News Blog

(CAREFREE, Ariz.) — Architect Gerry Jones has been an incredibly important part of the history of the town of Carefree. While his work graces landscapes around the Valley, he is intrinsically tied to the town he helped found with his work. Therefore, it is appropriate that this masterpiece is in the place where his spectacular career began.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to announce that it has closed on a one-of-a-kind property that highlight this legend’s career. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Agents Frank Aazami and Bill Ramseyer sold the 5,270-square-foot home at 37251 N. Nighthawk Way in Carefree for $3,400,000.

Gerry Jones’ illustrious career spanned over 65 years and designed approximately 328 homes. With speculation that this could be one of his last custom creations, this sale is considered incredibly special therefore there is an added treat. This home is a spec home and represents one of

only three spec homes he has made in that 65+ year career. Jones’ goal with the Nighthawk home was to include a combination of custom features, quality of construction materials, design characteristics and orientation of the home on a hillside lot. These characteristics became the hallmarks of the other 325 custom homes he created for his clients.

Agent Frank Aazami said this about the landmark sale, “Nighthawk was in fact the highest priced home sold per-square-foot within Carefree. We attribute this milestone accomplishment to Gerry Jones and Tim Larson with La Casa Builders for imagining and building this signature home. In this case they have proven it with a timeless design coupled with quality construction that can yield the highest sale and reason for a toast. This home will outlast many generations to come.”

Gerry Jones was born in Indiana in 1924 and served in Okinawa in the Pacific theater in WWII as a Marine. He also served in the Korean War, and first became interested in architecture while in China, where he witnessed monasteries built into the mountainsides. That love of extreme architecture never left him, as he taught extreme mountainous terrain architecture at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West for 17 years.

Carefree Founders K.T. Palmer and Tom Darlington asked Jones to layout the roads and lots of the original town between 1957 and 1959. His first home was built in the Town of Carefree in 1959 on a 2.5-acre improved lot at a cost of $1,700 (today’s value of the lot would be about $850,000), a home that Carefree Councilmember Vince D’Aliesio now lives in with his family. He documented guidelines and created rules for development that eventually would become part of the Maricopa County Hillside Ordinance. Jones believed in designing homes that exceeded code requirements and therefore last for generations. His design and construction process blends with the natural flow of the terrain, a design characteristic he likes to call “Southwestern Textural”.

Jones’ 328 homes are spread throughout Arizona, Carmel, Maui, Nevada, Portland and Palm Springs. Some of the homes he has designed and built in the Valley area can be found in Camelback, Mummy Mountains, Pinnacle Peak, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Clearwater Hills and Cave Creek. 

The smallest home he designed and built was a 1,500 square foot Honeymoon Cottage on 17 acres in Carefree. The largest home was 26,000 square-foot masterpiece that he built at a cost of $52 million. Among his clientele are celebrities, athletes, corporate executives and international clients. 140 of his career 328 homes are built in Carefree and 17 of them are built on Black Mountain.

We invite you to watch this video where he tells the story about his process. Take this virtual tour and see for yourself just how special this property is now and will always be.

For media inquiries please contact Jennifer Parks-Sturgeonat Jparks-Sturgeon@roseallynpr.com or 480.495.3806.

About Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

Since 1947, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty has gathered realty craftsmen dedicated to the ideals of integrity and professionalism. From the ownership, management, agents, and affiliate services, every person involved in the company utilizes innovative skills, programs, and technologies to create the finest real estate services company to be found.

The mission of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is to provide its clients with the most responsive personalized service attainable – nothing less will do. The environment within Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is unique in the industry. Seasoned management innovatively supports the efforts of the Company’s members to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that invigorates and hones the skills of everyone involved. 

Collaboration and networking are fostered to create a synergy that puts the whole company to work for every client. The artistic blending of proven traditions and state-of-the-art innovation is unsurpassed. These assets are positioned on a base of financial stability and corporate staying power. 

If these past few years have taught us anything, it’s the importance of creating a space that works as a personal sanctuary—a home that you can retreat to when everything else is uncertain. Days are growing warmer and longer and while you might have exciting vacation plans on the horizon, sometimes the best way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life is within your own home. Nothing says fun in the sun quite like a backyard swimming pool.

From the olive tree groves of Napa County, California to the lush woods of Bainbridge Island, Washington, these homes offer all of the perks of a swimming pool along with incredible surrounding scenery. Whether you plan to throw the best parties in the neighborhood or keep your tranquil haven all to yourself, these beautiful properties ensure this will be a summer to remember.

7800 Lynchburg Drive, Austin, Texas

7800 Lynchburg Drive | Austin, Texas
Represented by Kim Bayless

Discover the magic of this private oasis situated high in the hills overlooking Preservation Ranch. Take on hot Texas summers with the incredible beach-entry pool. Surrounding stone, a cascading waterfall, misting system, and serene blue tile offer a grotto-like experience right in your own backyard. Recently converted to AOP to reduce the toxic chemical exposure, swimmers can rest assured that they’re enjoying a healthier alternative to the typical pool. 

The main house features exposed wood beams, shining hardwood floors, and spectacular stone walls. You’ll wonder if you’ve stepped out of Texas and into a villa in Tuscany. Multiple bars, a wine room, spacious kitchen, media/game room, grand great room, and detached casita make this home ideal for entertaining and hosting guests. The primary suite offers incredible views of the backyard and surrounding hillside and an elegant ensuite complete with separate sinks, a jetted soaking tub, and a smart shower with body jets.  

7917 219th Avenue NE, Redmond, Washington

7917 219th Avenue NE | Redmond, Washington
Represented by Gray Team

A sanctuary of modern architecture with a Zen sensibility. Calming reflection pools immediately welcome you into the home and set the tone for the rest of the design. Beautifully manicured trees and shrubbery line the entry water feature displaying an artful mix of water and earth. And it doesn’t stop there—the backyard features a striking pool and jetted spa with a backdrop of angular concrete and flowing water features. Watch as the reflection of the fire pit (one of two) glimmers on the still waters of the pool as day turns to night. The covered patio offers protection from the sun or rain while you enjoy the sight of Douglas firs, bamboo, roses, grapevines, and peonies.

The interior’s sleek, contemporary design features 25-foot ceilings, cast concrete, and forged B1 steel. The open concept floor plan makes entertaining a breeze, and architectural features, like the floating staircase and glass walls, open the space even further. Discover ultimate relaxation in the primary bedroom with a luxurious ensuite featuring Calcutta gold marble details and a rain shower. Whether you’re hosting friends and loved ones or taking in the beautiful harmony between nature and architecture alone, it’s clear that this home is more than a piece of property—it’s an experience.

100 Longhorn Ridge Road, Napa, California

100 Longhorn Ridge Road | Napa, California
Represented by Tim Rangel

The Ranch at Longhorn Ridge is an unparalleled 153-acre sanctuary that looms above Napa County. Take in views of Mt. Tamalpais, Mt. Diablo, Mt. Shasta, and San Francisco as you experience total calm in the large pool. Surrounded by mature trees, rolling hills, and open sky, the backyard offers pastoral peace. Whether you’re cooling off on sunny days or taking a night swim under the stars, the scenic surroundings are unmatched.

The four-bedroom, custom-built home features elegant, quality finishes and practical amenities for day-to-day living, including eco-friendly solar power and a whole-house backup generator. A spacious kitchen boasts ample counter space, perfect for prepping and serving meals. Large windows flood the space with bright, natural light and frame the picturesque views. Relax in the primary bedroom or take advantage of the home’s incredible sauna at the end of a busy day. The property’s Quonset barn, irrigation pond, “hobby farm,” horses, and cows are perfect for home seekers looking to embrace life on the ranch and all of the rewards that accompany it.

9343 NE Yama Ridge Lane, Bainbridge Island, Washington

9343 NE Yama Ridge Lane | Bainbridge Island, Washington
Represented by Michele Schuler and Claudia Powers

This Napa Farmhouse-inspired estate is island living at its finest. Situated on 5.33 acres amongst the natural beauty of Bainbridge Island, this property feels like a private retreat. The serene saltwater pool is complemented by the adjacent sprawling lawn and mature landscaping. Host fabulous pool parties with a built-in Wolf BBQ and ample room to lounge in the sun or play backyard games. Gather around the glow of the fire pit after the sun sets for s’more fun.

The stunning details continue in the interior. Built in 2008 by Katz Townsend Architects and Jefferson Fine Home Builders, the home evokes the rustic coziness of a secluded cabin combined with the elegance of a modern-day manor with its vaulted ceilings and impressive square footage. The great hall connects two wings—to the west you’ll find the primary suite, a second bedroom, an office, and 3/4 bathroom and the east leads you to two guest suites, a mudroom, and laundry. The property also boasts a guesthouse with a bath and upper living space and a bonus room over the garage.

12011 220th Street, Vashon, Washington

12011 220th Street | Vashon, Washington
Represented by Brad Vancour

Located on approximately 117 acres of land, this expansive estate welcomes you to a picturesque world of your own. Stroll the remarkable grounds and take joy in identifying the diverse collection of trees, shrubs, flowers, and more. You’ll find yourself transported to Giverny, France with your very own Monet-inspired pond complete with bridges and a water fountain. Take advantage of upcoming warm days and dive into the pool accompanied by an elegant statue and majestic views of Mt. Rainier.

The five-bedroom primary residence features walls of windows and skylights so that you’re never separated from the surrounding natural wonders of the estate. Vaulted ceilings and a stone fireplace add to the home’s regal beauty. The property also includes two guest houses, a stocked lake, driving range, horse stalls, a fully-fenced pasture, sawmill, showroom for up to 25 automobiles, and more.

10040 E Happy Valley Road 302, Scottsdale, Arizona

10040 E Happy Valley Road 302 | Scottsdale, Arizona
Represented by Michel Edery and Frank Aazami

Both mid-century modern-inspired and Southwest cool, this desert highlands estate is the ideal escape. Designed with red rocks from Sedona, Arizona, a city said to encourage regeneration and calm, the pool is certainly one-of-a-kind. Take in the peaceful sounds of trickling water from the fountain or let your troubles melt away as you soak in the hot tub. This home’s backyard is a work of art with a background of beautiful open sky and unique desert-friendly landscaping.

The interior of the home is as striking as the exterior. High ceilings, elegant pillars, arched doorways, and a grand circular staircase are a sight to behold. Cook in style in the large gourmet chef’s kitchen with its showstopping copper ceiling. The formal living room has direct access to the backyard, making it perfect for entertaining. Upstairs, you’ll find the primary suite complete with a sitting room, glamorous ensuite, and a wraparound deck allowing for 360-degree views of North Scottsdale. The home also boasts additional guest suites plus a detached casita with a full kitchen—it truly has it all.