HOME NAME: Old World Arcadia OWNER: Jim & Kristen Furcini ARCHITECT/DESIGNER: Kristen Furcini & Kelly McCall SQUARE FOOTAGE: 8000 YEAR BUILT: 1973 RECONSTRUCTION: 2006 10

F rom the minute you step into the stunning foyer with its beautiful red brick ceiling, this Furcini custom home seems to redefine the meaning of both individuality and originality. To even the casual observer, no expense was spared or detail overlooked in the planning and design. A self described “old world builder,” Jim Furcini worked endlessly to perfect nearly 8000 square feet of pure luxury at the base of Camelback Mountain. The Arcadia home site was even hand picked by the owners following an extensive search of residential properties throughout Phoenix and Paradise Valley. Billed as an entertainer’s paradise, the dining room first showcases the flawless iron and glass work that is incorporated throughout the home. The kitchen is tastefully assembled with a wood dining bar, granite countertops and intricate tile work over the stove. Landscape design includes an exquisite courtyard in the front with several miniature brick courtyards in the back while still leaving enough room for the kids to enjoy. The home is comprised of five bedrooms, four baths, and an office, not to mention the spacious media room, wine cellar and six separate fireplaces. Last, the home’s focus is also on family with an imaginatively decorated Children’s Playroom and uniquely crafted indoor tree house. Originally built in 1960, this was formerly a ranch style refuge which minimized sun exposure. For nearly two years, the home was conscientiously “reconstructed” to incorporate the park-like surroundings of Camelback Mountain with mature landscaping. The result was a Mediterranean Villa that warmly translated the natural flow of family life. Recognizing that the sun can be a source of energy, the house refines natural light into a work of art in nearly every room. Indeed, this home is where the heart is. Old World ARCADIA While going through this expansive property, it occurred to me that there aren’t that many homes in the neighborhood we would describe as “compounds.” There are fewer still that exude the warmth and family-feel found in this estate. Passing through the front gate reveals a patio area reminiscent of the Hermosa Inn. When we arrived, the walls between the patio and the great room were slid aside on tracks, creating an open-air environment that made an incredible first impression. E d i t o r ’ s update 11