Katherine Mueller, owner and principal designer of CeTerra Accents & Interiors, was the natural choice to complete the revitalization of this villa located on the lavish grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Resort. Katherine’s vast experience in residential and commercial design in addition to her extensive education which includes a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Northern Arizona University as well as a Master of Science in Design and the advanced study of the Arts and Crafts aesthetic for her master’s thesis at Arizona State University provided her with the skill and knowledge necessary to layout a successful course of action for the unique parameters of this project.
The Arizona Biltmore Resort, originally constructed in 1929 through the collaborative design process of Frank Lloyd Wright and his former student, Albert Chase McArthur, earned its designation as “The Jewel of the Desert” by furnishing world class accommodations to the most extraordinary visitors such as former presidents and dignitaries. Multiple expansions and renovations conducted throughout its 87 year journey have contributed to the resort’s ability to host an increasing number of guests with premier amenities.
A three-phase project completed in 1996 introduced the addition of the Villas, an exquisite residential community nestled within the resort. The design aesthetic for the Villas collectively referenced the essence of the original 1930’s character fused with the arts and crafts persona of Frank Lloyd Wright. The historical significance of this villa called for great care and consideration during its revitalization 20 years later.
The design directive for this project was to fulfill the homeowner’s desire for contemporary comforts at the same time preserving its architectural precedence. To achieve this balance, new finishes and furnishings were blended with original features of historical significance. Finishes and furnishings were also required to satisfy the demands of the hospitality industry by merging durability with style and local culture. Katherine found inspiration for her design within the Paradise Wing of the Resort as well as from the “Biltmore Block” fireplace surround in the villa.
These iconic pre-cast blocks consist of 34 unique patterns resembling the trunk of a palm tree and were incorporated in the original structure of the resort and many of the later additions. They also served as a focal point in this villa. Katherine utilized geometric patterns extruded from the Biltmore Block for the design of a hand-crafted credenza. The top of the credenza was outfitted with lustrous BioGlass, a sustainably resourced material yielding a contrasting element to the nearby block.
A stacked stone and glass mosaic was integrated into the kitchen backsplash uniting elements of the Biltmore Block and BioGlass to provide continuity and interest. Sleek kitchen cabinets, gleaming quartz countertops, and a white layered pendant over the dining table bolstered a modern flair. While in the living room, a supple leather sofa, large area rug, and opulent drapery cultivated luxury and warmth. An entertainment area cleverly implemented into an existing wall accommodates a television without distracting from the fireplace and wall decor.
The master bed and bath further extended the luxury. Lush bed linens, shimmering drapery, rich upholstery, and a textural grasscloth wallpaper re-interpreted in an enduring vinyl are found in the master bedroom and represent the best in resort-style living. Design elements from the living room credenza were repeated in the custom master bedroom casegoods, and BioGlass supplied yet another long lasting surface for their tops. In the master bath, the limestone wall tile was selected to highlight the custom vanity, and the off-set floating mirrors. New sinks, brushed nickel fixtures, and a quartz countertop continued the elegance often associated with this esteemed property.
The space was unified, and the visual square footage was increased with the application of varying hues of beige, blues, and grays found in the textiles, materials, and wall color as well as the large format floor tile used throughout the villa. Through the use of well-placed design elements, Katherine successfully embraced the essence of the Arizona Biltmore Resort with a comprehensive design that celebrates the resort’s distinguished historic affiliations and provides refined modern conveniences for the homeowner and her guests.
