Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert
Cottage in Marana, AZ
2 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner, Internet / Wifi and more
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
About this cottage rental
This architect-designed original home was completed in early 2013. High sloping ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, polished concrete floors, custom poured concrete feature walls, bamboo drop ceilings, beautiful recessed lighting and myriad 'Architectural Digest' touches make this the perfect spot for the discerning traveller seeking an urbane hideaway in the Sonoran desert.
The panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass walls mean you will be completely in touch with the desert landscape. Saguaros and other cacti surround you. Quail, rabbits, javelinas, coyotes may wander by. You will wake up on the bedroom to the sun rising over the Catalina Mountains to the east and can view the sunset over the Tucson Mountains from the dining area.
Covered quartzite stone decks facing both west and east. Acacia chairs and table on the east deck, bistro table and chairs on the sunset deck. Lounge chairs for sunny afternoons. Driveway parking for one car, a second car can be parked in a pull-out immediately across from the Cottage.
The Glass Cottage comprises two separate units, connected by a covered breezeway.
One half of the Glass Cottage has a Poliform queen size bed; Wassily-style chairs and a Frank Ghery cocktail table and 'Wiggle Chair' in the sitting area facing a working acorn fireplace; dressing room with ample drawers and hanging space; huge two-person glass shower with stone floor and stunning views to the west; vanity area with bamboo sink on cantilevered concrete counter; and a separate and fully enclosed toilet room. Facing east, you will wake up facing the sun rising over the Catalina Mountains.
A few feet away across the covered breezeway, the other half of the Glass Cottage contains the fully equipped kitchen with beautiful tiled countertops; a custom-designed trestle oak dining (or work) table, with 6 chairs; a writing desk; a Danish swivel reading chair and Damson reading lamp; and a flip-down sofa, ideal for an afternoon nap or watching Netflix (provided). Facing west, you'll be treated to the sun setting over the Tucson Mountains as you prepare dinner.
Tucson Glass Cottage shares 3.3 acres with only the owner's residence, some 100 yards away and oriented to ensure privacy for both homes. The Cottage is accessed by a private gravel road, shared only by the owner's home. The acreage is in the center of a group of 6 similarly large plots, far from traffic.
Both shopping and and the magnificent Saguaro National Park are less than 5 minutes away, and it's an easy drive into downtown or the university area. This is the perfect spot for an individual or couple seeking real tranquility and a touch of luxury in a magical desert setting.
The panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass walls mean you will be completely in touch with the desert landscape. Saguaros and other cacti surround you. Quail, rabbits, javelinas, coyotes may wander by. You will wake up on the bedroom to the sun rising over the Catalina Mountains to the east and can view the sunset over the Tucson Mountains from the dining area.
Covered quartzite stone decks facing both west and east. Acacia chairs and table on the east deck, bistro table and chairs on the sunset deck. Lounge chairs for sunny afternoons. Driveway parking for one car, a second car can be parked in a pull-out immediately across from the Cottage.
The Glass Cottage comprises two separate units, connected by a covered breezeway.
One half of the Glass Cottage has a Poliform queen size bed; Wassily-style chairs and a Frank Ghery cocktail table and 'Wiggle Chair' in the sitting area facing a working acorn fireplace; dressing room with ample drawers and hanging space; huge two-person glass shower with stone floor and stunning views to the west; vanity area with bamboo sink on cantilevered concrete counter; and a separate and fully enclosed toilet room. Facing east, you will wake up facing the sun rising over the Catalina Mountains.
A few feet away across the covered breezeway, the other half of the Glass Cottage contains the fully equipped kitchen with beautiful tiled countertops; a custom-designed trestle oak dining (or work) table, with 6 chairs; a writing desk; a Danish swivel reading chair and Damson reading lamp; and a flip-down sofa, ideal for an afternoon nap or watching Netflix (provided). Facing west, you'll be treated to the sun setting over the Tucson Mountains as you prepare dinner.
Tucson Glass Cottage shares 3.3 acres with only the owner's residence, some 100 yards away and oriented to ensure privacy for both homes. The Cottage is accessed by a private gravel road, shared only by the owner's home. The acreage is in the center of a group of 6 similarly large plots, far from traffic.
Both shopping and and the magnificent Saguaro National Park are less than 5 minutes away, and it's an easy drive into downtown or the university area. This is the perfect spot for an individual or couple seeking real tranquility and a touch of luxury in a magical desert setting.
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Map of Marana, AZ
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect spot for a quiet, relaxing time in Tucson. This is my second time staying and it’s been perfect (again). Will definitely return.
5.0 / 5.0
Fabulous property in the desert. Beautiful home filled with light and majestic views. The home is beautifully furnished with luxury items. Will definitely return.
5.0 / 5.0
A beautiful private glass house in 2 parts surrounded by views of magnificent saguaros and passing wildlife. Stylish, comfortable and well equipped.
5 mins drive to grocery shop and Tucson close by. Great walking trails and the excellent Sonoran desert museum.
A pretty special place to stay.
Great communication with housekeeper.
5.0 / 5.0
We loved the two house format. When the sun went down it was wonderful to retreat to the 'little house' and go right to sleep. The way the houses are arranged it is easy to move from one to the other to get out of the direct sunlight whether on the porch or inside. The sunsets and sunrises where incredible…including the bonus of seeing hot air balloons from bed multiple mornings.
If you are looking for a quiet and secluded place to retreat with no other distractions other then the amazing desert and the occasional bobcat (one walked right into the front yard!), this is the place. Book it!
Communication with owner and property manager was prompt and easy too.
5.0 / 5.0
This will always be one of our favorites places ever! Stunning, private, and so clean and comfortable, It gave us a great feel for the desert, yet everything we wanted to do was only 20 minutes away each time. Host was great. We can’t wait to return.
5.0 / 5.0
We loved our stay in this unique desert glass home! The views from all directions were beautiful in a peaceful setting! Check in with the property manager was very helpful and she explained everything about the home. We loved the location which is close to the bike path and Saguarro National Park! Would definitely recommend this home if you are planning to visit beautiful Tuscon!
5.0 / 5.0
The best part of the property is hanging out in the bedroom section at night with the sliders open. Javelinas came to munch on the barrel cactus right off the back porch- absolutely perfect!
The property is very close to the Pictured Rocks parking lot in Saguaro NP West, making it an ideal location for exploring that side of the park.
While stunning architecturally, we didn’t find the home very comfortable/cozy.
Everything one needs for light cooking may be found in the kitchen and the shower is a unique experience.
Overall, we wouldn’t hesitate to stay again for a short trip, but this wouldn’t be our first choice for longer than a week.
Definitely worth checking out though!
5.0 / 5.0
This property was perfect for the two of us. The location is so close to Saguaro National Park west and to the highway to get to downtown and to the east side of the national park. The cactus and other plantings on the property were magical to watch at all times of the day. By far, the highlight of our trip was driving up the driveway after dinner one night and seeing a Great Horned Owl sitting on the arm of a saguaro. He kindly posed for many pictures. Just splendid.
5.0 / 5.0
The Glass Cottage is a lovely guest house in a stunning setting. With classic MCM pieces and restrained but interesting art to complement its unique architecture, the design was beautiful and still functional. The property manager made everything easy and welcoming. It was great to spend a day at the Saguro National Park, and then come back and be able to cook dinner at the cottage’s well stocked kitchen.
5.0 / 5.0
Within 2 hours of our arrrival, we saw a coyote in the driveway and 2 bobcats visited us right off the back deck! The location is quiet and easy access to Saquaro National Park and plenty of restaurants are close by too. We really enjoyed our stay.
5.0 / 5.0
Loved being amongst the Saguaro and enjoying the sunset and the sunrise from inside our cozy glass house. The location was great for our visits to the National Parks and Sabino Canyon. We also enjoyed our little walk between the two living areas and the feeling of showering outdoors. Thanks for sharing!
5.0 / 5.0
I once thought that it might be unwise to attempt to relive a treasured memory, such as that which I had gained the first time I stayed in this architectural masterpiece. Would it ever live up to its rose-colored glasses tint?
I have been disabused of that notion for good— I appreciated the uniqueness of this transparent foothold nestled in the saguaro forest even more this time around. One of the best architectural experiences I have ever had. Thanks so much for sharing it Jim!
5.0 / 5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our 4 nights at the glass cottage sitting on around 3 acres of desert landscape with saguaro cacti, mesquite trees, and teddy bear cholla cacti. Nice to hear coyotes on several mornings. The cottage is very unique and allows for “inside “ views of the surrounding desert, sunrises and sunsets. It is conveniently located to Saguaro National Park-West and the fabulous Desert Museum which must be visited. Attention to detail in design and decor was evident! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
5.0 / 5.0
Very much enjoyed the property.
5.0 / 5.0
We hesitate to leave a glowing review and risk the place becoming too popular but we can’t hold back. The house is spectacular and completely comfortable. We loved the design and local art. Don’t forget the scenery!
Convenient location for visit Saguaro and shopping but feels like your in the middle of the desert. Sunrise the sunset the view is perfect. We will be back…and we can hardly wait
5.0 / 5.0
Better than the expectations. The privacy was perfect. The bed was very comfortable- and that is most important. Well appointed all around.
5.0 / 5.0
If anything the property description and all of the positive feedback in the reviews understates how magical this place is! Incomparable sunrise and sunset experiences, the calming reflective quiet of the desert, the diversity of plants and wildlife, and the privacy and completeness of the Glass Cottage combine to make a very unique vacation experience. Everything worked as described and the local property manager was helpful and attentive but not intrusive. Our stay with the Curve-billed Thrashers and and Coyotes was wonderful and we will be recommending the adventure to all of our friends!!!!
5.0 / 5.0
Dynamite rental, quiet, clean, well stocked, we'll be back.
5.0 / 5.0
This property is just as beautiful and peaceful as it looks in the photos. Has all the comforts and necessities you’d need. The caretaker ensured I had what I needed at check-in and helped explain the nuances of the property. Couldn’t recommend more!
5.0 / 5.0
Absolutely stunning home and property. Perfectly tucked away, quiet and peaceful, yet close to everything you could need. I cannot wait to return to Tucson just to stay on this property again, and will recommend it to anyone I know visiting Arizona. Communication was easy and the property manager was amazingly helpful as someone new to the area.
5.0 / 5.0
Everything was amazing. We were surrounded by beauty, inside and out. The property manager was more than helpful. Our only problem was we didn’t want to leave! Thank you James for allowing us to share your marvelous home.
5.0 / 5.0
I highly recommend staying at the glass cottage. Very unique building with amazing views. It was out of town far enough to feel secluded but close enough to stores and restaurants to conveniently get what you need. We had a minor issue that we needed to contact management for. She was very prompt about dealing with it and nice to speak with. The only downside to this place, It didn't feel 100% private like listed. If you are super modest, you may not find it comfortable. Neighbors can see into the bedroom area if they really wanted to, and there are no blinds or currents.. They would have to be trying to though. Over all this place was amazing. Sunrises and Sunsets while being surrounded by large cactus was great!
5.0 / 5.0
This was a wonderful experience. The property is beautiful. Loved seeing the sunrise and sunsets daily! The owner was very responsive. Can’t wait to come back again!
5.0 / 5.0
If you know the song Peaceful Easy Feeling by The Eagles, then you will appreciate and understand what it's like staying in this beautiful glass cottage. In the morning the sunrise over the mountains bathes you in the warmest light, while the sunsets take your breath away as you prepare dinner and relax with cool drink. At night, there is not a more romantic place to be as the moonlight sets the desert aglow beneath the star filled sky.
Our stay has us thinking of another excuse to return for a longer visit to Tucson.
5.0 / 5.0
We had absolutely wonderful weekend at this spectacular house. The sunrises were amazing. It was just as it described. We did a little cooking and the kitchen is appropriately stocked.
5.0 / 5.0
Fabulous and magical stay in the glass cottage - the views were amazing. Well-stocked kitchen and convenient location.
5.0 / 5.0
A special place to stay in a desert environment. Enjoyed waking up to the sunrise in the bedroom and seeing the sunsets from the dining room. The house was well equipped - nothing lacking in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry. Local walking was beautiful. Lots of wildlife. Quality blinds would help sunshine glare. House manual was helpful.
5.0 / 5.0
Jim's place was just amazing. The building was beautiful and the amenities were all perfect. My partner and i spent a wonderful weekend!
5.0 / 5.0
Enjoyed our stay at the glass cottage. It doesn’t get any better than this house. Thank you!
5.0 / 5.0
Wow, what a cool property. We enjoyed staying here for four nights. It is an amazing home and a good location.
5.0 / 5.0
It was a unique experience staying in the glass house. I truly appreciated it’s architectural beauty and large floor to ceiling windows in the bedroom and living space. The views afforded by the windows were gorgeous. The house is one with the desert.
5.0 / 5.0
Rented the glass house for a second time. It’s such a nice experience to feel like you’re outside the whole time. Enjoy the area for hiking.
5.0 / 5.0
Very comfortable stay for Christmas and New Years. Every bit as architecturally stunning as the photos and everything works and is well equipped. Quiet neighborhood and very attractive desert landscape. Occasional wildlife wondering by. Wifi could use an upgrade as there are newer options but it worked fine for streaming audio for us. Smooth checkin and departure.
2.5 / 5.0
Tout s’est très bien déroulé du début à la fin.
Un endroit magnifique pour relaxer et apprécier le paysage sublime
4.0 / 5.0
What keeps this from 5-stars:
- No TV!!! WHY??? (a $150 32-inch TV would enable guests to watch the morning news or evening movies via their cell data/phone with HDMI to the TV; why deny this to guests???)
- Kitchen side needs shades; unlivable from 3pm to sunset
- Shower head doesn't adjust; just a stinging setting
- Too many "dad" instructions: squeegee the shower, take out the trash; put away the dishes (impossible with >1 hr dishwasher and 10am checkout) --> You have a cleaning service coming in right at 10.
Again, the location/views almost make-up for the short-comings.
5.0 / 5.0
Cool and unique property!
5.0 / 5.0
This property is far and away our favorite place to stay! It’s completely original in it’s design and location! A true sanctuary!
5.0 / 5.0
The glass cottage was just what we needed. Peaceful and secluded. The sunsets were amazing and we had the perfect spot.
5.0 / 5.0
The experience of being so Inter mingled with the desert really enhanced this stay. We loved it and doubt that you could find this experience anywhere else. The house had everything we needed!!!! Thanks for a great time!!!!
5.0 / 5.0
So thankful to have stayed here for my sisters wedding! It made the desert stay that much more enjoyable thank you so much James!
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Marana?
The average price for a rental in Marana is $184 per night. This rental is $73 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert?
We found 9 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
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