TALKING INTERIOR DESIGN WITH ANITA LANG HOMES WITH HORSEPOWER
WHERE TO LIVE FOR THE NEXT PHASE
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Home Sweet Home
In mid-2023, I had a flood in my house. In the middle of the night (isn't that how it always happens?!), a water line under my sink burst, and when I woke up for the day, there was ankle-deep water throughout. You can imagine what came next—gutting everything, opening walls, plastic sheets hanging from the ceilings, no kitchen, and no floors. It took a year to put back together—and we are still not completely finished.
My experience—everything in chaos, boxed up, and my family lived in a rental locale for several months—made me realize how much my home grounded me. I realized that the word "home" has so much contained within its four letters. Home is our base. It's where we can let our guard down and be ourselves, relax and recharge, and start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.
As we began to work on this issue, our Home Issue, we thought about what makes homes special to our readers. We reached out to those in our community who help make our spaces reflections of ourselves. Of course, that includes design, so we reached out to Anita Lang, designer extraordinaire. We also spoke with designer Kaityln Wolfe about her product lines.
Since we're coming off Car Week here in Scottsdale, we were inspired to include a story about homes for car enthusiasts. (Gotta house all those great buys!)
And, of course, where to live during the older phase of life is always a thought, so we explored some of the many great local options.
We feel like the lucky ones as we had the chance to learn more about the businesses and individuals who make up this city, and we hope the small lens into them brings people in this community together.
As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you'll feel encouraged, inspired by, and connected to the people around you—in your city, neighborhood, and, most of all, your home.
For me, I'm mostly on to decorating now (anyone want to help with furniture and decor selections?!), but what I've learned most through this process is that "home" to me is where my family is—even if living among boxes upon boxes brought hours of "WHERE did you pack my favorite [insert each person's item here!]" as someone scrambled for an item they wanted!
Yours,
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Alicia Haygood | alicia.haygood@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Bailin Batz, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Georgann Yara
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Danielle Muccillo
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Transform Your Body & Mind at Firm Body Pilates
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Scott Gauthier and Stacy Romano at Barrett-Jackson’s Ocean 44 VIP event. 2: Carole Moreno, Cathy Kleeman, Dr. Michael Lawton, Dionne Najafi, and Susan Westra at the 60th Barrow Grand Ball. 3: Bryn Miller and Jeff Miller at Barrett-Jackson’s Ocean 44 VIP event. 4: Andrea and John Pappas at the 60th Barrow Grand Ball. 5: Kash and Usma Alvi at Barrett-Jackson’s Ocean 44 VIP event. 6: Carolyn and Craig Jackson with Oliver Badgio and Jennifer Moser at Barrett-Jackson’s Ocean 44 VIP event. 7: Katie Mueller and David Larcher at the 60th Barrow Grand Ball, which raised $14 million for Barrow Neurological Institute.
BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTIONS
BARRETT-JACKSON
BARRETT-JACKSON
8: Carol and Jim Hebets, CEO of The Hebets Company, an NFP Company, at the 2nd Annual ‘FLD Royale.’ 9: Missie Madeja and Rick Evans at Fast Lane Drive Arizona Chapter’s 2nd Annual ‘FLD Royale.’ 10: The Best of Show Trophy was presented to George Getz at Cars & Cigars. From left: Arie Luyendyk, Oliver Smith, George Getz, Derek Daly, and Peter Volny. 11: The debutants at the Desert Foundation Auxiliary’s 58th Desert Ball. 12: Conner Jones, Samantha Maxwell, and Michelle and Scott Maxwell at the 58th Desert Ball.
JEFF OTTO
JEFF OTTO
SCOTT FOUST STUDIOS
MATT FINK
SCOTT FOUST STUDIOS
Texas Favorite il Bracco to Open in Scottsdale
In late 2025, il Bracco, an upscale Italian restaurant renowned for its buzzy atmosphere and loyal following, will open in Scottsdale at the corner of Scottsdale Road and Rose Lane. The 5,000-square-foot restaurant—which will also feature a 950-square-foot patio—will offer house-made pastas, handcrafted salads, prime steaks, and seafood butchered in-house daily, along with expertly crafted cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine list. The restaurant will serve lunch and IlBraccoRestaurant.com
PXG Issued $1 Million Matching Challenge
PXG, the global golf equipment and apparel brand headquartered in Scottsdale, announced a significant commitment to match donations dollar for dollar up to $1 million for Team Rubicon to aid in the ongoing efforts to combat the devastating impact of the recent wildfires in California. Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization, mobilizes military veterans, first responders, and civilian volunteers to assist global communities before, during, and after disasters and crises. TeamRubiconUSA.org; PXG.com
Telefèric Barcelona to Open Later This Year
The Barcelona, Spain-based Telefèric Barcelona announced plans to open in Scottsdale later this year. The authentic Spanish dining destination is owned by sibling duo Xavi and Maria Padrosa, and it is scheduled to open at Scottsdale Fashion Square. The original restaurant was opened by their mother 30 years ago and was a trailblazer in the pintxos movement in the Catalonia region. Food options include authentic-yet-creative tapas alongside classic Spanish dishes like paella. TelefericBarcelona.com
Photography by Trenchs Studio
letter from the PUBLISHER
When I think of the saying, “Home is where the heart is,” I can’t help but think of Scottsdale. There’s something about this place that really brings that phrase to life. It’s not just the stunning desert landscapes that surround us—it’s the way the homes here are designed to complement the beauty of the land and create a sense of belonging. Every home seems to reflect a deep connection to the desert, blending modern luxury with the natural world around it.
What really makes it feel like home, though, is the sense of community here. There’s a warmth in Scottsdale that’s hard to put into words. People here form real connections, whether through neighborhood events, local businesses, or the thriving arts scene. It’s a place where you feel like you’re a part of something bigger, where everyone seems to know and support one another.
When you walk through homes here, you really get a sense of care and craftsmanship. Many are designed with thoughtful layouts that emphasize outdoor living—spacious patios, infinity pools, and large windows that invite the desert beauty inside. And of course, the garages here are often a thing of their own—a perfect blend of function and style. Whether it’s for a collection of cars or simply a space to store outdoor gear, they’re often as thoughtfully designed as the homes themselves.
It’s a combination of all these little things—the land, the homes, the feeling of belonging—that really make Scottsdale feel like home to so many. And I think that’s the heart of it all: Wherever your heart feels at peace, where it can settle and breathe, that’s where home really is.
Wishing you a place that feels just as true.
Alicia Haygood Owner/Publisher
From What Makes Good Design to Bold Choices to Giving Back, Anita Lang Answers Our Questions
Master of Design
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For stunning spaces, those in the know turn to Anita Lang, one of the Valley’s sought-after interior designers. She founded her Scottsdale-based luxury interior design studio, IMI Design ( IMIDesignStudio.com), more than 25 years ago, cultivating a portfolio of residential, hospitality, and commercial projects. The principal designer for IMI, her work has garnered more than 115 design excellence awards from the American Society of Interior Design. She’s also a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and commercial developer.
We caught up with her to ask about design, giving back, and what we’d be surprised to learn about her. Here’s what she had to say.
DESIGN INTRIGUES YOU BECAUSE…
Design is the background for all our lives … we are viscerally affected at both a conscious and subconscious level by our surroundings, which is the deep reason that humans throughout the centuries have always sought beauty. Through my craft, I can elevate the daily experiences for those I serve in a very meaningful and impactful way.
TELL US ABOUT IMI AND WHY YOU FOUNDED IT.
As many creatives know, our talents choose us, not so much the other way around. The mechanics of my mind are a spatial Rubik’s cube, and so design came naturally, and with time, education, and experience, I have refined that skill.
“My work has always been routed in natural elements and biophilic designs, but I see that even more so as I develop.
The reason is how healing and nurturing such materials and forms are to our souls.”
It became a natural evolution to own my own firm coming from a family of entrepreneurial German immigrants. And while there are many challenges in owning your own company, the positive side is you are able to build it on the cultural principles and important values you hold dear.
At IMI Design, we are fully committed to design with integrity, which includes the commitment of quality within our spaces, the care we take of our client’s interest, and the implementation that is based on ethical practices.
YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY REVOLVES AROUND THREE MEANINGFUL TENANTS. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THEM?
When starting a project, these are the three tenants that are foundational:
First, the architectural prowess of a design solution is most likely the reason a majority of my work is referred by my architect colleagues. We speak this language and ensure it is wellechoed throughout the interiors with thoughtful materiality and architectural detailing.
Second, vernacular appropriateness that informs the design direction. I love a good deep dive on each project from the geographical location, including local fauna and materials, to the cultural influences that make an area unique.
And thirdly, and most importantly, is the inclusion of our client, whether that is a homeowner with a dream or a developer with a vision. Through a deep interview process, I understand their goals and can then translate this input into a one-of-a-kind design solution. It is always a delight to unveil a design concept that leaves them thrilled by a solution better than they could have ever imagined.
HOW DO YOU KNOW A DESIGN IS ‘GOOD’?
That is a loaded question, my friend. The old adage is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. However, for one that has dedicated over 25 years, I can tell you the top considerations: seminal creative solutions, design that is not trend-based but authentic solutions for the specificity of each project, and routed in a clear understanding of design principles, including scale, proportion, materiality, rhythm, balance, color theory, etc. In the end, we have succeeded when people tell us how wonderful the spaces make them feel.
PROJECTS YOU’VE BEEN MOST PROUD OF?
That is hard … I have to say I am so appreciative of my own home right now. It was rebuilt recently after a fire four years ago. And living in this place where I had total freedom to express uninhibited creative inspiration, the result is truly a very special place that resonates to all who enter. Not a day goes by that I do not walk through the walls and say thank you … I feel so blessed. I would like everyone to have that experience.
BOLDEST DESIGN MOVE YOU’VE MADE?
After 25 years, it is hard to narrow that down … a Zen garden in a holistic spa, a golden glittered dining room, an 18-foot-tall hand-welded window fenestration that opens, sculpted curvilinear fireplaces, a brass kitchen with a serpent signature hardware … you are asking for a favorite child. That is hard.
THE LOOK YOU ARE BEGINNING TO INCORPORATE ON UPCOMING PROJECTS?
My work has always been routed in natural elements and biophilic designs, but I see that even more so as I develop. The reason is how healing and nurturing such materials and forms are to our souls.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Absolutely everything—a creative is an unquenchable sponge. No detail in my travels, in my love of art, in my love of nature goes unnoticed, but becomes part of a deep reservoir to then serve my clients.
BEYOND INTERIOR DESIGN, YOU HAVE THE FURNITURE LINE DESIGN 528. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO LAUNCH IT?
Yes, I am involved now in a bedding line that will be so fabulous and heal those who sleep in the layers of the most divine linens. What motivates me? Just the absolute need to create what has not been there yet, and in that creation, I maybe can make life a little better for someone.
YOU ALSO ARE VERY PHILANTHROPIC. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR DRIVE TO GIVE BACK?
My career has been so kind and rewarding, it feels like a debt I owe to give back. Currently, the organizations I spend my time on, such as Artlink and Walter Hive, are big advocacies for supporting and fostering other creatives in the art community.
“I love a good deep dive on each project from the geographical location, including local fauna and materials, to the cultural influences that make an area unique.”
WE’VE HEARD YOU’RE ALSO SPEARHEADING AN ECO-FRIENDLY RESORT COMMUNITY. PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT!
One of my most heartfelt projects is the eco-friendly resort community near Sedona. This 80-room luxury retreat will feature chef-driven restaurants, a fine art gallery, a sculpture garden, and a spa with cutting-edge healing modalities—a true fusion of art, wellness, and luxury.
WHAT DO YOU DO DURING YOUR DOWNTIME?
I always need a good house music and dance reset … so for sure you will find me at some great DJ venue. And I also make sure that I meditate every day… it grounds me and is the source of much of my creative inspiration.
ONE THING WE’D BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU?
I geek out a bit on quantum physics and the workings of our universe.
TASTES Like Home
DISHES INSPIRED BY CHEFS’ MOST DELICIOUS FAMILY MEMORIES
ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Rigatoni Bolognese at Marino’s Italian Kitchen & Bar
For many of us, certain dishes always remind us of a beloved family member or childhood memory, and chefs are no different. Many, in fact, proudly highlight the ingredients and flavors on their menus each day that bring them back to a specific time and happy place.
At 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist Beginner’s Luck ( BeginnersLuckAZ. com), for example, chef Bernie Kantak has a dish aptly called My Rich Uncle’s French Toast ($15.50). As the name suggests, the five-spice-kissed take on the morning delight—complete with challah bread, salted butterscotch syrup, and coconut-pecan granola—is homage to his late uncle, whose early-morning kitchen lessons helped inspire Kantak’s life.
Similarly, the Birria Tacos ($18) at Brittlebush Bar & Grill at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa ( WestinKierland. com) are a tribute to chef de partie Norma Avila’s entire family. The recipe, in fact, is based on the slow-braised birria with Oaxaca cheese that was reserved for big family celebrations, including Avila’s own wedding, for as long as she can remember.
Bone-In Veal Parmesan at Collins Brothers Public House
Polenta E Funghi at Marcellino Ristorante
Both Collins Brothers Public House (CollinsBrothersAZ.com) and Maple & Ash ( MapleAndAsh.com) also feature nostalgic dishes. At Collins, the Bone-In Veal Parmesan ($44), available Saturdays after 5 p.m., is a twist on a closely guarded family recipe that has been passed down from chef Christopher Collins’ father, who would make it only on special occasions. The Whipped & Buttered Potatoes ($15) at Maple & Ash are chef Danny Grant’s update to his mom’s recipe, albeit with slight changes that replicate her slightly garlicky and very buttery flavor profile but with an insanely silky-smooth texture as compared to her slightly lumpy version.
And then there are the Italian offerings.
over five hours. It is paired with his updated take on his nonna’s meatballs, which uses the same trio of meats, plus pine nuts, raisins, provolone, and a few secret ingredients.
At Collins Brothers Public House, the Bone-In Veal Parmesan is a
Famous for keeping it all in the family, one is hard-pressed to find an Italian eatery without a dish or two that tastes like home or is homage to a special person in its chef’s life. At Marino’s Italian Kitchen & Bar ( MarinosItalianKitchenAndBar.com), the largetubed Rigatoni Bolognese ($23) with simmered beef ragu is a recipe entrusted to chef Collin Hutchinson by his mentor, chef Gianluca Gorini of daGorini in Bagno, Italy. Along the same lines, chef Joey Maggiore’s popular Bolognese ($28) at The Italiano ( TheItaliano.com) is a heartfelt tribute to two of his mentors in his father, iconic chef Tomaso Maggiore, and his nonna, which is Italian for grandmother. The base of the dish is Tomaso’s beloved Bolognese sauce, a slow-simmered ragu of beef, pork, and veal, enriched with secret spices and left to develop its deep, savory flavors
twist on a closely guarded family recipe.
Finally, there are dishes from Marcellino Ristorante ( MarcellinoRistorante.com) and Sfizio Modern Italian Kitchen (SfizioItaliano.com), both of which are inspired by the chefs’ childhoods in their native Italy. During chef Marcellino Verzino’s childhood, his family often enjoyed polenta with mushrooms for its heartiness and because wild mushrooms grew near their home, making it a very convenient meal. The family would forage the mushrooms and then saute them in olive oil before pairing them with fresh-made polenta. Marcellino’s Polenta E Funghi ($18) is a direct descendent of those family meals, albeit with a few enhancements, including decadent white truffle oil. Chef Rocco Pezzano, both the chef and owner of Sfizio, is proud that every dish on his menu is in some way connected to his upbringing in Calabria, Italy, and his family. The Gnocchi Sorrentina ($21) is especially important to Pezzano as it honors his Uncle Pasquale, a war veteran who vowed he would only eat hearty meals after years of broth in the service. Upon his safe return, Pasquale’s mother took extra care to visit the local butcher daily to select fresh meats, which would become the foundation for the family’s Sorrentina sauce. It would be adopted by his mother, and now by Pezzano, who showcases it nightly on the menu with handmade gnocchi.
HOMES WITH HORSEPOWER
Luxury Garages Are Fueling the High-End Real Estate Market
ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Scottsdale, with its year-round sunshine and scenic Sonoran drives, has long been a haven for car enthusiasts. From corporate CEOs who collect vintage muscle cars to sports stars with a passion for exotic supercars, the number of automobile aficionados who call the Valley home continues to grow. And one thing they look for when buying a house is a place to store—and showcase—their dream rides.
Luxury garages are one of the hottest trends in the high-end real estate market.
“If you’re buying a $5 million house, there’s an expectation for what’s going to be in it. At that price, they will all have over four bedrooms and four bathrooms, so that’s not a concern,” says realtor Peter Zaidan, who specializes in homes for auto enthusiasts (Homes4CarGuys.com). “But just like a magnificent kitchen would hold value for a chef, a 10-car garage attracts a specific demographic.”
According to Zaidan, 23,000 houses currently are on the market in greater Phoenix. Of those, only 307 feature a six-car garage. For a 10-car garage, that number shrinks to 64.
Traditionally viewed as functional spaces filled with power tools and oil-stained floors, garages are now seen as design features of the home—with more than enough room to accommodate a fleet of vehicles.
Today’s luxury garages reflect the personality of the car collector.
One homeowner who loves to entertain built a 10,000-squarefoot barn-like structure at the base of Camelback Mountain that holds more than a dozen rare cars, including a 1965 Shelby Cobra and a 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish. There’s plenty of gathering space, with leather sofas, coffee tables crafted from car parts, and a rustic reclaimed wood bar. A fully equipped kitchen, bedroom, and two bathrooms ensure comfort for overnight guests.
In North Scottsdale, the wing of a contemporary glass-andsteel masterpiece is dedicated to a curated collection of shiny candy-colored Porsches. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, polished white floors, and custom honeycomb lighting, the seven-car showroom transforms the vehicles into works of art that glow beneath the evening sky.
“I’ve seen garages with 20-foot-long marble bars, with giant mirrors, huge-screen TVs and 20-foot-tall glass walls,” Zaidan says. One house even featured a 26-car garage.
“These guys aren’t storing their cars. They’re showcasing their cars,” he adds. “And these garages are enabling them to live the lifestyle that they’ve worked hard to achieve.”
Form and Function
KAITLYN WOLFE’S MODERN, ORGANIC DESIGNS ARE STYLISH AND LIVABLE
ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO
There’s nothing quite like a professionally designed home, with every element, from the finishes to the furnishings, being thoughtfully curated to fit the size and aesthetic of the space. While many designers stick to shopping in trade-only and brickand-mortar stores, others custom-create their own pieces, putting a personalized twist on the final look.
“As designers, we know what a space needs, and it’s not always something that’s on the market,” says interior designer Kaitlyn Wolfe.
As the founder of her eponymous firm, Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe (KaitlynWolfe.com), she not only brings creative vision to a project, but also oversees all aspects from concept to completion.
From remodels to new construction and even boutique hospitality spaces, Wolfe’s modern, organic designs are clean, quiet, and completely functional.
“I’m really inspired by nature and modern desert architecture,” she explains. “There’s a juxtaposition of clean lines with something soft and organic. It’s a masculine, industrial feel that is still cozy and comfortable.”
Custom furnishings and light fixtures elevate the interiors. Last year, Wolfe launched Ground Floor, a capsule line of home furnishings and decor that blend style and performance.
“I’ve always designed custom pieces for my clients and built a lot of relationships with different craftsmen,” she says. “Ground Floor allows me to show you what I can do when I have full creative freedom and free rein.”
The first collection in the line, Blueprint, includes accent tables, bed frames, bathroom vanities, planters, and seating. Raw materials such as concrete, glass, steel, wood, and leather highlight the stark minimalist forms and recall the mid-century’s Brutalist style.
The sharp angles and crisp lines of a porcelain tiled bench are softened by a warm oak apron and padded leather cushion. A 5-footlong minimalist light fixture features a single frosted glass globe. And course-textured ceramic vessels handcrafted by Phoenix artisan Andrew Smith of Augusta Pots hold aromatic candles.
“It’s about materials and playing with functionality. A piece can be a table and a light at the same time, or it can be different types of storage or a planter and a table,” Wolfe explains.
A second collection, Elemental, debuts this month.
Also launching is Substrate, a tile collection featuring natural stone, porcelain, terrazzo, and even breeze block that’s ideal for floors, backsplashes, and surface accents. Some of the Elemental pieces will showcase Substrate tiles. And all products will be made in Arizona.
The collections are available on Wolfe’s website and in her North Scottsdale showroom. One-of-a-kind vintage furniture, accessories, and lighting also are available.
“I’m always sourcing vintage. I use it in client projects, but it’s also for anyone who wants a piece in their home,” she says.
The showroom is open to the public by appointment only. Or, visit ShopMyWarehouse.com to shop online.
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
RESORT-LIKE PERKS MAKE THESE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES ANYTHING BUT SLEEPY
THE NEXT PHASE
Revel McDowell Mountain Ranch
With private theaters, regular happy hours, hands-on art or cocktail classes, and 24-hour concierge services, today’s retirement communities are not just landing spots but rather havens offering luxury amenities and activities that make life in these years truly golden. Here are some of the best in Scottsdale.
“TODAY’S
adjacent to Paradise Valley, residents have easy access to premier entertainment, shopping, and dining venues.
“What sets Revel apart is our unwavering commitment to resident-centered services and amenities,” explains Ron Villacis, regional vice president of operations at Revel Communities.
RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES ARE NOT JUST LANDING SPOTS BUT RATHER HAVENS
OFFERING LUXURY AMENITIES AND ACTIVITIES.”
REVEL COMMUNITIES
With endless amenities, activities, and perks that answer every quest from intellectual and spiritual to physical and social, residents have the power to make life truly their own.
A heated saltwater pool is ideal for a soothing dip, and the luxurious theater welcomes residents to come together to watch sporting events, movies, and other exciting programming on the big screen. Off-site excursions, nature strolls, and live music experiences accompany on-site chef’s table dinners, Mixology 101 classes, hands-on art classes, pickleball lessons, and happy hours.
At Revel McDowell Mountain, a combination of modern desert living with a vibrant community atmosphere is encapsulated by breathtaking views of the McDowell Mountain Range.
At Revel Scottsdale’s prime location near the heart of Scottsdale and
“From chef-driven dining experiences to a variety of wellness programs, we empower our residents to live life on their own terms, fostering a vibrant and engaging community that stands out in the independent living sector.”
RevelCommunities.com
OVERTURE NORTH SCOTTSDALE
Amid some of the most idyllic spaces in the city, Overture North Scottsdale residents soak up true resort living with just about every creature comfort they could crave.
From outdoor living amenities like kitchens and grill areas and yoga and game lawns to a state-of-the-art fitness center and movie theater, plus social hours, cooking demos and off-site adventures, daily living truly comes alive.
A jaunt to a nearby restaurant for dine-in bingo, discovery trips to scenic
parts of Arizona, and a journey to explore Tucson’s natural wonders are recent examples of what’s par for the course.
Spacious homes that offer 10-foot-high ceilings, kitchens designed to entertain with stainless-steel appliances, and large balconies make staying home luxurious, too.
“Scottsdale is the vision of resort living and we wanted to encapsulate that here,” says William Wyatt, community manager for Overture North Scottsdale. “You can enjoy 330 days of sunshine, and we’ve found ways to get our residents up, active, and enjoying this beautiful environment.”
LiveOverture.com/communities/ overture-north-scottsdale
55 RESORT SCOTTSDALE
As its name indicates, this offers residents an all-inclusive resort living experience for those 55 and older.
The modern design of its one-bedroom and one-bedroom-plus-study apartments serve as home base and a place to land after taking advantage of a bevy of vacation-esque perks like a buzzy on-site bar and restaurant, fitness classes for all ages and levels, curated social events, rooftop lounges and fire pits, and access to the scenic Greenbelt. And for those seeking a stroll to more creature comforts, it’s within walking distance from shopping destinations and other hot spots.
55ResortScottsdale.com
MARAVILLA SCOTTSDALE
Boasting casitas with private garages and nearly every amenity to keep mind, body, and soul active and fulfilled, Maravilla Scottsdale gives residents a vacation-at-home vibe.
Five-star luxury resort features span entertainment, fitness, and dining. Get a mani-pedi at the spa, challenge neighbors in the billiards room, catch a flick at the on-site cinema, or drop by the massive indoor pool for laps or leisurely dips. Fitness classes, clubs for avid book lovers and walkers, art classes, chef-led interactive cooking demos, and even wine tastings are other bonuses.
SRGSeniorLiving.com/ scottsdale-az-maravilla
Overture North Scottsdale
Overture North Scottsdale
Paradise by the Bay
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VELAS VALLARTA
The All-Inclusive Velas Vallarta Wows
With its expanse of pristine beach, lush grounds, stunning rooms, and welcoming vibe, Velas Vallarta offers a slice of idyllic heaven along Puerto Vallarta’s beachfront.
The all-inclusive, family-friendly resort spans 10 lush acres on the glistening emerald waters of Banderas Bay.
The moment you step into the lobby, you feel at home. You are greeted with warm smiles, and the staff is ready to make your stay as perfect as possible. In fact, while the resort and its amenities are stunning, it is the genuine warmth and solicitation of those who work here that makes a visit beyond exceptional.
THE ROOMS
Velas Vallarta features 345 suites, each with sleeping, dining (including a full kitchen), and living spaces. The options include everything from a studio to various configurations of bedrooms up to the four-bedroom Presidential Suite, making it easy to find the perfect configuration for almost any size group or family.
My suite included three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large terrace that overlooked the resort’s three pools and ocean, and that had its own Jacuzzi and lounge chairs.
THINGS TO DO
While I could have stayed on my private balcony all day, the beautiful grounds of the resort—complete with a koi river and a thatched-roof swim-up pool bar—beckoned. From the lounge chairs around the pool—and the pool itself—you could look out over the beach and waters of the Mexican Pacific Riviera.
Here, you can choose to relax, eat and drink (waiters were constantly checking in to see if I’d like anything, and everything is included), or take part in activities such as aqua aerobics.
There are also cabanas on the beach, beach volleyball games, guided walks, painting classes, and yoga on the nearby jetty.
Speaking of the jetty, one of my most wonderful experiences was visiting the spa. While you can experience a treatment in the spa’s physical location, there are also spa cabanas on the jetty, which is where I had a massage, set against a backdrop of the sounds of the water and a sweet breeze.
There are also activities for children, live entertainment shows, and even casino and karaoke nights.
I was there during a casino night, and I participated, along with many of the other guests. Gaming tables were set out around the lobby, and we were all given play money with which to participate.
The property also has several stores to wander through and a kids’ club, and golf can be arranged at the three championship-level 18-hole courses located just a short drive away, with transportation available. (Note that some activities, such as spa treatments and golf, are separate fees.)
Photo by Michelle Glicksman
Photo by Michelle Glicksman
Photo by Michelle Glicksman
DINING
Velas Vallarta features several restaurants around its property.
Most days, I stopped by La Ribera Restaurant, the resort’s serene oceanfront restaurant, for breakfast and lunch. Its Andrea Restaurant was being renovated when I visited; however, I peeked inside and it looked stunning.
One night, I participated in the Mexican Fiesta, which is offered every Sunday and includes a buffet of Mexican specialties and entertainment from a mariachi band and Mexican folk dancers.
A seasonal restaurant is also set to open soon.
As part of its all-inclusive amenities, suite service is also available around the clock.
SPECIAL EXPERIENCES
The unique destination is also a favorite for special events, from meetings to weddings. And those who work at the resort make it their mission to make each event—just like they make each experience—unforgettable.
Even those just visiting for a trip can book special experiences. For example, one night I enjoyed a special private dinner with my husband in an open tepee on a secluded lawn. They arranged the multi-course dinner, which was served by a dedicated team and included a visit from the chef.
ECO-FRIENDLY
Not only is Velas Vallarta good for its guests, but it’s also good for the environment.
It is a leader among green hotels in Puerto Vallarta and holds many prestigious environmental awards. It uses the sun’s energy to help power portions of the property, biodegradable cleaning products, and creative composting and irrigation practices.
They also employ falconry—a trainer would wander the property and pool area with a bird on his glove—as a non-lethal way to scare away nuisance birds, which was a unique thing to see and learn about.
The day I had to leave, I truly felt like I was leaving my new home. The staff knew me by name, and I’d thoroughly enjoyed my stay. It could easily be my home away from home.
VelasVallarta.com
Enjoy a meal on the beach.
Enjoying a private meal. Courtesy of Michelle Glicksman
La Ribera, with the jetty in the distance.
Vino con Stelle
An Evening of Elegance and Impact
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB AND DAWN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY
For Joey Fatone, cancer research isn’t just a cause—it’s personal.
“My mother is a survivor of breast cancer,” says Joey.
Joey, a beloved entertainer and philanthropist, is passionate about honoring his mother’s journey as a breast cancer survivor.
“She got it detected early, went through chemo, and everything is alright, but many aren’t so fortunate. What I love about this event is 100% of the money that’s donated goes directly to research.”
Performers Michael Bublé, Chris Kirkpatrick, Rachel Platten, Katharine McPhee, David Foster, and Joey Fatone
That unwavering commitment to funding breakthrough treatments is what makes Vino con Stelle a highly anticipated event.
One of Gateway Cancer Research’s most intimate and one of its signature fundraiser is happening on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, where the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess will welcome guests to a luxurious black-tie gala, where fine wines, world-renowned entertainment, and a shared purpose come together to support a singular mission: finding, funding, and furthering early-phase cancer clinical trials.
“To hear directly from those whose lives we’ve changed with this organization is one of the great honors of my life,” says Mr. Richard J Stephenson, Founder and Chairman of Gateway for Cancer Research.
Hosted by Dr. Stacie J. and Mr. Richard J Stephenson, Gateway’s Vice Chairman and Chairman respectively, this immersive, experiential evening is more than just an elegant affair—it’s a lifeline for patients whose hope depends on innovation.
“It’s because of the bravery of Gateway’s patients and researchers, and the generosity of our donors, that we continue this lifesaving work that is ALWAYS and ONLY about the patient,” says Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson.
For 30 years, Gateway for Cancer Research has been at the forefront of advancing innovative cancer treatments, ensuring that 100% of every donation goes directly to research. This commitment, made possible through the Stephenson family’s generosity, has propelled life-changing breakthroughs, giving patients new hope.
“The Stephensons are super philanthropic. Amazing people who have done so much great work in the world,” says David Foster, Grammy Award winner and Gateway for Cancer Research Musical Director.
In 2024, Gateway funded $8.3 million in cancer research, accelerating the development of new treatments. But there’s still work ahead.
Through generosity and innovation, Vino con Stelle is a night to celebrate progress, honor resilience, and invest in the future of cancer research.
More information and tickets: gatewaycr.org/vino
David Foster and Katharine McPhee
PERFORMANCE FIRST
ARTICLE BY REBECCA RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Style. Speed. Fuel efficiency. Mercedes’ highest-performing C-class sedan offers luxury and power—with only as many cylinders as a base model compact car.
That’s right. The 2024 C 63 S E replaces the thunderous V8 with a 2.0-liter inline four. While die-hard gearheads might lament this change, incorrectly assuming a lag in acceleration, this top-of-the-line hybrid will hit 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.
The small displacement motor is mated to a 9-speed automatic that routes power to the rear axle via Mercedes’ signature 4Matic all-wheel-drive system
that was designed to improve handling, safety, and overall ride comfort. And it’s augmented by a 201-hp electric motor and an electric turbocharger.
Appearance-wise, the C 63 hybrid looks much like the standard C-class. The Performance model sports AMG’s vertical slat grille with inlets on either side. The fenders have been widened, adding 2.6 inches to the car’s stance. Nineteen-inch wheels come standard (our test vehicle featured the 20-inch multispoke Y-design wheel, which are available for an additional $1,750), and the optional Performance Design
2024 Mercedes-AMG 63 S E Performance Trades Brawny V8 for Hybrid Four-Cyclinder Force
Package (an add-on at $4,000) adds red brake calipers and additional styling, as well a higher top speed of 174 mph.
Inside, the cabin maintains the C-class aesthetic. In the center of the console, a tablet-style touchscreen replaces physical knobs and controls. It’s complemented by a digital gauge display. The optional carbon fiber Performance steering wheel ($400) includes two controllers for various drive modes, while the Napa leather Performance seats ($2,500) offer adjustable side bolstering and lumbar support. A panoramic sunroof comes standard, and sound-insulating acoustic glass reduces road noise for a quiet ride.
The C 63 may be a C-class, but it feels more like an S-class. And its style and power might just make you forget about that V8.
• MSRP: $83,900
• Price as tested: $101,950
• P3 Hybrid: Handcrafted AMG 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine with permanently excited synchronous electric motor
• 671 horsepower
• AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission
• AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
• 24 MPGe (electricity + gasoline) combined city/highway
• 33 MPG (gasoline only) combined city/highway
2024 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E
FineMark National Bank & Trust strives to deliver exceptional client service and offers customized solutions to help individuals and families reach their goals and build lasting legacies for generations to come. FineMark’s comprehensive wealth management services include: Asset Management, Trust Administration, Estate Settlement, Financial Planning, Banking and Lending. www.finemarkbank.com DC Ranch Office: 480-333-3950 • Gainey Ranch Office: 480-607-4860 • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose
MARCH 20TH-23RD
Scottsdale Ferrari Art Week
WestWorld of Scottsdale
The first Scottsdale Ferrari Art Week will kick off with The Opening Night Party: A VIP Vernissage, an evening that includes musical entertainment and a fashion show. It kicks off a four-day celebration that features 100 exhibitor booths from international and domestic galleries of art, design, and jewelry, drawing collectors, curators, and cultural enthusiasts from across the nation and around the globe. ScottsdaleArtWeek.com
MARCH 22ND
Vino con Stelle
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | 5:30 PM
This black-tie gala is Gateway for Cancer Research’s premier Arizona philanthropic event of 2025, and it is hosted by Dr. Stacie J. and Mr. Richard J Stephenson, Gateway’s vice chairman and chairman, respectively. Enjoy star-studded entertainment and carefully curated wines as the community comes together to support a critical mission: finding, funding and furthering early-phase cancer clinical trials. GatewayCR.org
Found RE:Phoenix
This masterclass focuses on mastering the art of poise for faith-driven businesswomen, ready to rise. It connects bold, brilliant, and unstoppable women for a day of networking, inspiration, and tools for navigating both faith and career. Hosted by DeAnna ScaleUpAZ.Eventbrite.com
Wines Around the World
Scottsdale Resort at McCormick
Family Promise of Greater Phoenix has helped provide shelter for more than 3,000 families in its 25-year history. In 2025, the organization expects to shelter nearly 300 families and assist another 100 families with prevention services. Its mission is to rescue families with children (and their pets) experiencing homelessness with shelter, food, and compassion. This event raises funds for its critical mission.
FamilyPromiseAZ.org
