Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona is a remarkable piece of architecture that showcases the brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural work. The collection of structures served as his winter home and school in the desert since its construction in 1937 till his death in 1959.

The buildings that are housed here showcase a variety of unusual building techniques. During his lifetime Wright continually added and made changes to the constructions that were featured here. All of the constructions were undertaken by students of the school itself.

The structures here had several influences that impacted the way the buildings eventually turned out. The first was the rugged and nature of the mountainside of the area, from which Wright personally hand picked all the materials for the construction that included sand, gravel and stone.
The second characteristic was the mild winter climate which allowed for soothing natural light to be allowed in through a tent like roof. The last characteristic was the need for a venue that would house a community of staff and students.

Because of its unusual structure the site was designated a national Historic Landmark in 1982. The landscaping here is highly unusual featuring an interesting mix of grass and desert sands. The construction of the buildings and the entire complex’s overall appearance gives it a clean cut finish that pleases the eye.

Interestingly enough the buildings are still used for the purposes that they were originally designed for and visitors to the site will find living, working, educational facilities and an architectural firm.

The Millennium Scottsdale Resort & Villas is a conveniently located hotel near Taliesin West that provides its guests with easy access to this destination in addition to a range of comforts.