Since its incorporation, Scottsdale, Arizona has boomed to a population of over 230,000. Even more than that, many Canadians and Europeans love to visit the city for extended periods of time. The city is a very popular destination for living or visiting. Some of the most exciting and beautiful communities are located the base of the gorgeous McDowell Mountains. These communities feature dazzling landscape views of the Arizona desert as well as a stunning display of the mountain range above. The homes in these areas tend toward classic Spanish Colonial Architecture and the Rural Mediterranean style.
Spanish Colonial
This type of architecture is perhaps best known for its considerable influence on the East Indies and the New World. In fact, the style was so common that many laws of the 16th century demanded that settlements in the Americas be built this way. The style is typified by the large, sturdy construction demanded by the rugged American Southwest blended with very Spanish Baroque embellishments. The historic district in Quito, Ecuador is considered the most authentic and well-preserved example of Spanish Colonial architecture.
In the United States, Silverleaf real estate is a perfect example of recreating this iconic architecture with modern improvements and amenities. The homes feature a blend of sturdy Southwest construction with an emphasis on playing with light and shade, large colonnades, domes, and a use of color that evokes painterly techniques.
Rural Mediterranean
Much of the American Southwest was once under Spanish rule, and the emphasis on Mediterranean style has continued for hundreds of years. In the United States, Mediterranean revival homes draw influence from seaside villas and Renaissance-style palaces. Typically, they are rectangular homes with very large facades. Oftentimes, they can be identified by arched or circular windows, wrought iron balconies and window bars, and red roofs.
Both of these styles can be found in Silverleaf real estate offerings. Since both Rural Mediterranean architecture and Spanish Colonial architecture developed in a region similar to the Southwest, they are perfect for Arizona. The emphasis on light and shade, open floor plans, and sturdy construction create homes that flourish in the desert.
Location
One of the most appealing aspects of these homes is reflected in their architecture. They are designed for living in wide, open spaces. The Mediterranean style can be adapted for lots of any size. Some of the homes in the area have modest lots around 7,000 square feet. These lots place the dazzling beauty of the home at the forefront. Those who want the true impact of life under the big sky opt for lots as large as seventeen acres.
When choosing a home style or lot size, there is no wrong answer. The biggest decision you have to make is where you want to draw the focus.
