Visit Arcosanti, Life Work of Futurist Paolo Soleri, Lifetime Design Achievement Award-Winner

The Smithsonian's Cooper-Hewitt National Design Awards were announced this Summer. Arizona's Paolo Soleri, founder and developer of the fascintating futuristic Arcosanti, received the prestigious Lifetime Acheivement Award. "Born in Italy in 1919, architect Paolo Soleri has dedicated his life’s work to experimentation in urban planning. Settling in Scottsdale, AZ in 1956, Soleri established the Cosanti Foundation and began designing Arcosanti, a prototype town for 5,000 residents based on his concept of "Arcology"—architecture in accordance with ecology." (source: Cooper-Hewitt).

You can visit Arcosanti which lies just north of Scottsdale, Arizona. They have daily tours, special events, and for the very serious, they offer workshops. Most concerts at the Colly Soleri Music Center at Arcosanti are preceded by a tour of Arcosanti and dinner. In addition, you can be one of Arcosanti's many supporters by purchasing a beautiful bronze bell from the Cosanti Foundry. It is a special and peaceful place to visit if you find yourself in the Scottsdale area.

Photo: ARCOSANTI 5000 - Vision of the Future - Arcosanti Project