Toltec Custom Homes orchestrates masterpieces for beautiful living. Whether you own land to be built upon or you are looking for the perfect homesite to build your masterpiece, make Toltec Custom Homes part of your decision-making process. For more information, call 480.244.6347 or visit www.tolteccustomhomes.com.
DECEMBER 2007 / JANUARY 2008
A Little About “Toltec”
The Toltec were an ancient civilization of Mexico. The name in Nahuatl means “master builders.” Influenced by Teotihuacán and the Olmec culture, they were masters in the arts and architecture. The Toltec civilization was materially far advanced. They smelted metals and their stonework was highly developed. The Toltec were artists, architects and engineers far ahead of their time. Later, the Aztec people used the term “Toltec” to refer to a person who was the embodiment of great knowledge and wisdom.
A Little About Toltec Custom Homes
Greg Hammond, President Toltec Custom Homes _________ Monica Hammond, CEO Toltec Custom Homes Owner/Agent
Greg Hammond, President and Owner of Toltec Custom Homes, has over twenty years of experience in the Arizona building industry. He has assembled an outstanding team of extraordinary professionals to deliver the pinnacle in quality, material, workmanship and service to meet and exceed clients’ expectations in the custom homebuilding experience. Toltec Custom Homes prides itself in utilizing leading edge technology to expedite and enhance the building process. In the field, Toltec Custom Homes has all information concerning each project on hand through the Build Links technology; plans, blueprints, schedules, projections, progress photos, contracts, contacts etc. are all accessible through a password protected webbased management and communication system. Since Toltec Custom Homes’ field personnel are armed with wireless PC technology, this allows access to important information at all times to keep the projects moving; any time, anywhere. It is both art and science in the building of a home that is both aesthetically beautiful and functionally practical, and Toltec Custom Homes embraces both aspects.
A Little About How Toltec’s Knowledge Can Help You…
Not only can Toltec Custom Homes create the home of your dreams, but their extensive knowledge of land/lots in affluent areas, and their real estate expertise is at your disposal. Monica Hammond, CEO of Toltec Custom Homes and a licensed Realtor®, can aid you in locating and purchasing your ideal home site. With years of experience in the custom home building industry, there’s added value in utilizing their services in your land acquisition endeavor…value that can save you a lot of time, frustration, and money. With an eye towards the final product in mind, Toltec Custom Homes can address many important issues often not considered during the lot selection process. While views and vegetation are important, there are many other issues that can impact the home building process such as zoning (Environmentally Sensitive Land Ordinances, height restrictions, etc.), topography (washes cfs, elevation changes, etc.), soil condition (expansive soils, hard rock, etc.), site engineering (compaction, grading, drainage, etc.), lot/site preparation (excavation, retaining walls, etc.), and Home Owners Associations (CC&Rs, Architectural Committees, Design Review, etc) all of which can impact (1) the design/orientation of the house, (2) the landscape design and species of vegetation allowed, and ultimately (3) your cost for the homebuilding project. Before launching your search for the perfect home site, contact Monica Hammond at 480-244-6347. Simplify your search and save time, frustration, and money. It doesn’t cost you a penny to access this specialized service.
Timeless Beauty
DISCOVER TOLTEC CUSTOM HOMES
Soothing Spa Treatments
LUXURIOUS OPTIONS AT VALLEY RESORTS
The Romantic Dinner Finale’! SUMPTUOUS STRAWBERRY TIRAMISU
If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Refresh & Rejuvenate
VALLEY SPAS OFFER THE ULTIMATE IN PAMPERING Lifetime Fitness Reindeer Run- Tempe Beach Park, Dec. 15th. 480.705.8855 or lifetimefitness.com/events. This 3.5 mile fun run/walk begins with an official “Ho, Ho, Ho…Go!” start by Santa himself. Kids 12 and under can participate in the Fisher-Price Kids K: a .6 mile course perfect for little ones. Plus, they’ll receive a commemorative backpack for their “race”. Come prepared to meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph and the Elves. There will be a costume contest for run/walk participants and everyone is encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program. A Christmas Carol- Herberger Theater, through Dec. 23rd. 602.252.8497 or herbergertheater.org. Produced by Actors Theatre, this holiday tradition never gets old. Dickens’ classic story of regret, redemption and newfound hope is sure to warm your heart and rekindle those magical feelings of Christmas that you’ve held onto since childhood. A wonderful way to celebrate the holidays, A Christmas Carol never fails to deliver! Movies at the Museum- Phoenix Art Museum, Dec. 30th. 602.257.1222 or phxart.org. Enjoy outstanding independent, classic cinema and documentaries relating to art, artists and works on view in the Museum, usually followed by discussion. All Movies at the Museum showings are free and first come, first seated. The Dec. 30th showing is The Name of the Rose starring Sean Connery as the Franciscan friar William of Baskerville and Christian Slater as his apprentice. The two investigate mysterious deaths at an abbey and explore its medieval library and manuscript collections as they pursue the killer. 37th Annual Tostitos Fiesta Bowl- University of Phoenix Stadium, Jan. 2nd. 480.350.0911 or fiestabowl.org. As a member of the Bowl Championship Series, the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl has the opportunity to host the champion of the Big 12 Conference as well as another one of the nation’s top college football teams. The BCS was implemented beginning with the 1998 season to determine the national champion for college football while maintaining and enhancing the bowl system that’s nearly 100 years old. Come on out, pom-poms in hand, to cheer on your favored team! ZooLights- Phoenix Zoo, through Jan. 6th. 602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.org. Don’t miss ZooLights, one of the largest holiday light shows in the southwest with 2.5 million lights and hundreds of custom-lighted animal displays. If you’ve attended in previous years, you’ll notice that ZooLights has added several new features this year. Come see the “Music & Motion” dancing tree show in surround sound, the giant tail-flipping scorpion and a giant 3-D spider with a web over the walkway. One of the most popular features is Jengo, the talking giraffe. Round out your night with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and a churro while enjoying the carousel, camel and wagon rides. Barrow Grand Ball- Arizona Biltmore Resort, Jan. 19th. 602.406.3000 or mha.chw.edu. Benefiting the Barrow Neurological Foundation, this highly-anticipated black-tie event is sure to be a festive start to the New Year. Enjoy dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions as you mingle with other charitable Phoenicians.
Whether you’re interested in managing your holiday-induced stress, or have made an oh-so-enviable New Year’s resolution to pamper yourself more often, use this guide to find a signature treatment worthy of all the spectacular hype. SANCTUARY SPA Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa, Paradise Valley 480.948.2100 or sanctuaryoncamelback.com Winter Candlelight Watsu This massage brings your body to a deep state of relaxation. The support of the water takes weight off your body, allowing it to be stretched and moved to encourage whole body wellness. Gentle, gradual twists and pulls relieve the pressures of a stressful life, helping you to emerge from the pool with greater equanimity and flexibility. Votive candles grace the pool’s edges as you’ll experience the elements of both fire and water under the starlit night sky. The gentle fluttering of the candle flames adds a soothing, hypnotic effect to the already deep relaxation of Watsu. THE CENTRE FOR WELL-BEING The Phoenician Resort, Scottsdale • 480.941.8200 or thephoenician.com Myoxy Caviar Facial & Granite Stone Face Massage This signature facial is a luxury like no other. Your therapist will combine the latest technology of caviar, escutoxTM (a hibiscus extract) and pearl extract to create a revolutionary anti-aging skincare treatment. Combined with a facial stone massage, this 80-minute getaway will leave you refreshed and relaxed. WILLOW STREAM The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale • 480.585.4848 or willowstream.com Willow Stream Golf Facial This hydrating facial was designed to moisturize, repair and protect skin from sun, wind and extreme temperature changes. Followed by a soothing shoulder, hand and foot massage, this treatment promises to relax and revitalize the tired muscles of the golf enthusiast. Also included in the treatment is the Willow Stream Sports Masque that softens and brightens the skin, and a Willow Stream Golf Gift. ALVADORA SPA Royal Palms Resort & Spa, Phoenix • 602.840.3610 or royalpalmshotel.com Orange Blossom Body Buff The sweet, uplifting scent of neroli oils will leave you enchanted. Neroli is a naturally balanced moisturizing essential oil from the orange blossom. It helps to restore moisture and supports the skin’s renewal process. This vigorous exfoliation treatment leads to a scalp and neck massage while cocooned in warmth and finishes with an application of rich body lotion and mists of neroli water.
52 crisp lady fingers 1 1/2 lbs strawberries, divided
Sumptuous Strawberry Tiramisu 1 1/4 cups strawberry preserves 1/3 cup plus 4 tablespoons orange liqueur 1/3 cup orange juice 1 lb. mascarpone cheese (room temperature) 1 1/3 cups chilled whipping cream 1/3 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a 2-cup measuring cup, whisk strawberry preserves, 1/3 cup of orange liqueur, orange juice and set aside. In a large bowl, fold together the mascarpone cheese and 2 tablespoons orange liqueur. In another bowl place cream, sugar, vanilla and 2 tablespoons orange liqueur. Use an electric mixer and beat to soft peaks. In the bowl with the cheese mixture stir in 1/4 of whipped cream mixture, and then fold in the remaining whipped cream mixture.
Hull and slice 26 strawberries. In a 13x9x2 inch glass dish, spread 1/2 cup preserve mixture. Arrange enough ladyfingers to cover bottom of dish. Spoon 3/4 cup preserve mixture over ladyfingers, then spread 2 1/2 cups mascarpone mixture. Over this arrange 2 cups sliced strawberries. Repeat layering with remaining ladyfingers, preserve mixture and mascarpone mixture. Cover with plastic and chill at least 8 hours or overnight. Slice remaining strawberries and arrange over tiramisu and serve.
Toltec Custom Homes President and Owner Greg Hammond has a passion for creating — creating culinary masterpieces as well as architectural masterpieces! His savory hobby has him sampling recipes from the complex and exotic to the simple and traditional. It seems perfect to share in this issue since the history of tiramisu lies in the “Old World” (Italy).
The romantic ‘Old World’ dining room on the cover was carefully orchestrated by Toltec Custom Homes. Integral to achieving the timeless beauty of this room is the use of natural materials. If you look carefully you will see the rustic, yet elegant wooden floor that captures a certain character that transports you to another time and place. Each plank was individually laid in its unfinished natural state. After the planks were laid, the reclaimed wormy oak floor was stained and sealed to become the foundation for this quietly spectacular space. Majestically embracing the room above are the beams on the cathedral ceiling which are rough hewn wood. Again, the beams were set in a natural unfinished state and were later stained and thrice blasted to infuse the room with a warm and intimate atmosphere. Because stone or brick would have been too overpowering, burnt adobe pavers were set between the wooden beams on the ceiling to further enhance the dreamy Old World feel.
The elegant commanding column in the foreground is of natural cantera stone imported from Mexico. Handcarved, enhanced and sealed, the natural stone offers a beauty unattainable with fabricated materials. To take advantage of the enviable climate in Arizona, two sets of multi-paned French doors encompass the entire east facing wall and open the room to a cozy pavered courtyard for a carefree indoor/outdoor dining experience. Finishes in every room are important, and in this room the stately, refined wrought-iron chandeliers and sconces gracefully accent with a regal touch. To complete the look, All About Interiors designed and hung luxurious draperies framing the French doors and Dianna Sever, Director of Interior Design for DesignSource Furniture, customized the grand dining ensemble. Greg Yodis of Paramount Interiors, Inc. adorned the table with a silk and dried flower creation.
Refresh & Rejuvenate
VALLEY SPAS OFFER THE ULTIMATE IN PAMPERING Lifetime Fitness Reindeer Run- Tempe Beach Park, Dec. 15th. 480.705.8855 or lifetimefitness.com/events. This 3.5 mile fun run/walk begins with an official “Ho, Ho, Ho…Go!” start by Santa himself. Kids 12 and under can participate in the Fisher-Price Kids K: a .6 mile course perfect for little ones. Plus, they’ll receive a commemorative backpack for their “race”. Come prepared to meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph and the Elves. There will be a costume contest for run/walk participants and everyone is encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program. A Christmas Carol- Herberger Theater, through Dec. 23rd. 602.252.8497 or herbergertheater.org. Produced by Actors Theatre, this holiday tradition never gets old. Dickens’ classic story of regret, redemption and newfound hope is sure to warm your heart and rekindle those magical feelings of Christmas that you’ve held onto since childhood. A wonderful way to celebrate the holidays, A Christmas Carol never fails to deliver! Movies at the Museum- Phoenix Art Museum, Dec. 30th. 602.257.1222 or phxart.org. Enjoy outstanding independent, classic cinema and documentaries relating to art, artists and works on view in the Museum, usually followed by discussion. All Movies at the Museum showings are free and first come, first seated. The Dec. 30th showing is The Name of the Rose starring Sean Connery as the Franciscan friar William of Baskerville and Christian Slater as his apprentice. The two investigate mysterious deaths at an abbey and explore its medieval library and manuscript collections as they pursue the killer. 37th Annual Tostitos Fiesta Bowl- University of Phoenix Stadium, Jan. 2nd. 480.350.0911 or fiestabowl.org. As a member of the Bowl Championship Series, the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl has the opportunity to host the champion of the Big 12 Conference as well as another one of the nation’s top college football teams. The BCS was implemented beginning with the 1998 season to determine the national champion for college football while maintaining and enhancing the bowl system that’s nearly 100 years old. Come on out, pom-poms in hand, to cheer on your favored team! ZooLights- Phoenix Zoo, through Jan. 6th. 602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.org. Don’t miss ZooLights, one of the largest holiday light shows in the southwest with 2.5 million lights and hundreds of custom-lighted animal displays. If you’ve attended in previous years, you’ll notice that ZooLights has added several new features this year. Come see the “Music & Motion” dancing tree show in surround sound, the giant tail-flipping scorpion and a giant 3-D spider with a web over the walkway. One of the most popular features is Jengo, the talking giraffe. Round out your night with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and a churro while enjoying the carousel, camel and wagon rides. Barrow Grand Ball- Arizona Biltmore Resort, Jan. 19th. 602.406.3000 or mha.chw.edu. Benefiting the Barrow Neurological Foundation, this highly-anticipated black-tie event is sure to be a festive start to the New Year. Enjoy dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions as you mingle with other charitable Phoenicians.
Whether you’re interested in managing your holiday-induced stress, or have made an oh-so-enviable New Year’s resolution to pamper yourself more often, use this guide to find a signature treatment worthy of all the spectacular hype. SANCTUARY SPA Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa, Paradise Valley 480.948.2100 or sanctuaryoncamelback.com Winter Candlelight Watsu This massage brings your body to a deep state of relaxation. The support of the water takes weight off your body, allowing it to be stretched and moved to encourage whole body wellness. Gentle, gradual twists and pulls relieve the pressures of a stressful life, helping you to emerge from the pool with greater equanimity and flexibility. Votive candles grace the pool’s edges as you’ll experience the elements of both fire and water under the starlit night sky. The gentle fluttering of the candle flames adds a soothing, hypnotic effect to the already deep relaxation of Watsu. THE CENTRE FOR WELL-BEING The Phoenician Resort, Scottsdale • 480.941.8200 or thephoenician.com Myoxy Caviar Facial & Granite Stone Face Massage This signature facial is a luxury like no other. Your therapist will combine the latest technology of caviar, escutoxTM (a hibiscus extract) and pearl extract to create a revolutionary anti-aging skincare treatment. Combined with a facial stone massage, this 80-minute getaway will leave you refreshed and relaxed. WILLOW STREAM The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale • 480.585.4848 or willowstream.com Willow Stream Golf Facial This hydrating facial was designed to moisturize, repair and protect skin from sun, wind and extreme temperature changes. Followed by a soothing shoulder, hand and foot massage, this treatment promises to relax and revitalize the tired muscles of the golf enthusiast. Also included in the treatment is the Willow Stream Sports Masque that softens and brightens the skin, and a Willow Stream Golf Gift. ALVADORA SPA Royal Palms Resort & Spa, Phoenix • 602.840.3610 or royalpalmshotel.com Orange Blossom Body Buff The sweet, uplifting scent of neroli oils will leave you enchanted. Neroli is a naturally balanced moisturizing essential oil from the orange blossom. It helps to restore moisture and supports the skin’s renewal process. This vigorous exfoliation treatment leads to a scalp and neck massage while cocooned in warmth and finishes with an application of rich body lotion and mists of neroli water.
52 crisp lady fingers 1 1/2 lbs strawberries, divided
Sumptuous Strawberry Tiramisu 1 1/4 cups strawberry preserves 1/3 cup plus 4 tablespoons orange liqueur 1/3 cup orange juice 1 lb. mascarpone cheese (room temperature) 1 1/3 cups chilled whipping cream 1/3 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a 2-cup measuring cup, whisk strawberry preserves, 1/3 cup of orange liqueur, orange juice and set aside. In a large bowl, fold together the mascarpone cheese and 2 tablespoons orange liqueur. In another bowl place cream, sugar, vanilla and 2 tablespoons orange liqueur. Use an electric mixer and beat to soft peaks. In the bowl with the cheese mixture stir in 1/4 of whipped cream mixture, and then fold in the remaining whipped cream mixture.
Hull and slice 26 strawberries. In a 13x9x2 inch glass dish, spread 1/2 cup preserve mixture. Arrange enough ladyfingers to cover bottom of dish. Spoon 3/4 cup preserve mixture over ladyfingers, then spread 2 1/2 cups mascarpone mixture. Over this arrange 2 cups sliced strawberries. Repeat layering with remaining ladyfingers, preserve mixture and mascarpone mixture. Cover with plastic and chill at least 8 hours or overnight. Slice remaining strawberries and arrange over tiramisu and serve.
Toltec Custom Homes President and Owner Greg Hammond has a passion for creating — creating culinary masterpieces as well as architectural masterpieces! His savory hobby has him sampling recipes from the complex and exotic to the simple and traditional. It seems perfect to share in this issue since the history of tiramisu lies in the “Old World” (Italy).
The romantic ‘Old World’ dining room on the cover was carefully orchestrated by Toltec Custom Homes. Integral to achieving the timeless beauty of this room is the use of natural materials. If you look carefully you will see the rustic, yet elegant wooden floor that captures a certain character that transports you to another time and place. Each plank was individually laid in its unfinished natural state. After the planks were laid, the reclaimed wormy oak floor was stained and sealed to become the foundation for this quietly spectacular space. Majestically embracing the room above are the beams on the cathedral ceiling which are rough hewn wood. Again, the beams were set in a natural unfinished state and were later stained and thrice blasted to infuse the room with a warm and intimate atmosphere. Because stone or brick would have been too overpowering, burnt adobe pavers were set between the wooden beams on the ceiling to further enhance the dreamy Old World feel.
The elegant commanding column in the foreground is of natural cantera stone imported from Mexico. Handcarved, enhanced and sealed, the natural stone offers a beauty unattainable with fabricated materials. To take advantage of the enviable climate in Arizona, two sets of multi-paned French doors encompass the entire east facing wall and open the room to a cozy pavered courtyard for a carefree indoor/outdoor dining experience. Finishes in every room are important, and in this room the stately, refined wrought-iron chandeliers and sconces gracefully accent with a regal touch. To complete the look, All About Interiors designed and hung luxurious draperies framing the French doors and Dianna Sever, Director of Interior Design for DesignSource Furniture, customized the grand dining ensemble. Greg Yodis of Paramount Interiors, Inc. adorned the table with a silk and dried flower creation.
Toltec Custom Homes orchestrates masterpieces for beautiful living. Whether you own land to be built upon or you are looking for the perfect homesite to build your masterpiece, make Toltec Custom Homes part of your decision-making process. For more information, call 480.244.6347 or visit www.tolteccustomhomes.com.
DECEMBER 2007 / JANUARY 2008
A Little About “Toltec”
The Toltec were an ancient civilization of Mexico. The name in Nahuatl means “master builders.” Influenced by Teotihuacán and the Olmec culture, they were masters in the arts and architecture. The Toltec civilization was materially far advanced. They smelted metals and their stonework was highly developed. The Toltec were artists, architects and engineers far ahead of their time. Later, the Aztec people used the term “Toltec” to refer to a person who was the embodiment of great knowledge and wisdom.
A Little About Toltec Custom Homes
Greg Hammond, President Toltec Custom Homes _________ Monica Hammond, CEO Toltec Custom Homes Owner/Agent
Greg Hammond, President and Owner of Toltec Custom Homes, has over twenty years of experience in the Arizona building industry. He has assembled an outstanding team of extraordinary professionals to deliver the pinnacle in quality, material, workmanship and service to meet and exceed clients’ expectations in the custom homebuilding experience. Toltec Custom Homes prides itself in utilizing leading edge technology to expedite and enhance the building process. In the field, Toltec Custom Homes has all information concerning each project on hand through the Build Links technology; plans, blueprints, schedules, projections, progress photos, contracts, contacts etc. are all accessible through a password protected webbased management and communication system. Since Toltec Custom Homes’ field personnel are armed with wireless PC technology, this allows access to important information at all times to keep the projects moving; any time, anywhere. It is both art and science in the building of a home that is both aesthetically beautiful and functionally practical, and Toltec Custom Homes embraces both aspects.
A Little About How Toltec’s Knowledge Can Help You…
Not only can Toltec Custom Homes create the home of your dreams, but their extensive knowledge of land/lots in affluent areas, and their real estate expertise is at your disposal. Monica Hammond, CEO of Toltec Custom Homes and a licensed Realtor®, can aid you in locating and purchasing your ideal home site. With years of experience in the custom home building industry, there’s added value in utilizing their services in your land acquisition endeavor…value that can save you a lot of time, frustration, and money. With an eye towards the final product in mind, Toltec Custom Homes can address many important issues often not considered during the lot selection process. While views and vegetation are important, there are many other issues that can impact the home building process such as zoning (Environmentally Sensitive Land Ordinances, height restrictions, etc.), topography (washes cfs, elevation changes, etc.), soil condition (expansive soils, hard rock, etc.), site engineering (compaction, grading, drainage, etc.), lot/site preparation (excavation, retaining walls, etc.), and Home Owners Associations (CC&Rs, Architectural Committees, Design Review, etc) all of which can impact (1) the design/orientation of the house, (2) the landscape design and species of vegetation allowed, and ultimately (3) your cost for the homebuilding project. Before launching your search for the perfect home site, contact Monica Hammond at 480-244-6347. Simplify your search and save time, frustration, and money. It doesn’t cost you a penny to access this specialized service.
Timeless Beauty
DISCOVER TOLTEC CUSTOM HOMES
Soothing Spa Treatments
LUXURIOUS OPTIONS AT VALLEY RESORTS
The Romantic Dinner Finale’! SUMPTUOUS STRAWBERRY TIRAMISU
If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.