Welcome to “The Duke” -an absolutely delightful Tucson ranch home oozing with mid-century charm. As soon as you walk through the front door, you won’t be able to help the giant smile that forms as you take in the super fun vintage décor and then look out through the back wall of windows to the stunning backyard. Imagine a place where the crew would go to rest and relax after a long day shooting movies like 'The Searchers' or 'Shane' - and you will have a picture of “The Duke" Pool not heated
The home rests on 2+ acres of mature Arizona desert. Hundreds of cacti (we stopped counting saguaros at over 100) as well as birds like Gila Woodpeckers, Cactus Wrens, Roadrunners, Gambel’s Quail, Desert Cardinals, and butterflies abound when the plants are blooming. It is barely a one minute drive to St. Philip’s plaza where you will find numerous amazing restaurants, coffee shops, farmers market, etc. Trader Joe’s is just a mile away as is the Rillito River walk/bike path.
Every detail of this home has been carefully curated, from the Herman Miller/ Charles & Ray Eames chairs, to the Heywood-Wakefield dining set, to the ROWE jukebox, the genuine Navajo rugs and of course the authentic 1950’s vintage move posters.
This 1953 Ranch Style home has huge, vaulted ceilings and windows everywhere adding to the spacious and relaxing feel. There is a large fully equipped kitchen, separate dining area, spacious living room as well as 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms (2 of which are en-suite).
As incredible as the house is, we know you will want to spend much of your time in the amazing backyard. Whether you are watching the sunset while soaking in the spa, taking a refreshing dip in the pool, or just enjoying a cup of coffee as the desert wildlife entertains you, this backyard will be a highlight of your stay. Vintage Saltillo tiles cover the backyard patio up to the hot tub and down to the cool pool. The specimen cactus offer fantastic photo opportunities and the huge mature palm trees offer plenty of shade. Take advantage of Tucson’s amazing weather by dining ‘al fresco’. Grill up your favorite dinner and enjoy it on the back patio at he vintage outdoor table.
The extra-large primary bedroom features Herman Miller 1958 'Aluminum Group' work area with executive chair and conference table , new King-sized bed, matching 'American of Martinsville' nightstands, Bassett 'Mayan' collection walnut headboard, Lane bench cedar chest, en suite bathroom with tub and shower with 1957 Detecto scale, large closet, linen closet with extra Pendleton blankets, sheets, pool towels, pillows, etc.
Bedroom 2 has a view to the North of the Catalina mountains w/an en-suite bathroom (with shower and hand-holds), writing desk + chair, new pillow-top Queen-sized bed, waterfall style nightstand, armchair and ottoman, plus a large closet.
Bedroom 3 has a panoramic views, sleek corner desk, new Queen-sized bed, Lane bench storage chest, a couple MCM early American style chairs, and a large closet.
All the beds have either 100% Pima cotton percale sheets and organic cotton pillowcases, or alternatively Belgian linen sheets w/ King or Queen linen duvet covers; we alternate between the linen and cotton sets of sheets.
Kitchen dishes for 10 (though the house accommodates 6 guests), we don't want you to have to do the dishes constantly, 2 sets of silverware (stainless + vintage sterling plate), barware, blender, toaster, fridge w/ice maker, separate toaster oven, dishwasher, microwave, gas range/convection oven, popcorn popper, plus all pans & utensils for cooking/baking.
Media room has plenty of books, games, working jukebox, records, stereo system, bluetooth -- all to enjoy while you are there.
Artwork is original, period linen-backed 1950s movie posters, 1939 comic western prints, MCM decorator desertscape by 'Turner Wall Accessory', de Jonge floral prints, plus yards and yards of vintage barkcloth fabric original to the era.
Home truth - you're never going to want to leave this MCM gem.
It's like going back 50-70 years without the inconveniences. Jacuzzi with reservation, you will need to allow time to heat/ directions in guest book and runs for 2 hour increments (Pool is NOT heated)