Historic Ball-Paylore House

Entire home in Tucson, Arizona

  1. 4 guests
  2. 2 bedrooms
  3. 2 beds
  4. 1 bath
Hosted by Tucson Historic
  1. 6 years hosting

Listing highlights

Designed by

Arthur Brown

Unbeatable location

100% of guests in the past year gave this location a 5-star rating.

At-home coffee

Start your morning right with the drip coffee maker, french press, and pour-over coffee maker.
The Ball-Paylore House is captivating - offering guests a true Tucson mid-century modern experience. A stay in the Ball-Paylore lets you step back in time. Widely published, the 1200 sq. ft, two bedroom architectural landmark has been named one of the most significant examples of Modern Architecture in Arizona. Centrally located within the Historic Catalina Vista neighborhood, the property is close to the UofA and major attractions, entertainment and shopping.

The space
In 1952, librarians Phyllis Ball and Patrica Paylore commissioned legendary Tucson architect Arthur T. Brown to design a bespoke, one-of-a kind home. One that embraced the tenets of the modern movement, responded to the environmental conditions of the Sonoran Desert and offered both beauty and function.

The result was an architectural masterpiece - considered one of the most important buildings of Brown's design career. The avant-garde design of this noted and forward-thinking project embraced geometry and siting to create a pioneering and early passive solar home. The south facing floor-to-ceiling windows shed light on the authentic mid-century interior. Bold original colors are punctuated by pale wood finishes and earth toned polished concrete floors. The primary living areas radiate off the central fireplace - like the petals of a flower. The dark colors of the bedrooms, with sloped low beam ceilings, create intimate and comfortable spaces.

This significant historic property was purchased at the end of 2019 and meticulously restored by Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation. The property retains its classic charm. The 1200 sq. ft. architectural plan is based on the geometry of the hex - featuring two bedrooms plus a shared bathroom. Much of the original modernist furniture by George Nelson for Herman Miller and custom Tucson furniture maker John Kelso are extant. Recent upgrades have introduced contemporary amenities - including air conditioning and wireless high speed internet. Each bedroom features a TV, and Tuft and Needle mattresses.

Step back in time. Spend easy afternoons reclined in a chaise lounge on the “revolving terrace,” or enjoy the Tucson weather as the sun sets over the Tucson Mountains. Take shelter from the mid-afternoon days while relaxing in the bright sitting areas. Experience 1950s Tucson.

Guest access
You will have complete and private access to the property

Other things to note
Regular gardening occurs on a seasonal schedule, either weekly or bi-weekly, and may take place during your stay. These services are essential for property upkeep and cannot be modified or canceled.

Where you’ll sleep

What this place offers

Kitchen
Wifi
Free driveway parking on premises – 4 spaces
HDTV with Netflix
Washer

Select check-in date

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Rated 4.98 out of 5 from 52 reviews.

Guest favorite
This home is a guest favorite based on ratings, reviews, and reliability

Overall rating

  1. 5 stars, 98% of reviews
  2. 4 stars, 2% of reviews
  3. 3 stars, 0% of reviews
  4. 2 stars, 0% of reviews
  5. 1 stars, 0% of reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for cleanliness

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for accuracy

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for check-in

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for location

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for value

Guest reviews mention

Where you’ll be

Tucson, Arizona, United States
This listing's location is verified and the exact location will be provided after booking.

Neighborhood highlights

Centrally located, the property is tucked in the picturesque mid-century modern neighborhood of Historic Catalina Vista. Near the Arizona Inn, University Medical Center Tucson - Banner, restaurants, and the University of Arizona campus the property is just a mile from the eastern terminus of the modern streetcar line which runs through Tucson’s most iconic shopping and entertainment districts: 4th Avenue, Downtown and the Mercado. The Ball-Paylore House is perfect for weekends exploring the legacy of Tucson’s architectural heritage or extended stays immersing yourself into the cultural traditions of the region.

Meet your host

Host
52 reviews
4.98 out of 5 average rating
6 years of hosting

Co-hosts

  • Demion
  • Michael

Host details

Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.

Things to know

Cancellation policy
House rules
Check-in after 4:00 PM
Checkout before 10:00 AM
4 guests maximum
Safety & property
Carbon monoxide alarm
Smoke alarm
Not suitable for children and infants