Catalina Foothills

Welcome to Catalina Foothills, the elevated and prestigious neighborhood nestled on the north side of Tucson. With its breathtaking mountain and city views, this area offers a captivating setting that sets it apart from the rest of Tucson. Catalina Foothills is renowned for its upscale properties, commanding higher prices compared to other areas in town. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning multi-million dollar custom homes that grace this community.

Most residences in Catalina Foothills consist of single-family homes, many of which are situated on expansive parcels of land, ranging from 3/4 of an acre to even larger sizes. In the 1970s and 1980s, developers introduced more affordable yet upscale townhomes and condos, offering a wider range of housing options in the area.

As the community evolved, newer homes were constructed within established neighborhoods, often dividing larger lots. While some neighborhoods feature gated entrances, many remain unenclosed. The community encompasses a mix of neighborhoods with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and those without, catering to diverse preferences.

Navigating Catalina Foothills is a unique experience. The major arterial roads generally follow a grid-like pattern, although they meander in certain areas. On the other hand, the residential roads boast charming curvilinear layouts, deviating from the traditional grid design.

The rich history and development of Catalina Foothills can be traced back to the 1920s when John and Helen Murphey, along with their architect Josias Joesler, established the area. Joesler’s expertise in blending Spanish Colonial Revival style with the enchanting beauty of the Sonoran Desert resulted in the creation of Catalina Foothills Estates. These homes were originally marketed to affluent families from the eastern United States seeking a part-time winter retreat. Even today, Joesler’s architectural marvels remain highly sought after due to their exquisite designs and sprawling saguaro-studded lots.

The distinctive architecture of Catalina Foothills showcases the influence of renowned architect Josias Joesler, who crafted many homes in Catalina Foothills Estates for the Murpheys. These residences typically feature Spanish Colonial Revival elements, combining burnt adobe, white stucco, and red tile roofs.

Catalina Foothills proudly hosts two National Historic Districts: Catalina Foothills Estates Apartments and Catalina Townhouses. Developed by the Murpheys and designed by architect Juan Worner Baz following Joesler’s untimely passing in 1956, these neighborhoods exemplify the unique charm and historical significance of the area.

During the 1950s and 1960s, other builders contributed to the architectural tapestry of Catalina Foothills by constructing expansive ranch-style homes using burnt adobe or red brick, accentuated by steel casement windows and low rooflines. Territorial style burnt adobe homes also gained popularity during that era.

The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the emergence of more affordable townhomes and condos, diversifying the housing options in the neighborhood. In the following decades, high-end custom homes took center stage, defining the epitome of luxury living in Catalina Foothills.

Throughout its history, Catalina Foothills has been graced by the talents of numerous local architects and builders. From the visionary designs of Josias Joesler to the contributions of Tom Gist, Judith Chafee, Nicholas Sakellar, Kevin Howard, Rob Robinette, Rob Paulus, David Tyson, and many others, the area showcases a dazzling array of architectural styles and influences.

Experience the allure of Catalina Foothills, where breathtaking natural beauty intertwines with remarkable architecture to create an unparalleled living environment. Discover a place where luxury and sophistication meet in perfect harmony.

Welcome to Catalina Foothills, the elevated and prestigious neighborhood nestled on the north side of Tucson. With its breathtaking mountain and city views, this area offers a captivating setting that sets it apart from the rest of Tucson. Catalina Foothills is renowned for its upscale properties, commanding higher prices compared to other areas in town. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning multi-million dollar custom homes that grace this community.

Most residences in Catalina Foothills consist of single-family homes, many of which are situated on expansive parcels of land, ranging from 3/4 of an acre to even larger sizes. In the 1970s and 1980s, developers introduced more affordable yet upscale townhomes and condos, offering a wider range of housing options in the area.

As the community evolved, newer homes were constructed within established neighborhoods, often dividing larger lots. While some neighborhoods feature gated entrances, many remain unenclosed. The community encompasses a mix of neighborhoods with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and those without, catering to diverse preferences.

Navigating Catalina Foothills is a unique experience. The major arterial roads generally follow a grid-like pattern, although they meander in certain areas. On the other hand, the residential roads boast charming curvilinear layouts, deviating from the traditional grid design.

The rich history and development of Catalina Foothills can be traced back to the 1920s when John and Helen Murphey, along with their architect Josias Joesler, established the area. Joesler’s expertise in blending Spanish Colonial Revival style with the enchanting beauty of the Sonoran Desert resulted in the creation of Catalina Foothills Estates. These homes were originally marketed to affluent families from the eastern United States seeking a part-time winter retreat. Even today, Joesler’s architectural marvels remain highly sought after due to their exquisite designs and sprawling saguaro-studded lots.

The distinctive architecture of Catalina Foothills showcases the influence of renowned architect Josias Joesler, who crafted many homes in Catalina Foothills Estates for the Murpheys. These residences typically feature Spanish Colonial Revival elements, combining burnt adobe, white stucco, and red tile roofs.

Catalina Foothills proudly hosts two National Historic Districts: Catalina Foothills Estates Apartments and Catalina Townhouses. Developed by the Murpheys and designed by architect Juan Worner Baz following Joesler’s untimely passing in 1956, these neighborhoods exemplify the unique charm and historical significance of the area.

During the 1950s and 1960s, other builders contributed to the architectural tapestry of Catalina Foothills by constructing expansive ranch-style homes using burnt adobe or red brick, accentuated by steel casement windows and low rooflines. Territorial style burnt adobe homes also gained popularity during that era.

The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the emergence of more affordable townhomes and condos, diversifying the housing options in the neighborhood. In the following decades, high-end custom homes took center stage, defining the epitome of luxury living in Catalina Foothills.

Throughout its history, Catalina Foothills has been graced by the talents of numerous local architects and builders. From the visionary designs of Josias Joesler to the contributions of Tom Gist, Judith Chafee, Nicholas Sakellar, Kevin Howard, Rob Robinette, Rob Paulus, David Tyson, and many others, the area showcases a dazzling array of architectural styles and influences.

Experience the allure of Catalina Foothills, where breathtaking natural beauty intertwines with remarkable architecture to create an unparalleled living environment. Discover a place where luxury and sophistication meet in perfect harmony.