Visit Consanti, An Arizona Arts Experience
Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
 |
Cosanti is a cultural treasure tucked away in Paradise Valley. Once an art gallery, a studio and a home all in one, the little gem has grown into something much bigger.
Paolo Soleri, an Italian architect who first came to Arizona in 1947 as an apprentice for architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Soleri became known for his work on bridges and ceramics, but his passion was designing frugal, self-sustaining cities. He spent his life working toward that vision and developed a concept he termed arcology (architecture + ecology). Soleri and his wife moved to the Scottsdale area in 1956 when they founded Cosanti as their home and studio in neighboring Paradise Valley.
 |  |
Visiting Cosanti for the first time was a unique and enriching experience. It's a place where art, architecture, and environmental consciousness come together, making it a must visit destination for those interested in these aspects of culture and design. It is hidden on a quiet residential street in Paradise Valley, so it’s not something that gets a lot of foot traffic. But it really is a must-see during your visit to Arizona. I was fascinated with the domes that seemed to defy gravity and the peaceful feeling the windbells give. The world-renowned bronze and ceramic windbells are made one by one by skilled artisans in the same time-honored tradition as when they were first introduced over a half century ago.
Cosanti, designed by architect Paolo Soleri, is an iconic architectural and artistic space. It's known for its unique structures and its role in the development of the concept of arcology (a fusion of architecture and ecology).
Architectural Innovation: Cosanti is famous for its experimental architecture. Paolo Soleri, who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright, developed the concept of arcology, which promotes sustainable, compact urban design to reduce environmental impact. The structures at Cosanti reflect this philosophy.
Bronze Bell Casting: One of the distinctive features of Cosanti is its bronze bell production. Paolo Soleri believed that the sound of bells had a calming effect on people and designed various bell sculptures. These bells have been produced on-site for many years, and they've become collectors' items.
Tourist Attraction: Cosanti has attracted visitors from around the world interested in architecture, art, and sustainable living. Visitors can explore the unique structures, purchase Soleri's artwork, and learn about his vision of a more harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.
Cultural and Educational Hub: Over the years, Cosanti has also served as an educational center for workshops and events related to architecture, art, and ecology. It's a place where people can learn about Soleri's principles and ideas.
Legacy: Paolo Soleri's ideas have had a lasting impact on architecture and environmental consciousness. Cosanti remains a symbol of his visionary thinking and dedication to sustainable urban development.
 |  |
Tour Times
Guided tours of Cosanti Originals are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Starting at 9:15 am.
Cosanti
6433 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Monday-Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am - 5:00pm
