SAVOIR VIVRE: the natural balance of ARCOSANTI

high in the Sonoran desert, seventy miles north of Phoenix, sits a city of the future, conceived in the past, that strived for man's balance with nature. italian architect, Paolo Soleri, founded the Cosanti Foundation in the 1950s, forming a community whose simple living ideals created an urban oasis of fundamental architectural forms and communal spaces.

still only five percent complete, the city, that began with the construction of his studio and home in 1955, boasts several arc-itectural elements. the expansive vaults [above] offered a space for gatherings and meetings, and provided much needed shade from the desert sun.

comprised without roads, this alternative to sprawl offered an efficient urban environment, with living, working, learning, and leisure spaces designed to be accessible from each other within minutes.

above, the layout of the amphitheater with surrounding live/work units.

this pool with canopy was built in 1966, consisting of a 20-ton concrete canopy supported by three telephone poles at each corner. Soleri often built from the roof down using sand cast concrete, that would take the shape of the land, to create his roof structures.

the world renown Cosanti bells are made of liquid bronze poured into sand molds in the foundry [above], or slip-cast carved ceramic in the ceramics apse [below], both of which play major roles in the live/work environment. like many of the buildings, both face south for shade in the hottest of summer days, and warmth during cool winter months.

visiting Arcosanti is about seeing its architectural beauty and experiencing its cultural concept. with guest rooms onsite, you have the ability to take in both.

the Sky Suite [below] although modest, features two bedrooms and a kitchenette, expansive views of the desert, as well as the amphitheater below.

also available to overnight guests, the canyon side swimming and wading pools.

with daily tours, and cafe opening soon for fall, find out more about visiting Arcosanti here

photos courtesy of Cosanti Foundation // Jessica Jameson and Colli Soleri