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WSJ House of the Week May 22 *A rare opportunity to own a visually striking and deeply livable architecturally significant home in the high Sonoran Desert. This exceptional 2 acre Carefree estate includes a main residence with 2,577 square feet of living space, originally designed and built in 1980, and thoughtfully restored in 2019, by renowned architect and long-time Taliesin professor Michael P. Johnson. The newly built modernist 768 square foot guest house and heated pool were also designed by Michael P. Johnson and built by The Construction Zone, who also executed the restoration on the main house. The main residence features 2 en-suite bedrooms, an office/library, den, powder room, bonus room and laundry room. The guest house features 2 en-suite bedrooms, full living room and kitchen as well as a washer/dryer. Both the main residence and the guest house are equipped with owned solar panel systems that currently offset the property's electricity usage, resulting in no monthly electrical costs. An electric vehicle charging station further enhances convenience and future-forward livability. All major systems were replaced or updated during the 2019 restoration, offering peace of mind alongside architectural distinction. The striking back patio in the main residence, crafted from Cumaru wood (Brazilian teak), features a plumbed gas-powered firepit and a 100-inch retractable projection screen. Though private and secluded, this home is just a 10 minute walk to Civana Wellness Resort and Spa and within close proximity to the shops and restaurants of Carefree and Cave Creek, private and public golf courses, hiking and cycling trails and boating. Architectural Highlights: The entire property embodies the organic architecture design principles pioneered by Frank Lloyd Wright, where structure, light and land exist in quiet harmony - as expressed through the lens of Michael P. Johnson's mid century aesthetic. Every line, material and sightline has been carefully considered to frame the surrounding desert, capture natural light and create a seamless dialogue between indoors and out. The main residence features warm natural materials, striking butted glass windows and sculptural forms inside and out. The heated pool integrates seamlessly into the landscape and architectural composition. Multiple patios provide distinct spaces for relaxation and entertainment. The guest house provides a striking modern contrast to the main residence, where both original organic architecture vision and modern aesthetic expansion addition are authored by the same architect. The estate's generous acreage provide a sense of seclusion and serenity, with ample space to take in panoramic desert vistas, Black Mountain views, dramatic skies and the ever-changing light that animates the architecture throughout the day. More than a home, this is a living piece of architectural legacy - an authentic expression of Taliesin inspired design, refined over decades and brought forward with clarity and intention. For the discerning buyer who values design, provenance and place, this is truly a one-of-a-kind offering.
Property Type(s):
Single Family
| Last Updated | 5/17/2026 | Tract | Carefree Too |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year Built | 1980 | Community | Carefree Too |
| Garage Spaces | 2.5 | County | Maricopa |
SCHOOLS
| Elementary School | Black Mountain Elementary School |
|---|---|
| Jr. High School | Cactus Shadows High School |
| High School | Cactus Shadows High School |
Additional Details
| AIR | Central Air, ENERGY STAR Qualified Equipment |
|---|---|
| AIR CONDITIONING | Yes |
| APPLIANCES | Dishwasher, Disposal, Dryer, Electric Oven, ENERGY STAR Qualified Dryer, ENERGY STAR Qualified Washer, Gas Range, Refrigerator, Washer, Water Purifier, Water Softener Owned |
| CONSTRUCTION | Ducts Professionally Air-Sealed, Frame, Low VOC Insulation, Spray Foam Insulation, Stone, Stucco |
| EXTERIOR | Balcony, Guest House, Other, Private Yard |
| FIREPLACE | Yes |
| GARAGE | 2.5 Space(s), Attached Garage, Electric Vehicle Charging Station(s), Garage Door Opener, Yes |
| HEAT | Electric, ENERGY STAR Qualified Equipment, Forced Air, Zoned |
| INTERIOR | Breakfast Bar, High Speed Internet, Other, Wet Bar |
| LOT | 2.01 acre(s) |
| LOT DESCRIPTION | Corner Lot, Desert Back, Desert Front, Sprinklers In Front, Sprinklers In Rear |
| PARKING | Garage Door Opener, Electric Vehicle Charging Station(s) |
| POOL | Yes |
| POOL DESCRIPTION | Fenced, Heated |
| SEWER | Septic Tank |
| STORIES | 2 |
| STYLE | Contemporary, Other |
| SUBDIVISION | Carefree Too |
| TAXES | 2612 |
| UTILITIES | Cable Available |
| VIEW | Yes |
| VIEW DESCRIPTION | Mountain(s) |
| WATER | Public |
Location
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Listed with Compass
The ARMLS logo indicates a property listed by a real estate brokerage other than Trillium Properties LLC.
All information should be verified by the recipient and none is guaranteed as accurate by ARMLS.
Copyright 2026 Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. All rights reserved.
Data last updated 6/13/26 6:16 AM PDT.
All information should be verified by the recipient and none is guaranteed as accurate by ARMLS.
Copyright 2026 Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. All rights reserved.
Data last updated 6/13/26 6:16 AM PDT.
This IDX solution is (c) Diverse Solutions 2026.

Voted in the Top 3 Real Estate Agents in Arizona by the readers of Ranking Arizona Magazine, 2015-2025. Her background as an Attorney gives her special expertise with contracts and negotiations. Carmen has a proven track record of success with buyers and sellers in Scottsdale.