While in the Phoenix area we managed to squeeze in a visit to the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. Between Bergen’s nap schedule, Mariner Spring Training games, and vital family time, we were busy, and taking your toddler to a luxury hotel was a bit of a hard sell to my travel companions. I was curious about the design. I heard raves about the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture, and on the other hand, I heard others say it reminded them of a jail.
This adventure needed to be quick and focused. We still managed to enjoy ourselves though as we toured the grounds with drinks in hand.
I had to takeaways from the experience:
- Look Up
- Look Out
When looking up, the details in the ceiling and in the lighting are incredible. I learned that Frank Lloyd Wright is known for his use of low ceilings, and this was especially evident to me in the bathroom of all places. My favorite though was the lighting in Wright’s Restaurant.
Wander out to the courtyard, look out, and you’ll notice all the little touches that make this space an architectural marvel. The landscaping, the placement of artwork, and the structure of the hotel itself all come together and was quite pleasing to my eye. I also feel like Camelback Mountain in the distance is necessary for all of these elements to work.
Bergen (18 months) also had two takeaways from the experience:
- Throw oranges
- Try to take a swim in those lovely fountains
Ever since he found out that balls were for throwing, he’s found all sorts of round shaped objects to practice his skill. The abundance of oranges in the Phoenix area was perfect for his new hobby and worked wonders on the his accuracy.
Bergen is a water baby. He seems to think any water, whether an ice cold lake, murky swamp, or gorgeous fountain, would be a great place to take a dip. In fact we quickly had to whisk him away from the pool because he started throwing a fit not being able to get in and enjoy a swim.
Needless to say, I’m a fan of the hotel and the hotel’s design even though I may never get chance to actually spend the night!
Are you a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright? What structures of his design have you visited?
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This post is linked up with Budget Traveler’s Sandbox Travel Photo Thursday!