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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 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 288.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Tucson, AZ
  • Mike Jacob Sports Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Tucson Premium Outlets
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Tucson Mall
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Tucson, AZ (AVW-Marana Regional)
    ‪17 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

Languages

English, French, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

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

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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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

Located in Cortaro, a neighbourhood in Tucson, this cottage is in the mountains. Quarry Pines Golf Club and Sunflower Village Center 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 ecotours, mountain climbing and horse riding.
Map
Tucson, AZ

What's nearby

  • Mike Jacob Sports Park - 6 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Tucson Premium Outlets - 9 min drive - 8.6 km
  • Tucson Mall - 14 min drive - 15.5 km
  • University of Arizona - 16 min drive - 20.2 km
  • Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum - 30 min drive - 26.4 km

Getting around

  • Tucson Station - 22 min drive
  • Tucson, AZ (AVW-Marana Regional) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪In-N-Out Burger - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Charley's Philly Steaks #02362 - Walmart - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Texas Roadhouse - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Cracker Barrel - ‬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. Aeroball Sports Courts is 3 mi (4.8 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 188 out of 197 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 197 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 197 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 197 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 197 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

William V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

escape

A very nice and unusual escape. We enjoyed the uniqueness of the home.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sharon K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert Road Trip

Enjoyed staying in this home in Saguaro. Within minutes of numerous hiking trails and also downtown Tucson.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely fabulous!

A large part of our return vacations to Tucson are because we stay here. It’s a fabulous experience by itself. Very private, very modern chic, very spotless, and yet we were only 15-20 min from so much to do. We loved occasionally seeing desert wildlife, from javelinas coming by house early in morning to a pack of coyotes crossing gravel road (and often heard howling at night.) Simply a perfect quiet retreat.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Neil M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sonoran desert hideaway

Lovely spot close to great desert scenery and hiking. Feels very much like you are on the edge of a national park (and you actually are!). Enjoyed it very much.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always Wonderful

The Glass Cottage itself is a work of art and is situated in a beautiful area with wonderful sunrises and sunsets. Right near Saguaro national park. All the best of Tucson.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gregory C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

The Views were amazing. Really cool place.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert oasis

Great modern house immersed in the desert with distant views of Tucson and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Fantastic quiet place to relax and unwind! Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

John R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Glass Cottage

Phenomenal property with incredible desert views. Very well appointment with the exception of the Wi-Fi and TV. The TV is small and unable to get Netflix. This cottage would be incredibly enhanced with full-on internet service for stays of multiple days.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A stay in a glass house

We stayed here to visit Tucson. This house is far to the west of Tucson which is not a difficult city to navigate but a city with lots of long roads with lots of lights. I 10 was under construction the entire time making travel more tough. BEAUTIFUL house and grounds!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert E. M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert retreat

Property was exactly as described and met all expectations. Glad to have had the opportunity to stay here.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

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

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

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

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests