19 Summer 2008 Arc A di A Home W hen the Swensons traded houses with a friend in Arcadia, this set in motion a home rebuild that would surprise the neighbors. Remodeling was a relatively new idea to Arcadia during the 1990s. The big building boom was just beginning, when the Swensons chose to remove the roof and take this home down to the studs. Over two years were spent crafting plans that resulted in a complete transformation of the property. From the front entryway, hand-hewn wooden beams forge this home’s rustic appeal. Evoking a trip to wine country, this French Country escape holds tons upon tons of quarried stone. Massive stone pillars and vaulted ceilings equip the living room with the perfect space for entertaining. The floor to ceiling stone fireplace provides a spot for intimate conversation over a glass of wine. Dinner guests can unwind in the oversized chairs at the dining room table. Natural light streams through both the hallway and dining room from an intricate honeycomb. French c ountry Escap E

20 Arc A di A Home Summer 2008 Custom cabinetry and French influences are prominent throughout the house. A painted grape vine rests comfortably on the range hood in this charming and bright kitchen. The Swensons enjoy endless amounts of storage in their custom cabinetry while the granite countertops serve as testimony for their design insight. Unlike any other kitchen in Arcadia, the enormous two-tone center island is a one-of-a-kind, using two contrasting slabs. The generous floor plan allows natural light to flow throughout the house, giving guests the feeling that they are in the outdoors. Surrounded by Camelback Mountain, this suburban retreat must be the perfect place to unwind during the long, hot Arizona summer. The home’s natural hardwood floors and smooth, cream-colored tile contribute to its style and charm. With the right combination of comfort and function, this tasteful rebuild is a success story that delivers many happy returns. Home Name: French Country Escape Owner: Jeff and Lisa Swenson Architect/Designer: David Tobin Interior Design: A Touch of History Square Footage: 4,565 Year Built: circa 1970 Reconstruction: 1998