Arcosanti is an urban laboratory focused on innovative design, community, and environmental accountability. The basis of this lifestyle is the work of Italian - American architect Paolo Soleri's theory of compact city design, Arcology. Paolo passed from this earth on April 9th, 2013.
Located among the hills and valleys of Arizona's high desert, Arcosanti is built in rock outcroppings and is cooled and heated by the natural elements. Building began in the 1970's during the time that urban sprawl became a concern for environmentalist. Some 7,000 volunteers have lived and worked here putting action to their philosophy to see their dream come to life. The area consists of various mixed-use buildings and public spaces where people live, work and participate in educational and cultural programs. Visitors are welcome and tours are conducted daily.
Arcosanti's newest project is this greenhouse based on a modular design using air flow as a natural circulatory system called an energy apron developed by Jaderloon.
In the 1950's, returning to Italy after an extended stay with Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West, Paolo was commissioned to build a large ceramics factory in Vietri. Here he learned processes that he adapted to produce his award winning ceramic and bronze bells which are sold here at Arcosanti and at Cosanti in Paradise Valley, Arizona.
Here are a few pictures of the residence quarters. Some can be rented for short term stays.
The ceramic bells are made here by residents.
Soleri Windbells help fund the cost of building Arcosanti. The Brass Windbells are made in the area below and at Cosanti.
There are many outdoor spaces to enjoy and many walls are decorated with colorful patterns and depictions of wildlife. The amphitheater is used for lectures as well as entertainment.
Creating an "urban container" instead of the "individual domain" is Paolo's solution to ecologically sustainable architecture which he envisions as "a type of organization of buildings, of spaces that are serving people and not dis-serving the biosphere."
The design concepts of Arcosanti (and Cosanti) have challenged and fueled thought in the world of architecture, both building and landscape. We can thank Paolo Soleri as a man who put his ideas into a concrete example for us to ponder.
I could not come home without a bell! Choosing just one proved difficult but I finally found a design I liked with the perfect ring that was in my price range. I've placed it where I can see it from my kitchen window and hear the lovely dingly-dong when the wind caresses it's wind catcher.
Visit Arcosanti here.
Visit Arcosanti here.
