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Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert

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'Architectural Digest' comes to the desert - unique design, at one with nature
Bedroom and seating area, facing acorn fireplace and the desert beyond
Recessed lighting throughout, sliding doors leading to one of two stone decks
Design furnishings - Ghery 'Wiggle Chair,' Poliform queen bed, Wassily chairs
Huge sliding doors lead directly onto covered quartzite stone deck

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 1% of guest reviews in this area
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2950 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Tucson, AZ
  • Place, Quarry Pines Golf Club
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, The Links at Continental Ranch
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Saguaro National Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Tucson, AZ (TUS-Tucson Intl.)
    ‪38 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Other

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert

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.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the neighborhood

Tucson

Located in Cortaro, a neighborhood in Tucson, this cottage is in the mountains. Quarry Pines Golf Club and Sunflower Village Center are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Tucson Mall and Tucson Premium Outlets. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Tucson Convention Center or Sportspark. Break out the clubs and hit the links with a golf course nearby, or seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails, ecotours, and horse riding.
Map
Tucson, AZ

What's nearby

  • Quarry Pines Golf Club - 6 min drive - 5.0 km
  • The Links at Continental Ranch - 6 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Saguaro National Park - 6 min drive - 3.8 km
  • Mike Jacob Sports Park - 7 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Tucson Premium Outlets - 9 min drive - 9.1 km

Getting around

  • Tucson Station - 22 min drive
  • Tucson, AZ (AVW-Marana Regional) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪In-N-Out Burger - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert?

As of Apr 25, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert on May 4, 2026 start from $272, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Architectural digest in the Sonoran desert located?

Located in Cortaro, this cottage is within 3 mi (5 km) of Saguaro National Park, Quarry Pines Golf Club, and Sportspark. Mike Jacob Sports Park is 2.9 mi (4.7 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 207 out of 216 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 216 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 216 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 216 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 216 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Becky V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay, a perfect getaway! The sunrises were beautiful!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Annette Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property with amazing views… we loved it !
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dale B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is very impressive. The kitchen is well equipped and everything worked well. Great bed. Very nice to wake to an expansive view of the rising sun.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful, well kept apartment with great finishes
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shavaun T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous architectural jewel box in a private desert setting with distant views of the mountains in two directions with spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas. The set up is a little quirky but remarkably comfortable and well equipped. The hosts’ notes on restaurants and venues were unusually helpful.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My wife and I stayed 5 nights, we very much enjoyed the Glass Cottage and the area. Everything is exactly per the listing!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely fabulous! This was our third stay here and we truly love it! I’d highly recommend it. Under 1/2 hour to downtown and friends in Dove Mountain, so we easily took in a play, a festival, many great restaurants. It feels so isolated, remote, and very private, and yet so well situated. We love the clean, modern vibe.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mirel a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Owner and house manager were very accommodating and instructive. The house is architecturally unique, quiet and equipped with all needed amenities.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Glass House Cottage is wonderful. The views are amazing. The property is beautiful. For an immersive experience in the desert there is no better place to stay.
Sunrise
Sunset view of Santa Catalina Mountains
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jackie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was as promised. It is a spectacular “cottage” in a spectacular setting. Everything was clean and tidy and comfortable. The location was convenient to exploring the Tucson area.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location is very pretty. It was just a great stay. Excellent property excellent management.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was perfect. This is an exceptional place to stay. The views are spectacular. The reality is better than the pictures. Everything we needed was there.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

richard m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stay in several VRBO's a year and this architectural gem is now one of our favorites. It is a delightful blend of glass, rusted steel, and cast concrete, which sounds cold, but which perfectly contrasts with the lush desert plants that closely surround it. It allows you to be at one with the beautiful Sonoran Desert while experiencing all the comforts of a very modern and convenient house. It is likely not for everyone--no blinds or curtains over the walls of floor to ceiling windows, but the house is situated to allow for all the privacy we needed. For us, having desert plants and birds all around made this perfect. The location is great. One can hear traffic on Ina Road and I-10, but it is hardly intrusive. The house is comfortably furnished (great bed with an awesome view of desert plants) and very clean. The property manager lives nearby and was very helpful. We plan to come back next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our second visit at the Glass Cottage. I love being in the desert and seeing the sights from this gorgeous place.
Morning views from the Glass Cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property manager met me at the Glass House—literally riding a bike, which I loved—and provided very useful information. The house itself is a unique and special experience that has everything you need, including a great kitchen, a comfortable bed, and very fast internet. I loved using the sunrise as my alarm clock; it was spectacular. While the location feels remote and peaceful, it is conveniently close to modern attractions like the Desert Museum and Saguaro National Park (West). The neighborhood donkeys were a delight, and the host was friendly and incredibly communicative. All in all very satisfied. Thanks.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved everything about the Glass House! Very quiet and secluded, but only 10 mins from local restaurants. The host and property manager were great to deal with from the start until the end. We will stay again on our next trip to Tucson.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was wonderful. We were greeted by the host who showed us everything, including how to turn on the security system when we were gone. Everything was deluxe!! Well supplied. Very comfortable bed. Beautiful views of sun rises and sunsets. Close to Suguaro National Park and the desert museum. Plenty of brochures were available on what to do in Tucson area. Bird brochures and books. Loved all the artwork and minimalism. Can't wait to return!!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sharon K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert Road Trip

Enjoyed staying in this home in Saguaro. Within minutes of numerous hiking trails and also downtown Tucson.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gregory C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

The Views were amazing. Really cool place.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magnificent stay

Fabulous and magical stay in the glass cottage - the views were amazing. Well-stocked kitchen and convenient location.
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mariella S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

wonderful all around

We had such a nice time at this wonderful property!
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Neil M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sonoran desert hideaway

Lovely spot close to great desert scenery and hiking. Feels very much like you are on the edge of a national park (and you actually are!). Enjoyed it very much.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert E. M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert retreat

Property was exactly as described and met all expectations. Glad to have had the opportunity to stay here.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Christmas Getaway for Two

The property was private yet close to the city. Great quite retreat to unwind.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

escape

A very nice and unusual escape. We enjoyed the uniqueness of the home.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by James

Host profile image
Professional who enjoys beautiful and very peaceful surroundings.

Why they chose this property

The perfect mix of the true Sonoran desert experience with easy access to the city and all urban comforts.

What makes this property unique

Peaceful and gloriously natural, yet easy access to urban amenities.

Languages:

English, French, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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