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Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert

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'Architectural Digest' comes to the desert - unique design, at one with nature
Bedroom and seating area, facing acorn fireplace and the desert beyond
Recessed lighting throughout, sliding doors leading to one of two stone decks
Design furnishings - Ghery 'Wiggle Chair,' Poliform queen bed, Wassily chairs
Huge sliding doors lead directly onto covered quartzite stone deck
Reviews
10

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 288 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Washer
    WasherWasher
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioningAir conditioning
  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace
  • Dryer
    DryerDryer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Tucson, AZ
  • Popular LocationTucson Premium Outlets9 min drive
  • Popular LocationTucson Mall14 min drive
  • AirportTucson, AZ (TUS-Tucson Intl.)26 min drive
  • Popular LocationArizona-Sonora Desert Museum30 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Other

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining Area

About this property

Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert

This architect-designed original home was completed in early 2013. High sloping ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, polished concrete floors, custom poured concrete feature walls, bamboo drop ceilings, beautiful recessed lighting and myriad 'Architectural Digest' touches make this the perfect spot for the discerning traveller seeking an urbane hideaway in the Sonoran desert.

The panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass walls mean you will be completely in touch with the desert landscape. Saguaros and other cacti surround you. Quail, rabbits, javelinas, coyotes may wander by. You will wake up on the bedroom to the sun rising over the Catalina Mountains to the east and can view the sunset over the Tucson Mountains from the dining area.

Covered quartzite stone decks facing both west and east. Acacia chairs and table on the east deck, bistro table and chairs on the sunset deck. Lounge chairs for sunny afternoons. Driveway parking for one car, a second car can be parked in a pull-out immediately across from the Cottage.

The Glass Cottage comprises two separate units, connected by a covered breezeway.

One half of the Glass Cottage has a Poliform queen size bed; Wassily-style chairs and a Frank Ghery cocktail table and 'Wiggle Chair' in the sitting area facing a working acorn fireplace; dressing room with ample drawers and hanging space; huge two-person glass shower with stone floor and stunning views to the west; vanity area with bamboo sink on cantilevered concrete counter; and a separate and fully enclosed toilet room. Facing east, you will wake up facing the sun rising over the Catalina Mountains.

A few feet away across the covered breezeway, the other half of the Glass Cottage contains the fully equipped kitchen with beautiful tiled countertops; a custom-designed trestle oak dining (or work) table, with 6 chairs; a writing desk; a Danish swivel reading chair and Damson reading lamp; and a flip-down sofa, ideal for an afternoon nap or watching Netflix (provided). Facing west, you'll be treated to the sun setting over the Tucson Mountains as you prepare dinner.

Tucson Glass Cottage shares 3.3 acres with only the owner's residence, some 100 yards away and oriented to ensure privacy for both homes. The Cottage is accessed by a private gravel road, shared only by the owner's home. The acreage is in the center of a group of 6 similarly large plots, far from traffic.

Both shopping and and the magnificent Saguaro National Park are less than 5 minutes away, and it's an easy drive into downtown or the university area. This is the perfect spot for an individual or couple seeking real tranquility and a touch of luxury in a magical desert setting.

Property manager

James
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English, French, Spanish

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tucson

This cottage is located in Cortaro, a neighbourhood in Tucson. Quarry Pines Golf Club and Golden Gate Loop Trail are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Tucson Mall and Tucson Premium Outlets. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Tucson Convention Center or Sporting Chance Center. Break out the clubs and hit the links on a nearby golf course, or seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails, ecotours and horse riding.
Map
Tucson, AZ

What's nearby

  • Tucson Premium Outlets - 9 min drive
  • Tucson Mall - 14 min drive
  • University of Arizona - 16 min drive
  • Old Tucson Studios - 28 min drive
  • Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum - 30 min drive

Getting around

  • Tucson Station - 18 min drive
  • Tucson, AZ (AVW-Marana Regional) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪In-N-Out Burger - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Dutch Bros Coffee - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Dutch Bros Coffee - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert located?

Located in Cortaro, this cottage is within 3 miles (5 km) of Saguaro National Park, Quarry Pines Golf Club and Mike Jacob Sports Park. Pima Prickly Park and Tucson Premium Outlets are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 178 out of 187 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 187 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 187 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 187 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 187 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Adam A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect return stay
Perfect spot for a quiet, relaxing time in Tucson. This is my second time staying and it’s been perfect (again). Will definitely return.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Majestic Property
Fabulous property in the desert. Beautiful home filled with light and majestic views. The home is beautifully furnished with luxury items. Will definitely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical Glass House
Everything was amazing. We were surrounded by beauty, inside and out. The property manager was more than helpful. Our only problem was we didn’t want to leave! Thank you James for allowing us to share your marvelous home.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lesley L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique glass house stay in Sonoran desert
A beautiful private glass house in 2 parts surrounded by views of magnificent saguaros and passing wildlife. Stylish, comfortable and well equipped. 5 mins drive to grocery shop and Tucson close by. Great walking trails and the excellent Sonoran desert museum. A pretty special place to stay. Great communication with housekeeper.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alanna P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Blissful Solitude in the Desert at the Glass Cottage
We loved the two house format. When the sun went down it was wonderful to retreat to the 'little house' and go right to sleep. The way the houses are arranged it is easy to move from one to the other to get out of the direct sunlight whether on the porch or inside. The sunsets and sunrises where incredible…including the bonus of seeing hot air balloons from bed multiple mornings. If you are looking for a quiet and secluded place to retreat with no other distractions other then the amazing desert and the occasional bobcat (one walked right into the front yard!), this is the place. Book it! Communication with owner and property manager was prompt and easy too.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah O., Saint Paul, Minnesota

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous!
This will always be one of our favorites places ever! Stunning, private, and so clean and comfortable, It gave us a great feel for the desert, yet everything we wanted to do was only 20 minutes away each time. Host was great. We can’t wait to return.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shirley S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful sunrises from the glass house!
We loved our stay in this unique desert glass home! The views from all directions were beautiful in a peaceful setting! Check in with the property manager was very helpful and she explained everything about the home. We loved the location which is close to the bike path and Saguarro National Park! Would definitely recommend this home if you are planning to visit beautiful Tuscon!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenn G., Cuyahoga Falls, OH

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded property, close to hiking
The best part of the property is hanging out in the bedroom section at night with the sliders open. Javelinas came to munch on the barrel cactus right off the back porch- absolutely perfect! The property is very close to the Pictured Rocks parking lot in Saguaro NP West, making it an ideal location for exploring that side of the park. While stunning architecturally, we didn’t find the home very comfortable/cozy. Everything one needs for light cooking may be found in the kitchen and the shower is a unique experience. Overall, we wouldn’t hesitate to stay again for a short trip, but this wouldn’t be our first choice for longer than a week. Definitely worth checking out though!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sheri M., Fishers, IN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely setting
This property was perfect for the two of us. The location is so close to Saguaro National Park west and to the highway to get to downtown and to the east side of the national park. The cactus and other plantings on the property were magical to watch at all times of the day. By far, the highlight of our trip was driving up the driveway after dinner one night and seeing a Great Horned Owl sitting on the arm of a saguaro. He kindly posed for many pictures. Just splendid.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful, serene, and convenient
The Glass Cottage is a lovely guest house in a stunning setting. With classic MCM pieces and restrained but interesting art to complement its unique architecture, the design was beautiful and still functional. The property manager made everything easy and welcoming. It was great to spend a day at the Saguro National Park, and then come back and be able to cook dinner at the cottage’s well stocked kitchen.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kurt L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location!
Within 2 hours of our arrrival, we saw a coyote in the driveway and 2 bobcats visited us right off the back deck! The location is quiet and easy access to Saquaro National Park and plenty of restaurants are close by too. We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jodie J., Carroll Iowa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amongst the Saguaros
Loved being amongst the Saguaro and enjoying the sunset and the sunrise from inside our cozy glass house. The location was great for our visits to the National Parks and Sabino Canyon. We also enjoyed our little walk between the two living areas and the feeling of showering outdoors. Thanks for sharing!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Saguaro Redux
I once thought that it might be unwise to attempt to relive a treasured memory, such as that which I had gained the first time I stayed in this architectural masterpiece. Would it ever live up to its rose-colored glasses tint? I have been disabused of that notion for good— I appreciated the uniqueness of this transparent foothold nestled in the saguaro forest even more this time around. One of the best architectural experiences I have ever had. Thanks so much for sharing it Jim!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Norman P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Delightful Stay in the Glass Cottage
We thoroughly enjoyed our 4 nights at the glass cottage sitting on around 3 acres of desert landscape with saguaro cacti, mesquite trees, and teddy bear cholla cacti. Nice to hear coyotes on several mornings. The cottage is very unique and allows for “inside “ views of the surrounding desert, sunrises and sunsets. It is conveniently located to Saguaro National Park-West and the fabulous Desert Museum which must be visited. Attention to detail in design and decor was evident! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Baya (Allarice) M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely.
Very much enjoyed the property.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical Spot
We hesitate to leave a glowing review and risk the place becoming too popular but we can’t hold back. The house is spectacular and completely comfortable. We loved the design and local art. Don’t forget the scenery! Convenient location for visit Saguaro and shopping but feels like your in the middle of the desert. Sunrise the sunset the view is perfect. We will be back…and we can hardly wait
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Thomas S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
3 day escape
Better than the expectations. The privacy was perfect. The bed was very comfortable- and that is most important. Well appointed all around.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Philip S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beyond Stunning!
If anything the property description and all of the positive feedback in the reviews understates how magical this place is! Incomparable sunrise and sunset experiences, the calming reflective quiet of the desert, the diversity of plants and wildlife, and the privacy and completeness of the Glass Cottage combine to make a very unique vacation experience. Everything worked as described and the local property manager was helpful and attentive but not intrusive. Our stay with the Curve-billed Thrashers and and Coyotes was wonderful and we will be recommending the adventure to all of our friends!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
return? YES!
Dynamite rental, quiet, clean, well stocked, we'll be back.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sierra W., Indianapolis, IN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful!
This property is just as beautiful and peaceful as it looks in the photos. Has all the comforts and necessities you’d need. The caretaker ensured I had what I needed at check-in and helped explain the nuances of the property. Couldn’t recommend more!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adam A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Luxurious Retreat
Absolutely stunning home and property. Perfectly tucked away, quiet and peaceful, yet close to everything you could need. I cannot wait to return to Tucson just to stay on this property again, and will recommend it to anyone I know visiting Arizona. Communication was easy and the property manager was amazingly helpful as someone new to the area.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

zainul a., Ferndale

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic Stay
I highly recommend staying at the glass cottage. Very unique building with amazing views. It was out of town far enough to feel secluded but close enough to stores and restaurants to conveniently get what you need. We had a minor issue that we needed to contact management for. She was very prompt about dealing with it and nice to speak with. The only downside to this place, It didn't feel 100% private like listed. If you are super modest, you may not find it comfortable. Neighbors can see into the bedroom area if they really wanted to, and there are no blinds or currents.. They would have to be trying to though. Over all this place was amazing. Sunrises and Sunsets while being surrounded by large cactus was great!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kiersen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful
This was a wonderful experience. The property is beautiful. Loved seeing the sunrise and sunsets daily! The owner was very responsive. Can’t wait to come back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dino F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I Wanna sleep with you in the desert tonight.
If you know the song Peaceful Easy Feeling by The Eagles, then you will appreciate and understand what it's like staying in this beautiful glass cottage. In the morning the sunrise over the mountains bathes you in the warmest light, while the sunsets take your breath away as you prepare dinner and relax with cool drink. At night, there is not a more romantic place to be as the moonlight sets the desert aglow beneath the star filled sky. Our stay has us thinking of another excuse to return for a longer visit to Tucson.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lorry B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Desert Gem
We had absolutely wonderful weekend at this spectacular house. The sunrises were amazing. It was just as it described. We did a little cooking and the kitchen is appropriately stocked.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

About the host

Hosted by James

Host profile image
Professional who enjoys beautiful and very peaceful surroundings.

Why they chose this property

The perfect mix of the true Sonoran desert experience with easy access to the city and all urban comforts.

What makes this property unique

Peaceful and gloriously natural, yet easy access to urban amenities.

Languages:

English, French, Spanish

Premier Host

Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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