tempe, AZ 85281 stravitzglass.com 480-294-6187

Bridgeview

Architect: Kendle Design Collaborative.

Photography: Chibi Moku

Eddie

Jones, FAIA Founding Principal

info@jonesstudioinc.com

jonesstudioinc.com

602.264.2941

205 South Wilson Street

Tempe, Arizona 85281

In the sweeping landscape north of Winslow, Arizona, overlooking the sacred ancestral land of the Hopi, there exists the Homolovi State Park Visitors Center. For the last 35 years a small example of environmentally sensitive architecture has endured the inevitable weathering of nature’s clutch. Far o the road less traveled, this secluded assembly of local stone and rust has provided shade for indiginous wild donkeys and an education for the curious few in the ways of the prehistoric Hisat’sinorn... “long ago people”.

Homolovi Ruins (right) - Brian Farling

Photos by Matt Winquist

Homoluvi Ruins (right) - Brian Farling All other Photos by Matt Winquist

Homoluvi Ruins (right) - Brian Farling

All other Photos by Matt Winquist

ACOUSTIC designs group

WELCOME

Scottsdale, Arizona

@adgroupaz

ACOUSTIC designs group

WELCOME HOME

ACOUSTIC designs group

Scottsdale, Arizona

WEBSITE adgroupaz.com

Scottsdale, Arizona

@adgroupaz

@adgroupaz

WEBSITE adgroupaz.com

WEBSITE adgroupaz.com

The

“As a ‘desert’ architect, Brent is one of a very select group of his local contemporaries that are still exploring materials as an expression of the design language. Often incorporating signature mediums such as rammed earth, concrete and steel, he makes this approach all seem highly refined and constructed with heroic visual strength.”

-Scott Jarson AZ Architeture

Kendle Design Collaborative designs homes that are at once poetic and pragmatic, not only enhancing the act of daily living, but elevating the spirit of those who dwell within. We design homes where a unique visual delight may be found around every corner, changing with the passing of the sun and the rhythms of nature. This we believe is living architecture, home design that celebrates the many joys of living.

As an architect, I feel my primary responsibility is to clearly understand my client's priorities, values, and aspirations, but most importantly to understand what brings them joy. Only then can I carefully craft the design and details of their new home such that it enhances their daily living, bringing them joy in their quietest moments as well as times of celebration.

I hope that you will consider us for your next home design. We would be honored to work with you, where together we can

Brent Kendle, AIA, LEED AP

brent@kendledesign.com

Clint Miller

SIMPLICITY ▪ STRENGTH ▪ STYLE

Clint Miller

TREVOR COOPER PHOTOGRAPHY

Welcome to BUILD Magazine, a curated resource for all your home building and renovating dreams. Our highly coveted magazines adorn the coffee tables of luxury homes in 13 high-end communities in North America, and each company featured in BUILD Magazine is recognized as a leader in their field.

Our pages are brimming with ideas and inspiration that our readers return to again and again. Our website, blog and social media channels contain in-depth profiles, Instagram videos, articles written by industry experts and more!

AIA ARIZONA FIRM OF THE YEAR 2022

180 Degrees Design + Build is an award-winning, architect-led design-build firm that provides the highest level of quality design and construction for discerning clients who value innovation, sustainability, and craft. Our team includes licensed architects, architecturally trained specialists, and fabricators.

4955 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ

85013

James Trahan, AIA Principal

John Anderson, AIA Principal

Troy Vincent, AIA Principal

Valle Vista Residence Paradise Valley, Arizona

Photography by Matt Winquist

Much more than a window.

ERIK B. PETERSON

ERIK PETERSON AIA

info@phxarch.com

www.phxarch.com

888.217.1117

15990 Greenway-Hayden Loop Suite C100 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

PHX Architecture is an architect firm based in Scottsdale and Los Angeles, specializing in Luxury Residential, Golf Clubhouse, and Hospitality design. Our design concepts continually evolve, conform, and most importantly – respond to each project’s unique characteristics. Our team defines “Living Architecture” as a space that harmoniously combines site, form, functionality, and the human scale, creating the connective link between the surrounding environment and the client’s goals and vision.

Every home is a unique expression of the lives lived there. A reflection of your clients’ tastes and passions. Your design realizes their dream. Our technology makes it a reality. Smart home technology that is intuitive and simple. Instantly responsive to touch or the sound of your clients’ voice. A complete smart home system tailored just as they imagined.

One company designs, manufactures and supports every component of that system. One company where design and technology meet. Beautifully.

SEVER DESIGN GROUP ARCHITECTS

Mark Sever AIA Principal

Suite 103-423

Scottsdale, Arizona 85262

mark@severgroup.com

www.severgroup.com

480.596.0040

I create truly one-of-a-kind, site specific designs and have been doing so for 30 years. Designing and building custom homes requires a very personal and dedicated connection to the client and their wishes. Every architect in the ARA understands this connection and excels in achieving signature design and thus, real value for their clients.

I have been fortunate enough to participate in the roles of client, architect, designer and builder over the years having built several homes for myself. I understand the process from each perspective which gives me insight to address any unique requirement. I utilize progressive technologies which allow me to present, convey and interact with a client or team member regardless of location.

Designing and building a custom home is the ultimate reward and reflection on a lifetime of success. I understand the importance of conveying the correct statement my clients wish to make about their new home.

I enjoy working with great clients wanting to create a great piece of architecture regardless of scale.

SINCE 2000

SPIRIT OF PLACE

SWABACK Architects + Planners is a collective of passionate designers committed to delivering comprehensive architectural design, interior design, and planning services for discerning clients who demand the utmost in personalized attention and innovation on exceptional properties. Our ever-expanding portfolio of both new and returning clients stands as a testament to the consistently collaborative co-design process we offer. At SWABACK, sustainable building practices form the cornerstone of our design philosophy, reflecting our belief that great design possesses a transformative influence far beyond mere aesthetics, and thoughtfully crafted spaces have the power to shape human behavior.

Established in 1978, our firm continues to honor its unique history with the visionary Frank Lloyd Wright’s practices and teachings centered on the connection between design and nature. As the youngest apprentice to Mr. Wright, our founding partner, Vernon D. Swaback, spent over 25 years with the Frank Lloyd Wright organization and has infused Wright’s practices and principles into the new generation of our firm’s leadership. We incorporate stylistic elements reminiscent of Wright’s work throughout our custom home projects, with a focus on creating contextual and culturally authentic spaces.

jonb@swaback.com

Jon C. Bernhard, AIA Senior Partner

John E. Sather, AIA, AICP Managing Partner

Michael D. Wetzel, AIA Partner

Jeffrey M. Denzak Partner

Vernon D. Swaback, FAIA, FAICP Founding Partner

IT IS THE RELATIONSHIP OF ALL THINGS THAT CREATES VALUE.

Architect: Kendle Design Collaborative Interiors: Ownby Design

Builder: Mackos Construction

Photographer: Kevin Brost kevinjflower.com |602-341-3667

WINNER OF THE 2022 EXCELLENCE IN MASONRY AWARD by the Arizona Masonry Council

Michelle Pierce Principal Designer

LISSA LEE HICKMAN (480) 912-4115

INTERIOR

BUILDING LUXURY ONE PERSONALIZED PARTNERSHIP AT A TIME

For more than two decades, we have been building beautiful homes and great relationships in the most prestigious communities across the Valley. We strive to foster a true collaborative experience that endures beyond move-in as we continue to care for every home we build.

TSONTAKISRCHITECTURE

Nick Tsontakis was born at home in Kostadiana, a tiny village located off the northwest coast of Crete. He came into this world in a bedroom with corner windows overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. He grew up gazing at some of the most beautiful vistas on the planet. When his family moved to Montreal, Quebec, Canada, he marveled at the aesthetic magnificence of Old Montreal and the innovative structures and international pavilions of Expo ‘67.

Living in Montreal, Nick graduated from McGill University School of Architecture with Distinction, and was the principal of Nick Tsontakis Architects from 1981 to 2001. He moved to Scottsdale and formed Tsontakis Architecture in 1996.

Master of the Southwest Award - Phoenix Home & Garden Design Icon for Architecture Award - Sources for Design

Nick Tsontakis

AIA, NCARB, MRAIC

9430 East Presidio Road

Scottsdale, Arizona 85260-4389

NickT@TsontakisArchitecture.com

www.ElevateYourPlans.com

480.874.2288

Nick Tsontakis

Nick Tsontakis

KITCHENS | BATHS | WARDROBES | STUDIES | LUXURY CAR SPACES

A MASTERPIECE - OUR PROMISE

DESIGNER

DREAM

KITCHEN STUDIO

DESIGNER DREAM KITCHEN Studio

Old Town Scottsdale

Showroom by appointment only

designerdreamkitchenstudio.com

@kitchen_designers on instagram

480-749-2500

“TigerEyeBridge”byJonWendell

Design & Interiors | Remodel | Custom Cabinetry

At Woodcrest, our passion is in transforming houses into exquisite homes. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail rede ne the standards of luxury living. Experience an e ortless journey from conceptualization to completion with our all-inclusive design, constrtuction, and custom cabinetry solutions.

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SMoCA Alliance is a community of belonging—based on an a nity for contemporary art, design, and architecture—that cultivates support and exposure for Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art exhibitions and programs.

Individual and corporate insider levels available. Benefits include:

Exclusive insider events

Curator-led private tours

Plus, Scottsdale Arts ONE Member benefits such as: Free SMoCA admission

Priority seating to Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

Donor recognition

And so much more!

To learn more, visit SMoCA.org/smoca-alliance or scan the QR code with your mobile device.

Steven R. Thompson

Steven R. Thompson was born in Phoenix, AZ on June 6, 1953 and passed on September 10, 2023.

He was preceded in death by his father Wayne Collins Thompson Jr. and his mother Marcella “Marianne” Wynn. Steve is survived by his sister Susan, brother-in-law John, niece Jennifer and step father Marvin.

Steve graduated from Cortez High School. He began teaching photography at Scottsdale Community College. Steve was a self-taught creative and was blessed with knowledge in visual aspects. He saw light and imagery in his mind’s eye and was able to create it with his camera lens. Steve was already well known in the photography circle and had his photos published in major Phoenix publications. He was hired by the largest retail advertising agency’s in Phoenix and photographed several world known fashion models such as Christie Brinkley, Iman, Carol Alt, Cheryl Tiegs, Kathy Ireland and many locally known models. Steve was hired by one of the largest retailers in the country and moved to New York City.

He spent several years in NYC before being hired by Goldwater’s Department Store in Scottsdale, AZ. Steve moved back to his beloved Cave Creek where he raised many wild macaws, wolves, made friends with rattle snakes and gila monsters.

Steve had done it all by the late 80’s when he began his transition with working for architects, builders and high end realtors, photo graphing with natural light using only his camera and the sun.

Steve once referred to his technique as "natural light imaging" a technique he developed that gave rooms a warmer and more authentic look. "If you go back in art history, all the great masters used natural lighting on their subjects, it’s all they had to work with but it set a standard on how a subject should look naturally. The thing I love about natural lighting is it's always there and it looks better than any lighting scheme anybody could come up with. I can just concentrate on looking and finding my shot."

Steve had many great friends, neighbors and was a mentor to many. His passion, wisdom and guidance for natural light imaging was sometimes overwhelming

Steve has been "finding his shot" since he was a kid spending time in the darkroom with his dad, an amateur photographer. “The darkroom experience was what helped me realize my calling” he pointed out, "Developing film and making prints was really magical for me. I felt like a wizard freezing time and space in my own little world". He began shooting photos with a Kodak Brownie box camera that his dad bought for him. While on a family camping trip to Yellowstone National Park, "My first subject matter was a black bear trying to break into our camper. I jumped out and started taking shots of the bear until my dad told me to get back in immediately!”

When he wasn’t shooting architecture, you would find this second-generation native Arizonan exploring the backroads of the state, shooting its natural wonders or funneling his creative talents into another passion he never lost from his childhood - guitars.

Steve had a total of 12 guitars. "Some are acoustic and most are electric but they all have a different sound and that’s what it's all about in music - the sound!"

He explained that music is a creative outlet to escape into something completely different other than photography. “It makes for a nice mix in life.”

Steve had many great friends, neighbors and was a mentor to many. His passion, wisdom and guidance for natural light imaging was sometimes overwhelming - like stopping for a short visit and staying for 2 hours watching and listening to him edit on Photoshop. He was a master of photography at work, he would always say things like, “don’t be lazy”, “don’t take short cuts” and “always work the image till the end.” Steve taught how to be a hunter of light and to capture its moment. We can sometimes feel Steve’s spirit on shoots telling us to move the tripod to the right and check the focus. Steve is dearly missed by Bill Watters and many of his best friends.

Contributed by: Christine Seay, Brian O’Neill and Bill Watters

La

Manship

Rosie

Salcito

Steg

Brooks & Company

Camelback Interior Design

Creative Edge Interiors

Est Est Inc.

Friedman & Shields

Hank Arens Designs

IMI Design

Janet Brooks Design

Katherine Mueller Design

KT TAMM INC

Laura Kehoe Design

LHL Incorporated

Lillian James Design Group

MariaZinteriors, LLC

Sesshu Design

Stephanie Larsen Interior Design Greey-Pickett

Garaza

ARA27