Hotel Valley Ho
Scottsdale, Ariz.
Allen + Philp Architects
Restoration and expansion realizes original architect’s mid-century vision
The principles of preservation, reuse, and celebration guided Allen + Philp Architects during their rehabilitation and expansion of the historic Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, Ariz. Designed by architect Edward L. Varney in 1956, the 14-acre resort is one of the best intact examples of a mid-century motor hotel in the country—despite several renovations over the years. Preservationists spared it from the wrecking ball and listed it on the Scottsdale Historic Register in 2002.
The property’s new owner hired Allen + Philp to revitalize the property. In the guest rooms, the designers retained as many of the original masonry walls as possible, along with floor-to-ceiling glass walls—now outfitted with energy-saving dual pane units—that open onto patios or balconies. Newer, retro-inspired elements include translucent bathroom walls and oversized, spa-like soaking tubs. Outside the guest rooms along the walkways, they restored a signature design element: a series of precast concrete panels, each weighing 350 pounds, which conceals handrails and acts as a decorative horizontal belt around the building.
Allen + Philp’s most dramatic addition to the property is a seven-story tower that contains a spa, fitness center, five levels of condominium residences, and a roof terrace featuring panoramic views of the city and nearby mountains. Ironically, while this element seems new, it actually marks the fulfillment of the original architect’s vision: Varney included the tower in his initial plans and engineered the building’s foundations to accommodate it.
Formal name of project:
Hotel Valley Ho
Location:
Scottsdale, Ariz.
Gross square footage:
220,000 sq. ft.
Total Construction Cost:
$80 million
Owner:
MSR Properties
Architect:
7030 East 5th Ave.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-990-2800 tel.
480-990-3800 fax
www.allenphilp.com
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