Brenneman Residence

A perfect example of Darling Designs' philosophy of "Livable Luxury," this home was designed to maximize the budget and meet all criteria for a local media personality Thom Brennaman and his growing family. Over 6,000 sf of livable space flows through the main home and a separate guest house placed near the rear of the site for optimum seclusion, designed specifically for Polly's mother. The main house and guest quarters were carefully sited to provide spectacular views of Camelback Mountain.

While privacy and security were paramount, the owners did not want to live behind closed, high walls, but rather offer a visible welcome to guests and neighbors. The careful balance of programmed outdoor space, automated gates, and multiple discreet security measures provided the solution, including a unique "safe room" that could be used as a shelter space from intruders or as an escape route to leave the property. Behind the view gates, the owners can enjoy the outdoor living area on the front patio, accessed via soaring French doors.

We like to create 'visual vignettes' at every turn in our homes to delight and surprise the eye. Whether through interior room arrangements or features, or via exterior landscaping combined with building materials. In this home, exposed wood headers, shutters and just the right amount of stone are offset by thoughtful desert plantings to soften and brighten the palette. Inside, a spectacular round formal dining room features a hand-hewn wood beam ceiling with a very unique design. The dark-stained mullioned doors open the room to the front patio. Here, delicate ironwork and rustic stone and tile create a relaxing and visually balanced space and a welcoming arrival for guests.