Scottsdale Spire
A tower to the sky based on a Frank Lloyd Wright design, built on a corner in north Scottsdale
A tall blue spire sits on the southeast corner of Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard and Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale, Arizona. It was built in 2004 based on a design by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, originally intended for the Arizona State Capitol Building.
In the late 1950s, when Arizona planned to build a new Capitol building, Frank Lloyd Wright submitted an unsolicited design. Wright’s “Oasis in the Desert” would have been a large complex including fountains, reflecting pools, shopping and gathering areas set inside the desert beauty of Papago Park. It also featured a large blue spire reaching into the clouds. The Legislature turned down Wright’s design and “Oasis in the Desert” was never built. A model is on display at Taliesin West
The developers of the Promenade retail and dining complex received approval to build the spire in a small park at the corner of their site.
A small park at the foot of the Spire features a covered seating area, fountains, and sculptures by Taliesin Fellow Heloise Crista.
Impressive by day, the tower becomes stunning at night. Illuminated internally, it is visible for miles.
PIN FOR LATER
It is a very impressive piece. It should be seen both in daylight and at night.
Yes, indeed – it looks quite different in the night time than in the day.