For Stargazers

I know...Arcosanti is getting a bit old, but I had to include this photo. Architect Paolo Soleri planted the tall cypress trees in the background to remind him of his native Italy. I'm not sure what the purpose of the column is, but note how the stairs are NOT at 90 degree angles. They actually recline so you can sit on them after dark and watch the stars.

Architecture at Arcosanti

I love the lines and architecture of Arcosanti. That, plus the gorgeous blue sky had me a bit camera crazy that day. Wish I had more time on the tour for photographs...

Above is a picture of the common area roof, two semi-circle concrete structures. I've included a picture below to give you a better idea of how it looks.

Sleds

During our tour of Arcosanti, I noticed these sleds on the stairway. The irony? Not only was there no snow, but it was over 100 degree that day!

Figs

Arcosanti grows much of their own produce onsite. On our tour, we saw apricots, olives, grapes and tomatoes.

Bronze shop dome

This is the dome roof of the bronze shop, where workers create bronze Soleria Windbells.

Ceramics Dome

Yesterday, we visited Arcosanti, an "experiment in urban living," about 50 miles north of Phoenix. Designed by Paolo Soleri, this urban development demonstrates how people can reduce human impact on the environment by living in a compact, highly-integrated community. Although it was meant to be the home of 5,000, Arcosanti has rarely had more than 100 inhabitants.

This photo shows the dome where inhabitants make ceramic bells. Soleri is known worldwide for his ceramic and bronze Windbells.