A Dream Team Comes Together Like a Symphony to Create a Custom Estate That is a Work of Art, introducing Ellington Heights in Silverleaf

"There is no art when one does something without intention." — Duke Ellington

Without a doubt the King of Jazz would consider Ellington Heights—a sleek and stylish gem—a superb work of art. Nestled in the sun-kissed upper canyon of Silverleaf, an exclusive enclave in Scottsdale, Arizona, the design for this magnificent estate collected inspiration from the social, artistic and cultural dynamism of the Roaring Twenties era. Further, the design journey for this modern desert prairie-style home, included finding perfect harmony with its Sonoran surroundings.

An absolute dream team has come together like an orchestra, each playing their individual parts to create beautiful music together in construction and home design. Start with award-winning architect CP Drewett, principal of Drewett Works, a leading firm that has in just the last three years amassed more than 20 distinguished national awards for architectural excellence and innovation in custom home design. Drewett is passionate about his work and emboldened by a challenge, which is what inspires him daily. The Drewett brand is synonymous with delivering design beyond the expected, and Drewett has been continuously recognized for his bold imagination. 

Claire Ownby, founder of leading design firm, Ownby Design, was charged with fulfilling the interior design vision for this magnificent estate, bringing beauty, energy and life into these dramatic spaces. Ownby leads one of the largest interior design teams, and she is widely recognized and respected for creating spaces that come together flawlessly. She wins awards every year nationally for her extraordinary work.

The finest design of any custom estate only comes together under the guidance of a master builder, well versed in the complexity and craftsmanship of this caliber of a home. Gary Fries, founder of GS Fries Construction 

Unlike most custom home builders, Fries is personally involved in every aspect of building a custom estate of extraordinary quality. He is well regarded as an expert in Silverleaf and DC Ranch, and has been chosen to build or renovate more than 50 homes in this community, based on his reputation for the highest integrity and craftsmanship—his greatest passion. 

Together this team represents the best of the best, and a home of this caliber deserves nothing less. As construction begins, we await a masterpiece in the desert that will be available to own for a discerning homeowner with whom this level of team and quality resonates.

To that end, every inch of the 17,000-plus square-foot home, plus 9,000 square feet of covered outdoor living space, was contemplated with discerning intention, understanding the exacting standards of the high-net worth individuals who will find Ellington Heights compelling. 

It’s a modern estate yet perfectly at home in the Arizona desert. And, much like the desert itself, the design exudes understated simplicity, yet is significant in its detail. Envisioned with only the finest materials and finishes available, the homeowner can expect perfection at every turn. Open and airy to accommodate the natural light, the design celebrates the sweeping views of the valley below, including a unique, geographical saddle, offering stunning sunsets and city lights as the day progresses.

With a nod to the era that included the high style of the Great Gatsby era, architect C.P. Drewett, imagined the three-story residence with entertaining in mind. Importantly, he considers the expansive, main floor great room, bar and dining area to be the soul of the house. 

The homeowner and guests will gather around several bars and in game areas. They will linger in indoor/outdoor spaces, around inspiring fire features, expansive landscaped patios and will enjoy the benefits of a 90-foot-long lap pool and integrated spa. Enthusiasts will also appreciate the outdoor golf simulator and practice-perfect putting green.

The estate’s materials palette includes a beautiful mix of ledgestone, limestone, hemlock and clay tile, providing a subtle yet distinctive contrast.  The interior choices were directly inspired by the exterior. Expect a layered, yet monochromatic look incorporating a moody, sophisticated mix of bronzes, beiges and “minky” hues. Nine fireplaces are wrapped in natural stone. The chevron-patterned wood floors throughout Ellington Heights provide a further nod to the jazz-infused era of inspiration.

Clean, elegant, and timeless define the home’s primary kitchen. Exuding modern luxury, it’s a vibrant space in which to indulge the senses, share experiences with friends and family and create lasting memories. 

To that end, only the finest integrated appliances have been selected for the estate home including the exquisite craftsmanship of Eggersmann Kitchens in the primary kitchen, lounge and bar. Expect Wolf and SubZero amenities in the back-service kitchen, car bar, casita and exercise room.

The future homeowner will find the spacious, primary suite a place of respite and luxury within the comfort of home. Fine details, tailor-made for Ellington Heights will refresh and inspire while the bespoke wardrobe area promises to elevate dressing to a special occasion.

The home has many destination points, including the wellness center, where you’ll find an indoor spa area complete with an infrared sauna, steam shower and cold plunge pool. The exercise room, located within a glass catwalk connecting the main home to a guest casita, provides outstanding views for the fitness-minded. 

The guests of Ellington Heights will appreciate the comfort, convenience and privacy provided by an expansive 1,324 square foot casita with its own garage.

Among the seven-bedroom, ten-bath home’s many distinctive features, is a below-level, auto-display garage with a car lift and turntable that can handle 20 vehicles. Providing an unexpected and pleasant surprise, the subterranean showroom offers an extraordinary view of the upper-level pool through glass.

Infused with history, yet thoroughly modern, this ICONIC estate home is a desert gem to be treasured. 

If you feel this extraordinary estate could be your next home, contact Allan MacDonald, Lyon’s Elite top agent, at Russ Lyon/Sotheby’s International Realty.