2430 N 56th St., Phoenix, AZ 85008

Casa Mimbres - In 1982, archaeologist Linda Gadd found herself facing an unexpected challenge: 80 tons of dirt from a nearby housing development discarded on her vacant Phoenix property. Where others might have seen a disaster, Linda saw opportunity. Testing the soil, she discovered it was ideal for adobe bricks. With patience and expertise, she handcrafted each brick under the Arizona sun, transforming the unexpected endeavor into an enchanting enclave. Her 3-bedroom (easily converted to 4 bedrooms), 3-bathroom Santa Fe adobe-style home, is a true work of art inspired by the ancient American Indian Mimbres Tribe of southwestern New Mexico. Their iconic designs, renowned for abstract images of animals and people, are echoed throughout the home in handmade tiles and decorative details.